We were delighted in October to welcome a very special visitor back to school, Beverley Cathcart (née Looker, Class of 1953).

Beverley, who is now 85 years young, had planned to visit earlier, but severe weather in Wellington hampered her travel. Her daughter thoughtfully arranged this trip around Dunedin and Central Otago as a farewell to Beverley's Otago roots.

Though her time at Otago Girls' High School was brief, it clearly left a lasting and treasured impact. Beverley shared that her move away from Dunedin was difficult; her father's work posted the family north, and she found her new school—where students reportedly attended school barefoot as there was no uniform—a distinct contrast to the structure she knew here. She fondly recalled feeling "so fancy" one day when she wore her OGHS gym frock and blazer to her new school just to show everyone!

While looking around the school, Beverley was especially delighted to see the piano in the hall. She shared that she used to play the piano during school assemblies when she was in the Third Form and remembered feeling "so important" at the time.

Beverley has certainly gone on to achieve remarkable things since her time in Class 3R in 1953. Her dedication led to an impressive career spanning close to 30 years in Parliamentary Services, where she served under nine Prime Ministers. Her roles were significant, including serving as a Justice of the Peace (JP), a marriage celebrant, and notably, being the first civil union celebrant in New Zealand. Beverley was also the Protocol Officer for Parliament, diligently liaising with the Governor-General and the Speaker's Office, and instructing MPs on parliamentary etiquette.

Despite these high-level roles, Beverley has never forgotten her humble beginnings here. It was a genuine pleasure to host her and hear her memories.

We wish Beverley and her family a happy festive season!