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BulletinTHE

APRIL 2013

The Magazine of the Nelson College Community

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From the Acting Headmaster – Mr Tim TuckerThe staff and students of the school have been busy in recent months. Even more gratifying is that the industry has been rewarded with many many fantastic results. It remains that the provision of high quality courses and the best possible education for our boys are our greatest priorities.

The opening of the Gibbons Trade Education Centre is one example of the Old Boys, Community and College working together to provide the best for our boys. The Centre is a modern purpose-built facility which is providing students with the highest quality preparation for a career in their chosen trades area. I would like to acknowledge all the sponsors and supporters of this project but especially the Gibbons family. The family was personally involved in the project at all stages and willingly gave considerable time and resources to ensure the highest quality results.

The Education Review Office visited the school in August 2012 to assess the quality of teaching and learning occurring at Nelson College. The ERO visit involves a great deal of investigative work from their team and extensive review of our courses and policies. Nelson College is one of only 15% of schools nationwide to receive the highest grade of review. The grade of review is measured by the length of time until the next visit – ours will be five years! Perhaps most importantly it is reassurance from the highest level that we are delivering high quality learning in a positive and motivating environment or as ERO put it, "students are highly engaged in learning" ... further evidence of the College's effective strategies to engage all students in learning and the life of the school.

The words of ERO were reinforced by excellent NCEA results. These results continue a trend of steady improvement and have the shared strengths of a high level of participation as well as excellence. To identify a very few highlights, 88% of Year 11 students gained Level One, 84% of Year 12 gained Level Two and 78% of Year 13 gained Level Three. All of these were well above the national average. The boys at all three levels gained a greater percentage of Merit and Excellence grades, in some cases outperforming the average for boys in decile ten schools. We gained 24 scholarships which is the most for a very long time. This number of scholarships puts Nelson College among the top performing schools in New Zealand.

Such meritorious academic achievement has been matched by the co-curricular programmes too. Boys at Nelson College were awarded 56 board of trustees medallions. These are awarded to students who gain National Representative honours or attain a national title. Boys have been selected to represent New Zealand in Softball, Volleyball, Basketball, and Shakespeare and have won titles in Rowing, Rockquest to name a few. The full list of achievements is reported later in this magazine.

A busy year has passed with another one in progress. Many wonderful achievements have occurred already with medals gained at rowing’s Maadi Cup, a second place for the Softball team and third place for the Volleyballers in the top division national competitions. We also look forward to hosting the Quadrangular Tournament this year in late July.

Thank you for your interest in a special school. Tim Tucker – Acting Headmaster

2 From the Acting Headmaster Report on the year at Nelson College

3-5 Nelson College Stories and photos on the year at Nelson College

6 Old Boys’ News

7-8 Good Sports News and photos on Old Boys achieving in a variety of sports

9-12 Old Boys’ News Out and About with news from Old Boys, visitors, books, honours

13 Nelson College Trust Foundation News on the Nelson College Trust Foundation and its initiatives

14 School Days – The Way We Were The Nelson College Museum

15 2011/12/13 Obituaries Rest in Peace to all those who have passed on.

16 A Living History Mr Scobie McKenzie Donate A Rose Project

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>www.nelsoncollege.school.nz

To notify a change of address, to contact The Bulletin or to submit a story idea email gina@nelsoncollege.school.nz or phone 03 548 3099Editors: Gina Fletcher and Sue Moir. The Bulletin is published by Anchor Print, Nelson

Photo Courtesy of Shuttersport Photo courtesy of The Nelson MailNM

Cover image: Julian Matthews (2002-06) first to cross the finish line at the Friar 5K road race in Provi-dence, USA. Photo courtesy of Ashley McCabe, USA.

Nelson College 2012/2013Headmaster Mr Gary O’SheaDeputy Head and Acting Head T1 2013 Mr Tim TuckerAssistant Principal Mr Ron KellyAssistant Principal Ms Annette Taylor (Boarding and International) Assistant Principal Mr John PrestidgeAssistant Principal Mr Brian HoreHead Boy 2012 Hamish MellorHead Boy 2013 Jacob BignellMaori Head Boy 2013 Maru KennyInternational Head Boy 2013 Tissanin Nipattasat

Board of Trustees 2013 Chair Mr Dennis ChristianDeputy Chair Mr Jo RaineyMembers Mr Warren WestenraCo-opted Mrs Carolyn Mihaere Mr Max SpenceStaff Rep Mr Harvey ProctorStudent Rep Costa Simpson Headmaster Mr Gary O'SheaSecretary Mrs Sandra GargiuloCollege Roll: 1111 students including 177 boarders, 54 international students from 12 countries and 106 in Preparatory School.

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BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEDALLIONS 2012

James Anderson – NZ U17 Beach Volleyball Team, Kereama Barrett – NZ U20 Maori Rugby Team, Monty Brosnahan – NZ U19 Beach Volleyball Team, Jasper Brown, Hugo Coleman, Oliver Coleman, Jack Currie, Jake Danson, Jarrah Dowrick, Rylea Hart, Tom Hayes, Tom Hulland, Jack Huygens, Andrew Leighs, Jordan Osmaston, Jack Robinson, Nick Somerville, Lewis Thorneycroft, Jerry Zindel – NZ Youth Brass Band Title, Ethan Bruce – NZ Moto-Cross Junior Cross Country Champion, Amohia Busby – NZ U17 Volleyball Team, James Christian, Justin Sturrock – NZ U19 Underwater Hockey Team, Zach Coombes King – NZ U23 Underwater Hockey Team, Finn Delany – NZ Secondary Schools Volleyball and NZ U18 Basketball Team, Mitchell Drummond, David Havili – NZ U19 Touch Team, Mitchell Drummond, Steven Soper, and Te Puoho Stephens – NZ Secondary School Rugby Sevens Team, Jarrah Dowrick, Jordan Osmaston, Jack Robinson – NZ Secondary Schools Brass Band, Alex Farrell-Davey, Allister Meffan, Ed Palmer – Winners Smokefree Rock Quest, Harry Fergusson – NZ U17 Beach Volleyball Team and NZ U17 Volleyball Team, Keegan Fisher – 1st in World, Language Perfect, Maori, Jake Glover – NZ Mountain Bike Junior Super D Champion, Mitchell Hunt – NZ U17 Touch and U19 Touch Teams, Jasper Irvine – NZ U18 Basketball Team, Eli Jones – NZ Ultimate Frisbee Team, Marcus Jones – NZ Under 60 kg Boxing Title, Jordan Johnston – NZ Youth Pipe Band, Luke Kelly – NZ U16 Aquathon Champion, Charles Leaper -1st in NZ, Language Perfect, Tongan, Mike Lowe – NZ Secondary Schools Track and Field Team, 3000m, Daniel Mallabar – NZ Secondary Schools Softball, Kaiori McGuinniety – NZ U19 Aquathon Champion, Eddie McTaggart – NZ representative for Biology Olympiad, Ben Meek – NZATE Junior Writing Competition, Matthew Mount, Rupert Oakeley – Shakespeare Globe International, Charles Norton – NZ representative at the World Science Conference, Dan Parker – NZ Secondary Schools All Round Gymnastics Champion, Anthony Pyers – 1st in NZ, Language Perfect, Samoan, Christoph Riedel – NZ U20 Rock Climbing Champ, Leo Sandler – NZ U19 Mountain Biking Downhill Champ and Team and Josh Stove – NZ U16 Inline Hockey Team.

College NewsCollege Dux 2012 Ed Palmer was announced Dux and awarded the Colin Neale Memorial Trophy and Medallion at the Nelson College Senior Prizegiving in 2012.The Year 13 student received awards for top class marks, academic scholarships, a medallion for national achievements and scholarships to two New Zealand universities. He has accepted the prestigious Otago Excellence Scholarship which is given out to only 20 students throughout New Zealand and he plans to study medicine.Aside from his academic achievements, Ed is also a keen runner and involved with music, though said he definitely still found time to have a social life. “You’ve got to keep a balance.” Additionally Ed also played the double bass for the three-piece band, New Vinyl, which won the national Smokefreerockquest competition in 2012.

Exceptional TalentNelson College’s Morrison Cup for best all-round athlete in the school was awarded to Mitchell Drummond at the school’s 2012 Prizegiving. The school-leaver claimed a rare threepeat after winning the top sports award in both 2010 and 2011. Mitchell was the Nelson College First XV captain, receiving his 50th cap for the College. In the Press Cup competition, Mitchell was the regular season top points-scorer and first player to reach 100 points. He also won the Phillip McDonald medal for most outstanding player in the Press Cup. Mitchell attended the Crusaders Knights camps, was a member of the Nelson Bays under-18 team, was the Buccaneer top secondary school rugby player in the region and made the New Zealand Secondary Schools Barbarians team. In rugby sevens, Mitchell was a member of the Nelson College senior sevens team, which placed second in the country last year and will play at the nationals early next month. Mitchell was a member of the Nedlands senior A club team that recently competed at the Borneo international club sevens tournament. In touch rugby, he was the Nelson College senior A captain, is a member of the New Zealand under-19 team and was named in the New Zealand secondary schools tournament team. In cricket, he was the Nelson College First XI captain. For the Stoke-Nayland senior team, he was named wicketkeeper of the year, under-23 player of the year and most promising batsman. Mitchell was a member of the Nelson senior men’s representative side and was named the Nelson men’s senior representative player of the year. Mitchell is currently doing a building apprenticeship in Christchurch and playing for Canterbury Rugby Unions Academy. Article courtesy of The Nelson Mail.

NELSON COLLEGE PTANelson College PTA has a devoted, enthusiastic and hard-working committee and members who regularly attend monthly meetings. Their core function is to communicate with the teachers about the activities of the College and the teacher representative, Deputy Principal, Tim Tucker, provides a thorough report at every meeting, inviting questions and discussion.

The PTA oversees two major funding sources; the first is the Uniform Shop which is administered by the PTA. Last year we were saddened by the death of Jill Heath who ably ran the Uniform Shop for many years. The second funding source is the Annual Quiz Fundraiser which was held on August 10, 2012. The Quiz Night was a fantastic success and approximately $12,400 was raised towards the new Gibbons Trades Education Centre. The PTA is delighted to help students achieve excellence in their chosen field and any application for funding should be made to the College Management Team in the first instance.

A new initiative has been the introduction of an annual “drinks and nibbles” function with the Nelson College for Girls PTA and more collaboration between the two groups is looked forward to.

You can find the PTA on the Nelson College website by clicking on the “Our School” tab and then “PTA”. We would like to acknowledge and thank our committee and members for their tireless efforts.Peter Riley – PTA Chairperson

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY RELATIONSNelson College recently created the position of ‘Director of Community Relations’. My role is to build the relationships within our community and school, past, present and future, to ensure that we get more friends to the school. Our aim, in the Business Development unit , is to show all past and potential students, donors and the community, that Nelson College has a great and exciting future and we welcome everyone to be involved in our growth.

I am immensely proud to be involved in this role, and look forward to discussions and ideas from anyone looking to become involved, or who are already involved in the welfare and future of Nelson College.

Mark Vinsen Director of Community Relations Nelson College

021 100 7523 mv@nelsoncollege.school.nz

Mitchell Drummond (2010-12) wearing his special 1st XV cap that was awarded to him in 2012 for having played 50 games for Nelson College 1st XV.

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Nelson College Band 'New Vinyl' wins National Smokefreerockquest

Nelson College band New Vinyl won the Smokefreerockquest national final in 2012. The three-piece folk jazz band made up of year 12 and 13 students Ed Palmer (double bass), Alex Farrell-Davey (guitar and vocals) and Allister Meffan (accordion and trumpet) – won $10,000 worth of instruments and a NZ On Air new recording and music video grant worth more than $10,000.

“When we heard the other finalists we didn’t think we’d win – they were so talented, but we are really stoked,’’ Farrell-Davey said.

"New Vinyl gave a mature performance with solid vocals and melodies that were really well written and performed" commented judge Jell Newton from NZ on Air.

The road to the finals for the band began when they won the regional competition in Nelson in May 2012. This required them to produce and submit a DVD for judging along with 20 other regional winners from which 8 were selected to play live in the national final.

Article source and photo courtesy of Fairfax NZ News

Rutherford Group

Nelson College Science Teacher, Tristan Riley established the 'Rutherford Group' in 2012, a group for budding scientists who meet weekly at lunchtime in the Lab to discuss science related topics, events and competitions. Their motto is "Win fame and fortune through Science". The following are two examples of students who have a passion for science and have pursued opportunities in their fields of interest. We will be reading more about them in the future.

Year 13 Nelson College student, Charles Norton was selected to attend Youth ANZAAS (Australia New Zealand Association for the Advancement of Science) as part of 22 senior secondary school students from around New Zealand who were chosen by the Royal Society of New Zealand. They were joined by 21 secondary school students f rom around Australia. Over the six days the students were immersed in many science activities and lectures organised in conjunction with the University of Otago and the International Science Festival. They visited the Anatomy Museum, Department of Zoology, New Zealand Marine Studies Centre and Invermay Agricultural Centre as well as listened to and participate in workshops on neuroscience, genetics and food chemistry and attend lectures by international scientists.

Year 13 Biologist, Eddie McTaggart gained selection for the national team to represent New Zealand at the International Biology Olympiad in Singapore in 2012. The International Biology Olympiad (IBO) is a competition for secondary school students where their skills in tackling biological problems, and dealing with biological experiments are tested. Interest in biology, inventiveness, creativity and perseverance are necessar y. In br ing ing together g i f t e d s t ud en t s , t h e IBO t r i e s to c h a l l e n g e a n d st imulate them to expand their talents and to promote their career as scientists. Nelson College Head of Biology, Johnnie Fraser believed that this experience will open many doors f o r t h i s g i f t e d young man , who is interested in a career in biomedical research.

Gibbons Trade Education Centre Official Opening

The official opening of the Gibbons Trade Education Centre was held on 3 April 2012 and was the culmination of an extremely bold initiative undertaken by Nelson College, a State school, in partnership with corporate business entity, Gibbons Holdings. They brought together 30+ donors, Community Trusts, Old Boys and the wider community who all contributed to turning this educational vision into a magnificent facility. The purpose built addition to the College will enable over 400 boys a year to undertake courses in Automotive & Light Engineering, Building Construction and Carpentry & Joinery.

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College NewsInline Hockey The Nelson College Inline Hockey team produced a sensational result on debut at the national secondary schools championships in 2012 winning a bronze medal. Outstanding contr ibutions came f rom Captain, Josh Stove who ended the tournament as the leading goal scorer with a total of 17 goals in 5 games and goalie Sean McShea who notched up a “save rate” of 84.4% for the tournament. Josh Stove went on to be selected in the NZ U16 Inline Hockey Team.

Underwater Hockey James Christian ( lef t) and Justin Sturrock (right) were par t of the New Zealand under-18 men’s team that beat Australia for gold at the 2012 Australia Cup and Trans-Tasman Series at the Miami Aquatic Centre, Gold Coast. They were among seven members of the Nelson Underwater Hockey Club who travelled to Australia, with former Nelson College student Zachary Coombs-King part of the New Zealand men’s lineup. Coombs-King captained the Nelson College team, which also included Sturrock and Christian, to the bronze medal at the 2011 secondary schools nationals. The event was another key part of what is essentially a development year for the New Zealand players and the start of a build up for this year’s world championships in Hungary.

Champion Boxer Nelson College Boxer Marcus Jones is the 2012 Boxing NZ Amateur Champion in the Cadet Male U60kg division. He won this t i t le despite frequently struggling to find an opponent in this division and often punched above his weight competing in a higher division. The Clifton Boxing Gym trained fighter was among 12 fighters chosen for a South Island Development Camp and was recognised as the most improved boxer at the South Island Golden Gloves Championship where he boxed in a higher division and won.

NZ Junior Motorcycle Cross Country ChampionNelson College student Ethan Bruce went into the final round of the 2012 New Zealand junior motorcycle cross-country national championships as one of three riders on top with level points.When the dust set tled af ter 1 1 /2 hours of f ul l - throt t le, log-dodging, mud-slinging action, the boarder f rom Maruia was crowned the new national champion.Three previous events could not separate Ethan from his two North Island competitors, each recording, a first and second placing allowing for the worst result to be written off. With the best-placed rider certain of victory, the final event on May 12 at Cheviot near Christchurch was effectively a final.After 12 laps of the 10-kilometre circuit, second place was enough for Ethan to claim the championship title and the New Zealand junior No1 ranking. Article – courtesy of the Nelson Mail

Update: Maruia's Ethan Bruce (Yamaha), in action during the 2013 New Zealand Cross-country Championships. Photo by Andy McGechan, BikesportNZ.com

GymnasticsYear 13 Nelson College gymnast, Dan Parker won all-round gold in the Senior A grade at the 2012 NZ Secondary Schools Gymnastics Championships held in Auckland. His outstanding performances resulted in a 1st on pommel and high bar, 2nd on floor and rings, 3rd on vault and 4th on P bars. At the New Zealand Gymnastic championships later in the year he earned the following results at Level 8: Gold at Pommel, Silver on Rings, Bronze for High Bar and Vault and fourth on Floor. Dan is not that far away from level 10, which is the competitive level at the Olympic Games.

VolleyballVolleyball continues to be a leading sport at Nelson College with 5 students earning Board of Trustees medallions in 2012. The young senior A team qualif ied for Nationals and finished the tournament with a bronze medal in Division 2. Amohia Busby and Harry Fergusson were selected in the NZ U17 team to play Australia and Finn Delany was named in the New Zealand Secondary Schools Team that went on to beat Australia. Harry Fergusson and James Anderson made the NZU17 Beach Volleyball Team and Monty Brosnahan was selected in the NZU19 Beach Volleyball Team.

1st XV Rugby 2012Quad Tournament The Nelson College 1st XV will have their name engraved on the Quadrangular trophy for the first time in ten years; however the accolade will be shared jointly with Wellington College who snatched a heart-breaking draw in the final act of the 86th quadrangular tournament in Christchurch. Nelson College came back from a 13-26 half time deficit, to lead 31-26 with 5 minutes to go in the final, before a last gasp try by Wellington and a missed conversion sealed the result – a shared title for only the fourth time in the tournament’s history.

In the preliminary game Nelson College beat Christ's College 34-6 and in the playoff for 3rd and 4th, Christ's College won 25 – 24 over Wanganui Collegiate.

Press Cup The Nelson College 1st XV bowed out of the Press Cup competition following a 29-7 semi-final loss to St Bede's College.

Representative honours included Kereama Barrett – NZ U20 Maori Rugby Team, Mitchell Drummond, David Havili – NZ U19 Touch Team, Mitchell Hunt – NZ U17 Touch and U19 Touch Teams, Mitchell Drummond, Steven Soper, and Te Puoho Stephens – NZ Secondary School Rugby Sevens Team.

ObituariesJill Heath 15 December 1937 – 16 July 2012It was with great sadness that the College said farewell to Jill Heath after her death following a long battle with cancer. Jill's contribution to the College spanned almost 30 years, most notably in her role as 1st XI Football Team Manager and in her involvement with the PTA Uniform Shop. A moving memorial service was held for Jill in the College Hall with touching tributes from current and former students. Her contributions to Nelson College and Nelson College football will long be remembered; and in recognition an annual 1st XI fixture is to be played each year against Nayland College for the Jill Heath Memorial Trophy. Unfortunately the College lost the inaugural match for the trophy 2-1; the game was played with great passion and spirit preceded by a minute's silence and full school Haka and in the end on the College Front Field it was a fitting tribute to an exceptional person.

Nelson College 1st XI team representatives George Kaukui and Andrew Baxendine with Jill Heath's husband Michael Heath and daughter Lisa Hawkins at the presentation of the Jill Heath Memorial Trophy following the College Memorial Service.

Matthew Gunter 30/11/1996 – 20/11/2012Matthew Gunter, Year 11 Barnicoat Boarder passed away in Christchurch Hospital on 20 November 2012 following complications f rom surgery. His funeral was held in Greymouth and was attended by the Headmaster, staff and around 60 College students who performed a moving school haka to open the ceremony. "There would not have been a dry eye in the house", Mr Gunter said. An honour guard from the school sang the school song, and everyone placed a fern on Matt's coffin. Matt's determination shone through in his sporting and academic endeavours and his sense of fun added much to the culture of Barnicoat House.

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NCOBA 2012/13 EXECUTIVEPresident Rob McKegney (1966-70)Headmaster Gary O'SheaExecutive John Bethwaite (1957-61) Campbell Ching (1969-73) Kieran Cleary (staff ) Roger Gibbons (1961-65) John Gully (1970-74) John Krammer (1947-50) Nick Lambert (1976-80) Ian Lash (1954-59) John Lines (1957-58) Doug McKee (1956-60) Jeremy Matthews (1969-73) Brett Mochan (1972-75) Mike Neale (1959-65) David Robertson (1956-61) Paul Sturrock (1980-84)

NCOBA CONTACT DETAILSWe are an active and vital organisation with over 1800 members. The Association provides a valuable link between Old Boys and the College as well as support to individuals, groups and special initiatives to ensure that the future of Nelson College is a bright and prosperous one.

At Nelson College we are fortunate to have the services of Gina Fletcher who acts as Old Boys' Liaison and she is able to assist you with any queries you may have relating to Nelson College, archival research, visiting the Museum or if you just want to pop in and have a look around your old school. Please call or email ahead of time to make an appointment.

On our website we aim to provide relevant and up-to-date information that is easy to find, so that our Nelson College community is well informed, visit: www.nelsoncollege.school.nz

Postal: PO Box 202, Nelson 7040, New Zealand Phone: +64 03 548 3099 Email: gina@nelsoncollege.school.nz

If we don't have your email address, please contact us so we can keep in touch and stay connected. Check out our Facebook page also – Nelson College Old Boys.

Dear Old Boys

The Old Boys' Association is an important stakeholder

in the future development of the college. The members

represent a wealth of expertise and knowledge which can

significantly benefit the College.

2012 saw the opening of the Gibbons Trade Centre, a new

facility that will ensure Nelson College is a leading Trades

educator in New Zealand. To the Old Boys and business

owners who contributed and continue to do so – a big

thank you! Thank you to the Gibbons family for their

tremendous contribution to the Centre as a state-of-the-

art professional facility which will give the boys the best

possible start to a professional trade career.

Under the guidance of Alan Turley and a team of volunteers,

namely Johns, the Museum and archives were completed

and we now have a great facility within the Scriptorium, a

heartfelt thanks to Alan and everyone involved for a job

well done. A 'must do' for any Old Boy visiting the College

where they can look back with pride and remembrance.

A big thanks to Headmaster Gar y O'Shea and the

management team for the school's continuing pursuit of

the 'cornerstone' values.

Rob McKegney

President

Old Boys' News

Old Boys’ Honour Bestowed on Sir John Ingram

This wonderful photo was taken at an Auckland branch Old Boys' Association AGM function in which Sir John Ingram (1935-42) was presented with his Honorary Life Membership of the Nelson College Old Boys' Association by Nelson College Headmaster Gary O'Shea. Sir John was thrilled to receive the certificate, he being one of only seven Old Boys to receive this membership. Pictured in the photo left to right are: William (Bill) Hursthouse (1928-31) – one of our oldest Old Boys; Wayne Hughes (1964-69) – Auckland Treasurer and Committee member; Sir John Ingram and Gary O'Shea.

WONDERFUL WEDDING HELD AT COLLEGE

Old Boy and Nelson College teacher Jar rod Aberhar t (1998-2002) marr ied his beautiful bride Kirsty on 7 Januar y 2012 a t t he College. A great time was had by all . The "school band" played in the hall: Richard Townsend (1996-2001) on trombone/tuba; Ell iot Blackmore (1998-2002) on drums; Daniel McG r a t h (2000) b a s s ; Aidan Fraser bass guitar; and Jarrod on guitar.

Nelson based

Old Boys Social Gathering

"First Friday" of each month

The Tides Bar

Trailways Hotel

ALL WELCOME

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Good SportsAthletics

Julian Matthews (2002-06) of Providence College ran a sub-four minute (3:59) mile at an indoor meet in Boston, USA. He ran 3:59 and teammate Dominic Channon (2003-07) pictured ran 4:02. Julian became the 34th New Zealander and the second Nelsonian to break four minutes. Rod Dixon first broke four minutes in 1972. "It's awesome to be on the list of sub-four minute milers," Julian said. During 2012 Julian also won the NZ Men's 1500m title at the Athletics NZ Track & Field Championships and Olympic Trials. The Bulletin cover image shows Julian first to cross the finish line at the Friar 5K road race in Providence, USA.

Basketball

Josh Bloxham (2005-08) Tall Black and NZ Breakers player.

Michael Fitchett (1996-2000) retired from all basketball following the 2011 Tall Black campaign. He has since been appointed NZ Under 16 coach.

Alistair Granger (2005-09) plays for the Keysborough Cougars in Melbourne, Australia. He was also awarded the 'rising star' award for the Victoria division 2 Big V basketball league.

Michael Karena (2008-11) is currently playing basketball for South Plains College in Texas, USA.

Jeremiah Trueman (2004-05) Tall Black and plays for the Perth Wildcats in the Australian National Basketball League.

Mika Vukona (2000) Captain of the NZ Tall Blacks in 2012 and is having a standout season for the NZ Breakers, for whom he is also Captain. Mika celebrated 200 games for the Breakers during the season. There are numerous articles on Mika and his performances, including "he is the ultimate team man and almost certainly the most respected player in the entire league. No-one plays harder than Vukona. That's a given". Marc Hinton.

Tall Blacks Honour Board

A Tall Blacks Honours Board was unveiled at Nelson College during 2012 with Nelson College's reputation as a nursery for 'budding Tall Blacks' recognised. Since former Nelson College Old Boy Brian Cotton (1944-45) first wore the silver fern way back in 1955, the college has provided 19 players, spanning more than half a century, to the national men’s team.

Brian Cotton (1955-59), Frank Baldwin (1957-1962), Rex Martyn (1958), Grove Barker (1958-59), Charlie Cotton (1963-66), Dave Taylor (1965-76), Chris Morris (1966-67), Barry Harding (1970), PF Stigley (1969-70), Nick Costley (1982-85), Peter Logan (1984), Colin Crampton (1985-86), Phill Jones (1994-2010), Michael Tompson (1999-2003), Mika Vukona (2005-), Ben Hill (2006-08), Jeremiah Trueman (2006-), Michael Fitchett (2007-11), Josh Bloxham (2012-)

Football

Solomon Islands FIFA World Cup Qualifying Team: Henry Fa'arodo (2001) Captain; Michael Fifi (2002-05); Andrew Abba (2006-08); Joachim Rande (2007-08); Wesley Olea (2005-06).

Rugby

Andrew Goodman (1996-2000) is currently playing rugby for Irish team Leinster in the European Cup competition – Leinster are the defending champions and include players such as former Irish captain Brian O'Driscoll.

Tabai Matson (1985-86) Crusaders Assistant Coach. Tabai Matson has made the transition from Canterbury Head Coach to Crusaders Assistant Coach for 2013.

Canterbury Crusaders – Wyatt Crockett (1994-2000, Rutherford); Tom Marshall (2004-08)

Hurricanes – James Marshall (2002-06), Ben May (1996-99)

Tennis

Alex Hunt (2007-11) pictured getting ready to serve during St Mary's match against Sonoma State on 28 January. As Nelson's No 1 tennis player, Alex was awarded a four-year tennis scholarship to attend St Mary's College, a small private college 20 minutes out of San Francisco. As well as playing tennis on the college tennis circuit around the US, Alex plans to study for a degree in business. He said getting to the top involved work, commitment, physical pain, determination and passion. "I think my goal to be a professional tennis player is ambitious but possible. It's still some way off but I intend to do everything in my power to make it happen." Alex's success is all the more impressive because he was born with only one arm. He uses a prosthetic limb below the elbow of his left arm. Photo by Tod Fierner

Unicycling

Mike Padial (2005-07) qualified 7th in the Trials section of Unicycling in the last UniCon – Unicycling World Championships in Italy.

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AT THE TOP OF THEIR GAMES

Scott Kearney (2006-10) Captain Junior Black Sticks U 21 team.

Matt L'Huillier (2001-05) NZ Black Sticks.

Mika Vukona (2000) Captain NZ Tall Blacks, also Captain NZ Breakers.

Harrison Dean (2003-07) representing NZ in the under-23 elite race of the Aquathlon World Championships – received silver medal. Photo courtesy of www.infonews.co.nz

Ethan Bruce (2010-12, Ruther ford) NZ Moto-Cross-Junior Cross Country Champion. Photo courtesy of Andy McGechan, BikesportNZ.com

Simon Manner ing (2000-04) NZ Kiwis Captain, also Captain NZ Warriors. Photo courtesy of www.zimbio.com

Wyatt Crockett (1994-2000, Rutherford) All Black. Photo courtesy of www.createaposter.co.nz

James Vaughan (2003) NZ Futsal team. Photo

courtesy of Photosport

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TOP GUN

LCDR George Schmuke (1990-94) was accepted into the United States Naval Academy in July of 1998. He graduated in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science and was accepted into flight training in Pensacola, Florida. He received his Naval Aviator wings in January 2005 and was assigned initial training in the F/A-18 Hornet in Lemoore, California. Completing F-18 training in November of that year he was sent directly to the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt, then on deployment in the Arabian Gulf. He flew 20 combat missions over Iraq in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM before returning to the USA in March 2006. While on duty in Virginia Beach, Virginia he was designated an LSO (landing signal officer) for his squadron, the officer responsible for bringing aircraft aboard the carrier in addition to his normal flying duties. He left the squadron after completing a seven month combat deployment and flying 46 combat missions, this time in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM over the skies of Afghanistan. While on deployment he was awarded the Air Medal three times. George is currently assigned as an instructor pilot in the first US Navy squadron designated to fly their newest fighter – the F-35C Lightning II – and is based in Destin, Florida.

Photo taken of George on his wedding day in Nelson, December 2011

Article and photos provided by Robert Schmuke

SUPERYACHT CAPTAIN

Captain Paul Bickley (1983-85) started his career fishing in Australia before making the jump to skippering superyachts, firstly in the Carribean for three years and then in Europe, based in the French Riveria for the last 15 years. He is now captain of the 52-metre MV Latitude, a luxury motor yacht. Guests pay up to NZ$500,000 a week to charter the vessel. In 2011 Paul won the Charter Captain of the Year award in the Fraser Yacht Awards during the Monaco Boat Show. It is a prestigious accolade won on feedback from clients and brokers throughout the global industry. His work as a super yacht captain has enabled him to entertain rock stars, sports stars, famous actors and heads of states. These have included former US president Bill Clinton, Michael Jackson, Bruce Willis, Kevin Costner, Robert De Niro, Michael Douglas, and members of the Rolling Stones and Guns and Roses, to name a few. Late last year Paul and the crew of the Latitude ended up on the front page of Britain's Sun and Mail on Line newspapers after he and his crew were photographed with Rihanna and friends on board Latitude at the end of her holiday. Despite all the glitz and glamour of sailing around some of the most exotic locations in the Mediterranean, Paul still has strong ties to New Zealand. He still visits Nelson with his family when he can and says the cleanliness and pristine environment of NZ waters, such as the coast around the Marlborough Sounds and the Abel Tasman, cannot be beaten anywhere else in the world. Extract of article from The Nelson Leader. Images courtesy of www.superyachtworld.com.

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OUT AND ABOUT Dr Winton Barnes (1955-59) working at Alice Springs Hospital in Australia as Director of Medical & Clinical Services.

Professor Tim Bell (1975-79) a computer scientist, Tim won the 2011 University of Canterbury Innovation Medal which honours efforts to have academic research adopted by the wider community.

Josh Bloxham (2005-08) making his way in the world. A Tall Black and NZ Breaker, Josh is currently dating Jaime Ridge. Pictured: Jaime Ridge and Josh Bloxham. Photo courtesy of www.thealist.co.nz

Stephane Cornille (2003-07). After obtaining two degrees at the University of Auckland – Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing and BA in Art History –Stephane was employed, ahead of 160 applicants, in Marketing at Fisher & Paykel Health Care. Mum Veronique writes "thank you for everything you did for my son Stephane during his years at NC, a special time for our family." Stephane is flatting with three other NC friends.

Professor Emeritus Exercens Douglas A Craig (1953-57) based in Canada at the University of Alberta, Dept of Biological Sciences. He has contributed to an interesting article for Fauna of NZ on sandflies (aka simuliidae and black flies elsewhere in the world). This article, which also details what Doug has been up to since leaving school, is available to view on the Old Boys' section of the NC website.

Sam Drew (2003-07) had his first publication appear online in Angewandte Chemie, one of the world-leading journals in chemical science. Sam is keen to act as a mentor to any chemistry students who are keen on pursuing chemistry as a career/uni study. "Nelson College was where my passion for science, and chemistry, was born."

Francis Day (1961-64) is a Director of NZ Land Based Aquaculture, which has its freshwater farm in Hope, Nelson. The farm is growing silver carp and grass carp on a recirculating system to sell domestically and to export as food, it being the only commercial fish farm of this kind in the country.

John 'Goody' Goodman (1951-55) and his wife Trish are off to Dublin 26 March – 3 May visiting their son Andrew (1996-2000) who is playing for Leinster in the European Cup competition.

Hamish Neill (1974-80) company director of Flightcell International, which was recently ranked 33rd on the Deloitte Fast 50 list of growing companies – its turnover grew by 212 per cent in the past 12 months to more than $3 million. Flightcell specialise in communication and satellite tracking devices which are used in aircraft around the world.

Volkmar Noeske (2007-08) is attending EBS Business School, one of the most prestigious universities in Germany. "I got accepted for their master in management program which just recently got ranked second in Europe."

Sean Plunket (1979-82) was guest speaker at "Old Man's Supper" at the boaders formal leavers dinner at Nelson College. His wonderful article written in the Dominion Post "A boarding house visit – 30 years on" can be viewed on the Old Boys' page of the Nelson College website. "There was no getting round it: I was the 'Old Man' when I donned suit and tie and walked into the dining hall I bade farewell to 30 years earlier."

Joe Rae (2005-09) became the youngest ever veteran to sign up for the Nelson RSA in October 2012. A signaller, Joe returned from serving in Afghanistan with the RNZSigs unit, and is working towards becoming a communications systems operator in the army. He is enjoying life in the armed services.

Andrew (1993-97) and Chris (1991-95) Rodley designed and own Snapit HD cameras that are now all over New Zealand. Chris, a former Nelson College teacher and now chief executive of Snapit HD, launched their new generation cameras in Las Vegas earlier this year where one of the top designers of the i-Pad described their technology as "phenomenal". To view some of the Snapit HD cameras around NZ, visit www.snapithd.com.

Don Taylor (1942-45, College House) past Principal of Highlands Intermediate in New Plymouth. Author of 'Everyone's War', marking Rotary's centenary. Recipient of a Fellowship of the NZ Educational Institute, Rotary's Paul Harris Fellowship and a New Plymouth City Council Citizenship award. Life member of Manukorihi Golf Club.

Jack Tippler (2005-09) turns up in the latest Hobbit production video from Peter Jackson – visit http://youtu.be/GsZ0qKX8uWE and fast forward to 6:04 to see his brief cameo.

Ryan Thurlow (2003-07) picked up second place in the Upper South Island Region Registered Master Builders Carters 2012 Apprentice of the Year Awards in 2012. He is employed by Barnett Construction Ltd in Nelson and said he "loved his job". Ryan went through the college trades building programme.

Justice John Wild (1960-64) was guest speaker at the Nelson College senior prizegiving. Imparting many words of wisdom to the boys in his speech, including "I've found that a good motto in life is carpe diem, literally, seize the day. That involves squeezing as much as you can out of every day. If opportunity knocks, grab it." He also encouraged Nelson College school leavers to aspire, and be young men who strive for excellence.

Guy Williams (2001-05) was guest speaker at the Nelson College Co-Curricular prizegiving and recently gave a talk to Y13 leadership students. A comedian, he had the boys riveted with his clever wit and take on life. To follow is an abstract from Me and My Health by Guy: What were PE classes like for you at school? And what lasting lesson did you take from them? "I always remember PE being ridiculously short. You take 15 minutes to get changed and 15 minutes to get unchanged, so it ends up being just 20 minutes of the teacher telling you not to bounce the ball yet. My lasting lesson was don't bounce the balls until you're told. My lasting impression is that I rule at badminton without even trying."

Old Boys’ News

Fascinated by science Jason Kirkham (2004-07) is studying for a Bachelor of Science at Waikato University. He was recently selected as an intern (one of 5 selected out of 65 applicants) at Hill Laboratories, New Zealand’s largest independent laboratory. The laboratory offered five undergraduate science students paid summer internships, along with the opportunity to gain commercial experience and apply university learning. The great news is that on completion of his internship Jason was offered a part-time job with Hills, which he accepted, and he hopes to secure full-time employment with them on completion of his degree at the end of this year.

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Old Boys’ NewsVisitors to Nelson College

Dav id (1956 -61) and Bruce (1953-57) Rober tson - Bruce was visiting f rom Whangarei, while David lives in Nelson and volunteers his time in the Nelson College Museum. Both 'boys' ended up boarding in Barnicoat during the latter part of their school years.

Ewen Grant (1955-58) visiting from the Manawatu (below).

Tom Slee (1950-54) at left visiting from Tauranga. "I was at College from 1950-54, the fourth of our family to attend at that time. My father Wilfred John Slee (1923-24), an uncle Thomas Geoffrey Slee (1924-28) and my youngest uncle Charles Alan Slee (1930-34).

"My wife Heather and I have lived in Tauranga for 25 years following a retirement shift from Palmerston North where we owned Stylex Print Ltd. After our move we were involved in the kiwifruit industry for 13 years. Lawn bowls, a display garden, overseas travel and community events keep me well occupied now."

Lindsay (1954-57) and Russell (1948-52) Remington – Lindsay was visiting from Australia, while Russell lives in Nelson. Both brothers boarded at Fell.

FINDING MY FIELD OF DREAMS A Kiwi in the Majors

Nelson College PE teacher Peter Gr igg returned to teaching in 2013 after a years leave. During 2012 he partook in an ambitious adventure travelling the length and breadth of North America viewing baseball parks and indulging in the culture of the sport. If you are interested in purchasing a copy of this book they are $30 each and can be bought directly f rom Peter at gg@nelsoncollege.school.nz.

LAST SHEPHERD Anecdotes and observations from 50 years in the wool industry

While primarily about Roger Buchanan's time in the wool industry, an early chapter provides a commentary on his time as a boarder at Nelson College (Rutherford) 1956-59. The book's recommended retail price is $45.00. To purchase a copy (post free), and/or for further information, please reply directly to Roger at buchanans101@gmail.com.

CARRY ON A Biography of John Wilson

John Wilson attended Nelson College 1927-31 as a boarder from Westport. He passed away at the age of 96 in 2010. A biography has recently been published telling the story of an ordinary New Zealander who led an extraordinary life, “including surviving 3 years as a Japanese prisoner of war on the Thai-Burma railway". This wonderful book, which contains a number of pages and photos on Nelson College, is available to purchase for $40 through Nigel Wilson (NC 1968-72) at wilson6@xtra.co.nz.

HOLIDAY TIDY UP

Old Boys John Lines (1957-58) and John Bethwaite (1957-61) stand in front of their handiwork of the orchestra pit in the school hall. The area was looking decidedly shabby at a recent assembly they attended, so they decided to do something about it and over the school holidays they set about painting, stripping, mending and repolishing. What a difference. Thank you.

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Old Boys' Honoured

Photo courtesy of gg.govt.nz

John Towns, QSM (1958-61) was awarded a Queen's Service Medal for services to the community in the 2012 New Years' Honours list. John received the award for recognition for his work with Special Olympics Nelson, an organisation he co-founded in 1984, which now helps about 200 athletes train and compete in events locally and internationally every year. He has also been a stalwart of Nelson College and one of our greatest supporters, having served as President of the Nelson College Old Boys' Association and Chairman of the Nelson College Trust Foundation for many years. A much deserved recipient.

Photo courtesy of: Times photo Wayne Martin

Graeme Leggat, FIPENZ, QSM (1947-53) was awarded the Queen's Service Medal for services to the community in the 2012 Queen's Birthday Honours. A retired water and environmental engineer, Graeme has served on various committees for IPENZ and Water New Zealand. He has also been involved in his community of Whitford for over 40 years, taking on numerous civic roles including the Hearings Commissioner for Manukau City Council and the Chair of the Clevedon Community Board, the Whitford Residents and Ratepayers Association, and the Te Puru Community Trust. As Chair of the latter, he steered the completion of the $4.5 million Te Puru Community Centre. Graeme has also given "outstanding service" to the Howick Pakuranga Cricket Club for over 36 years. Graeme says his recognition in the Queen's Birthday Honours came as a surprise, and he was flattered to be nominated.

John Gully (1970-74) was awarded a Queens Service Medal for services to Nepal New Zealand relations in the 2013 New Years' Honours List. For over 25 years John has taken young New Zealanders to the Everest region of Nepal and has been involved with pollution control and environmental projects, including reforestation. A number of Nelson College students have taken part in the Youth to Everest programme, and John would love to have an Old Boys dedicated trip in the future. Old Boy Erik Inkster (1974-78) has completed four trips as leader/paramedic.

Dr Donald Mathieson QC (1949-53) from Waikanae, was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to the law and legal education in the 2012 New Years' Honours list. Dr Mathieson practised as a barrister in private practice for more than 40 years, was Professor of Law at Victoria University and for several years was Crown Counsel in the Crown Law Office.

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NELSON COLLEGE TRUST FOUNDATION

The Nelson College Trust Foundation is a charitable trust formed for the longer term benefit of Nelson College. The Executive of the Trust is chaired by David Kenning (1962-65), who is not only an Old Boy of the College but has served on numerous boards as Director, and Chairman of the Nelson College Board of Trustees over the years, bringing a wealth of experience, to the Trust. The other members representative on the Trust include the Headmaster, two representatives (incl Chairman) Nelson College Board of Trustees, two Old Boys' Association representatives, two PTA representatives (incl Chairman), Independent representative and a College staff member. Some facts about the Trust are highlighted below:

► over $1million in funds

► separate Board of Trustees and operated independently of Nelson College

► provides approximately $30,000 annually to projects and activities of Nelson College

► receives and administers bequests and gifts either unrestricted or specific

► current Gif ted Funds in Action – Palmer Endowment Fund; Lamb Environment Fund; Krammer Sports Endowment Fund; Sturgess Family Trust

Again, the aim of the Trust Foundation is to endeavour to provide Nelson College with the tools or mechanisms that enable the school to give the best opportunity to its students, regardless of the level of NZ Government funding.

For further information on the Trust Foundation, please contact Trust Secretary Gina Fletcher email gina@nelsoncollege.school.nz Postal: PO Box 202, Nelson, 7040

"Philanthropy will mean the difference between the maintenance of a great College and the evolution of an extraordinary one."

Gary O'Shea, Headmaster, Nelson College

Sturgess Family Trust International Scholarship Recipients

Philip Tunepa (left) and George Kaukui shown in 2009 and at right in the final days of their schooling at Nelson College in 2012. Both boys came from the Solomon Islands and made the most of their time at Nelson College, enjoying wonderful relationships with their teachers and classmates. Extra-curricular activities included playing for the Nelson College 1st XI, Pacific Youth and cooking. "Thanks for taking your love and care for the boys [Philip & George] for the last four years at your school. We have no more words to describe for what you had done for them there. Thank you very much." Victor Tunepa

Krammer Sports Endowment Fund

The Krammer Sports Endowment Fund is administered through the Trust Foundation, and is a fund initiated by Old Boy John Krammer (1947-50).

"There is no doubt that over the past 12 months there has been an exceptional response to fundraising for sport. Some of the activities undertaken have included: firewood, dairy/beef calves, grazing cattle, and the Steve Hansen All Black Coach evening. I would like to acknowledge those who have been responsible for organising these events and those who have supported them both in kind and financially.

"To all Old Boys, parents, friends and supporters of Nelson College and students, especially those who have participated in any of the fund raising activities, you can all feel justifiably proud of your efforts as many thousands of dollars have been raised both directly and indirectly for the Krammer Sports Foundation. I look forward to the day when Nelson College is recognised as one of, if not, the leading secondary school in producing future sportsmen of national and international repute. Thank you one and all."

John A H Krammer (1947-50 NCOBA Life Member)

NC Trust Foundation

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The Way We WereALL ABOARD

It is virtually forgotten now but it was once part of college life for boarders from the North Island. As a boarder from 1948 to 1952 I traversed Cook Strait a total of 30 times at the beginning and end of term aboard the old ferries Arahura and Matangi. They were both old coal fired steamers not noted for their seaworthiness. It was an 11 hour overnight trip each way, depending on the weather, and an occasion we did not particularly enjoy.

College serge grey suit and tie were mandatory dress for the voyage. The first impression as we boarded the gangway at either Queens Wharf Wellington, or at Nelson, was of the oily stench exuding up from the open hatch covers or the smell of freshly applied paint which always seemed to be present. It was not a pleasant welcome.

In the fine summer weather once the ship was underway the upper decks were eagerly sought and the highlight of the trip, for those who were still awake, was the trip through French Pass and the whirlpool. Otherwise in the

cold rough winter weather the shelter of the so-called lounge was generally sought, prior to moving into our four or six berth cabins for the night. Unfortunately at this point sea sickness often resulted and once one started the rest were quick to follow.

The odd game of cards was often the means of passing the time and it was not unknown for some of the more rebellious types to smuggle beer and cigarettes aboard where there was no school authority to worry about.

After a restless night we were usually woken at about 6.30am and served a cup of tea and biscuit – the only sustenance we received during the voyage. We were glad to get off the ship to trudge our weary luggage laden way back to College or to disperse to parts of the North Island by varying means.

Contributed by E R (Roy) Savage, Rutherford, 1948-1952

The Arahura (pictured left in main foyer of Nelson College) with sister ship Matangi maintained nightly passenger and cargo services between Nelson and Wellington every night except Sunday for many years.

At 7.30pm these vessels would leave their respective ports and arrive at destinations anytime between 4.30am -6.30am according to the run of tide in French Pass. Many boarders for both colleges were carried on these two ships.

Arahura Started on Nelson-Wellington run December 1925. Built in 1905. 155 saloon passengers and 66 second class. Last sailing – May 1949.

Matangi Went into service 1929 – built in 1908. Last sailing May 1950.

The museum project has been largely completed, and includes 12 sections or thematic displays, each supported by photographs and textual information. These are: Lord Rutherford, Old Science Instruments, Old Boys, Learning, Rugby, Cadet Corps, College Buildings, Souvenirs, College Days, College Clothing, Memorabilia, Small Items display. A separate archive/storage and work room is also located within the museum. Nelson College Museum Project Manager Alan Turley (1951-55) has spearheaded this project, and we are grateful for his enthusiasm to get this task completed, along with a hardy group of volunteers that include: John Lines (57-58), John Bethwaite (57-62) John Chapman (50-51) Peter Burn (53-54) Scobie McKenzie (staff 49-89), John Goodman (51-55) Tunny Gill (57), Don Fowler (51-55), David Robertson (56-61), Joy Gregan, Nicola Symonds, Christine Vinsen and Mark Dunstan (NC staff). The volunteers on this project have worked many hours to achieve a splendid facility – one which Old Boys can take much pride in. A big thank you also to those Old Boys and organisations who have donated to this most worthwhile project.

Items wanted for College Museum: College grey jersey, Flannel shirt, Boarders serge suit

Contact Gina Fletcher if you can donate or loan.

NELSON COLLEGE MUSEUM

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ObituariesThere are so many interesting stories to tell with each and every one of these Old Boys that have passed. Please refer to the *Obituary section http://www.nelsoncollege.school.nz/obituaries of the Nelson College website for further full obituaries.

OBITUARIES 2011BRERETON MBE William Hector (1932-36, Rutherford) passed away on 21 September at Auckland in his 91st year. "He will be sadly missed after a long and good life."

*HANNAH John Leo (1960-66) tragically killed in a tramping accident in Kahurangi National Park on 11 December.

HODGSON Brent Thomas (1959-62) passed away 10 November. "Thank you for the newsletters, Brent always enjoyed reading them, and I know he checked a Nelson blog website everyday as well!" Mary Hodgson

LORIMER Dr John Edward Ross (1939-47) passed away on 18 March.

MCPHAIL Rex Victor (1943-46) passed away 23 September aged 83 years.

SAMUEL James Gurdon (1932-40) passed away 12 November.

WYLIE Richard James (1953-58, Rutherford) passed away on 10 November aged 72. "He was always a staunch supporter of his alma mater." Pen Wylie

OBITUARIES 2012*BIGGS Aaron Michael (1994-98, Fell) died at Hospice Marlborough on 22 September aged 31 years after only the previous month being diagnosed with aggressive colon and liver cancer.

*CLARK Kenneth Inman Carr (1937-41) passed away on 10 June in the UK aged 89 years. A pioneering ceramicist who played a key role in reshaping the tile industry, Ken "was to tiles what James Dyson is to vacuum cleaners" The Guardian UK. Photograph: Blanchette Collection

FOGELBERG James Ian (Ian) (1944-49, Barnicoat) passed away on 29 April.

HARLEY Nicholas Auty (Nick) (1961-66) passed away on 17 January aged 63 years.

KEY Neville John (1957-61, Rutherford) passed away 6 December.

LASH Max Dessiou (1943-44) passed away 10 January in Nelson. "His contribution to the wider cultural life of the region is something few others could equal and we have been fortunate to have the benefit of his energy and skill." Peter Millward – CEO Nelson Provincial Museum.

LAWRY Thomas Henry (1941-44) passed away on 8 March.

LEE MNZM John Allen (Allen) (1944-46, Barnicoat) passed away on 9 August aged 82 in Christchurch. "He thoroughly enjoyed attending various functions at Nelson College over the years and always had a story to tell from his school days to anyone who would listen." Robert Lee

LIVINGSTON Dr Derek Heathcote (1941-46, Barnicoat) passed away on 20 July aged 83 years.

*MCLELLAN FRSNZ, FIOP Professor Emeritus Alister George (1937) passed away on 1 July aged 93 years in Christchurch. "He was Dux in 1937 and spoke highly of the education he received at Nelson College and it provided the springboard for a very successful career." John McLellan.

*MALCOLM George Brington (1931-35) passed away on 29 January aged 94 years in Christchurch. A landscape architect, landscaping of the Benmore dam environs is George's public legacy. His great-grandson Greg Field, following in George's footsteps, attended Nelson College 2007-2011.

MARKS Mervyn Arnold Knight (1929-32) passed away on 18 August aged 96 years in Nelson.

*NATHAN Dennis Raoul Hillell (1926-29) OBE passed away in his 100th year peacefully at Auckland Hospital on 12 July. "He always spoke very fondly of his school days and was a regular attendee of our Auckland Old Boys' functions and a generous benefactor when Mataki Lodge was built" Wayne Hughes (1964-69)

NOBLE-ADAMS John Fergus (1954-58) passed away on 30 June aged 71 years.

OWEN David Gough (1939-45, Barnicoat) passed away on 6 August aged 85 years in Christchurch.

*ROUSE Pe te r Duncan (1951-54 , Rutherford) was a well-known golfer and farmer who was involved in a fatal quad bike accident during a sheep muster at Mangatarata Station, Tokomaru Bay on 29 January.

SHARLAND Francis Ian (Ian) (1930-31) passed away 27 September aged 97 years in Nelson. A founding member of the Nelson Yacht Club.

*STAITE George Allan (1997-2000) tragically killed base jumping off Eagle's Beak in the Italian region of Trentino Alto Adige on 11 September. He was described by his friends and family as a free spirit who loved adventure, aged 28 years.

STEVENSON James John (Peter) (1940-41) passed away 8 November at Palmerston North aged 87 years. "Peter and I were lifelong friends having served engineering apprenticeships at the Anchor Foundry, Port Nelson together" Pat Win (1939-40)

THELIN Garth Avid (1958-62) passed away 10 September aged 67. Garth was a sitting member of the NCOBA Executive. "RIP Uncle Garth". Paul Sturrock (1980-84).

TOMBLESON John Edward (Ted) passed away peacefully after a long illness on 21 November aged 86 years in Rotorua.

WANE Anthony (Tony) George Thurlow (1937-40) "released in peace" on 13 April aged 87 years. "Tony was one of the early members of the local branch (Hawkes Bay) of the Old Boys' Assn when it was reformed in the early 1950's and played an active part, serving on the committee". Jim Dine (1941-43)

WATSON Allan Craig (1958-62) passed away on 8 June.

*WILLIAMS Kerry (NC staff 1959-65) passed away on 1 August aged 79 years. Old Boy John McCaul (1954-60) remembers Kerry: "... He was involved with the 1st XV in the 50's and 60's as their fitness guru, making them ascend the Grampians at the back of Barnicoat House, with Kerry, cane in hand, delivering to those who were lagging behind. We did, of course, have the fittest rugby team in any competition!"

WINCH Robin (Rob) Howard (1967-69) passed away peacefully in Wellington Hospital from complications following a bone marrow transplant on 8 August.

OBITUARIES 2013*BALDWIN John Frank Sefton (Frank) (1945-49, Munro) pictured aged 16 died peacefully in Nelson on 13 March at the age of 81. A wonderful contributer to Nelson College and the community over many many years.

CLAASEN Brian Antony (1952-54) passed away on 7 March.

CRICHTON Barrie Donald (1951-55, Chaytor) passed away aged 74 years on 8 February. Prominent in broadcasting (national and commercial radio). "An absolute legend - RIP sir." Joel Tobeck

DELANEY Patrick Martin (Martin) (1947-48) passed away suddenly on 10 January in his 81st year at Tauranga.

*EVERETT Richard William (1946-50) passed away aged 80 in San Francisco, USA, 4 February. Richard was a civil engineer employed on projects around the world but principally in New Zealand, Australia, the United States and South America. Richard has lived in the San Francisco area since 1979. Bob Davies (1947-51)

FLETCHER Ronald Alan (Ron) (1948-52, Chaytor) passed away 17 February.

*GAWITH Alan Antill (1933-34, Rutherford) died peacefully of "old age" at Oakwoods Rest Home in Nelson on 8 March aged 96 years. Alan was one of NZ's last three veterans of the Battle of Britain and a spitfire flew over his funeral in Masterton to honour him.

HILLARY Naylor (1951-55) passed away on 20 February in his 75th year.

OWEN Barry Wilfred (1938-42) passed away on 27 January in Christchurch. Has left a very generous bequest to Mataki Lodge.

ROMANO Nicholas Steven (Nick) (1978-80) passed away suddenly at his Nelson home on 13 January aged 49 years.

SHARP Norwood (Norrie) Alexander (1941-49) passed away 20 February in Gosford, NSW, Australia.

Photo : www.gisbornegolf.co.nz

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MR SCOBIE MCKENZIE

Scobie McKenzie MSc taught at Nelson College 1949-89. CO Cadets, Head of Science Department, Deputy Principal. The black and white photo shows Scobie teaching in 1973 and the recent photo is taken in the Scriptorium, where he is standing next to a 150th Jubilee candle in the Scriptorium that reads "presented on the occasion of the 150th Celebrations to honour the Nelson College staff 1940-60 by Old Boys of that time who trust that future pupils will be similarly inspired and guided." Scobie is indeed one of those "inspiring teachers" " ... it was his (Scobie's) teaching of biology that got me into being an entomologist. I recall many of my teachers (1958-1965) with considerable fondness – very high quality" Professor Emeritus Douglas A Craig (1953-57). Aged 80+ Scobie is in good health, retains his wonderful sense of humour and is able to vividly recall stories from his time in boarding and teaching at Nelson College. We are fortunate that these stories have been recorded as a treasure to share in the ensuing years.

A Living History

Donate a Rose Projectin association with

Tasman Bay RosesAfter 157 years, a garden will always become a bit tired. We have been slowly working through a project of refurbishment of the historical Rose beds in and around the school.

In association with Tasman Bay Roses, now managed by co-owner Ben Pratt (1978-81, Rutherford) & his wife Ruth, we are offering past and present Nelson College pupils and their families the opportunity to donate a new Rose to be planted. This will be planted in their old House garden (if they wish it) or in an area around the school that is in need of new Roses.

Each Rose will have a commemorative plaque with the Rose type, Donors Name and Date Planted. Each donor will receive a certificate with location and acknowledgement.

Tasman Bay Roses have heavily discounted the cost of the Roses for us, so please understand that the majority of the donation will be used for the ongoing upkeep, improved watering systems, fertilizers, naming plaques etc.

Donation is set at $50 per Rose

Please contact: Mark Vinsen,

Director of Community Relations Nelson College

021 100 7523 mv@nelsoncollege.school.nz