Ohinemuri Regional History Journal 28, September 1984
An estimated 1200 former pupils, ex-stiff and Board of Governors members and their partners attended the highly successful 25th Jubilee of the Paeroa College over Queen's Birthday Weekend.
Celebrations commenced on Friday when the College was open for those to look around the school. The library was the centre point, where photos and names of those attending were displayed. On Friday night an estimated 800 registered for the wine and cheese get-together at the War Memorial Hall. The evening was organised by Mrs Margaret Hunt and her committee.
A Saturday morning sports programme was arranged by Mr Gary Morris and his committee and there was very good support as former pupils took part. Lunch on Saturday was a hangi organised by Jackie and Barry Dagger and although a little behind schedule, was thoroughly enjoyed by some 400 of those present.
The official ceremony of the Jubilee took part on the College quadrangle on Saturday afternoon and there were over 1000 people crowded in the area. The chairman of the Jubilee committee, Mr Ian Kerr, who was principal from 1970 to 1982, acted as master of ceremonies, and in his brief opening address said, "One little point that I would like to make is that we are calling it the 25th Jubilee of Paeroa College, 1959 to 1984, but of course this leaves a lost legion. What about the old 1958 pupils?", he asked. "I can assure you that the 1958 pupils are the foundation pupils of Paeroa College (cheers). The reason for making it 1959 is that almost to the day, today, 25 years ago, is when the College was officially opened", explained Mr Kerr.
At the conclusion of the speeches the Jubilee Cake, which was baked and iced by Mrs Irene Hughes of Paeroa, was cut by the head prefects of the 1958 school year, Mrs Rose Thorp (nee Doran) of Kerikeri and Mr Allan Beattie of Vancouver. Following the official ceremony, past pupils formed up into groups of about 100 to march past the dias. Throughout the afternoon there was ample time to inspect the old classrooms, scan the numerous historical details and many old photos on display.
Saturday night's function was held at the Paeroa Racecourse where the members' stand was filled to capacity. The stand was split into three main areas, a disco, band and conversation room. There were over 1000 attending the function.
On Sunday the Church service was conducted by a former pupil the Rev. Paul Grant. At the conclusion of the Service Mr Graeme Lee, speaking on behalf of those attending the Jubilee, thanked Mr Kerr and his committee for a job well done. There were farewells taken and the school became quiet again by late afternoon.