Auckland Hosts Provincial Council: Focus on Schools, Safeguarding, and Missions

From 27 to 29 August, the Provincial Council held its regular meeting in Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand. In attendance were Provincial Br Peter Carroll, Vice Provincial Br Darren Burge, Province Secretary Br Kevin Wanden, Provincial Delegate for Aotearoa–New Zealand Br Peter Horide, Provincial Delegate for Pasifika Br John Hazelman, and Council Member Br Sefo Une. Br Afa Afese from Kiribati was also present.

Joining the meeting online were Councillors Br Graham Neist and Br Greg McDonald, Provincial Delegate for Cambodia and Timor-Leste.

The Councillors visited Sacred Heart College, where they toured the new facilities

The gathering opened on a celebratory note, as the Brothers joined in marking the Jubilees of several Auckland-based Brothers. The Council members also took the opportunity to connect informally with Brothers from across the country through a meet-and-greet event.

Conversations at this gathering were warm and wide-ranging, reflecting both the diversity and the shared mission of the Province.

The three overseas-based trustees - Brothers Peter, John, and Kevin - were able to attend a New Zealand Trust Board business meeting in person, where safeguarding was one of the key topics discussed

The days that followed were devoted to the Council’s formal business. A number of important topics were discussed, including governance matters, the life and mission of schools, professional standards, and safeguarding practices. These discussions were wide-ranging and constructive, with an emphasis on how best to support the ongoing work of the Province and to respond to the needs of communities across Oceania.

Provincial Councillors receiving reports on healthcare, finance, commissions, and mission areas including Timor-Leste and Cambodia

The Council also made time to visit Sacred Heart College. The Brothers were welcomed by the school community and given a tour of the campus. Of particular interest was the new science block, which is currently under construction and expected to be completed within the next two months. The visit provided a chance to see first-hand the developments taking place in the school and to acknowledge the commitment of staff and students to excellence in learning and facilities.

View more pics:

Brothers Darren and Peter in front of the display of Greg Davis (SHC Old Boy, Australian rugby representative)

Deputy Headmaster, Boarding, Nick Croxford along with Brothers Darren, Peter and Kevin in the hostel's recently remodeled junior accommodation

Showing the dining room

On a tour of the SHC Hostel

At the new science block, due for completion within the next two months

The new science block under construction

Meet and greet with the local Brothers and Br Afa (extreme right)