Two well-known North Otago people have been appointed as trustees for the Otago Community Trust. They are Gary Kircher and Helen Webster. The appointees replace Russell Hendry and Sally Hope who retire after eight years of service to the Trust. Nicola Taylor was re-appointed to the Trust for a second four-year term.
Community Trust chairperson Bill Thomson welcomed the new appointments, which brings representation on the Trust from North Otago back to two. “We are delighted with the breadth and depth of community knowledge and involvement the two appointments have in North Otago, and the complementary skills in local authority, education and service organisations they will bring to the table. We look forward to their contribution to our monthly meetings.”
Mr Thompson acknowledged the retiring trustee’s commitment and skills. “Russell Hendry’s expertise and sound judgement in investment and finance have been invaluable; we appreciate his experience with the community, and the careful consideration he brought to the Trust’s grant-making processes.
“I also pay tribute to Sally Hope’s concern for community welfare issues, her interest in rural health, and understanding of heritage activities in North Otago.”
The new appointments, advised by the Minister of Finance, are initially for a four year term.
Gary Kircher is a self-employed financial advisor, company directory and deputy mayor of the Waitaki District Council. He is a Sport Otago trustee, Director of Irrigation North Otago and member of the Weston Progress League.
Helen Webster is an owner of a farming company and bird and small animal feed manufacturing and trading company. She is a Waitaki Boys High School trustee, a community representative on the Safer Communities Council Restorative Justice Board and President of the Oamaru Rotary Club.
