Gus Geary

Candidate Statement August 2022

As parents, we want our children to thrive in education. We want to know they'll be safe finding their independence and supported with care when needed. This is why I joined the Board of Trustees in 2021. To actively ensure my children have the best environment and opportunities to grow into the best they can be. My eldest at Tahuna is in year 8, and I have two more kids joining in 2024 and 2027. So you could say, I'm in this for the long haul.

In life, the only reliable constant is change. And our schools need dedicated parents and caregivers to support them through change. My goal for the Board of Trustees is to position Tahuna for the future. Sustainable schools develop through deeply considered strategy, planning and astute governance. The Tahuna Board of Trustees is here to help with that. Importantly, they speak on your behalf.

There are exciting initiatives in the pipeline, particularly the plans to upgrade the tech block for our kids to enjoy craft and creativity. However, I'm especially passionate about Tahuna's new mathematics curriculum. It is carefully curated to lift underperforming individuals who may have previously lacked the proper attention. The programme achieves results, and I'm extremely proud of Tahuna's stance and courage to address the things that matter. Which is what being on the Board of Trustees is all about. It's about ensuring Tahuna continues to stand for what is right for our children.

I loved growing up in Dunedin and am proud to call it home. Nothing warms my spirit more than gifting this opportunity to my kids. I'm fanatical about supporting our local community. You'll find me on the sideline cheering the kids on at footy, in the musical theatre audience, and down at the beach pushing the groms into waves.

I am also passionate about demystifying the fear of public speaking and helping people learn to speak confidently as the Dawnspeakers Toastmaster club president. Professionally, I am the head of marketing at MTF Finance.

It is a privilege to represent you as a member of the Board of Trustees. I commit to ensuring that Tahuna continues to nurture confident children so they can grow into the best they can be