Page 4 - St Margarets Magazine

The Master’s Voice
As I reflect on this year, I am immediately struck by two thoughts: firstly, how quickly it has passed by (lots of activities and events) and secondly, the amazing camaraderie that developed amongst our Members.
Camaraderie doesn’t just happen, it requires active participation, engagement and contribution. Clearly, all Members play a huge role in this but in particular I wish to acknowledge the 2018 Executive Committee for their outstanding work in organising so many opportunities for Members to get involved in during the course of the year.
These opportunities got off to a fabulous start on opening day already, thanks so an enthusiastic and organised Exec who arranged a large variety of activities for Members on the first day and throughout Orientation Week. It was so nice to see everyone making friends, having fun and settling down so quickly during that first week. After Orientation came various theme dinners, the mystery bus trip (in daylight hours this year), the ski trip, the Ball at Larnach Castle (a first, just wonderful), talent quest, the ever- popular sock tag, etc, etc. Thank you, Exec, you have done a marvellous job.
The College’s participation in the University’s Inter-college Cultural and Sporting Competitions has been very gratifying. From basketball to quiz, futsal to chess, debating to netball - to name just a few – the participation and support has been incredible. Our level of competitiveness has indeed surprised the wider University. Yes, our Members do well academically but they are also all-rounders!
And of course, the College has earned huge bragging rights by winning the overall Inter-college Cultural Competition for 2018! Well done to all who participated in the various sections of this competition and for doing so well: chess, quiz, debating, literary, 48-hour film festival, Big Sing, international performance, Māori and Pasifika Performance, gaming, pool, and visual arts. Congratulations, College! As you can imagine, I am bursting with pride.
To everyone, thank you so much for your respective contributions to the community during this year. To the College Leaders, thank you for your dedication and commitment. To the Exec, thank you for your sustained and enthusiastic efforts. To the College’s Staff, thank you for another great year.
For those leaving the College at the end of this year, I wish you all the very best as you transition to alternative places to stay. For those returning in 2018, I look forward to seeing you again in February for another camaraderie-full year!
Best wishes
Dr Charles Tustin