Tony Waugh

Citation Speech for Tony Waugh

A passionate advocate for mental health, Tony Waugh has made it his business to engage with rural communities and support mental health and wellbeing.

Tony has resided in Kimbolton most his life, raising his 6 children alongside his wife Joyce. He took over the family farm from his father, who wrote a book about the history of Kimbolton in 1986 – inspiring Tony to carry on this dedication to the village and community.

From a young age, Tony has been involved in Kimbolton Young Farmers group and the Apiti Young Farmers club. He was an inaugural member of Oroua Lions club for its 25 years, working on the glow work track in Sixtus Lodge and the lookout at Apiti turnoff. He was the Chairman of the 1989 Kimbolton Centennial Celebrations, the 2014 Kimbolton Jubilee celebrations and the Kimbolton School Board of Trustees in the 1980s - an active member for his kids, getting to know the students, parents and wider community.

Tony has been a dedicated member of the Kimbolton Community Committee for over a decade, previously serving as Chairman. He has organised village craft markets, managed the Kimbolton hall, and played a key role in upgrading Kimbolton’s streets in 2016-17. He is passionate about mental health awareness, and is an active member of the local Anglican Parish of Oroua club, where he frequently organises dinners and invites speakers for the local men’s groups

But perhaps his most widely recognised venture, Tony has been Chairman for Kimbolton Arts and Sculpture Festival and Trust since its inception in 2018. Tony spoke about the isolation that can come with life on the farm and the toll it can take on mental health.

His aspiration for the festival is to encourage farmers to forget about their woes, get out of the workshop, try something different and create a sculpture from farm recycled materials. Inspiring new hobbies and giving something a go, the festival sees all skill levels and encourages participation while bringing national attention to the otherwise quiet village. The first festival was held at Kimbolton domain in 2018, with 110 exhibits and 13 categories, encouraging visitor from across the country, including Timaru, Auckland, Canterbury and Wellington. In 2025, the festival brought 4,000 visitors and more than 120 campervans to the village.

Tony is credited as a generous, down-to-earth spirit, encouraging participation by all artists to give it a go. One of Tony’s favourite sculptures he has created is ‘Lean On a Gate, Talk To a Mate’ sculpture, featured in tonight’s presentation.

Tony has made it no secret that his family mean the world to him, as he spoke about his six children and nine grandchildren who keep him motivated and proud. His wife Joyce is always supporting from the sidelines and can be found crocheting while he is welding away in his workshop. Tony is a familiar face at ‘Thirsty Thursdays’ down at the Men’s Club, or at the local cafe in Kimbolton.

Shifting from workshop tools to pencil, he has spent the past couple years writing a book about Kimbolton up to Kawhātau river, and the pre-European settlement until the 1920s. Researching archives from the 1800s and oral histories, it has kept him very busy in a new way.

Tony is a passionate community member, selflessly volunteering his time to support others and foster a sense of belonging. Testimonials note that Tony’s volunteering often goes without fanfare - but not tonight! We are grateful for your efforts and honoured to acknowledge you this evening. Congratulations.