It was a trip down memory lane for members of the Vincent Community Board yesterday, taking its monthly meeting to the old county council building in Clyde.

The building was currently used as the Clyde Historic Museum and board members and Central Otago District Council staff were surrounded by old photos including of the first chairman of the county, Vincent Pyke back in the 1870s.

The museum was one of many of the halls and community buildings owned by council currently up for review to either be divested or sold, and the small group that ran it made it clear to the board yesterday they wanted to take it over.

The group has already spent more than $100,000 in the past four years refurbishing the building, and were keen to continue showcasing the local history.

Former board member Russell Garbutt spoke in the public forum about some of the huge decisions the county made back in the day, and urged board members to use their power to secure community assets while they still could. 

Russell was referring to the imminent changes facing decision making processes for community boards from July this year.

“While you do have some influence, I suggest to you all to have a close look at how much was achieved in 1877 with so few people around the table, and compare to the situation in 2025.”

Former Mayor of Central Otago Vincent Pyke. PHOTO: NATIONAL LIBRARY OF NZ

Board member Martin McPherson said it was interesting to note the Vincent board name was used “to honour the man who made Clyde the capital of Central Otago for many years,” he said.

Final decisions on council’s Long Term Plan document 2025-26 which determined the fate of halls and community buildings, would be made in June when the rates were also set for the year.

Martin said he was looking forward to the debate and expected it would be “quite intense.”

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