8 September 2026
A warm gesture for Des and Raylene
Des Smith and his wife Raylene have had a tough time with their health recently and, as a result, haven’t been able to get out and about much. So when the OBHS Rugby Club found itself with more firewood than it needed for this year’s raffle, it saw an opportunity to do something special for two people who have given so much to the club over the years.
A group of club supporters got together and delivered a trailer load of fire wood to the Smiths’ home at Harrington Point near Portobello.
OBHS Rugby Club President Ryan Frew said the gesture was a small way of thanking Des for all the work he has done for the club over the years.
“The Rugby Club was fortunate enough to have more wood than required for this year’s raffle, so a trailer load was delivered as a thank you for all the work Des has done for the club over the years, and all the support Raylene has provided Des,” Ryan said.
He also acknowledged those who helped make it happen, including Gwyn Pratley, Kimberly Cross, Dave Burton and the seven boys who delivered and stacked the wood, as well as Teresa Dynes and the Burgess family.
Des and Raylene were very appreciative for the wood: "We owe them all a debt of gratitude. The fire is roaring as I speak. Thank you all so much."
Helping Des and Raylene is a nice reminder of what being part of the OBHS community is all about - looking after our own, and finding a way to give back to those who have given so much.
