Committee

Alliance Francaise Committee Members 2010

Ian Goodall – President

I grew up and went to school in Te Awamutu and from School went directly into the workforce working in both Te Awamutu and then Hamilton. I moved to Auckland in 1972 and in the lates 70’s established my own  construction and commercial property businesses. For some reason I have always held an affinity with France and following the sale of our construction business in 1998 my wife Barbara and I have travelled extensively, particularly in France which we both just love. I am a Past President of the Remuera Lions Club, whilst in that role and in conjonction with the Ministry of Transport I chaired a National Road Safety Education programme that visited every school in NZ, I am past President of the Auckland Branch of the Laura Fergusson Trust and also of the National Trust, I am a current Board member of Diocesan School for Girls where I chair the Campus Development Committee and I am an elected member of the Newmarket Business Association. I became a member of the Alliance Française d’Auckland 5 years ago and was elected to the committee in 2009. My wife Barbara and I have two adults daughters, one in Auckland and the other in the UK, we holiday frequently in Taupo and our interests include golf, cycling, walking , boating and waterskiing.

John Martins – Vice President/ Treasurer

I have an Engineering Degree from the Imperial College, London University, and a Masters Degree from London Business School. I worked in London with Ford Motor Company and General Motors Corporation before relocating to Auckland in 1974. I spent over 30 years with Sheffield Consulting Group (now Sheffield Limited) and played a key role in building the company from a small business to a world class human resources services firm employing 90 people in the three main centres. I have broad experience in human resources and change management and a passion for French language and culture. I have served on the Committee of the Alliance Française d’Auckland since 2008 including a year as a President.

Dr. Lilian Mary McKendrick -Vice President

I am a retired practitioner. During my career I had particular interest in continuing Medical Education. I was President of Otago branch of New Zealand Medical Association, and Otago representative on General Practice College National Committee. I developed love of French language at school, many years ago. After retirement, I returned to University in Dunedin completed a B.A (majoring in French), and a graduate Diploma. Subsequently moved to Auckland and added an M.A. in French literature. At the same time I taught English at a school of languagesfor three years. Now, as volunteer, I teach English as a second languages to new immigrants. I became a member of the Alliance Française d’Auckland in 2005. I joined the Committee in 2007. Thereafter, in sequence I have been, Treasurer and Vice-President. My interests are, musics, books (historical or with historical background) and languages. I am currently studying Chinese and trying to improve my French conversational skills.

Farrell Cleary – Secretary

I was born in Kaikoura in 1948, I studied French at the University of Auckland and english at the University of Provence. I taught English in Spain, Italy, Japan and New Zealand. I have also been working at Mangere Mountain Education Centre. My interests are languages (including Catalan and Maori), theatre and music. I have been a member of the Alliance Française d’Auckland since 2008 and joined the Committee in 2009.

Peter Speakman – Committee Member

I am a 46 years old and have been taking lessons at the Alliance now for about 7 years. I would love to say I am fluent but unfortunately I am nowhere near it as my wife and 3 young children occupy most of my free time! On the work front I am a lawyer specialising in tax and company law and have been practising in Auckland for 23 years. My interests, other than French and spending time with my family, include cricket, golf, skiing, reading and generally keeping fit. I beleive I have a lot to offer the Alliance and look forward to the opportunity to do so.

Dr Rosemary Arnoux – Committee Member

I was a senior Lecturer and Head of Department in the French Department, University of Auckland, with the specialist area of French theatre. Member of the Alliance Française d’Auckland since 2005, I was President of the Alliance in 2007 and 2009. After a lifetime of teaching, and 10 years living in France, I am eager to promote ways facilitating the understanding of the language and of making learning enjoyable.

David Elliott – Committee Member

I have an applied science degree from Massey University. I have worked mostly in scientific institutions, latterly with Biosecurity New Zealand in the area of plant diseases. From a peripatetic life as a child, I developed a love of travel, France becoming perhaps my favourite destination. Combining an interest in the country with that of the language, in 2006 I started taking French lessons  at the Alliance Française d’Auckland. In 2007, I took a five-week course at the Alliance Française de Rouen. I have been on the Alliance committee since 2009, during which time have also edited the newsletter. My interest include French (especially 1960’s) cinema, travel and trying to master the French language.

Michele Buckland – Committee Member

I have been a member of the Alliance Française for many years and currently contribute time to the library and any administrative tasks needed. I have lived in Auckland for 40 years. I am both French and New Zealand citizen. Family and a love of French culture, history and geography regularly took me back to beautiful France, where I travelled widely. It is a pleasure to serve our great association.

Marceline Jordan – Committee Member

I am a French National, who has lived in Auckland since 1994. I grew up in Paris and went to University there, gaining a science degree. I spent 5 years in London before moving to New Zealand, where I worked in the pharmaceutical industry in Sales and Marketing roles, having completed a post-graduate diploma in marketing management. For the past 8 years, I have run my own business developing, manufacturing and exporting dietary supplements. I am a keen lover of French literature, film and art. I enjoy celebrating my culture and “all things French” with the Auckland Community. My leisure activities include reading, travel, boating and golf.