Goodbye Grandad

R.I.P. 17 December 2024

It’s a very sad time in our house because after a short illness, Grandad died in hospital. He was 87.

Losing someone close to you is awful, and I was very close to Grandad. All through my life he’s been there with love and encouragement, telling jokes along the way. One of the things I loved the most was how funny he was.

Even from when I was little, I think I knew him pretty well, like when Dad tested me with these 5 questions about Grandad. I called him the Tickle Monster because every time he saw me he’d grab me and tickle, until I was squirming laughing on the floor and Grandma would be telling him off.

Every time we visited him and Grandma we’d buzz the doorbell, then run into his house and jump in his chair. But we knew he was so pleased to see us; he always gave such wonderful, big hugs.

We got to share some great holidays with him too, like when we visited Melbourne, Taupo (twice!) and the Bay of Islands. I can remember when we stayed in an apartment in Melbourne, running down the corridor with William to bang on his door first thing in the mornings, excited to get out and spend the day together. Then we’d have to wait while he found himself a good cup of coffee!

It’s a shame he didn’t make it until Christmas, but I have such happy memories of our time together. I’ll miss you Grandad - life won’t be the same without you.

Dr Ollie the Vet

Presenting a Day in the Life (x8)

Our focus this term at school was on careers. Ever since I was little I wanted to be a paleontologist - digging up dinosaur bones and discovering a new species that I could name the Olliesaurus.

But something else I've always loved are animals and now I'm starting to wonder whether being a vet might be a better career for me. It would mean I get to spend all day with some furry friends, plus I wouldn't have to go to the other side of the world for dino digs half the year.

So when our teacher gave us the project to create and deliver a presentation on a career, I decided I'd choose being a vet.

With a little help from Dad and Mum, I came up with a great presentation which I delivered in front of the class. In fact, so good was it that the teacher said it was the best presentation he'd seen and I ended up having to present it 8 times! Once to the class, once to the deputy principal, once to the principal, four times to parents at a class careers expo day, and once to Dad, which you can watch below. It even got me a special, super rare badge, which you might be able to see on my sleeve.

So, Dr Ollie proudly presents: A day in the life of a vet.