August 2018
Winter sports are nearing an end, campus magnolia are bursting into bloom and spring is on its way. Hopefully the joys of spring are creeping up on all of you.
Nigel Boyes
Early last month the Association was saddened to learn of the death of Nigel Boyes (1973-1977). Nigel who was in Cranleigh House was remembered for his musical talent and was awarded Music Colours. His obituary mentions that at Rathkeale he was inspired by music mistress Faye Norman, joined in a wide range of musical activities – in the choir and as principle pianist with the College orchestra. In later life he was office manager at the Royal New Zealand Ballet and was described as a hugely competent arts administrator. He was also described by many as “best friend or at least, the most decent person they had ever met”.
Callan Elliot (2015-2017)
Callan Elliot recently was named in the New Zealand U19 Football Squad that are currently in qualifying for the U20 World Cup in 2019. Elliot was a key member of the successful Rathkeale 1st XI 2017 and has continued his excellent form in the New Zealand team with 3 starts in as many games at left back, somewhat foreign to the attack minded midfielder. Other members of the 2017 Rathkeale squad who continue to play include Pranay Singh and Stephen Sprowson of Lower Hutt and Liam Heard of Wairarapa United. Steve Coleman the 2017 coach is now coach of Lower Hutt.
The Lindisfarne Fixture
One of the winter season’s bigger events at Rathkeale is the Lindisfarne fixture. This year’s event, held at home, attracted a good number of Old Boys to the side-line and to the social function co-hosted by the College and ROBA.
Results: 1st XI Hockey 4-0 Lindisfarne, 1st XV Rugby 38-22 Rathkeale, 1st XI Football 1-0 Lindisfarne.
Old Boys at Lindisfarne Fixture
Back: Matthew Ebbett (79-83),
Front from left: Hamish Gibbs (79-83), Dan Druzianic (79-83), Peter Gibbs (81-85), Stuart McKenzie (79-83), Richard White (79-83)
Founders’ Day 2018
This year’s Founders’ Day is scheduled for Thursday 23 August with a full school Assembly at 8.30am followed by a College walk about and morning tea. Ed Cox (1983-1987), a Partner at Gibson Sheat Solicitors and our very able ROBA Secretary, is guest speaker. All Old Boys are most welcome to attend the important event at which long serving staff will also be recognised.
Viva Camerata Big Sing Final
Nigel Boyes would have been at the forefront of those lauding the St Matthew’s/Rathkeale premier choirs singing prowess. For the first time the choir has made it to the national final of the Big Sing competition. This puts them at the vanguard of the 400 Colleges who participated in the earlier stages of the competition and is excellent news. A fundraising concert will be held in the Trust House Theatre, Rathkeale College on Thursday 23rd August at 7pm, koha entry.
2019 Decades on Reunions
On Queen’s Birthday Weekend next year will be calling back to College all those whose cohort left Rathkeale on a 9-year i.e. 1969, 1979, 1989, 1999, 2009.
As a consequence, we are also calling out for one or two from each group to act as facilitators. The success of the weekend is hugely reliant on the ability of a year group to pull itself together and to encourage attendance. The more the merrier and so worthwhile. Contact ROBA or give me a call on 027 246 6707 if you are willing to help.
With all good wishes
Grant Harper
President
