President’s column

When I reflect on the activities of the Diocesan Old Girls’ League, I’m once again struck by the Diocesan Old Girl alumnae and the diverse range of women that it comprises. We are incredibly lucky to have amongst our numbers so many generous, capable and accomplished women who are interested in being involved with the League’s activities and in giving back to the School and other Old Girls. Without exception, I come away from League events with a heart that is just a bit warmer than before.

Recently, we hosted the Alumna Merita Assembly and also the Bryan Bartley Golf Day. This year, we celebrated a sportswoman, Kim Chambers, who is an internationally recognised open-water marathon swimmer. Even though Kim’s achievements are truly outstanding and have seen her inducted into the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame, her message to the girls at the assembly was not one of celebrating sporting success; it was one of facing fears, being brave and saying ‘yes’ when ‘no’ is the easier option. Kim spoke about pushing through mental and physical barriers because she is not your typical sportswoman. She began swimming as rehabilitation after suffering a dreadful accident.

Once again, the Alumna Merita Assembly and presentation gave our current Dio Girls an insight into the world of possibilities for them and a chance to hear the message that their vision of their future is just the beginning.

This year we were again blessed with a beautiful autumn morning for the Bryan Bartley Golf Day. It was very chilly for those of us who were there pre tee-off. But it transformed into a stunning day, with Remuera Golf Club looking amazing and playing the role of perfect venue. Our greatest thanks go to Melanie Eady, League Vice-President and event organiser extraordinaire. Players were treated to an incredibly well-organised event and some wonderful treats to get them through their games.

This year, for the first time, we presented the League trophy to the highest scoring team and were delighted that our patron, Heather McRae, was able to join us to present the award.

September 3 brings one of my favourite events for the year, the Senior Old Girls’ Chapel Service and Morning Tea. Each year we organise a small item of entertainment for the attendees, however sometimes I wonder whether that may actually intrude on their time catching up. The chatter is always so loud and vibrant.

Accomplished, inspirational, giving and involved – any of those words can describe so many of our Dio Old Girl alumnae. We are always keen to hear from Old Girls who are interested in being involved with the League, whether as Committee members, or simply helping at our second-hand uniform sales from time to time. Please feel free to contact us at 027 603 6990 (Jenny Spillane) or oldgirls@diocesan.school.nz.

Ut serviamus Jenny Spillane

DIOCESAN OLD GIRLS’ LEAGUE COMMITTEE CONTACT DETAILS

Email oldgirls@diocesan.school.nz for all enquiries.

PRESIDENT Jenny Spillane (Orsborn) | M. 027 603 6990

VICE PRESIDENT Melanie Eady (Perkins) | E. melanieeady@me.com

TREASURER Felicity Buche (Olson) | P. 09 521 8387

SECRETARY Amber Oram (Railley) | M. 021 757 504

FELLOWSHIP SECRETARY Emma Cleary (Dillon) | P. 09 522 9564

COMMITTEE Sarah Couillault (Willis) | M. 021 489 102 Annabel French (Smaill) | P. 09 575 1175 Penny Tucker (Macdonald) | E. pennydtucker@gmail.com Tania Fairgray (Railley) | P. 09 529 1736 Kimberly Sumner (Wragge) | E. kimberlysumner@happinessblindspot.com Kirsty Eady (McDonald) | P. 09 522 2652

Dio Today Editor, League pages Deirdre Coleman | E. d.g@slingshot.co.nz

Diocesan School Old Girls’ League PO Box 28 382, Remuera, Auckland 1541

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Notice is given that the 108th Annual General Meeting/Conference of the Auckland Diocesan School Old Girls’ League (Inc) will be held on Sunday 3 November at 11.15am in the School Hall in the grounds of Diocesan School for Girls, Clyde Street, Epsom, Auckland.

It will follow the Founders’ Day Service, starting at 10am, which will be led by Reverend Sandy Robertson. Old Girls’ baptisms will take place in the Chapel of our Glorified Lord at 12pm. Amber Oram (Railley), Secretary PO Box 28-382, Remuera, Auckland 1541 M. 021 757 504