On the 1st June the Home Association of Timaru High School Old Girls welcomed over 30 past pupils from Dunedin, Waimate, Temuka, Pleasant Point and Timaru District to a most successful morning tea, held in the hostel dining room

A plentiful array of sandwiches, savouries and sweet slices was supplied by the hostel caterers. We really appreciate the effort they go to ensuring the success of these functions.

The miniature model of Timaru Girls’ High School, created in 1939, was on display for all to see. The restored model was a feature of the archives display at the celebrations for the centennial of “The House” held April 2021.

Two past students have generously donated money to go toward a perspex cover to protect the model from further deterioration.

Pam Gibson, President of the Home Association, recounted the history of the model, recalling that the model was created by staff and pupils for display at the New Zealand Centennial Exhibition held in Wellington in 1940. The model had been in storage for many years before being returned to the school archive room. It had fallen into disrepair with the base board and miniature buildings rather badly damaged, making its future uncertain. The archives ladies approached TGHS teacher, Georgia Guilford, after seeing some of her students work on display in her classroom. Georgia accepted the challenge and, in her own time, carried out the research and restoration over a period of eight months. Her diligence and attention to detail means that we again have a lifelike miniature replica of the school as it was 80+ years ago. The only buildings on that model that are standing today are the Annex and ‘Oak Rowan’ wings of the boarding house.

Viewing buildings so familiar to the students of yore brought forth many a story from those present.

The time passed very quickly and with the need for the dining area to be readied for the hostel girls at lunch time, it was all too soon time for everyone to go their own way. It was rewarding for the committee to hear comments on the value of these functions which enable past students and staff to gather and talk to a new circle of friends, all with a common interest in Timaru Girls' High School.

The programme planned for the remainder of this year – a lunch at the hostel on 7th August, and morning teas 22nd Sept and 11th November.

All past students and staff are most welcome to attend. For further information please contact one of the following committee members Adrienne Wood (6881768), Beryl Maglis (0211501153) Carol Boulton (0221592649), Robyn Cassidy (0276616865) or Pam Gibson (0272109736).