Bert Kemp is a long-standing and much-respected member of the Central Otago community. In this conversation, Bert shares memories that span decades of local life and service, offering listeners a window into Alexandra and its surrounds.
In Part 1, Bert recounts how he and his wife Annette renovated a derelict stone building at Fruitlands to establish the Speargrass Cafe & Gallery and successfully ran the business for 12 years. Talking with café customers inspired Bert to get involved with the Central Promotions Committee and he became a driving force in the development of the Central Stories Museum.
Part 2 focuses on Bert’s involvement in different sporting organisations, beginning with rowing in the 1950s, a sport he returned to in later life. He recounts his experiences with indoor basketball, rugby, small-bore rifle shooting, cycling, skating, and curling—highlighting the camaraderie of the participants and the importance of such organisations in bringing communities together.
Bert’s philosophy is that you should give back. He not only played, but was active in contributing to the leadership and administration of many clubs and local development initiatives, including the Youth Hostel Association, Scouts, and the Vincent Community Board.
Interviewer: Russell Garbutt
Interview Dates: December 2022 and February 2023
Bert Kemp, 2023
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