Tony talks about Foxton, work over time
I have had a pretty hectic time lately with a TV report, radio interiew, talk to the over 60s and phone calls and emails.
Why have I become so in demand? Certainly the recent Horowhenua Chronicle report on our need for help at the Flax Museum seems to have been the starting point.
But who is Tony Hunt? He's a retired schoolteacher who went away from Foxton several times before coming back for good. And it has been good.
On one of my returns I joined the newly formed Historical Society and became secretary/treasurer, then editor of several histories, as archives organiser. But that did not keep me away from the rugby club where I played with Trevor Solomon and the late Paulie Rauhihi to make up what must have the smallest front row around!
It certainly was pleasing to read the club is back to full strength and the clubrooms have been upgraded. After an early retirement it was straight into the Flax Stripper Muesum Trust which has been my major interest for the past 30 years. One of my joys is to go around town and remember the other projects I have enjoyed being part of.
This joy comes from going down the Main St from the Ihakara Garden restoration to the Foxton sign in Seaview Gardens passing the old Museum and vintage engine replica. On the way I pass some of the 30 signs noting the town's history. The riverfront also has several of these signs but the Te Awahou Bush Boardwalk and Parakeke Walkway are sadly neglected.
There are other groups and projects I have been involved in over the years. It is satisfying that many of their efforts continue such as the Easter Fair and Spring Fling. Like our front row, Foxton continues to “punch above its weight”!