From Sound Desk to Mentor - George Ebbett

For George Ebbett, giving back to Lindisfarne College has remained a constant alongside a busy and varied career in live production and professional audio. While studying for a Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Auckland, George also worked full-time in the live events industry. Despite the demands of an industry known for long hours and high pressure, George has also remained closely connected to the College.  Each year he returns to support major events such as the school ball and musical productions. In doing so, he not only helps deliver memorable experiences, but also mentors current students and creates pathways for those interested in technical fields, ensuring the next generation benefits from the same hands-on learning and encouragement that helped launch his own career.

George’s involvement in the technical area began in Year 11.  “I started running audio for chapels and assemblies. That was a natural pathway into helping run the school production, and once I had the bug, I started picking up events outside the College through Simon Browne, an Old Boy who continued to support Lindisfarne with the production and the annual school ball.”

“Getting involved with the larger events at the College gave me my first real insight into the world of live production” says George. “I met the contracted suppliers who came in for College events, and those connections opened the door to picking up work in the school holidays and on evenings when I had time.”

After leaving Lindisfarne, George completed a Bachelor of Science degree, in psychology and statistics at Auckland University while working full-time as an audio and lighting technician. Balancing study and the demands of live events, he spread his degree over four years to cope with the hectic schedule required to remain actively involved in the industry. After graduating, he returned to Hawke’s Bay to join Sight & Sound Services, where he progressed to Technical Manager, delivering audio, lighting and AV solutions across a wide range of events. His work has taken him throughout New Zealand and internationally, including regular trips to the United States to mix front-of-house sound for a large-scale church.

More recently, George has stepped away from the intensity of live production to take up a role with Direct Imports as a pro audio specialist, bringing his technical expertise to a Hawke’s Bay company with a long-standing history in professional and consumer audio.

Throughout his career, George has remained committed to supporting Lindisfarne, with a particular focus on creating opportunities for current students. As he explains, ”Helping the current tech students pull off something that genuinely surprises people has been a real highlight, and a great chance to mentor and train them in elements of audio and lighting they wouldn't otherwise get exposed to in day-to-day life at the College. Over my years with Sight & Sound Services, I was also able to take on some Gateway students and trainees who were keen on the field. It got them out of the school environment and let them experience what life is actually like as a full-time audio and lighting technician.”

Reflecting on his own time at the College, George values the resilience and determination it instilled, qualities he hopes current students will embrace. “It's a super busy time of life,” says George, “but the people you meet, the skills you pick up and the doors you open in those few years will shape what comes next in ways you can't predict. Say yes to things that stretch you, even when they're outside your comfort zone, that's often where you'll find out what you actually love, and what you're capable of. And don't underestimate the value of sticking at something hard. Resilience and a willingness to put your hand up and get involved will take you further than raw talent ever will.”

George’s story reflects the lasting impact of Lindisfarne, not only in the skills gained but in the commitment to give back. Through his ongoing involvement and mentorship, he continues to create opportunities for others, inspiring the next generation to make the most of their time at the College.