Capital campaign As many of you will be aware, College is currently in the quiet phase of an ambitious capital campaign. Although perceived as wealthy, the reality is that College’s financial position is far from secure. The rebuilding after the earthquakes used significant amounts of capital. In addition, the approach of the College community over generations of relying on existing endowments to fund operations (through scholarships and direct grants) has seen College’s financial position move slowly backwards. College has pressing needs. A significant programme of earthquake strengthening is required. In addition, the gym, science block and music school are all in desperate need of replacement. It is time for the Old Boy community to acknowledge these facts and take up the challenge. We have all benefited from our education at the finest school in the southern hemisphere. We owe it to those who follow us, and to College, to be generous, so that it can continue to be the best.
The branches continued to show their strength. One of the priorities of 2017 was to have more active branches and, overall, there was some success in achieving that goal. There were events held in Auckland, Bay of Plenty, Christchurch, Hawke’s Bay, Wellington, Marlborough, Nelson, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and London. Of particular note is the Melbourne branch, which organises regular events and is, by far, the most active of the branches we have. Also of note is that for the first time the Christchurch branch trialled a “long lunch” in early December, where over 90 Old Boys, of all ages, gathered at the Christchurch Club. The event was the initiative of Geoffrey Sullivan and Sam Cowdy and, as always with them, was a tremendous success. It is set to become a new tradition for Christchurch-based members. One area where work is still required is in Auckland. As more and more Old Boys live in Auckland, the Association needs to work to ensure there is more than one opportunity a year for Old Boys to get together. We also need to work with College to make the school relevant to those living in Auckland, so that it is seen not just as the place where they went to school but as a place where their sons will go as well.
Chronicle 2017
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