“We bring to life the pioneering spirit of the Western Bay. We remember the storms and hardships of the voyages that brought the settlers here. We champion, commemorate and celebrate those who worked together – local Māori, Ulster Irish and all other settlers  – to build this region and we strive to keep their memory alive. We evoke their determination and struggles in our work. We consider ourselves the guardians and custodians of the Western Bay’s stories and treasures.  Our forbearers made the area what it is today. Without them and their legacy, there would be no us.”