Anton Oliver new patron of Yellow-eyed Penguin Trust

Anton Oliver and Lady Beverly Reeves pose after the spade-of-office handover at Okia (Photo: Craig Baxter ODT)

Our long time friend and Patron Beverley, Lady Reeves decided it was time to hand over her role as patron of the trust, which she had held since 1988, as “age was creeping up” not that you could tell (and since it was made public in the Otago Daily Times) the 72-year old wife of former Governor General Sir Paul Reeves said, “Anton, if I was 20 years younger, you wouldn’t be getting a look in.”

Yes that’s right Anton Oliver is now our Patron. In reply Anton said, “I was really humbled that you thought I could make a contribution.” He saw the role as being to promote the yellow-eyed penguin and to educate young people about their environment and its importance. Handing over the spade-of-office ceremony happened at a special planting day on April 22nd at the Margaret Hazel site at Okia Reserve. 50 people turned up to witness the handing over of the ’spade’ a bright yellow one which we had inscribed from Beverley to Anton but not before 350 native shrubs were planted. It was a great day, great weather, great people, and great place. After all the planting the speeches and photographs the Broad Bay Community Centre supplied us with lunch and Beverley and Anton cut a huge cake which was shared around.

Hard at work! Marion van der Goes of DOC Otago digging in one of the 350 native shrubs planted on the day.

We are all sad to see Beverley go but we know we have a replacement in Anton who will champion our cause. So give Anton a special cheer as he leads the Highlanders onto the field or perhaps even as captain of the All Blacks once again.

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• Disease causing high mortality in Yellow-eyed Penguin chicks
• Annual Yellow-eyed Penguin Symposium
• Glowing Sky supports Trust
• YEPT and World Environmental Day