Eight students performed at the Himalayan Trust Gala Dinner this week – an event which commemorated our greatest New Zealand hero, his remarkable achievements, his spirit of adventure, his humility, and his “can-do” attitude to helping others.
The fundraising event, at The Cordis Hotel in Auckland, is one of many commemorations happening this month to celebrate Sir Ed’s centenary. The Himalayan Trust event also raised funds to enable the trust, which was founded by Sir Ed, to continue its important work in the Everest region.
Hillary Scholar Isabella MacDonald says the fundraising event was a great opportunity to give back to the community.
“As part of the Hillary programme, we learn how important it is to give back to the community. Sir Ed was a great example of that from the work he did in the Everest region and it was a real privilege to contribute to his work which is still continuing today.”
The Waikato University has had a long connection with Sir Ed with our Hillary Scholarship being born out of a conversation between the University and Sir Ed himself.
Greg O'Carroll says the association with the Himalayan Trust means a lot to the Hillary Scholars given its role and connection to Sir Ed himself:
“It was outstanding to see, and hear, the involvement of Sir Edmund Hillary Scholars at the Gala Dinner. Over several years Hillary Scholars past and present have made a significant contribution to the Himalayan Trust. Not only through their fundraising efforts, but also through establishing awareness of what the trust is achieving.
“I have no doubt that Sir Ed himself would be pleased with their efforts.”
Congratulations to the following students who performed at the event:
Brothers (voices): Emmanuel, Laauli, Jordan and Faamanu Fuimaono (vocalists), Tayla Alexander (vocalist), Fergus Byett (piano and Hillary Scholar), Maia-Dean Martin (violin), Isabella MacDonald (cello and Hillary Scholar), Isabella MacDonald (cello).
And a thank you to Francis Cowan (official accompanist for University of Waikato Conservatorium of Music).
