I have asked family members who were on the trip to contact me with stories and articles, and here are some of those articles. I am extremely grateful for these articles as it helps give a different perspective on things.

Carlene & Tom Farmer sent this poem, it was written March 17th 2002. (Tom is a descendant of Child 1 Ann).

Carlene also wrote :- I think we all learnt a lot and came away with a feeling of "belonging" to the Lucas Clan and not just another name in a family tree.

Thanks Carlene and Tom.

PAUL & MARY BOUKER

I suppose the funniest stories of our reunion, that I have, surrounded the costume that I wore at the Forrester Luncheon, and again at the Foundation Day ceremonies.

As everyone knows, we were encouraged, by June, to wear “Period” costume. We considered that most people would probably try to dress as convicts or military / naval men. The ladies could quickly whip up bonnets, pinafores, and the like, to become servants, etc.
The thought occurred to me that it would be a hoot to dress up as a clergyman.

It would be simple to find the appropriate garments, as virtually any thing worn by most clergy up till, say, 20 / 30 years ago, was virtually the same as that worn 500 years ago. Bingo!

Through my strong involvement in my local Catholic community, I was able to borrow some garments (black under with white frilly over) left over from the Latin Rite days. Our Parish Priest, Fr John, lent me his personal white Vestment Stole with the very Australian (but unfortunately modern) Gum Leaves and Wattle Blossoms motifs. This would lend a ceremonial flavour to my outfit. I had a wooden cross from my Antioch leadership days, to hang around my neck.

It all looked OK, but lacked the authenticity of a clerical collar. The Catholic priests that I have closest contact with rarely wear a collar these days. Fr John didn't even own one. I had to turn to Scot, Mary's local Anglican minister. He lent me a spare collar (which is actually a shirt with a special neck to insert a plastic strip in to stiffen it and to provide the telltale square white section). The shirt was about 4 sizes to big for me so we had to hide a nappy pin at the back that made it look right.

So, with black shoes, socks and trousers to complete the outfit, I was ready. But nothing could prepare me for what would happen when I wore it. After all, it was only for a bit of a laugh amongst our own family, wasn't it?

Within minutes, I was famous, immediately recognizable as “Father Paul” At the cattle grid waiting for the bus to come, people wanted photos of me and with me. On the bus, at further pickups, people stopped halfway through sentences as they observed me up the back minding the wheelchair. There was quite a few people dressed in period costume, all worthy of praise and comment, and of course there were those in the “Hired” convict outfits that were worthy of a hearty giggle and a healthy ribbing, (very “interesting” if it had rained on them), but it seemed that my outfit stood out, so now I had to pay for it.

People wanted me to talk to them, bless them, marry them, hear their confessions, drive out their daughters’ demons, offer advice on errant spouses, the works! It was unbelievable! The whole reunion party came along for the ride and entered into the spirit of frivolity. It was fun. I guess this was exactly what June had in mind when she came up with the dressing suggestion. Have fun, a bit of a play up, get everyone talking, giggling, having a good time.

Then we started to mix with “Others”.

At the Forrester Luncheon, I was soaking up the atmosphere inside the house. During an impromptu tour, John had just explained the themes of each of the four large tapestries in the centre of the house, when ‘It’ happened.

A man approached me and, pointing to the motifs on my ceremonial white stole, queried the legitimacy of the acacia (wattle) plants being “Native to Norfolk Island.” Well, I didn't think they were either, but what was clear, was that he thought “I” was. In an instant a whirlwind enveloped me as I realized that he thought I was not only a local, but a real priest / minister as well. Having not considered in advance the possibility of this sort of mistaken identity, after all we were all only dressing up for fun; I was completely thrown at what to do.

I cant remember the exact words I used, but I immediately informed him that the Stole came from my home parish at Western Port (Hastings, Victoria) and was borrowed from my close friend, the Parish Priest, to enhance my already fairly authentic period costume. In the confusion of the moment, I cant recall what his response was to this probably embarrassing (to him) revelation, but it must have been short because I cant recall any further discussion taking place.

The remainder of the day was just magic, as I started to consciously consider if anyone else I met or even walked past had similarly been a victim of my ruse. Some wag suggested (far too late of course) that perhaps I should have led the saying of Grace!

The guys from the Rotary Club, who were providing the drinks, may have been slightly disturbed when I approached them, during lunch, for soft drinks for our table, only to be informed that they had run out. I pointed out to them that there were some elderly people there whose health may be at risk. They didn't exactly say they had some empty earthenware jars out back. Nor did they invite me to perform some marvellous conversion of any liquids of dubious purity into something a little more palatable, but they did arrive at our table, a short time later, with cool fresh water for all who wanted it. Thank you Father Paul.

At the Foundation day activities, the next day (Wednesday), the entertainment continued.

After the official re-enactment and flag raising was over, a lady came up to me and the conversation went like this:
Lady: “Oh, I'm so pleased to meet you. Can I shake your hand?”
Paul: “Er yes, … OK.”
I put out my hand and we (our hands) embraced.
Lady: “I really wanted to tell how much I enjoyed the service last Sunday evening.”
Paul (thinking to himself): Well, I went to Mass on Sunday morning, but definitely conspicuously absent from any Sunday evening religious event.
(Paul to Lady): “Er, ..., actually I wasn't at the service on Sunday night, this (my ministerial robes) is just a costume that I'm wearing today for the Foundation Day re-enactment.”
Slight pause.
Lady: “Oh.”
Slight pause.
Lady: “Oh!”
Lady: “_____” (Audible noise resembling something you might imagine as a cross between a South American Toucan, an Australian Kookaburra, and the Norfolk Island Booboo Owl, lasting approximately 8 seconds)
Lady: “Oh! Oh Dear! I've got to… Can I… Um, would you mind if I had my photograph taken with you?”
Paul: “Happy to.”

So she enlisted the help of a bystander, and the moment was captured on her camera for perpetuity. There were laughs all round as she wandered off, happy as Larry.

Someone from our group, who had not witnessed the episode, come up to me later on and told me the same story. He had overheard her telling her friends what had happened. Apparently, whilst initially totally embarrassed, she had thoroughly enjoyed her encounter with Fr Paul (as had I, with her).

There were two more ceremonies planned for us that day. The dedication of the Memorial Plaque commemorating the accidental death of the twins, Sarah & Mary, and also the presentation of the bench seat, overlooking the wharf area, to the people of Norfolk Island.

The organizers had originally invited a Bishop (from Brisbane) to provide ecclesiastical crunch to both these ceremonies, but he had to stay home when his wife fell gravely ill. In his place, a certain Dr (John) Duke was engaged to fill in. When he arrived, along with his wife and the Island Administrator, there was much banter amongst the group. Things like: “Why couldn't Fr Paul do it?” or “Who's this impostor?” All in fun, of course!

Later, I took the opportunity to make myself known to John and his wife, Mary, particularly in order to stress the costumic nature of my outfit. John was OK about it. He recalled to me, how, when they had got out of the car at the first ceremony, and (naturally) spotted me, he had wondered aloud to Mary that maybe they had been double booked. We all had a giggle and I told him of my experiences as ‘Fr Paul’.

As it turns out, John & Mary had attended the, now infamous, ‘Sunday Evening Service’. John had delivered the Sermon. Apparently, the person who had read the readings was about my height and also had a beard, so he could see how the lady, three days later could have become confused.

It makes you wonder what would have happened if Mary Magdalene had made a similar mistake 2000 years ago.

I hope that everyone enjoyed the fun of having a real live, fake, Fr Paul in their midst for but a few short days. I certainly did. I thank everyone whom entered into the ‘Spirit’ of the (dress up) occasion and made my holiday and family reunion such a memorable time.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank and congratulate June Dark for the preparation and behind the scenes organization she put in that made our time together so wonderful.

Paul Bouker.  (Paul is a descendant of Child 1 Ann).

Thanks Paul.

Many thanks to Paul and just to let you all know that I put my big foot in my mouth by walking up to Paul and asking him "Father would you please come and bless the seat" and guess who Paul was talking to, YES it was the real ministers wife. I am sure she saw the funny side of it but I did feel a little silly.

June.

This article is by Bill Bouker. (Bill is a descendant of Child 1 Ann).

I enjoyed all of the holiday to Norfolk Island, but the two days that stand out in my mind are:-
1.    The Walk in the Wild and Mini Golf Day - A mixture of Peace and Fun.
2.    Dedication of the plaque for Sarah and Mary with Krisy singing, that added immense sentiment to the occasion.

Thanks Bill.

This was Nola Lord's thoughts on the trip. (Nola is a descendant of Child 1 Ann).

It was hard to choose my most memorable moment, but I think standing in the paddock at the place where Olivia and Nathaniel's home once stood was special for me.

My funniest moment from a Victorian Highlanders point of view was that on the first morning seeing June Dark rolling up for breakfast in her parka, when we southerners were staggering with the heat!

My saddest moment was leaving the farewell dinner on our last night together.

Thanks Nola.

It is here I can offer some defence for my actions. I had been up since before 5 am walking around the town and it was quite cool at that time especially since we had been experiencing 35 - 40 degree temperatures right through the summer. My Parka was a light rain jacket really. (That's my story anyway). Signed, Froggy.

David Lord wrote his thoughts also. (David is Nola's husband).

One of the best holidays I have had with people who were good fun to be with. The sing-songs on the bus returning nightly to the Crown and Regal were lots of fun. Wonderland by Night with the poet (Archie) was enjoyable and the Progressive Dinner visiting the homes of the local people were great. Dressing-up at Forrester Court was my favourite day.

My funniest moment was on the plane returning to Sydney and seeing the look on Kevin Meers face when Nola told him "if this plane crashes full of Lucas family members, it would be considered genocide."

Thanks David.

This article supplied by Graham Lucas the only descendant to travel to Norfolk Island from Western Australia.

I heard that at the Welcome Dinner one of our group was so engrossed in the conversation she walked out of the marquee with two table napkins on her. We pointed out that the last family member who was found with linen on them was sent away for seven years.

Networking and Family History.

One development from the trip was the start of some networking amongst the Lucas / Gascoigne descendants. We can put faces to some of the names in "A NATION WITHIN A NATION" book as well as catch up on some lost second / third cousins.

A number of the participants had varying depths of knowledge and research on the family history. The trip was a unique opportunity to develop that depth of knowledge. Who knows we may discover some artefacts and memorabilia hidden away some where in Australia.

Thanks Graham.  (Graham is a descendant of Child 10 Charles).

This article was written by Pat Cannard who is (a descendant of Child 7 John).

One thing that impressed me was how much Susan Lee enjoyed being part of the family. Being such an extrovert she made everyone aware of her presence and had no trouble expressing her pleasure at being persuaded to go. Here is my response to your request for a few lines on what impressed us.

My cousin, John O'Leary was unable to travel to Norfolk for the Lucas/Gascoigne reunion but his two daughters, Debra Buckley and Susan Lee made up for his absence. I'm sure everyone will remember Sue and her speech at the final dinner. From not being interested in family history and not wanting to go on the trip at all she was the one who experienced the greatest conversion since Paul on the road to Damascus. We thank Debra for persuading her to go. These two girls and myself were the only descendants from Nathaniel Thomas Lucas' daughter, Maud, to make the trip. Maud is the seventh of his 16 children and my grandmother and Debra and Sue's great-grandmother. (Our line is 7D). We now have to persuade other members of the family to join us when next we have a get-together.

Thanks Pat.

This little story was supplied by Kaye Price and Anne Smith who are (descendants of Child 8 James).

There were a couple of funny things that happened to Michael Smith while we were away, Michael went back to the unit to get something (probably a beer). He wandered in headed over to the fridge and opened the door. He looked in and saw all the strange food in the fridge. He looked around the unit, scratched his head and decided to check the bedroom cos he knew his case was on top of the wardrobe. NO CASE! He left in a hurry. He was in the wrong unit.

Sue, Rod and Michael went to play golf and Michael was hitting off and the automatic sprinklers came on and guess where Michael was standing? yep right over it. We all had a great time, as we don't get together very often we try to make every minute count.

Another story was when niece Sharyn overheard a conversation that went something like this "Have you met the Smiths? Nice family ....But rowdy.... We loved that one!

We had a bit of a cloud hanging over us while we were away our sister-in-law Pauline, Philip's wife had a bad fall down a large flight of stairs in England and was in a coma, (now recovering very slowly, with memory loss). It made us look at life a bit closer and realise you live for today and enjoy it while you can, sitting back and observing the Lucas/Gascoigne family I realised the strength in this family, (Kaye asked if we could send some of this strength to Pauline, Phillip and Richard (their son). This we did and I am sure it helped.

Oh and one more... I'd like to award the Jack Brabham award to Marguerite for the amazing way she made sure we were always second in line (after our guide in Herb and Kate's car) on the Tag-along-tour. Marguerite was this gentle, sedate driver until it seemed someone was going to get in front of us, then LOOK OUT! Michael Schumacher would have been impressed.

Aside from all the terrific family members we met on Norfolk, Michael and I don't see a lot of our cousins Sue, Rod, Kaye and Sharyn. Sue and Sharyn live in Canberra, and Kaye and Rod are a couple of hours away from Melbourne. This trip was a wonderful opportunity for us to get together with them. I don't think I have ever heard Michael laugh so much as he did that week.

Kaye also mentioned she had a great time on Norfolk Island and that they enjoyed meeting relatives and swapping stories about our immediate and not so immediate families.

Thanks Kaye and Anne.

I also have a confession to make (perhaps I should contact "Father Paul"). Late one night when I was coming home I did a similar thing only this time the couple were in the unit. I made a hurried retreat saying how sorry I was but I think  the poor man might still be recovering. (I hope by now I have been forgiven).

Dawn Blair spoke at the farewell dinner and this is what she said, (Dawn is a descendant of Child 8 James).

What this reunion has meant to me.

During the past seven days I have experienced many emotions.

Firstly one of gratitude to June Dark and all those who have had input into the planning of these 7 days.

Fellowship as I have shared so many moments with Nathaniel and Olivia's descendants.

Awe as I have travelled around and realised what has been accomplished over many years.

Warmth as we all shared in the hospitality of the island people.

Oneness as we have shared in the special dedication ceremonies.

Sadness as I wandered through the cemetery and learnt of the passing of so many lives.

Happiness as we have shared so many good times together.

Fullness when we were fed with such sumptuous meals.

A feeling of being special to be a part of this large family.

Pride as I witnessed the input family members have made to make this reunion such a success and so special. Here I have to mention the beautiful rendition of Amazing Grace by Krisy Paulsen and the laying of the flowers by Krisy and Ryan Paulsen, two of our younger family members with us.

Lastly a feeling of thankfulness that I have been able to share this special time with my son Ian who encouraged me to come when I was feeling so defeated due to circumstances at home.

The memories of this reunion will remain forever.

Thanks Dawn.

This is from Sharyn Hutchinson. (A descendant of Child 8 James).

It was just wonderful to meet all the extended family and to take the time to remember past family members in such a caring and commemorative  way. We had a wonderful time and it will give us many happy memories for years to come.

Thanks Sharyn.

This is from Judy Keating who's husband John is (a descendant of Child 6 Olivia).

We did so much is a short time and met so many great people while we caught up on our history of our family and our country..

Since we came home I've found in "The Book" that John is related several ways to some of the people we met. For someone who knew just nothing of his forebears until a few years ago, that is really something.

Thanks Judy.

This is from Pat Lucas a (descendant of Child 8 James).

It was a most wonderful emotional experience to be involved in the remembrance of Sarah and Mary and it was really great to meet so many of "The Lucas Clan".

Thanks Pat.

Wendy and Merv Poyner wrote; Wendy is a (descendant of Child 13 Thomas).

How enriched our lives have been since meeting you and spending such a fabulous week at the Lucas Gascoigne Reunion. This has been one of the highlights of my life and I cannot thank you enough for seeing fit to make it all possible for so many descendants to gather together to experience such moving and meaningful activities at each commemorative occasion.

It must have been very satisfying for you to observe the enthusiasm of everyone present and experience the friendly and supportive attitude of family members who are now so familiar. Our Norfolk Island experiences will always be very precious and special to us, reliving our family history. Hope we will meet again - another reunion maybe! however it will be hard to surpass the Norfolk Island experience.

Thanks Wendy.

Nancy Little a friend of John Meers (John is a descendant of Child 7 John). Nancy joined John for our special time together on Norfolk and I appreciate the fact she took the time to express her feelings.

I asked if Nancy felt left out at all, and she assured me no, not at all.

Nancy wrote:-    You were kind enough to mention to me on our "Norfolk Week" that you were concerned that I might feel or be "left out". I assure I was not and was made welcome by everyone. It was a unique experience for an outsider to take part in a family gathering such as the Lucas gathering and I felt very privileged to be a part of the occasion.

Two convicts must have look down and and smiled.

Thanks Nancy.

Marjory Sullivan a (descendant of Child 11 Sarah).

Marjory thanked me and also said she would write to the Travel Centre - they did such a fantastic job. Aren't the Norfolk Island people so natural and hospitable. I felt we fitted a whole month into one week. I have "A NATION WITHIN A NATION" as well as "NATHANIEL AND OLIVIA". I will always remember our trip.

Thanks Marjory.

Anita Lucas a (descendant of Child 13 Thomas).

I have been telling family and friends of the wonderful time Mary and I had during our holiday reunion at Norfolk Island. I must also tell you I will never forget your granddaughter singing "Amazing Grace" during the dedication ceremony for Mary and Sarah. It was such a moving experience.

I do hope we meet again.

Thanks Anita.

This was sent by Jan and Allan Robinson. (descendant of Child 7 John).

What fun we all had and what a great bunch of people. Of course we have Nathaniel and Olivia giving us those genes. Everyone had a great capacity for fun and enjoyment. Unfortunately it wasn't possible to meet everyone but I'm sure we came into contact with the majority.

I must say that the highlight for me, in a week of highlights, was actually standing on the block of land where Nathaniel and Olivia lived and imagining, or trying to, what life must have been like for them.

Jan said she was also sure Krisy and Ryan would have benefited enormously from participation in the trip.

Thanks Jan and Allan.

For Wendy Brown the trip was also very special for the following reasons.

Every event was really special to me, and as you said earlier, I felt a real connection. Apart from organised activities, I guess one thing I really enjoyed was the early morning's walk through the National Park with "Father Paul", Mary, Nola and Graham Lucas.

Thanks Wendy for your contribution.

Warwick and Pam Grace wrote to say how special it was for the seven cousins and their partners to be together. This was the very first time that they had been together and what a special time to do it.  They are descendants of Child 7 John. Warwick and Pam have supplied a lovely photo that we will use in the magazine if we get it to print.

Thank you Warwick and Pam.

Fred and Maureen Rodda wrote with the following.

When we arrived home we learned that there is a descendant of child 8 living about 20 minutes from us.
A trip like the one we had to Norfolk certainly helps us appreciate the life we have doesn't it. Just to survive the trip out was a feat in itself and those people had unbelievable resilience. The dedication to the twins was also very moving and I struggled to contain myself when Krisy sang. Simplicity can be so powerful.

Many thanks Fred and Maureen.