Firewood fundraising
On Saturday 10th April approximately 30 students and 20 dads from the Ōtūmoetai Barbarians Rugby Programme, whānau and community, were involved in delivering and stacking firewood throughout the Tauranga and Mount Maunganui areas.
The Barbarians Rugby Academy has been putting boys and girls from Ōtūmoetai and Bethlehem Colleges between Year 9 and Year 13 through their paces every Wednesday after school since the start of Term 4 2020.
Co-ordinating the efforts of so many students, parents, whānau and community members in this volunteer effort involved many logistics. Ōtūmoetai College PE Teacher Mr Sam Loudon deserves a big ‘shout out’ for his significant contribution to this very successful day.
Arriving very early at Ōtūmoetai College with rain falling, we were instantly galvanized - we play in the rain, we train in the rain and we deliver in the rain.
The students demonstrated a tremendous work ethic throughout the day, always polite and respectful while out and about in our community. They represented their school with pride. Countless trailer loads of firewood were delivered throughout Tauranga and stacked by our students. This was only made possible by the tremendous support from whānau help. Our students were exposed to the harsh realities of life when delivering to some homes. The learning experience was amazing.
The partnership with The Good Neighbour Charity is an important one. Our players were able to help those in need by simply volunteering their time. The Barbarians Rugby Programme helps develop community minded citizens, fosters empathy and compassion and recognises the importance of giving.
Special mention to Mr Roy Ballantyne, our Director of International Students. Roy’s support of rugby and our school would encompass four decades. He was one
of the first people to offer his time for our firewood day. His involvement in giving back, coaching and rugby began in the 1980’s. His presence was very much appreciated.
Importantly, we have amazing support from others including Emma Henderson, Jason Rowling, Pete Blackwell and Bryce Lawrence. Our thanks go to them also.