an informal history of 1st blenheim boys’ brigade company ...methodist.org.nz/files/docs/wesley...
TRANSCRIPT
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An informal History of
1st Blenheim
Boys’ Brigade Company
Wesley Methodist Church
1945 to 1995
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FOREWORD
It is with pleasure that I pen these few thoughts for our 50th
Jubilee Booklet.
Thankfulness is a word that comes to mind when I think about
the past 50 years of 1st Blenheim. Thankfulness to God for all
that has been achieved in the life of the Boys who have been our
members. Thankfulness to the members for their contribution to
the work of our Company.
There is much that one could write about, but I wish to say that
my time in 1st Blenheim has been one of making friends -
learning life skills - chances to travel to different parts of
New Zealand - developing leadership talents - and most
importantly becoming a follower of Jesus.
Boys’ Brigade has been a big part of my life. It has taught me a
great many things and for these I am very grateful.
It is my hope that this Jubilee Booklet will be a real treasure
for you and that it will bring back fond memories of your time
in 1st Blenheim.
Greetings to you all
Gary Longman,
Captain, 1966 to 1995
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INTRODUCTION
This informal history of 1st Blenheim Boys’ Brigade
Company is written to mark the first fifty years of the
Company and as a personal tribute by the writer to two
people - the Founder Captain, Bruce Patchett, whose
encouragement and example meant a lot to a shy young lad
who was No 113 on the roll and prior to that the example
of Vic Smart in The Life Boys. I thank the Jubilee
Committee for entrusting this labour of love to me. As I
have worked through the Company photo albums and other
records I see myself in many of the pages as one who has
been kept and grown in the Christian Faith through the
work of 1st Blenheim and the example shown by the
‘Skipper’ and ‘V for Victor’, together with the other
Officers of the day.
I have also valued the continued personal friendship and
encouragement of present Captain, Gary Longman. I will
always see 1st Blenheim as my home Company, with the work
at 3rd Blenheim and my wider BB involvement as having
grown out of this relationship. May God continue to lead
Boys to Jesus Christ in the continuing work of 1st
Blenheim Boys’ Brigade Company.
Alan D Harris,
No 113 on the roll
Company Display, Wesley Sunday School, early 1960s
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SIGNIFICANT ROLE OF THE BB IN THE CHURCH
I have a1ways said that the most demanding job for a
lay person in Wesley Church is Captain of the Boys’
or Girls’ Brigade Company. The services of both
Bruce Patchett and Gary Longman as Captains of 1st
Blenheim Company have been well and rightly
documented in this publication. I have stood back,
reflected and been thankful for their leadership.
MUM’S ENCOURAGEMENT
The 1st Blenheim Company of The Boys’ Brigade played
a significant role in shaping the lives of my two
Sons, Donald and Keith, both of whom were Queen’s
Men. It was initially Mum’s encouragement at home
and help with uniforms that set them on the Brigade
trail. Being a disciplined movement it had a healthy
effect in their decision making.
HOME ENVIRONMENT PLUS BB
The home environment and upbringing is of paramount
importance. When this is supported by a Christian
movement, such as Boys’ Brigade, it lengthens the
chances that the right choices will be made. From my
observation as a parent and official of the church,
not only Wesley Church, Blenheim, but the church
wider afield has been enriched by the lives of those
touched and encouraged by the 1st Blenheim Company.
MANY TALENTS USED
God has used the talents of so many in making the
Brigade what it is at Wesley. The co-operation of
parents, the contribution of the support committees
and the quality of leadership has impressed me. The
governing body of Wesley Church, the Parish Council,
has been truly grateful for the contribution of the
1st Blenheim Company. The Kingdom of God among Boys
has been advanced.
A H (Mick) Jellyman
Former Youth Co-ordinator
Wesley Centre
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THREE MEN WHO HAD A VISION
Bruce Patchett, Vic Smart, Dan Moir
IN THE BEGINNING
“... “... the BB has put me where I am today”, said an early
member of 1st Blenheim BB Company to the writer, “You
see, I was born on the wrong side of the track”. The
person was attending the 50th Jubilee celebrations,
together with some 80 other former members. If 1st
Blenheim Company had been formed for that person alone,
Dan Moir and the other folk who met at Vic & Alyeen
Smart’s home in early 1945 would have been well pleased.
SOME SOW .. SOME WATER ..
GOD MAKES THE PLANT GROW
However this example is only one, of some 600 Boys, who
have passed through the ranks of this BB Company during
the past fifty years. Many others would acknowledge and
did acknowledge at the recent reunion the impact that 1st
Blenheim, the BB Objective and the life and witness of
Officers, had played in their lives. Some were involved
for many years, other for shorter periods, some continued
on as Officers in this or other Companie6. Some left
without any evidence of anything positive coming out of
their involvement with the BB, but we do not always know
what God has done, or is doing in each Boy’s heart.
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COMPANY FIRST MET ON MONDAY
FEBRUARY 12, 1945
On Monday, February 12, 1945 15 Boys met in the Wesley
Methodist Sunday School in High Street and so began what
was later to be known as 1st Blenheim Boys’ Brigade
Company. The Wesley Local Youth Council confirmed the
action and agreed that the Company should be open to Boys
of all denominations. It was formally enrolled at a
service on Sunday July 3, 1945 with 18 Boys present — all
in uniform. They were G Voyce, L Holdaway, A Gledhill, I
Manson, B Gledhill, I Holdaway, G Manson, G Gascoigne, P
Jacques, E Webby, A Patchett, G Williams, A Bright, I
Freeman, D McIntyre, L Fear, A McArthur and Rex Bright.
The first Officers appointed by the Church were — Bruce
Patchett, Captain; Rev H A Sharp, Chaplain; A S Allan and
R W Moseley, Lieutenants.
(It was interesting to note that on original enrolment
forms the Company was referred to as the 1st Marlborough
Company.)
‘THE PIONEERS’ - 1945
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WHERE WE HAVE LIVED
The first home for the Company was the Wesley Methodist
Sunday School. Later a building from the World War Two
air force Delta camp (in the Wairau Valley, above
Woodbourne) was purchased and moved to Wesley Church
grounds on the Henry Street — Charles Street corner.(Top
photograph).This became known as the Youth Hall and
became the home of the BB and GLB Companies and their
Junior Sections. At a later stage an extension was added
— this was used for offices and storeroom.
In the early 1980s Wesley Methodist Church was re—sited
onto land on the corner of Henry Street and John Street.
On the land was a former rugby gymnasium and this was
refurbished to become the Wesley Gym (pictured above) and
the new home of 1st Blenheim and the other youth work of
the church. For Company Displays and other special
occasions the multi—purpose Wesley Centre is used.
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“THE SKIPPER” - BRUCE PATCHETT
1917 — 1980
‘Mr Bruce Patchett, the father-figure of The Boys’
Brigade in Marlborough, died last night after an illness.
He was 63.’ So reported The Marlborough Express of
November 19, 1980 and the words ‘the father—figure of The
Boys’ Brigade in Marlborough’ is an accurate description
of what the “Skipper” meant to the Boys of 1st Blenheim
from 1945 to 1965.
Blenheim in the mid—1940s was a different Blenheim to the
one of the mid—1990s and Bruce Patchett, a committed
Christian, proved to be the ideal person to lead the
fledgling BB Company and in the ensuing years 1st
Blenheim became one of New Zealand’s leading Companies in
every respect. With the support of his wife, Linda, who
was a second ‘Mum’ to the Boys, Bruce showed by word and
example what ‘true Christian Manliness’ really was,
during his 21 years of leadership. This was evident not
just in the BB, but in all the other facets of his life
also — church, community and business.
NATIONAL INVOLVEMENT
His BB involvement wasn’t just within 1st Blenheim, He
took his part in the setting up of the Nelson—Marlborough
Battalion in 1947 and assisted in its affairs, being
appointed to represent the area on the New Zealand
Executive the same year. In 1951 he became a Dominion
vice—president, a position he held for 15 years into the
mid—1960s. Again in 1979 he took his part in national
affairs and at the time of his death he was a New Zealand
vice—president.
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RESPECTED INTERNATIONALLY
Bruce was also respected on the International Boys’
Brigade scene with friends in many parts of the world.
The international involvement began with his leading of
the 109—strong contingent to the International Camp in
the UK in 1954 (reported on under ‘Camps’) and was a
continuing interest from thereon.
At the recent Golden Jubilee celebrations we were
conscious that the spirit of “the Skipper” was among us
in the lives of the Boys who had been ‘through the ranks’
under his captaincy.
BRUCE PATCHETT TRUST ESTABLISHED
Following the death of Founder Captain, Bruce Patchett, a
memorial trust was set up in his name. The aim of the
trust is to financially assist NCO’s and Officers of the
Nelson—Marlborough Battalion to attend national training
courses. Bruce was an enthusiast for youth leadership
training and encouraged Brigade members to take every
opportunity for training.
The Trust is always open to accepting donations to top up
the capital. In fact any funds left over from the 50th
Jubilee will be given to the Trust.
The Company Captain can give prospective donors
information regarding the Trust.
. . .with some of the Boys
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GARY LONGMAN - 2ND CAPTAIN
Following Bruce Patchett as Captain wasn’t an easy act.
However Gary has done this well and after 30 years of
service he will retire at the end of the Jubilee Year
1995. Gary was an early member of the Company, joining as
an 11 year old (No 63 on the role) he has spent most
Monday nights since at Boys’ Brigade — some 47 years! In
an interview, by Cynthia Brooks, marking his 25 years as
Captain, (The Marlborough Express December 27, 1991) he
makes the following observations —
“I firmly believe I have been called by God into this
ministry and always appreciated what Boys’ Brigade did
for me as a little lad. Then as I got older it had an
influence on me to become a Christian.”
“We are not setting out to create superhuman people, but
Boys with good control and moral standing. We like to
think we are planting seeds for someone else to reap
later on, especially as their Christian life goes.”
“The reason their mothers send them (Boys from homes
without a male figure head) to Brigade is to give them
the male figure that is not in the home ... that takes a
tremendous amount of trust and the onus is on us as
leaders to be aware of the examples and standards we set
for the Boys.”
WIDER INVOLVEMENT
Like his predecessor, Gary played a full part in the
affairs of the Battalion On the national scene, he
assisted with the national leadership courses held in the
area and was catering officer at Camp Marlborough.
He encouraged his NCO’s and Officers to take every
opportunity for training, both locally and regionally, as
well on the national scene.
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“THIS IS YOUR (BB) LIFE ...“
In 1991 Gary got 1st Blenheim’s 47th annual display under
way and after devotions and inspection, the Chairman Rev
Norman West, seemed to get it all wrong when he asked
Gary to sit down. It may have seemed all wrong to Gary,
but to others it was all going to plan ... and so began
“This is your (BB) Life Gary Longman”.
The idea had been hatched by David McKelvey Senior NCO,
to mark Gary’s 25 years as Captain. He, with others,
brought the programme together with a number of speakers
highlighting various aspects of Gary’s RB life - Rex
Bright, Brian Patchett (Lower Hutt), David Mardon
(Christchurch), David James and Norman West. Alan Harris,
tied the programme together with items from letters of
greetings and anecdotes from days past. What Boys of
today had heard of Blenheim’s Clarrie Rayner’s Milkbar
and Gary’s well-known Austin A35?
The “This is your Life .. .“ book and a BB plaque
suitably inscribed, was presented by David McKelvey. The
programme then continued as Gary had arranged, albeit
some 35 minutes late!
Others at this function included Graeme & Pat Todd and
Ross Hunter from Nelson. Gary was certainly taken by
surprise, but was definitely moved and very appreciative
of the thoughts and efforts of all concerned.
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OUR BAND
In 1946 the band was formed and for many years was a
prominent part of the Company. “Band practise, Thursday
night!” Taking part in Anzac Day parades and other civic
services, the annual enrolment services, Founder’s Day
parades in Blenheim, Nelson, Motueka and other places,
gave the Band (and the Company) a high profile.
Early instructors included Arch Kitching and Frank White.
Rex Bright recalls, that from memory, Arch had just one
old bugle for all to try and get a note out of.
Originally they met in the south end corner room of the
old Wesley hall. Battalion, Company and other camps saw
at least a bugle taken for bugle duties.
An indication of how the band was seen by the community
is reflected in this letter to The Express on April 28,
1961.
“1 wish to congratulate the Boys’ Brigade Trumpet Band on
their excellent playing and marching at the Anzac Day
parade. This small combination does a good job and has
many admirers. On this occasion their display was
outstanding.” Ex-Trumpeter.
BAND HIGHLIGHT
A real highlight for the Band was in May 1963 when the
band was selected to take part in the celebrations to
mark the end of the 80th Anniversary Relay Run in
Wellington. They played at Government House and took part
in the Sunday Street parade.
In 1964 the band completed a re-equipping programme with
ten valve bugles and a new bass drum. New side drums and
a new mace had been purchased when the Company started to
re-equip several years earlier. In the early 1970s the
band went into a decline and eventually into recess.
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Band members 1946
With Sir Bernard Fergusson, Governor General
Government House Wellington, May 1963
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DRILL THRILLS!
Drill has always been a part of BB and 1st Blenheim has
had a proud tradition of drill and winning the Battalion
Drill Competition from early days.
In 1958 as part of the 75th Anniversary celebrations a
National Drill Competition was held in Wellington and 1st
represented the Nelson Battalion at the event, held in
the Winter Show building. Nervous was hardly the word, as
the Boys waited for their turn. There were two parts to
the competition — inspection and the squad drill. At last
it was all over and the results awaited — when they came
it was first for uniform and second overall, 185 1/3rd
points! The winners were Canterbury Battalion (1st
Christchurch), 195 5/6th points.
It was some 29 years later before the opportunity for a
‘return match’ in Canterbury — this time it was 1st
Blenheim first and the squad arrived home with the sweet
feeling of victory and revenge for 1958. In this Jubilee
year the Company is to make another foray into Canterbury
for the 1995 Drill Competitions.
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KING’S and QUEEN’S AWARDS
During the fifty years 108 members have achieved the
highest award in the Movement — the King’s/Queen’s Award.
Until 1956 the Award was presented at the Founder’s
Weekend Celebrations in October, but from 1957 they were
presented at the annual inspection & display held in
December.
In 1965 Boys were first invited to attend a function at
Government House, Wellington where they were presented
with their Queen’s Award Certificate from the hands of
the Governor General, Sir Bernard Fergusson. Attending
this first function were Alistair Boyce and Trevor Hayes.
Following Governor Generals have continued the ceremony
and in recent years each Boy has been able to take two
guests with him. Other activities including a dinner and
church parade are now part of what is referred to as ‘the
Queen’s Men Weekend’ and many 1st Blenheim Queen’s Men
and their families have attended the functions.
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KING’S MEN
1948 — Alan Bright, Ivan Manson
1949 — Rex Bright, Russell James, Tom Jellyman
1951 — George Dwyer, William Ashley
QUEEN’S MEN
1952 — lain McFarlane, Hugh Jones
1953 — Ron Barr, Gary Longman, Peter McNabb, Graham
Hamilton, Dexter Taylor
1956 — Donald Gardiner, Brian McNabb, Donald Parker
1957 — Geoff Sandford
1958 — David Poswillo, Lennox Willett, Brian Patchett,
Paul Crump, Robert Allan, Alan Harris
1960 — Barry Harkness,
1961 — David Russell, Brian Jones, Roger Thwaites, John
Naysmith, Graeme Patchett, Keith Carpenter, Peter
Willett, Barry Holdaway,
1963 — Kerry Brown, Donald Jellyman, Kevin Hayes
1964 — Trevor Hayes, Alistair Boyce
1965 — Allan Boyce, Bernard Thompson, Alan Naysmith
1966 — Allan Jones, John Ballinger
1967 — Richard Velvin
1968 — Graham Wadsworth, Eric Russell, John Ward, Ralph
Allen, Kerry Sowman
1970 — Keith Jellyman, Graham Holdaway
1971 — John Trewavas
1972 — Peter Blacklaw, David Bush
1973 — Michael Campbell
1974 — Paul Trewavas
1975 — Philip Vile
1977 — Rodney Parkes, David Sewell
1978 — Grant Stubbs, John Wilson
1979 — Wayne Parker, Glen Vile, Ian Wilson, Gregory
Manson
1980 — Andrew Brown, Robert Cromarty, Malcolm Taylor,
Lloyd Carpenter
1981 — Darryl Carpenter, David James, Philip Vercoe
1982 — Raymond Brown, Jonathan Parkes, Andrew Pickering,
Owen Lewer, Richard Simpson
1983 — Gregory Vercoe, Charles Parker, David Field
1984 — Andrew Dowling, Wayne Taylor, Philip James, Murray
Richards
1985 — Stephen Lewer, Mark Longman, Brent McNamara
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1987 — Stuart Freeth
1988 — Kent Longman, Andrew Cromarty, Roger Van Raalte,
Michael Brown, Stephen Parker, Kelvin Vercoe,
Conway Taylor, Tim Bown
1989 — David McKelvey
1990 — David Ireland, Mark Freeth, Anton James, Ross
Frater
1991 — Andrew Sherriff, Andrew Jamieson
1993 — Geoffrey Hayes
1994 — Darren Jones, Mark Poswillo
1970 Queen’s Men
1989 Queen’s Man
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TREVOR ON ICE
Trevor Hayes, (Queen’s Man 1964)
In 1965 applications were called for Brigade members to
go to the Antarctic as part of a DSIR Youth scheme. It
was the second time that the BB had been invited to take
part in this and two places were available. Trevor Hayes,
(Queen’s Man 1964) from 1st Blenheim was successful, as
was Paul Russell of 15th Wellington (a Company with which
1st had an association at the time). The two BB Queen’s
Men, with two Scouts travelled by boat to and from Scott
Base and spent three weeks in Antarctica.
Ardmore Camp 1957-58
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CAMPS
Right from the earliest days camping has been a feature
of The Boys’ Brigade — indeed the BB introduced camping
as a recreational activity in 1886, long before it was
the leisure activity it is today. So, it was quite
natural for 1st Blenheim to quickly be involved in the
Nelson Battalion 1945/46 Summer Camp at Wairoa Gorge,
Brightwater. Fourteen Boys from Blenheim joined others
from Nelson and Hokitika (2nd Westland) for the 8—day
camp.
An Express newspaper clipping reports — ‘The camp was
favoured with exceptionally good weather and a full
programme of Brigade activities was carried out.’ It also
noted that a day was spent in Nelson for the benefit of
those who had never been in the city before and that an
very impressive parade marched through the streets.
Summer camp 1946/47 was held in the Richmond Showgrounds
and BB members from Wellington were present. In 1949/50
Boys crossed the Straits to attend the Wellington
Battalion’s Camp at Wainuiomata. Photos show the Prime
Minister of the day Peter Fraser and fellow politician
Walter Nash being piped into the Camp.
BB NEW ZEALAND SILVER JUBILEE CAMP WAIPARA, NORTH
CANTERBURY December—January 1951/52
1st Blenheim contingent
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BATTALION CAMP SITE The Battalion had a camp site in the Teal Valley, (turn
off at the foot of the Nelson side of the Whangamoa on
the highway to Nelson), so camps were held here for a
period of time in the late 1940s, early 1950s. This site
was later sold. In 1955/56 a camp was held at Dovedale,
near Motueka. After this Battalion Summer Camps were held
on a less regular basis and none in recent years.
(It is interesting to note that at early camps full
uniform was taken and worn on special occasions.)
The Company has attended Wellington Battalion summer
camps and more recently members have had the opportunity
to attend the regular summer camps run by the Canterbury
West Coast Battalion at Waipara
DEEP CREEK BB/GB CAMPSITE In 1971 Marlborough Boys’ and Girls’ Brigades were able
to take over the disused Deep Creek school and school
house and develop it into a campsite. It had been vacant
for many years, but with working bees it was ready for
opening on October 16 of the same year. Since then it has
been further developed and is used by schools and other
groups as well as the Brigades.
OTHER CAMPS Company camps, of varying lengths, have also been held
throughout the years — some under canvas, others using
houses, woolsheds and the like. Pelorus Bridge, Lake
Rotoiti and places in the Marlborough Sounds have been
popular venues. Some camps have been for pure fun, others
for specific purposes such as training and planning.
OVERSEAS CAMPS In August 1954 the first Brigade International Camp was
held on the playing fields of Eton College, England. It
was to mark the centennial of the birth of Sir William
Smith, Founder of the BB. Some 2000 Boys and Officers in
400 tents from many parts of the world attended,
including three from 1st Blenheim — Graham Hamilton, Alan
Bright and Don Gardiner, with Bruce Patchett as O C of
the large 109 strong New Zealand/Cook Island contingent
who travelled by sea to attend.
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PAN AUSTRALIAN BB CAMPS A number of 1st Blenheim members have crossed the Tasman
to attend Pan Australian BB Camps. Trans Tasman BB links
were strengthened when Brian Patchett attending such a
camp in 1962/63, decided that a certain Lady Officer,
called Rose, would make an ideal wife.
CAMP PHOTOS (clock wise)
Te Wairoa - 1994;
A Kaireperepe Company Camp; Eton 1954;
Dovedale, Battalion Camp 1955/56
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NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL CAMPS
The Company has had representatives at all the National
Camps held in recent years
1957/58 — The 75th Anniversary Camp at Ardmore, Auckland.
1973/74 — The 90th Anniversary Camp at Tomoana, Hastings.
1978/79 — Camp Marlborough. (See separate story)
1982/83 — Camp BB 100 Centennial Camp, Mystery Creek,
Hamilton.
1987/88 — Canterbury Challenge at Waipara, Canterbury
Battalion’s Campsite in North Canterbury.
1994 — Camp Te Wairoa, Rotorua.
BB NEW ZEALAND SILVER JUBILEE CAMP
1951 was the Silver Jubilee of Boys’ Brigade New Zealand
and a Jubilee Camp was held at the Canterbury Battalion’s
campsite at Waipara, North Canterbury. [Cost for Boys
under 15, 53 shillings 5 pence; Boys over 15, 66
shillings 9 pence and Officers, 76 shillings 5 pence.]
Disaster struck at the 11th hour with a nationwide
railway strike and suddenly the task of getting some 1650
folk to camp became a major difficulty and the holding of
the camp became in doubt. However, as reported in The BB
News souvenir camp issue, at 12.37 on Christmas Day it
was announced on the radio that the Boys’ Brigade Silver
Jubilee Camp would be held, but that Boys would have to
make their own travel arrangements. Well, BB ingenuity
prevailed and some 850 folk from the North Island finally
arrived at Waipara.
1ST BLENHEIM TO THE RESCUE
The same BB News issue noted ‘Officers of 1st Blenheim
Company had set to with a will and found bus
accommodation and some trucks which would take 240 from
Picton.’ (North Islanders arriving by the daylight ferry
Tamahine). They arrived at camp at ten minutes to
midnight! So including the South Islanders, some 1350
made it to camp — only 300 less than registered.
CAMP MARLBOROUGH 1978/79
To have a national camp on our own back door, so to speak
was an interesting experience and the exciting thing was
that the local BB families and supporters got right
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behind it. Bruce Patchett was Camp Director with Gary
Longman, as catering officer and Chairman of the local
supporters committee. Among the things the local
committee had to do was find sufficient chairs and tables
to sit 400 for meals; arrange a team of helpers to do
dishes and find trail bikes, canoes and the like. The
programme of this camp was the start of a new era into BB
Camping, a host of different activities being arranged
and campers being able to choose some activities.
For local BB members attending, a highlight was the Camp
parade from A & P Park through town to the Blenheim
School, with drums drumming and bands playing. After
which the 1200 plus campers were let loose in town. Camp
Marlborough was a good witness to the people of
Marlborough as to what the BB is all about.
THE LIFE BOYS 1952
Taken in the old Wesley Sunday School hall — the mural is
a Solomon Islands scene and effective reminder of the
mission outreach of both the Methodist Church and the BB
in the South Pacific.
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ENTER THE JUNIOR SECTIONS
THE LIFE BOY TEAM In 1946 the Life Boy Team was started under the
leadership of Russell Moseley. In 1951 Vic Smart
succeeded him. The Life Boys were referred to as the
Junior Reserve of The Boys’ Brigade and there was very
little combined activity between the two groups.
NAME CHANGE However during the 1960s there grew a closer involvement
until in 1967 they integrated into the one movement The
Boys’ Brigade. The two units were to be known as “The
Company’, with a Team Section and a Company Section.
RECRUITING AREA FOR COMPANY In 1st Blenheim there was always a good working
relationship between the two groups — a recruiting area
for the Company with the younger Boys aspiring to the day
when they, too, would be in the Company, wearing the
uniform and having lots of badges on their ‘sleeves as
well!
BALANCED PROGRAMME The Life Boy programme was clearly based on a four—square
programme — “Jesus increased in wisdom and stature and in
favour with God and Man”, Luke 2 verse 52. Educational,
Physical, Spiritual, Social. There were games, relays,
stories and lots more ...
A more in—depth programme to meet the changing needs of
Boys, with an awards programme (The Achievement Scheme)
now operates in the Team Section. A fifth aspect — that
of community added, but the basic ‘all—round’ programme
still applies.
In the 1960s Bruce & Linda Patchett were hosts at more
than one of the popular Life Boy Leaders national
training weekends held during that period.
COMMITTED LEADERSHIP
Vic Smart was succeeded by Graham Dowling as Leader in
Charge and through the years the Team has been well
served by many committed leaders — both men and women.
Present Lieutenant—in—Charge is Lindsey Norriss.
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1st Blenheim Team Section
taking part in the 1970 Company Display
Inspecting Officer Ian Brooks MP
2ND BLENHEIM
In the 1960s when the Methodist Church commenced an
outreach in the lower Hutcheson Street area (Mayfield), a
Team was started, feeding Boys into 1st Blenheim Company
upon reaching the age limit. Alison Smith was the Leader
in Charge. Later, for a period of time, David Garnham and
Alan Harris, from 3rd Blenheim provided the leadership.
The Mussong Family were strong supporters of all the
activities at Mayfield. When the Church ceased using the
hall, the Team and Girls’ Brigade unit were closed.
AND NOW THE ANCHOR BOYS For many years there were BB folk who saw a need for a
younger unit, to meet the growing needs of 6 to 8 year
old Boys — in fact in many Teams there were Boys of this
age group being ‘quietly catered for’. So, in the 1980s
the Anchor Boys emerged in New Zealand and in 1988 the
first Anchor Boys met as part of 1st Blenheim Company.
They now take their part as enthusiastic members, with a
simple and varied programme meeting their needs, again
with Leaders concerned with the requirements of this age—
group. The present Leader in Charge is Kim Parker.
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ROYAL VISITS The Company has been on parade for all visits of
Queen Elizabeth 2nd to Blenheim. In January 1954 the
Company paraded in uniform and lined High Street —
Graham Hamilton was the BB representative in the youth
guard of honour. The next visit in January 1963 the Band
gave a demonstration in front of the Royal Visitors.
In March 1977 on a very wet day, there was a Royal
Reception at Woodbourne, the bad weather deterred many
people and groups, but the Marlborough Express reported
“I understand that among the largest groups represented
were the Boys’ and Girls’ Brigades, all in uniform”.
‘As a result of 1st Blenheim . . .
1st Wairau Valley Company was formed in 1961 by Old Boy
Rex Bright (No 18) on the roll and was Founder Captain of
the Company. He also served a period of time on the BB
New Zealand National Executive.
3rd Blenheim Life Boy Team (3rd Blenheim) was formed in
1960 by Old Boy Alan Harris. [Later to become 3rd
Blenheim (St Ninian’s) Company.]
As well as serving two terms on the National Executive,
Alan has edited the national magazine, BB News, for 14
years and is involved in BB work within the Pacific and
internationally on the World Conference Committee.
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Enjoying the feast at the 25th Birthday celebrations
+ New Company Colours were presented by Old Boys at the 21st
celebrations
+ The Baptismal Font was the gift to Wesley Church on the
occasion of the 21st Birthday
+ To mark 50 years of association with the Methodist Church, a
pulpit chair was presented to the congregation at the Jubilee
service. (Tony Maffey, an Old Boy, made the chair on behalf of
his employers.)
Hundreds of pounds and dollars have passed through this BB
Missions Box, as the Company has supported the work of the BB in
the Pacific Regional Fellowship. (Some given willingly - some
coerced as loose change after canteen time!)
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COMING OF AGE In June, 1965 the Company celebrated its ‘coming of age’ - 21
years of service to Boys. Some 90 Old Boys, present members and
invited guests attended a banquet in Wesley Sunday School hail.
Among the guests were Dan Moir and his wife — it was at his
suggestion that the Church started the Company. New Queen’s and
Company Colours were presented to the Company by Lester
Holdaway, on behalf of the Old Boys. These were dedicated at the
Sunday service, the 21st annual enrolment service of 1st
Blenheim, by the Chaplain, the Rev C B Oldfield.
25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATED In July 1969 the Silver Jubilee of the Company was celebrated
with a tea for Company members, followed by the 25th Anniversary
enrolment service. Guest Speaker at the dinner was the now
retired “Skipper”, Bruce Patchett. He said that to have reached
the 25 year milestone was a great achievement for any
organisation, an indication of the worthiness of the
organisation and its place in the community. The Company had
often been described by Brigade officials as being one of the
finest in the country. “Only you fellows can keep it that
way; may this Company continue to advance,” he told the
Boys. At the service, conducted by the Chaplain, the Rev R H
Allen, Boys were presented with their annual membership card, by
circuit steward, A H (Mick) Jellyman. I .
21st Dinner
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A FEW OF THE FACES AT THE
GOLDEN JUBILEE
Alan Bright (18), Jim Mears (76) Ernie Webby (10)
Alistair McArthur (17)
Stuart Freeth (446) Michael Brown (439)
Brent McNamara (465)
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Linda Patchett and Jocelyn Longman cut the Jubilee Cake.
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CELEBRATING 50 YEARS - MAY 10 TO 12, 1995
More than 80 Old Boys, including a number of originals,
such as Lester Holdaway who was No 2 on the roll (and
chairperson of the Jubilee Committee) and Russell Moseley
an original Officer, attended the weekend of celebrations
to mark the jubilee. Les Bouterey, Vice—President BBNZ,
represented the national movement.
SOCIAL EVENING Friday night saw a large number of old Boys, partners and
friends gather for a social evening. A theme seemed to be
“Is that so and so ...haven’t seen him for years.”
Throughout the evening and indeed the whole weekend, a
display of Company photographs, scrap albums and other
memorabilia created much interest.
BUS AND TRAIN OUTING A Saturday afternoon bus trip enabled visitors see the
changes in Blenheim and the Wairau Plain since they were
involved in 1st Blenheim. Afternoon tea was at the
Vintage Farm Machinery Museum — part of the Brayshaw Park
complex and folk returned to the Wesley Centre (almost)
by Riverside Railway. A beautiful sunny autumn day
enhanced the outing.
JUBILEE DINNER Over 130 Old Boys, current members, partners and friends
attended the Jubilee dinner. Master of Ceremonies was
Lester Holdaway and speakers representing the various
decades were:
1945 — 50 Alistair McArthur; 1960s John Orchard; 197Os
David James; 1980s Brent McNamara.
During the evening various greetings that had been
received were read out by Paul Crump. Alan Bright
presented Linda Patchett with flowers. A Jubilee cake,
made by Wendy Newman and iced by Joy Bush, was cut by
Linda Patchett and Jocelyn Longman. A trophy for Young
Leaders was presented to the Company by the 1995 serving
Officers.
SERVICE OF THANKSGIVING Guest preacher for the Sunday morning service was Old
Boy, the Rev David Bush, from the Rangiora Methodist
Church. His sermon was “Looking Back to go Forward”.
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OLD BOYS PROVIDE MUSIC AT SERVICE Guest Organist was David Garnham. An Old Boys choir (with
some ring—ins) was conducted by David Poswillo, with
Barrie Parker, Organist. Accompanying both organists on
the piano, was Lennox Willett. Although not an Old Boy,
Barrie is Father of Queen’s Man (1988), Stephen Parker.
GREETINGS Greetings were received from Old Boys and Friends in many
parts of New Zealand and overseas including Australia,
Canada, and Seoul (South Korea).
OLD BOYS INVOLVED IN DIFFERENT ROLES A number of Old Boys were involved in different roles
during the weekend. They included Barry Holdaway, local
historian, the commentator on the bus trip; train driver
was John Orchard and Lester Holdaway was conductor; Roger
Thwaites was official photographer; Kent Longman, with
sister Sharolyn, entertained with a musical item at the
dinner.
JUBILEE COMMITIEE
Front row, David Brown, Linda Patchett, Lester Holdaway,
Chairperson; Gary Longman, Rex Bright, Back row: Kevin
Hayes, Paul Crump and Alan Harris, Secretary.
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS We acknowledge —
The use of photographs and information taken from The
Marlborough Express files in compiling this history. The
use of photographs - many sources unknown.
The use of information taken from the Company photo
albums/scrap books and records.
The support of the many folk from whom information has
been sought and willingly given.
Where possible all information, names and dates have been
checked, we apologise for any incorrect details.
DATES OF SIGNIFICANCE 1945 Meeting at Vic Smart’s home agrees to form Boys’
Brigade Company at Wesley Methodist Church
Feb 14 15 Boys meet in Wesley Methodist Sunday
School
July 8 Formal enrolment of 1st Blenheim Company
Oct 14 Company takes part in Founder’s Day
celebrations in Nelson
1946 Battalion Summer Camp, Wairoa Gorge, Wakefield
Life Boy Team formed
Band formed
1954 August Founder’s Centennial Camp, Eton, England
1958 Aug 30 1st Blenheim, 2nd in National Drill
Competitions,
1961 St Ninian’s Platoon formed (Now 3rd Blenheim)
1st Wairau Valley Company formed
1963 January Band gives display at Royal Visit
May 80th Anniversary Relay Run. Band plays at
Government House, Wellington and Sunday Parade
1964 Band re-equips with new instruments
1965 June 6 Company celebrates 21st anniversary
Dec 4 Bruce Patchett retires. Gary Longman
appointed Captain.
1964/65 Trevor Hayes takes part in DSIR Youth Antarctic
programme
1969 Company celebrates 25th anniversary
1978/79 Camp Marlborough National Camp, Blenheim
1982 Company moves to Wesley Centre complex
1995 Company celebrates Golden Jubilee
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The Object of The Boys’ Brigade —
The Advancement of Christ’s Kingdom
among Boys and the promotion of Habits
of Obedience, Reverence, Discipline,
Self Respect and all that tends towards
a true Christian manliness.