Long Bay College Celebrates its 50th Anniversary
This February marks a significant milestone for Long Bay College as it celebrates 50 years since its founding. Established on February 1, 1975, by its first principal, Ian Sage, the school has grown from a small, progressive institution to a leading educational facility that has left a lasting impact on generations of students and teachers alike.
The Early Years
When Long Bay College first opened its doors, it welcomed 11 third-form classes. Each subsequent year, a new cohort was added until the school accommodated students from third to seventh form (now Years 9 to 13). The foundation years were characterised by a strong sense of community, modern teaching approaches, and a unique culture that embraced innovation and friendship.
The early years at Long Bay College were characterised by a sense of adventure and camaraderie. Foundation student Geoff Lowe, now Director at Infotools and Chair of the Research Association of New Zealand, recalls, “A measure of how good the surf was down at Long Bay was how many kids were in class—things were a little bit more relaxed back then.” The atmosphere was informal, with many students calling their teachers by their first names, reflecting the progressive nature of the school at the time.
Mark Orams, who started at LBC in 1976 and later became Head Boy in 1980, remembers the school’s formative years well. Now Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research at Auckland University of Technology, he says, “We were the second year, the ‘bridesmaids’ to the foundation students.” The facilities were modest—mostly prefabs and tennis courts—but the friendships he made were lifelong. Mark remains close to many of his schoolmates, some of whom still live in Torbay. He also fondly remembers teachers like John Williams, who was passionate about both teaching and surfing, often seen riding the waves with students.
Beyond friendships among students, strong bonds also developed with parents and families, who played a vital role in building the school’s community. Michael Scott, the inaugural Chair of the Board of Trustees, was one such figure. “Michael was a wonderful man, and his son Graham is still a close friend.” Teachers, too, had personal connections with students and families. Mark remembers Wes Edwards fondly, a teacher at LBC from 1979. “I knew Wes very well and his wife Shelly, and stayed with them after finishing school when I was in the NZ Olympic Sailing team training for the Los Angeles Olympics.
The Long Bay College logo, designed by student Nick Tansley in 1977, is a reflection of the school’s coastal identity. Originally, the design brief called for a Pohutukawa flower, but Nick questioned the choice, noting the absence of Pohutukawa trees around the college. Instead, he took inspiration from the natural landscape. Standing on the southern cliffs of Long Bay and looking north towards Okura, he observed the curve of the bays and captured this in his design. The final logo represents both a surfboard and the school’s close connection to the sea.
Nick, the eldest of three siblings (Nick, Lisa, and Martin), meticulously hand-painted around 20 different variations, experimenting with shading and detail. The best designs were displayed in a school-wide competition where students voted for their favorite—though the final ballot results were kept secret. His design ultimately won, earning him a $20 prize, with an unexpected bonus of another $20 at the end of the year. More than four decades later, his creation has stood the test of time, remaining a proud symbol of Long Bay College.
Leadership and Influence
Long Bay College’s foundation principal, Ian Sage, led the school until 1991. His legacy is fondly remembered by both staff and students. Wes Edwards, a teacher from 1979 to 1986, describes Ian Sage as an inspiring leader. “Ian had this incredible way of combining academics with the arts, culture, and physical education. He wanted us all to be the best teachers we could be,” he explains. “His staff meetings were long, but they were always positive and motivating. His door was always open, and he treated everyone with kindness.”
Over the years, Long Bay College has been guided by a succession of dedicated principals:
- Ian Sage (1975-1991)
- Derek R. Stubbs (1992-2000)
- Stephanie J. Norre (2000-2008)
- Russell J. Brooke (2008-2017)
- CJ Healey (2017-Present)
Dedicated Teachers Who Shaped the School
Long Bay College has been shaped by many dedicated teachers over the years, including Ron Driver (Science), Mr. Grey (PE), Mr. DeLatour (English), Rosalie Zigliani (Music), Paul Bryce (Music), Mr. Lambert (French), Wes Edwards (Special Ed), Loena McCormack (Special Ed), Iona Hirst (Special Ed), Ralph Milne (Science), Tui Woods (PE), John Williams, and Ivan Davies (Geography). These educators were part of the school’s foundation and contributed to its unique learning environment.
Wes Edwards reflects on his time at Long Bay College with deep appreciation. “The staff was incredible, and even after teaching for 41 years, my eight years at Long Bay College were some of the best of my career. My time at Long Bay College was truly special, and I miss it dearly. Those were some of the best years of my life.”
A School with a Unique Spirit
By the early 1980s, Long Bay College had established itself as a progressive and dynamic institution. Adam Dudding, who attended in 1982 and is now a podcaster, journalist, and author, recalls the school as being “a lefty progressive, maybe even slightly groovy” place, where creative thinking and individuality were encouraged.
Throughout its 50-year history, Long Bay College has remained committed to fostering excellence in academics, arts, sports, and community engagement. It has provided a platform for students to forge lifelong friendships, develop their talents, and become leaders in various fields.
As the school celebrates this golden anniversary, it reflects on its rich past while looking forward to a future filled with innovation and success. Here’s to the next 50 years of shaping young minds and making lasting memories at Long Bay College!
To celebrate this milestone, Long Bay College will host a series of special events over Labour Weekend in October 2025. Alumni who wish to attend any of these events must sign up to the new LBC Alumni website at www.longbaycollege.com/alumni to receive an invitation.
Friday, 24th October 2025
🌟 Open Day – Take a walk down memory lane with guided tours around the school, exploring how it’s changed (or stayed the same!) since your time here.
🌟 VIP Afternoon – A special event to mingle with alumni and honoured guests, sharing stories and reconnecting.
🌟 Time Capsule Burial – Be part of history as we commemorate this milestone with a time capsule ceremony.
🌟 Performing Arts Concert – Enjoy a spectacular production featuring talented alumni and current students, held in the school auditorium. Choose between a matinee or evening performance to suit your schedule.
Saturday, 25th October 2025
🌟 Tours and Room Viewings – More opportunities to revisit selected areas of the school and relive cherished memories.
🌟 Gala Dinner – The main event! Reconnect with classmates, share laughs, and dance the night away at this celebratory dinner held at the school. A live band will provide entertainment, and a photographer will be available to capture class photos.
Tickets for the Gala Dinner will go on sale in 2025—stay tuned to secure yours early!
Sunday, 26th October 2025
🌟 Alumni Brunch – A relaxed way to wrap up the weekend. Join fellow alumni at a local venue (to be confirmed). It’s the perfect chance to say goodbye and make plans to stay connected.
Long Bay College’s 50th Anniversary will be a time of reflection, reconnection, and celebration, bringing together past and present students, teachers, and staff to honour the school’s rich history and bright future.
