John Barker sets out the priorities for the Old Scholars in 2026:
COMMITTEE ACTIVITIES
The New Town High and Tech Old Scholars Inc committee has been actively
developing its program of activities for 2026. We will continue to
collaborate with Lead Principal Britany Roestenburg, senior staff, the
School Association and the Friends of Hobart City High School.
Some projects include;
– Participation in the schools
Horizons Program for year 9 and 10 students. It is proposed that regular
presentations to students by Hall of Excellence recipients on Career and
Service topics . We will also contribute to discussion on students personal
development /wellbeing topics such as positivity, engagement ,relationships,
achievement etc
– Continuation of the Health and
Wellbeing program for former students and friends each Thursday at 6.30am
and Sunday at 8.30am at the School Pavilion , Midwood Street. The program
provides some exercise assisting cardio , strength and balance. New
participants are welcome. Please contact Rick Cazaly 0438 215 795.

John on the rowing machine at a Health and Wellness session in the Gym in the Pav.
Shortly the program, over a 12 week period, will be available remotely by
video link for those unable to attend the morning sessions. It will include
discussion on specific mens health topics. We are currently trialling this
with an old scholar residing in London.
– The Hall of Excellence Award
recognising high achieving old scholars in the categories of Academic /
Professional; Arts / Culture; Community Service / Leadership; and Sport,
will continue . Nominations are now open, closing 31 May . Contact Wayne
Fletcher 0419 034 410.
Members of the Hall of Excellence will also be invited to provide a short
video of their careers, experiences and advice regarding employment for
utilisation by teachers and students. This proposed video bank is ,we
believe, a first for Tasmanian public schools. Also the School newsletter
will regularly highlight the achievements of Hall of Excellence members.
-A function incorporating tours
of the shortly to be completed $20m construction works at New Town campus
will be held on 29 May .you are invited to attend. More information shortly.
– Continued support of the schools
participation in the Solar Challenge. This is a STEM competition for
Tasmanian schools to learn to design , build and race model solar powered
cars and boats. See https://www.tassolarchallenge.org/
It is proposed a Grand Parents and Special Persons Day
for year 7 students at the Ogilvie campus be held later in the year. This is
an important initiative assisting the cultural development of Hobart City
High School.
– An annual 5 year reunion of HCHS
students, teachers and staff is proposed . More details later.
-The provision of financial
support to HCHS for specific projects and contribute to annual student
awards presentations.
A fundraising initiative seeking no longer required mechanical, electric or battery operated equipment to be disposed of by the Association. We were given a mulcher and were able to raise funds by selling it.
Have something that is no longer needed? Please contact john@johnbarker.biz or 0412 906 328
The Annual General Meeting of the
Association is scheduled for 6pm 8 September at New Town campus. I would
welcome your interest in nominating to join the committee. Please contact me
on 0412 906 328.
