Jo’s impact on the Bulls community has been nothing short of extraordinary. She founded the Bulls and District Community Trust in 2003. Yet when asked about her contributions over the years, she is always quick to shift the focus onto others and the role they have played instead. Reluctant to accept praise, Jo’s humility and selfless nature perfectly reflect the volunteer spirit she has become so well known for.

Born in Taranaki, Jo arrived in Bulls as a young girl in 1944, spending her school years on a local farm managed by her father. Her life later took her on overseas adventures before returning to teaching roles at a number of local schools, including Bulls and Foxton, with her final permanent position at Manchester Street School in Feilding.

For the past 25 years, Jo and her husband Rauf have called Bulls home once again, and it wasn’t long before Jo recognised the need to help revitalise the town she loved. Determined to create opportunities and strengthen community connections, she established the Bulls & District Community Trust in 2003.

The Trust was created to bring together the many voices within Bulls — local businesses, farmers, iwi, charitable organisations, council and community groups — all working collaboratively towards a common goal. While it initially focused on public health initiatives, the Trust quickly expanded into broader community development projects and events.

Jo strongly believed that bringing more perspectives to the table could only strengthen outcomes for the wider community. She welcomed differing opinions, encouraged collaboration, and had a unique ability to unite people behind a shared vision — often helped along with a cup of tea and one of her famous date scones at meetings hosted in her home. As Jo would often say, the Trust simply wanted to ensure Bulls received its fair share — nothing more, nothing less.

Under Jo’s leadership, the Trust collectively raised more than $1 million, funding initiatives and events including youth forums, Matariki celebrations, Wear-a-Bull Arts, concerts, Christmas parades, the river walk, Bulls in Bulls, Bulls After 5 networking events, Pink Ribbon fundraisers, men’s health awareness campaigns and many more projects that continue to benefit the community today.

On Monday 4 May, Jo was presented with her Mayor’s Award at Te Matapihi in Bulls, surrounded by family, friends and colleagues who came to celebrate her achievements. True to form, when asked how she felt about receiving the award, Jo described it as humbling and quickly credited the many good people she worked alongside over the years.

But Jo should never underestimate the impact she has had. Through her vision, determination, leadership and unwavering belief in her community, she has helped shape Bulls into the thriving and connected town it is today. Her legacy continues to leave a lasting impact that will be felt for generations to come.

Bulls is undoubtedly a better place because of Jo. Her contribution has been exceptional, and the community is incredibly proud and grateful for everything she has done.

Congratulations, Jo.