Messages and Speeches
Announcement Of Inaugural Imperti Award Recipients
“It is my great privilege, on behalf of the Rongotai College Old Boys’ Association, to announce the inaugural recipients of the Imperti Award.
The Imperti Award recognises Old Boys who exemplify the values of Rongotai College on the national or international level. Through their achievements and service, they have embodied our school’s motto— Lumen Accipe Et Imperti—Receive the light and pass it on. These individuals serve as role models for our students and a source of pride for our community.
Our first recipient is Mr Grant Nisbett. As one of New Zealand’s most iconic sports broadcasters, Grant’s voice has been the soundtrack to some of our greatest sporting moments. His career has been defined by excellence, professionalism, and an enduring passion for sport, making him a true Rongotai man in every sense.
Our second recipient is The Honourable Justice Andrew Becroft, his lifelong dedication to youth justice and advocacy has changed countless lives across Aotearoa. His work as a District Court Judge, the Principal Youth Court Judge and later as New Zealand’s Children’s Commissioner has shaped policies that uplift and protect young people, ensuring they have the opportunities and support they need to thrive. Justice Becroft is currently serving in the High Court based in Auckland.
Our third recipient is Mr John Fiso, a leader in education, business, and community development. John has worked tirelessly to create opportunities for students and business people. His commitment to education, entrepreneurial innovation, and leadership led to the establishment of the New Zealand Institute of Sport and many other businesses.
These three men embody what it means to be Rongotai Old Boys. They have each, in their own way, received the light and passed it on.
For those who wish to celebrate and recognise our recipients, we invite you to join us at the RCOBA Gala Dinner next month. This will be a special evening to honour their achievements, reconnect with the Rongotai community, and celebrate the legacy of our College. More details can be found on our Facebook page and website, and we encourage all Old Boys and supporters to attend what promises to be a memorable event.
On behalf of the Rongotai College Old Boys’ Association, congratulations to our inaugural Imperti Award recipients. We thank you for your dedication, your service, and for upholding the proud legacy of Rongotai College.
Lumen Accipe Et Imperti - Receive The Light And Pass It On”
RCOBA President’s New Years Address
“Since our establishment in 1930, the Rongotai College Old Boys' Association has always been a testament to the enduring bonds forged within the gates of Coutts Street, and 2024 was no exception. As we gather at the dawn of a new year, let us reflect on the moments that have shaped us as individuals and as a community over the past 12 months.
In 2024, we came together to celebrate, remember, and look forward. The annual Golf Day in May was a joyful occasion, uniting Old Boys across different generations in gamesmanship and brotherhood.
In July, we stood side by side at the Commemoration Service, honouring the 73rd anniversary of the unveiling of the Rongotai College Roll of Honour. This solemn moment reminded us of the courage and sacrifice of those who came before us.
Among the other highlights of the year was the presentation of the James Hunter Outward Bound Scholarship. Year 13 students Jack Leong and Rico Taylor were presented these scholarships at a College Assembly before completing a 3-week Outward Bound Course. These scholarships continue to be a symbol of the enduring commitment to nurturing leadership and resilience in the young men of Rongotai College. We are extremely grateful to the generous support of Scholarship Coordinators and proud old boys, Jeremy Simpson and Dean Galt, as well as the Hunter Family, for ensuring the continuation of this important opportunity.
Yet, alongside celebration, we also faced sorrow in 2024 as we farewelled many giants within our Rongotai College community who during their lives gave so much to Old Boys and the life of the College. Amongst our obituaries include Bruce Cockburn - former Head of the Science Department and inaugural recipient of the RCOBA President’s Award, Bruce Cockburn; Emma Wilkinson - whose vibrant and colourful character lit up the College’s office for 7 years; Shirley McLaughlin - the famous former mother of the College who served as the Assistant to the Principal from 1978-2001; John Lister - former Patron of the Old Boys’ Association, who was made an Officer of the British Empire for his services to export; and Legendary Jazz Musician, Dr Rodger Fox, who although he was never a student at Rongotai College, was a key supporter of our music department and the award-winning Rongotai College Big Band. Moe mai rā e ngā rangatira. Your contributions to our College and beyond have left an indelible mark, and your memories remain a source of inspiration and warmth to us all.
As we look ahead to 2025, we find ourselves on the cusp of a momentous milestone: the Centenary of Rongotai College. The establishment of the Centenary Steering Group is already laying the groundwork for what promises to be a fitting celebration in 2028 of a Century of Brotherhood.
The 2025 calendar is brimming with exciting new events and initiatives. In February, we will host a reception to celebrate the College’s 97th Birthday. A few weeks after that we will hold the Association’s Annual General Meeting.
March brings the Association Gala Dinner on Friday, 14 March—a chance to gather and reminisce, as well as celebrate a new Old Boys’ honour, called "The Imperti Award,"
The Imperti Award recognises Old Boys’ who embody the Rongotai College values on a national or international level. Through imparting true Rongotai character to the wider community, recipients best reflect the Rongotai College motto “Lumen Accipe Et Imperti – Receive the light and pass it on”. The distinguished individuals will epitomise the school motto and the best that Rongotai College has to offer. The 3 inaugural recipients will be announced later this month.
In April we’ll join forces with the College to hold a special Anzac Assembly. This will take place at the school in the first week of Term 2.
In the winter, the Association will continue the rollout of the ‘Banner Project’. This will see the unveiling of five Football National Title banners marking the success that Rongotai College experienced on the national stage in the 1970s and 1980s. These banners will proudly stand next to the 1980 Basketball National Title Banner in the school’s gymnasium.
Also, in the second half of the year, we will launch the RCOBA Business Network—a forum designed to connect Old Boys and families of the College in a professional capacity. This initiative will draw on the bright minds and experienced careers of those connected to Rongotai, creating opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and growth within our wider community.
The coming year will also bring other opportunities to reconnect, to reflect, and to contribute to the life of the Association. We will continue to support initiatives like the James Hunter Outward Bound Scholarship, and host and support smaller events such as quiz nights, our annual golf day, and other casual catch ups. Association Members can also look forward to the release of new RCOBA Merchandise. So make sure to register your details with us through the Rongotai College Old Boys website to stay updated with our latest news and events. Also remember to follow us on social media.
As we step into this new year, let us carry forward the lamp of Rongotai College — a flame that has continued to burn since February 7th 1928. May we find strength in the light that we all once carried and take joy in the shared memories that we passed on. On behalf of the Rongotai College Old Boys’ Association and the Association Committee, I hope to see you later in 2025, but until then, I wish you and your family the happiest of new years.”