The Bay of Plenty Education Trust recently recognised and awarded the honour of Emeritus Trustee to one man who has dedicated 22 years to the Trust – the third recipient of this honour.

Brian Scantlebury's exemplary service was celebrated at the Trust's recent annual meeting, where he was awarded the honour of Emeritus Trustee. He is only the third trustee to receive this – following in the footsteps of Peter Wood and Michael Batchelor.

BOPET chairman Roger Loveridge says Brian retired as a trustee after many years dedicated to assisting with financial investment in particular. Brian is a director with Guideline Investors and Asset Management and his financial prowess played an important part in the success of the Trust, which was established in 1985 starting with $10. Its assets will surpass the $7 million mark this year, says Roger.

'His contribution has been huge. He was the main driving force behind the Trust's investments,” he says.

At the annual meeting Brian was also praised for giving sound advice, for his ability to keep things moving, and for his reasoned opinion, amongst other attributes.

Brian says serving on the trust has been a pleasure.

'It has been very rewarding to be part of an organisation with education objectives – a Trust which, through prudent stewardship, has achieved a funding base that will ensure its long-term future.”

He says it is gratifying to know that future trustees and prospective beneficiaries can confidently anticipate the provision of inflation-protected distributions. These will also be capable of reflecting the region's growth.

The BOPET annually awards scholarships to exemplary students about to embark on tertiary education in the fields of science, technology, or emerging industries.

A total of 290 Western and Eastern BOP scholars have gained scholarships over the last 17 years and the total amount granted to date is $1,372,000.

The Trust also runs a Future Leaders programme and supports Instep programmes throughout the Bay of Plenty.