February Issue - QSM for Te Ati

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It is said that your harshest critics are your own! During his tenure as Chairman here at the club, George was surrounded by his “harshest critics”. He however, never wavered from his vision for our club using his exemplary work ethic, ability to communicate well and quirky sense of humour to overcome sometimes seemingly “immovable people” woops I mean “obstacles”. He always endeavoured to bring solutions to the table rather than problems. I am certain that these traits amongst his many others endeared George to the Chatham Island Community which in turn led to them paying forward their appreciation by nominating him for the Queens Service Medal.

Never far from his side, his ever supportive wife Bronny has also played a significant role in the community they now call home.

I had a quick chat to Bronny on facebook and she was gracious enough to send the following korero through just for the Titiko Patch.

“George has been very active and successful with his fishery role on the island and has worked closely with local Iwi where positive results have occurred for the future of the Island. He has also offered valued support with community services and projects on the island such as being a volunteer for the Chatham Island Fire service, his availability to drive the local school bus when needed, and be on call to support the sole policeman on the Island. Added to this George contributes some of his time (what's left of it) to a Community Committee where one of their current projects is building a new sports club which will be here to service the continued needs of this community for many years to come. It is with great pride and honour that I see my Tane acknowledged and appreciated for all that he does. We both have enjoyed our time on the Chatham’s and enjoy our involvement with what we do in the community. I have always supported my husband in what he does, and with this we both continue to 'Make a positive contribution to the future of society and to the wellbeing of peoples lives'.”

Bronwyn

Strange isn’t it? Bronny’s description of George’s activities on the Chathams reflects fairly accurately exactly what George did for the club and for the wider Tauranga Community while they were here. I don’t believe we ever fully appreciate the hard work “our own” do for us. We just expect that the job will get done. Thank You! Two little words that in my opinion are highly under-used by us whanau!

George, we share wholeheartedly Bronny’s pride in your achievements. Thank you and Bronwyn both, for your past contributions to the club and I offer a sincere thank you to the people of the Chathams for acknowledging one of our own as one of your own.

George will be presented with his Queens Service Medal at a Ceremony in Wellington; the date is yet to be confirmed.

Mauri Ora!