The past few months have continued to challenge all of us, and it is how we respond to this as a community that is critical.
The CCOBA has recognised that the financial impacts from Covid-19 will put pressure on our community both now and into the future, and it was with this in mind that we have looked to support the Annual Appeal with the goal of keeping our community strong by keeping it together. On behalf of the Old Boys, the CCOBA has donated one year’s school fees to the appeal, and I encourage those that are able, to click here to support this year’s appeal.
Senior Honours Ties
We are privileged to have many Old Boys who are living the College values and demonstrating those virtues locally and globally on a daily basis. Earlier this year I was privileged to present Senior Honours Ties to Peter Penlington and Derek Banks, who have both represented and supported College and the community with distinction for many years. It was fantastic to recognise and celebrate these two Old Boys in front of the school and their families. If you would like to read their story, click here.
Rugby Reunion
The annual College vs Christchurch Boys’ High School rugby match and associated events was a great occasion. We had players, coaches and managers from 25, 50 and 60 Years On attend a brunch at College overlooking Upper prior to kick off. This was a great opportunity for Old Boys to reminisce about stories of old. The rugby was of a very high standard and I support Sky Sport commentator Ken Laban’s description of College’s 28–27 win as, “one of the great 1st XV games of all time.” It was a fantastic event and full credit goes to all involved in a memorable spectacle.
Unofficial 40 Years On
The changing Covid-19 alert levels have impacted some of our events – in particular, the 40 Years On Reunion for 2020, which has now been moved to be incorporated within Reunion Weekend in 2021. However, in the spirit of making the most of opportunities when we can, a large group of the 40 Years On Old Boys were still able to come to Christchurch to connect and celebrate.
College Mentors
Covid-19 levels also impacted on College’s Agribusiness Enterprise & Innovation Day, when Heartland Bank rural manager Hugh Murchison, rural banking consultant Andrew McKellar, and I were lucky enough to judge some Year 13 students’ business proposals. From fixing potholes, to planting gardens, to calming dogs and boosting the health of sportspeople, their fledgling ideas were inspiring and their enthusiasm captivating. This is another example of ways to mentor College students. If you are keen to be part of College’s mentor network, please click here.
Board Appointment
Following the departure of Peter Davie, we have undertaken a search for a replacement CCOBA representative to the College Board of Governors. I would like to acknowledge and thank all who applied; the calibre of applicants was very high.
I am pleased to announce the CCOBA has appointed Tim Kerr to this position and he joined his first meeting in August this year. You can read more about Tim below.
Read on