It is pleasing to have the third THSOB Newsletter for 2022 get to publication.

It has been a trying three years for Old Boy activity and interaction but no excuses for 2023.

The resolution at the most recent THSOB meeting to make a grant of $5000 toward Tongan relief efforts was notable. The school’s Tongan community is significant and the visit of our Old Boy, Tongan Prime Minister in August reflects this. Like the Canterbury earthquake Tongan recovery will take several years. You can still donate!

We have achieved our target of 500 joining the Authorised Timaru Old Boys Facebook link.

The wider our messaging and connection the better the outcomes for our Association. We can anticipate wider engagement form Old Boys in the year ahead. You are all encouraged to upload relevant news and information.

The Timaru Boys verses Waitaki Boys inter-school was well attended by the Old Boy community. The 1st XV rugby played on a sodden ground was won by TBHS 27 – 0.

TBHS is much the larger school these days, over 650 students to 450. This reflects in the results with overall honours favouring TBHS 7 - 4. Over fifty Old Boys’ met up in the Memorial Library for pleasant and engaging after match function. Canterbury, Central Otago, Ashburton and Geraldine Old Boys added much to the reception.

It was a pleasure to join North Canterbury Old Boys’ for their Annual Lunch in September.

Over 30 Timaru High School Old Boys and Old Girls gathered for good conversation and good food. Rector Dave Thorp, T G Principal Deb Hales and Bruce Leadley addressed a receptive audience.

The delayed production and delivery of the 2021 Timaruvian has been a concern. The Old Boys’ section was delivered by Gregor Macaulay in March. A combination of factors at school has caused significant production delays. Assurances for 2023 have been given. It remains desirable to have a combined Old Boy/ School magazine.

We continue to seek ways to formally connect with our ‘younger Old Boys’. We share this challenge with many organisations and Old Boy Associations. We will persist and as we end the 2022 year, plans should be forming as to how best connect in 2023.

My very best wishes to all Timaru High School Old Boys for the Festive Season and 2023