Brian Massey
Brian, as Art Director for "The Hobbit"and "The Lord of the Rings" and Project Manager and Arborist for Hobbiton Movie Set was the perfect choice as guest speaker with Hobbiton being the venue for this year's Changeover. It then was appropriate to have Dave Johnson introduce Brian, as he was a hobbit in the first movie. Let's say it was a short part!
Brian has been involved with the Hobbiton Movie Set since its inception, he has designed, built, and landscaped. Helped build trees, move trees, care for trees. He also had a large role as Project Manager in getting the "Gatehouse" - I-Site building transformed back in 2012. It has become one of the most photographed buildings in NZ.
Back in 2004 he worked on the construction of the garden display in the British Chelsea Garden Show (now on permanent display in Taupo) NZ's first ever entry... winning Gold. Later in 2017, winning Best in Show, Horticultural Excellence, and People's Choice Award with the "Beekeeper's Hobbit Hole" at the NZ Flower and Garden Show, this was created at Hobbiton and then dismantled and reassembled in Auckland.... no small feat.
Late 2023 the two Hobbit holes were opened to the public, the latest and greatest addition to the set (after the Green Dragon of course) Brian worked tirelessly on this project.
It was easy to see his passion and creative drive in all he has achieved, we wish him well and look forward to his next project, whatever that may be.
Rotary's answer to Gandalf and Merry (aka Leonie and Colin)
Lovely to see Fred (R) with?? Oh hey Krishna!!
Looks pretty good considering the DF dietary constraints.
