When Philip Anning first walked through the doors of Cromwell College in 1967, he had no idea he was beginning a lifelong connection that would eventually span three generations. Today, with his granddaughter Grace currently living at Cromwell, Philip reflects on a journey that began in the rugged camaraderie of the 1960s and continues through to the modern-day student experience.

“My best memories? Sport, social life, and study - unfortunately in that order,” he jokes.

In his time, Cromwell was an all-male college known for its strong community spirit, spontaneous BBQs, and infamous “bushy site” keg nights near what is now Grace College. “There was a lot of camaraderie, made indelible by the intensity of youth,” Philip recalls.

Philip studied Agricultural Science at The University of Queensland while juggling bar work at the Brook Hotel in Mitchelton and bruises from the Rugby field. Even in those early years, Cromwell stood out for its sense of fellowship and intellectual culture. “The friendships I made then, especially with those in the agricultural field, have lasted decades.”

After graduating, Philip returned to Cromwell for parts of his postgraduate study in the 70s and 80s. By then, the College had transitioned to co-ed. “It was much altered,” he says, but still carried the same welcoming spirit. Later, two of his daughters - Drs Rachael and Naomi, would also attend Cromwell in the 1990s, forming their own lasting bonds. “Some of their closest friends were also children of my own Cromwell contemporaries,” he adds.

Now, with Grace representing the third Anning generation at Cromwell, Philip finds joy in watching history repeat itself. “She’s benefiting from a well-designed support system. I’ve been impressed with how Cromwell continues to understand and support young people in a world that’s far more complex than it was in my day.”

In fact, one moment that stood out recently was Principal Simon Armstrong's address at the beginning of the academic year. “We were most impressed, it illustrated a clear understanding of the challenges students face at this stage of their lives. It showed empathy and awareness, which is exactly what young people need as they transition into adulthood.”

Philip’s professional journey has been one of curiosity and reinvention. Over the decades, he’s worked in agricultural science, the beef industry, horticulture, and agribusiness development across North Queensland and internationally, including posts in Africa. He eventually led the Arid Zone Research Institute in Alice Springs. “The last 40 years have been full of adventure - working on interesting projects and meeting wonderful people.”

Through it all, Cromwell remained a steady thread. “I’ve always enjoyed catching up with fellow Cromwellians,” he says, recounting a memorable ferry ride in Singapore where he bumped into a College peer from the 1950s. “It’s always a pleasure to reconnect. It’s a special kind of bond.”

Philip offers measured wisdom for today’s students. “Your path won’t always be straight, and that’s okay. Life isn’t a linear journey, and there’s no reason to see that as a failure.”

Having seen Cromwell through multiple eras, Philip is both reflective and hopeful. “Having a connection to Cromwell over three generations has been deeply satisfying."

From the 2007 COCA News:

Philip and granddaughter Grace on Fresher Sunday (Feb 2025)