Kaiser House – Two Incarnations, One Spirit Tony Watt Head of Community Relations
Kaiser House can genuinely lay claim to being unique among the TSS Houses as it is the only one to have had two “incarnations” in its lifetime. Founded in 1973, Kaiser was the “new” Boarding House, but within less than a decade the booming population growth on the Gold Coast dictated that TSS needed another Day House, and as a result Kaiser underwent a quantum change to take up that role. Kaiser may have been “reincarnated” but a marvellous continuity of House Spirit was maintained.
Kaiser Housemaster Eleanor Mackie recalls:
The heart of that spirit was exemplified by the man who lent his name to the House – August Henry Kaiser, popularly known as “Harry” Kaiser. Harry was a student at TSS in the 1930s and Dux of the School in 1940. In adulthood he served TSS in many different roles from 1944 to 1988. Teacher, Thorold Housemaster (twice), Under 15 Rugby Coach; a great Referee; Commander of the Cadet Unit; Assistant to the Headmaster; Deputy Headmaster, and in retirement an active member of the OSA. At all times Harry Kaiser displayed true dedication, real commitment, loyalty, humility, integrity and sincerity, as well as a genuine care and concern for his colleagues and his students. Clearly, Harry Kaiser made an impression and left a huge mark as a role model that is as relevant for today’s boys as it was then. The change of status to Day House in 1981 would mean that the ethos and spirit of the original Kaiser House would be put to the test. It was a test that newly appointed Housemaster Mr Bill Greinke would relish and work tirelessly to ensure that the “new” Kaiser would pass with flying colours. Bill fulfilled his role
Harry Kaiser was a quietly spoken man who despite his calm, controlled approach to his responsibilities was very well organised… he took a personal interest in his colleagues and always showed empathy and understanding… he was firm but fair in his dealings with the students… a boy wasn’t reminded of the mistakes he made, but was given a chance to prove himself and to make a new start… when I was appointed Housemaster of Kaiser in 2002, Harry was very supportive even though female Housemasters were the exception not the rule… Harry definitely fell into the category of being one of Nature’s Gentlemen… it was a privilege and pleasure working alongside him. 55