Senior Honours Ties awarded
28 Jul 2020
Two Old Boys, both from Harper House, were present at assembly on Thursday to receive the prestigious award of a Senior Honours tie.
The Honourable Peter Penlington who has had an illustrious legal career as a Judge and a Queen’s Counsel, and Derek Banks who led the campaign to raise funds for the building of the Old Boys’ Theatre and who was the school’s first Director of Development, were on hand with their families.
Both said they were humbled to receive the ties, and paid tribute to their wives and families who had supported them through their adult life.
“I always counted myself as very fortunate to be sent to this school, as it has shaped my whole life,” Peter Penlington told the boys, adding that school years are very precious and urging them to make the most of them.
“The friendships you make here will help to sustain you when you leave. And if you’re given the opportunity for leadership and service, take it with both hands; it will stand you in good stead.”
He described his years at College from 1946-1950 as an “undistinguished school career” but was determined to study law, graduating Bachelor of Laws from the University of Canterbury in 1956, and admitted to the bar as a barrister and solicitor. He took silk and practised as a Queen’s Counsel until he was made a judge of the High Court in 1990.
Derek Banks, who was at school from 1954-59, has supported College in many ways over the years and still serves as a tour guide to visitors, sharing his knowledge and passion for College. A keen sportsman, Derek served as both captain of the 1st XV and captain of the 1st XI. On leaving, he went into the family timber business, but maintained his interest in College, later serving as Development Officer for nine years. He was also formerly on the College Board.
Following assembly Peter and Derek were treated to a morning tea with the Executive Principal Garth Wynne.
