Happy New Year. We hope you had a wonderful break, filled with moments of joy and connection with family and friends.
Congratulations to the 2025 OHA Medallist
We are thrilled to announce that Professor Arnold Dix (OH 1981) has been awarded the 2025 OHA Medal.
The medal was awarded for the 19th time at the Founders Day assembly, with former OHA Medallists, OHA Presidents, and members from the Class of 1986 celebrating their 40-year reunion, in attendance.
Arnold became a hero when he helped rescue 41 Indian workers from a tunnel collapse high in the Himalayas.
During the Silkyara Tunnel rescue in 2023, Arnold was the public face of the 17-day operation, declaring to the world from the beginning that the trapped workers would be rescued. Under his expert technical leadership and guidance, the operation switched to a slower, safer excavation technique after machinery failed, which was a mission-critical decision that prevented further collapse. Arnold’s optimistic attitude and calm approach built the confidence that the workers would come out alive.
An international tunnelling expert, Arnold established Underground Works Chambers, offering expert advice on high-risk subterranean infrastructure and safety regulation.
Arnold has worked as a geologist, lawyer and barrister. He has also dabbled as a flower farmer, truck driver and welder.
Arnold never asked for payment for his role in the rescue in India. He showed the world that good people working together can achieve the impossible.
Arnold joins an illustrious list of Old Haileyburians to have been awarded the OHA’s most prestigious award.
Congratulations Arnold.
OHA Events
We are delighted to release the OHA Events Schedule for this year.
We look forward to a fantastic 2026 as we continue our commitment to serve our alumni and the broader Haileybury community. Please note that the OHA office is here for all members and we encourage you all to reach out if required via stayconnected@haileybury.com.au or contact me on 03 9904 6615.
Kylie Phillips
Development Office Operations Lead
