Frances Clarke Memorial Awards 2010

For more photos at this event, please click here.  

I begin by greeting everyone in the languages of the realm of New Zealand, in English, Māori, Cook Island Māori, Niuean, Tokelauan and New Zealand Sign Language.  Greetings, Kia Ora, Kia Orana, Fakalofa Lahi Atu, Taloha Ni and as it is the morning (Sign)

I specifically acknowledge: Helen Elliot, Kate Young, and Erica Young from the Wellington Down Syndrome Association; Members of the Association; Pam and Forde Clarke, Frances Clarke’s parents and guest speakers; Charlotte Gendall, MC of today’s awards; Michael Holdsworth, our pianist; Distinguished Guests otherwise; Ladies and Gentlemen; Girls and Boys.

It is with pleasure that my wife Susan and I welcome everyone to St Patrick’s College here in Silverstream for the presentation of the Frances Clarke Memorial Awards for 2010.

Usually we would host these awards at Government House Wellington. However it is undergoing a major conservation project which began in 2008 and will finish next year. 

It is good to be with members of the Wellington Down Syndrome Association again.  This is the fourth time for awards in the term and both Susan and I have enjoyed the ceremony each time.

I would also like to express a special welcome to new members of the Association.  For some of you, this may be your first association event.  From all that I know I am sure you will find friendly people with whom to share your experiences, make new friends and to enjoy the day.

This year marks 20 years of the Frances Clarke Memorial Awards and 21 years since Frances Clarke (after whom these awards are named) died of leukaemia.  During her short life of 4 years she touched many people and it is only fitting that she is again acknowledged today.  We also think of her family and the fond memories they must have of her and thank them for donating the trophy.

This is a very important day for the young people who will receive awards. To Harry Rudkin and Neville Pugh: Your spirit of determination and your positive attitude sets an example to those around you. It shows others what can be achieved when you really put your heart and mind to it.

Marie Curie, a pioneer in the field of radioactivity who overcame many challenges in her life, spoke of the value of perseverance. She said:
“Life is not easy for any of us. But what of that? We must have perseverance and above all confidence in ourselves. We must believe that we are gifted for something, and that this thing, at whatever cost, must be attained.”

The Awards being presented today represent the perseverance that you have both showed in reaching your individual goals and Susan and I offer congratulations on your many achievements.

This is also an important day for the friends and family that have gathered to celebrate the achievements of these two exceptional individuals. Without your encouragement and support, their achievements would not be possible. Congratulations to you all.

I would also like to congratulate the Wellington Down Syndrome Association.  Your work of representing and supporting people with Down Syndrome and their families is to be commended.  Something said by Mahatma Gandhi comes to mind with regard to the looking after others: “Man becomes great exactly in the degree in which he works for the welfare of his fellow-men.”

While the awards acknowledge the achievements of people with Down Syndrome, they honour all those who have contributed and ensured the welfare of those living with Down syndrome.  They also provide an opportunity to draw the attention of the wider community to what has happened. 

I will now hand over to our MC, Charlotte Gendall.  However just before I do, may I underline the welcome and express the hope that you will be able to join Susan and I for morning tea after the ceremony.  I very much hope you will enjoy the entire morning. No reira, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, kia ora, kia kaha, tēnā koutou katoa