Taranaki Legends Receive Prestigious Trevor Grice Award

Taranaki champions Christine and Steak Goodin have been recognised for their lifetime contribution to the wellbeing of young people, receiving Life Education Trust’s Trevor Grice Award. This award, named after the late Trevor Grice, founder of Life Education Trust, celebrates individuals or groups who embody his unwavering spirit and lifelong commitment to uplifting tamariki and rangatahi.

Christine and Steak’s connection with Life Education spans 28 years. Steak was a founding trustee of the Taranaki trust and led a $300,000 fundraising effort to launch the region’s first mobile classroom in 1997. He later served as chair for 12 years.

Their passion and drive are contagious together, the Goodins are tireless champions for Life Ed fuelled by passion, generosity, and a deep connection in their community. From hosting garden tours and sewing Harold mascot costumes, to rallying support from every corner of their networks, they are known for “doing A LOT” and doing it with heart.

Their efforts have helped expand the Trust’s reach in the region including securing a second mobile classroom. They’ve also served on the Life Education National Board. Their legacy is now a family affair, with two sons and a daughter-in-law continuing the mission.

The award is not your everyday cup. Trevor’s wife Judith and the family have gifted Trevor’s “tokotoko” – walking stick for the award as a symbol of the strength and support the Goodins have brought to the Trust over nearly three decades.

“Christine and Steak are the heartbeat of our community—always giving, always uplifting, always there,” says Mark Weatherall, Chief Executive of Life Education Trust. “Their generosity and passion have not only shaped the Taranaki region but have inspired others across Aotearoa. They are the kind of people Trevor would have envisaged to carry his legacy forward.”