It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Graham Arthur Herbert Dodd (Sargood 1959-1961), St Paul’s Foundation student No. 19, who passed away peacefully on October 4th, 2024. 

Graham was a treasured member of the St Paul’s community and will be fondly remembered for his adventurous spirit and lifelong connection to the school.

As a student in 1959, Graham had a love for the outdoors, often exploring the school farm with his mates. He recalled in a letter how, during one of these explorations, they stumbled upon two wild hives in a towering barberry hedge. “We thought we would cut it out of the hedge, and we did,” he wrote. This led to their first taste of fresh comb honey, sparking a passion for beekeeping. A classmate’s talk on the subject ignited his interest further, and after some inquiries, Graham was granted permission to care for a dozen hives on a neighboring property. With the guidance of Mr. Bennett, the Apiary Inspector, Graham built up the hive numbers and took them home when he left St Paul’s in 1961.

Graham’s anecdotes from his school days reflected his deep affection for St Paul’s, from building engines in the mechanics club to humorous escapades involving homemade brew. These memories were shared at school reunions, where Graham was a valued participant, connecting generations of students with tales from the early days of St Paul’s.

A devoted husband to Doreen for 52 years, Graham was the dearly loved father and father-in-law of Raymond & Stacey, David, Barbara & Glen, Catherine & Justin, Sarah & AJ, and a much-adored grandad to his 14 grandchildren.

The St Paul’s community extends its heartfelt condolences to the Dodd family. Graham’s memory will live on, not only in the hearts of his family and friends but also in the history of St Paul’s.

All communications to the Dodd family can be sent to 10 Short Street, Matamata.