26 August 2026
A note from Des
I write this from the comfort of my home at Harrington Point, on the Otago Peninsula. It has been a fairly quiet three months for my lovely wife Raylene and I. Raylene suffered a serious break to her arm in four places, so I have been caring for her over this time and trying to keep my own health in check. As we all know, these things can creep up on us when we least expect them.
My work with the Foundation has kept my mind active. I continue to make phone calls to many Old Boys who have indicated they would like to help the school. For some of you, it is a great opportunity for a catch-up, and I really appreciate the time you give me.
The Student Support Fund continues to be of real benefit to the boys. This year, we have raised more than $22,000 through the generosity of our benefactors, and we have been able to assist around 80 boys.
That support has gone towards things such as Chromebooks, uniforms and sports fees, as well as helping boys attend jazz festivals, sports tournaments, a robotics world championship in the USA, chess and badminton events, and class field trips. Almost always, when an application comes through, we are able to say yes. That is a wonderful position to be in, and it is only possible because people continue to support the fund.
Each month in our Foundation meetings, we receive an update from Lockie Chisholm on the progress of the School House upgrades. For those of you who have been following this project for a number of years, you will know that the redevelopment has been in the pipeline for some time, so it is fantastic to see the work underway, with the upgraded spaces looking great. I hope those who take the time to read this newsletter can see the value in coming on board as a donor to our fundraising campaign. There is a real opportunity now to help finish
what has been a long-held ambition for the school.
The recent passing of Bill Trewern and John Billcliff was very sad news. I knew them both well, and they were much-loved members of the school community during their time at Otago Boys’. They both made a lasting and positive impact on the boys they taught and coached, and they will be fondly remembered by many of us.
It is a privilege to continue playing a part in supporting our great school and the boys that walk through the Memorial Archway every day.
Des Smith MNZM