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VSA farewells its founding President.

14 January 2008

"The peak of our mountain has fallen"

Sir Ed meets up with VSA volunteer, Cecille Lee who completed two assignments as a youth counsellor in Bougainville.(Interview recorded for Asia Downunder, TVNZ)

VSA's Founding President, Sir Ed at the organisation's 40th anniversary and launch of the book 'New Zealand Abroad - The story of VSA's work in Africa, Asia and the Pacific'.

Ka tanuku, ka tanuku
Ka tanuku te tihi o to matou maunga
He has fallen, he has fallen

The peak of our mountain has fallen

Volunteer Service Abroad joins with the whole nation in its deep regret at the loss of Sir Edmund Hillary.

While recognising that Sir Edmund's work has touched so many individuals and organisations both in New Zealand and abroad, his work for VSA as President in its formative years remains a treasured memory within the organisation. It was pivotal to establishing VSA in the minds of Government and the public as a responsible and effective conduit for willing New Zealanders to give of their skills and time for the betterment of others in developing countries.

That well over 2,000 New Zealanders have done so through VSA and have touched the lives of those whom they have served, reflects in great part that spirit of commitment and can-do for which Sir Edmund himself was noted.

In particular, the close link with Sir Edmund's work in Nepal through volunteers working with the Himalaya Trust was a hallmark of VSA's early contribution to the developing world.

Sir Edmund's willingness to provide of his mana, expertise and time in the years succeeding his Presidency has also been greatly appreciated as has his continuing interest in VSA's work over its 45 years of operation.

Within the VSA precincts there are tangible reminders of Sir Ed's service to the organisation. As important, however, will be the memory of his association and his valuable contribution. That will be a lasting tribute and memorial to him.

Takoto mai ra e te rangatira

Moe mai i to moenga roa

Rest in peace our great leader

Sleep in your everlasting sleep

Gavin Kerr

PRESIDENT - VSA