June and Des Baker - working together for a better community

Ruapehu Bulletin, 19 September 1995, Page 2 (Supplement)

June and Des Baker - working together for a better community

June was born in Taumarunui and while at Canterbury University she met and married Iles Baker. They moved to the King Country and farmed at Oio in the 1960s. Iles, a county councillor and Federated Farmers advocate, set an example for younger farmers. He instituted flock competitions and ploughing matches while his wife coached the YFC debating team. District halls were the venue then for all manner of lighthearted fun. In some areas like Retaruke, they still have weekly "cards" at the hall. Otunui still have an end of year concert to remember. The present farming climate certainly tends to lend itself to the kind of rural hospitality that Iles and June were are and famous for. Iles and June have always worked on community projects. In the 1980s they worked at establishing Avonlea under its present structure. — Iles was a foundation trustee and June the community donations co-ordinator. Fundraising for the St John's

Ambulance was another project that they contributed time and effort to. June was a volunteer ambulance driver and worked on the sideline of Saturday morning sports, particularly rugby. Iles' work as RSA Welfare Officer was rewarded with a highliy prized RSA Gold Star Award in 1992. At this time June completed a postgraduate diploma specialising in learning support. She also holds a Diploma in Distance Learning. She still uses those skills working with learners at primary, secondary and tertiary level. June has had a long and enjoyable association with Ruapehu district students doing tertiary study at home through her work as Massey University's Area Communicator. The Baker family June and Iles have three children, who are all working overseas. Eldest son Iles decided on a farming career and did his shepherding experience in Hawkes Bay. He returned to the district to

work on the Tongariro Power Development scheme at Tokaanu, and decided to give up farming. He was soon working offshore in seismic surveying in places like Singapore and Malaysia, where he continues to operate today. Daughter Linda trained and became a registered nurse then travelled and worked in Europe. In the 1970s she met and married and Englishman and they settled in Brisbane. At 32, Linda recently graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing through an Australian University. June's grandchildren commute to New Zealand regularly. They regard Taumarunui, Ohura, Ohakune and Raetihi as the world's best outdoor playgrounds. Doctor Derek Baker is the youngest of the family. He graduated with honours from Massey and came to farm at Hikumutu. As a Jaycee, Federated Farmer and rugby player Derek participated in district events. His work as an agricultural consultant in Taumarunui ended when he was offered research work in Pennsylvania. As a Fulbright Scholar, he completed a doctorate in 1989.