ATS Newsbrief February 2015
Where would we be without our emergency services?
Neal Shaw, Group CEO
Living rurally, it can reasonably be argued we rely even more heavily than our urban counterparts on these services operating well, given our distance from the main centres.
Our fire brigades, St John and search and rescue services rely heavily on volunteer support. Our neighbours, co-workers, family and friends often make up the ranks of those who turn up to all sorts of emergency situations to support us in our time of need. It’s that community minded spirit that sees these organisations continue to exist, and we would be lost without them. It’s easy to think it won’t happen to me, but the reality is none of us knows what’s around the corner and there are many situations which have the potential to escalate and put ourselves and our property at risk. This summer’s tinder dry conditions and the potential fire risk are just one example. We should also remember to be appreciative of the professional services we do have around us—we may not have the full hospital services of a big city, but in an emergency we are extremely well served
by a team of professionals who ably step up to meet whatever challenge comes their way. We are also well served by our Civil Defence personnel, and services such as the Westpac Rescue Helicopter. Locally we are fortunate to have the Mid Canterbury Rural Support Trust which relies on locals helping rural people through adverse events such as snowstorms, flooding, drought, and also financial, animal welfare, and personal crises. There are lots of ways ATS and our members can support these services in our community—we can volunteer our time, we can offer financial support through donations, and our businesses and farms can support staff members who choose to volunteer by releasing them from work in the event of a call out. The old adage, prevention is better than cure also holds true, and we encourage our members to be proactive in managing situations before an emergency occurs.
Changes to the Health and Safety Act take effect from April 2015. This training is timely
Farm Safety Training for members 17 February 17 March 21 April
For more information or to RSVP, call 0800 BUY ATS (289 287) or go to www.ats.co.nz/farmsafety
09 March
Nutrient Management Roadshow, Ashburton Register now at www.dwn.co.nz or phone 07 974 4850.
25–27 March
South Island Agricultural Field Days Join ATS and key Suppliers at site 429 for great Field Days specials, a drink and bite to eat. We look forward to seeing you.
Please remember to keep your work colleagues, friends and family safe on your farm by having your Health and Safety plan in place. Spare a thought for the hard work which goes into making our rural communities the safe and well supported environments we all enjoy.
Farm Safety—fundamental to operating a good business Courses providing you with up to date farm safety practises and a manual specific to your needs will be run again this year. Confirmed dates for 2015 are 17 February, 17 March, 21 April, 19 May, 23 June, 21 July, 18 August, 22 September, 17 November with October’s dates yet to be confirmed.
UPCOMING EVENTS
for farmers and small business holders looking to comply with regulations and best practise within their organisation. Upon completion of the training, members will be able to apply for a discount on their ACC levies. Courses cost $550 (GST and member discount inclusive). Seating is limited so get in early to reserve your spot. For more information or make a booking please contact Peter Jacob on 03 307 5124 or 0800 BUY ATS (289 287), email book@ats.co.nz or book online at www.ats.co.nz/farmsafety
STORE HOURS
Ashburton Monday–Friday, 8am–5.30pm Saturday, 9am–12pm
Methven Monday–Friday, 8am–5.30pm
Rakaia Monday–Friday, 8am–5.30pm If you have any urgent requirements during closed hours and public holidays, the duty manager can be reached on 03 307 5100 or 027 487 6865.