Professor David Walker and Karen Walker from the Peking University Australian Studies Centre were delighted to attend a function at the Australian Studies Centre, Renmin University, Beijing held to commemorate the 10-year association of Professor Colin Mackerras with RUC and the 50-year anniversary of Professor Mackerras coming in China. The event was celebrated by staff and students of the Centre, by past students who warmly remember being taught by Colin, by Australian colleagues living in Beijing, and by staff from the Australian Embassy. His son Stephen Mackerras was also present to offer congratulations. All were warmly welcomed by the Centre Director, Professor Zhang Yongxian. Professor Mackerras gave an engaging talk entitled ‘My stories – 10 years at RUC and 50 years in China’, sharing many memories of his long relationship as a friend of China and the many changes that he has experienced.