A very generous donation from the Bill Torrance Charitable Trust has launched the Southland Impact Fund. This impact fund aims to make a significant difference by supporting and empowering communities in the Southland region, and in honouring his wishes, the trustees reflect Bill Torrance's enduring commitment to sporting, health, education and social causes; continuing his legacy to benefit the community he was so passionate about.
Born on the 6th January 1906 William Clark Torrance began his working life at A&T Burt Limited, a firm of plumbing & electrical engineers, metal founders and manufacturers, established in Dunedin in 1862.
Bill took the opportunity to come South with this company and eventually became the manager of the Invercargill branch, located on Tay Street. Bill spent over 40 years with A&T Burt and became a well know figured as he liked to keep active and preferred to walk to work every day. He cut a familiar figure striding out from his residence on the corner of Exmouth and Layard Streets.
Along with his wife Sally, Bill was incredibly kind and generous, both with his time and service to his community. He was an active member of Rotary, Probus and the Masonic Lodge as well as a loyal Star Rugby supporter and keen golfer.
William Clark Torrance 1933
A great sporting passion of Bill's was athletics, particularly the Invercargill Harriers Club. He was heavily involved as both a runner and club member. As legend goes there were some greatly contested races with some formidable names including Hec Meredith, George Rodger and Southland running identity Derek Turnbull.
Widowed for a number of years and having no children of his own, upon Bills passing in 2004 aged 98 as instructed, a legacy was formed by way of the Bill Torrance Charitable Trust. The purpose of this trust is to benefit charitable sporting, welfare and educational bodies and organisations. Trustees felt this aligning well with the values and goals of the Southland Impact Fund and we are incredibly grateful that they have honoured Bill and the Southland community making this significant donation enabling this fund to grow.
To live a life of integrity and service to others is a remarkable achievement, but to leave a legacy that ripples through the community, growing and making an impact long after you're gone, is truly an enduring and gracious gift. Bill’s thoughtful and generous contributions are a testament to the power of living with purpose and leaving a lasting imprint on the world.
