“In 1988, as MP for Ohariu, I was invited by Kitty McKinley to a small meeting over a kitchen table to talk about ‘youth problems’ in Johnsonville and what could be done about them. From that meeting, an action plan for the local community was developed and the project was named Challenge 89. No-one could have imagined then how far this new rolling stone being lobbed into the area would go, and what pace and substance it would gather. 1989 quickly came and went and Challenge’s new momentum was such that it soon had to be renamed. So, the more ambitious title of Challenge 2000 was coined, and now we celebrate its 30th birthday and look forward to many more to come! Over the years it has been my privilege and joy to have been involved with Challenge in so many places and ways, from the kitchen table, to Burgess Road (which I remember opening by brandishing a chainsaw), to Dr Taylor Terrace, and now the magnificent Wanaka Street site. While Challenge has grown significantly over the years to now be a substantial social service provider, it has never lost the essential spirit of its creation – a passionate commitment to the dignity of each individual and the respect they are due,  whatever their circumstances, no matter the difficulties they face. While others have  merely talked, Challenge has always acted, and today there are many young (and now not so young) people who are testament to the positive influence Challenge has had on their lives and families. As it embarks upon the next 30 years, Challenge’s mission is as vital as ever. So, while this birthday is a great time to celebrate the mighty achievements to date and all the awesome people who have contributed to those, it is also an occasion to refocus and look to the future and the important role Challenge still has to play. My involvement with Challenge over the years has certainly enriched my life, and I now look forward to continuing to work alongside the organisation as it embarks upon the next stage of its journey. I extend my thanks, congratulations and best wishes to Kitty and the entire Challenge whanau for the achievements of the last 30 years.”