Tributes flood in for 'Mr Rock Challenge'
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ONE man’s dedication to help youngsters realise their big stage dreams has been praised, as he prepares to step down from his voluntary role.
Every year more than 110 Alness young people take part in the Rock Challenge – a special initiative which grew out of efforts to dissuade youngsters from taking alcohol and other substances by introducing to the natural high of performing in front of large audiences.
The scheme, which began in Australia before coming over the Britain several years ago, has grown into a massive undertaking – with children from schools across the land performing at local and national level.
And Alness Academy has been one of the stars of the movement, regularly tasting success at local and national levels. That success has been down, in no small part, to the academy’s English teacher Gordon Robertson – who has been dubbed Mr Rob by his fans. Since becoming involved eight years ago he has dedicated countless hours to help out.
In the build-up to the competitions he volunteers as much as 30 hours a week on top of his full-time job, to help with rehearsals, set building, choreography and performances.
"Having Gordon at the helm has been an amazing eight-year journey," said Alness youth worker Janette Douglas. "The standard of dance in the town is unbelievable with many youngsters gaining dance qualifications and leadership awards.
"Rock Challenge is an amazing project for bringing young people together irrespective of their background or age and encourages them to work as part of a team.
"The confidence and self esteem that this has proven to improve in all those taking part cannot be underestimated. HMI inspectors when visiting Alness Academy held Rock Challenge up as a very positive asset to the community.
"All those youngsters that have been involved in previous years come back to watch, help and attend new performances such is the commitment felt by all involved to their Rock Challenge family. Mr Rob is surrounded by a trusty group of volunteers that have also caught the Rock Challenge bug.
"Mr Rob is the glue that has held this whole project."
Mr Robertson, whose volunteering also includes chairing The Place Youth Club, driving the minibus for all of its events, and being a board member at Fyrish Gymnastics, will finally step down from his role at Rock Challenge after the Scottish finals in Dundee tomorrow.
"It will be a huge loss to the school and all the young people however after giving up his life for the last eight years we really can’t grudge him a rest," added Ms Douglas. "The reins will be picked up by teachers and the rest of the Rock Challenge team."
In tribute to his efforts, the youngsters are compiling a film and book of their memories over the years.
Beth Brown, head teacher at Alness Academy, said a quarter of the school roll were involved in the challenge, adding: "The contribution to school ethos and sense of community this brings should not be underestimated, none of which would happen without the hard work and dedication of Mr Robertson and the youth team."
Tributes have also flooded in from other volunteers, as well as schools which sought his advice and support in the wake of the academy’s successes.
"Gordon’s energy and enthusiasm for Rock Challenge has inspired not only the young people of Alness but the young people in the Highlands," said Kathy McAlonan at Thurso High School. "The friendship and encouragement given by Gordon to other Highland schools has led to a positive and inspirational atmosphere across all Rock Challenge schools."
