Ashburton Guardian, Thursday, December 1, 2022

Borough still going strong 150 years on

In 1872 there was no Ashburton District Council and there were only four students at Ashburton’s oldest school.

Ashburton Borough School

celebrated its 150th anniversary over the weekend, with past students from up and down the country coming together for the occasion.

Two of those students started their schooling in 1938, Roger Christmas and Derrick Cullimore, who helped cut the cake alongside the school’s newest entrant Charlie Wallis.

Cullimore said while he doesn’t remember too much from his

school days, he does recall having to do air raid drills due to the concern of an attack during World War Two.

“I also remember a principal with a peg leg, and you could hear him coming down the corridor,” Cullimore said.

The current school principal, Hilary Boyce, said the school has changed so much, will continue to evolve and change with another classroom block due for

completion next year.

In her research for the sesquicentennial, Boyce came across one of the old rule books for students to follow.

“There were 8 pages of rules on the procedures of hoisting the flag,” she said.

Boyce said in its 150 years the school has always focused on supporting the community and has always stuck to the school’s values.

Some of the more recent changes were the addition of year seven and eight students in 1997 and the merging of Lagmhor School in 2001 to serve the needs of the town and rural families.

Currently, the roll between the two schools is around 350 students.

Boyce said the school will continue to grow and adapt, hopefully for another 150 years.

Past and present unite. Roger Christmas (left) and Derrick Cullimore who started at Ashburton Borough School in 1838, joined current principal Hilary Boyce.

PHOTO DANIEL ALVEY

Daniel Alvey

Christmas is saved, well the parade anyway

What: Hyundai Mid Canterbury Ashburton Santa Parade.

When: December 3 12.30pm.

This year’s Santa parade was saved at the 11th hour, thanks to a last-minute grant to cover a portion of the cost.

The Hyundai Mid Canterbury Ashburton Santa Parade will return this Saturday at 12.30pm. The parade will start at Mona Square and run along East Street, finishing at Cameron Street.

However, until recently organiser Carol Johns was concerned that she would have to cancel the parade due to a lack of funding.

“It’s the same every year, there is just not enough money,” Johns said. “This year will probably be the last year we see it on the main road, because I just can’t afford the road closure anymore. Road closure used to be $2000. This year it was $3600.”

The Braided Rivers Community Trust came to the rescue providing a $4000 grant to cover the closure and some other expenses.

“I was sitting at home waiting for Rob (Reid, Braided Rivers Community Trust CEO) to ring me, and when he rung I let a big sigh of relief.”

Johns said the community support is al-

Where: Starting at Mona Square, running along East Street, and finishing at Cameron Street.

ways good. Many local businesses supply cash funding and other equipment that helps run the parade.

While Johns did not want to give too much away about the displays in the parade, which includes around 20 floats, she did say that this year’s parade does have a bit of a musical theme to it.

“I’m having to work out how to space all the different music out.”

Alongside the parade, lollies and chip packets will be handed out to the kids.

“I have 1000 bags of lollies that my mum has been bagging up to hand out,” Johns said.

Now Johns has this year’s parade under control, she wants to focus on the future of the parade. “It needs a real look at how it can be future-proofed.”

Johns is unsure what the future-proofing may be, but it will be focused on securing long-term funding to ensure it is viable long before the event.

FOOD RECALL

George

George Weston Foods (NZ) Ltd is recalling the above bread products. The products may contain foreign matter (blue plastic).

The affected products listed on this notice should not be consumed. There have been no reports of injury however if you have consumed these products and have any concerns about your health, seek medical advice.

The products are sold in supermarkets and selected retail outlets throughout the Christchurch and Ashburton regions. Customers should return the products to their retailer for a full refund or phone 0800 449 660 with any queries.

This recall does not affect any other batches of these products or any other Tip Top Bakery or George Weston Foods (NZ) Ltd products.

George Weston Foods (NZ) Limited

Ashburton Santa Parade organiser Carol Johns had to wait to the last minute for critical funding for this year’s event. PHOTO DANIEL ALVEY

SANTA’S COMING

Daniel Alvey

Library and civic centre progress continues ... on the inside

There has been plenty of progress, just not visible progress.

Construction of the $56.75 million Ashburton Library and Civic Centre, Te Pataka o ka Tuhituhi and Te Waharoa a Hine Paaka, is tracking along Ashburton District Council chief executive, Hamish Riach, said.

“The tarpaulins and wrapping on the outside of the building is to enable work on the inside to proceed with relative protection from the weather prior to the facade of the building being attached,” Riach said.

“While this enables work to proceed, it does mean it is very hard to see building activity behind the tarpaulins.

“Once the facade is attached in the next few weeks and months, the building will look dramatically different.”

The project is still on track to be finished around mid-2023 while its budget remains under significant pressure, Riach said, because of “these difficult Covid times and skyrocketing construction prices”.

“We are very grateful for the $20 million grant given by the Government to the project as part of its Covid stimulus package.”

Ashburton’s new building will display the names gifted from Te Rūnanga o Arowhenua, Te Pātaka o kā Tuhituhi and Te Waharoa a Hine Paaka, alongside the words Ashburton Library and Civic Centre, Riach said.

Selwyn’s Te Ara Ātea, the multi-use community facility and library which opened in Rolleston in December last year, has been a topic of debate recently.

Rolleston Residents’ Association members want the Selwyn District Council to put the word “library” under the name of Te Ara Ātea on its signage because they feel people don’t know what the building is – despite it attract-

ROAD WORKS

THE GIFT OF A NAME

Te Pataka o ka Tuhituhi means the storehouse of written publications, while Te Waharoa a Hine Paaka derives from an ancient matai tree that once stood at Alford Forest.

Known as Hine Paaka, the tree was a significant landmark to Maori travelling through the district.

ing over 100,000 people.

Before the building opening the Association had campaigned to have the words community centre removed from the project, as the Rolleston Community Centre, which had housed the old library, was being retained.

The Selwyn council decided to use the name Te Ara Ātea, which means the unobstructed trail to the world and beyond.

“Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air”

Below – One of the many unique spaces that is taking shape inside the building.

Lessons learned will benefit Tinwald upgrade

BY JONATHAN LEASK

Lessons learned from Walnut Avenue are already being put into practice for Ashburton’s next major road works project.

The Tinwald corridor will be upgraded next year with traffic signals and an upgraded rail crossing installed at the intersection of State Highway 1, Lagmhor Road, and Agnes Street intersection, similar to the recently completed Walnut Avenue upgrade.

The Walnut Ave project was criticised for taking too long, with a gap between Waka Kotahi and KiwiRail completing their parts of the project.

Fronting the Ashburton District Council, Waka Kotahi director regional relationships, James Cay-

gill, said “taking lessons learned out of the Walnut Ave project”, Waka Kotahi is working closely with KiwiRail to get all the design work done before the project goes out for tender early next year.

“We should have the full design wrapped up by the end of the calendar year,” Caygill said.

“And with all things going well on [the tender] front, construction starting before the middle of next year.”

There is no estimated timeframe for completion yet until the project is tendered, he said.

“At this stage, you should expect substantial progress by the middle of next year.”

One change has been made to the designs from the public engagement with the Melcombe Street viaduct to remain open to two-way traffic, with monitoring to ensure that it works, Caygill said.

The proposal was for the viaduct to be left-out only to SH1, he said, but concerns were raised about the impacts of the limited access “and the way that would cascade back through the level

crossings or other intersections”.

The Walnut Ave project was heavily scrutinised by the council and the community over its prolonged timing but Caygill was pleased the project was completed on time.

The community will hope that with Waka Kotahi working closer with KiwiRail before construction begins in Tinwald, the project will not take the 18 months Walnut Avenue did to complete.

Jonathan Leask

Arowhenua gifted the names for the new library and civic building, with the library known as Te Pataka o ka Tuhituhi and the civic centre as Te Waharoa a Hine Paaka.

Left – The construction of Te Pātaka o kā Tuhituhi and Te Waharoa a Hine Paaka, the Ashburton Library and Civic Centre, is continuing behind the weather-protective covers.

PHOTOS SUPPLIED

James Caygill

We should have the full design wrapped up by the end of the calendar year.

“

Lauriston brigade celebrates with the community it loves

Daniel Alvey

The community will be at the heart of Lauriston’s Volunteer Fire Brigade 50th birthday celebrations, like it has been since they formed.

A lot has changed since the bri-

gade first started turning up to call-outs in 1972. Back then there were no pagers or centralised messaging system.

“J. R. Leonard used to get the call at the sheds and then, using the phone list, he would go down the list seeing who was available to come and help.”

The brigade shed was extended in the early 2010s by the Ashburton District Council to include office space and kitchen areas to make it more habitable on train-

ing days and after call-outs.

In 2017 when Shears became fire chief, the station was transferred to the Fire and Emergency New Zealand (Fenz) group.

“Fenz have been great, have always provided the help and gear we needed,” Shears said.

Included in the upgrades were a new truck and a new lick of paint on the station.

The station secretary and firefighter for five years, Carol Wilson, said the anniversary cele-

brations have been a long time coming, “We have been planning it for nine months or so. It has been a lot of phoning around past members to see how many we can get here,” Wilson said.

All the preparation will lead to an action-packed weekend for the fire crews and the local community.

Tomorrow the crews will visit Lauriston School, just over the back fence, between 10.30am

and 2pm, for a fun day of games, demos and some interactive displays.

The community action continues on Saturday with an open day at the Lauriston Fire Station from 11am to 3pm with a coffee cart, free BBQ and soft drinks.

There also be a display, memorabilia, photos, fire engines and a bouncy castle.

Between 1 and 2pm, there will be a fire-hose water display and lolly scramble.

Mt Hutt king of the Kiwi skifields again

By Daniel Alvey

For an eighth year running the team at Mt Hutt Ski Resort has proven their skills at the World Ski Awards.

While there was no big awards ceremony this year, you couldn’t wipe the smile off Mt Hutt ski area manager James McKenzie’s face. For eight years now Mt Hutt has been voted New Zealand’s best ski resort.

“Eight has a good ring to it. It is the same number of seats we have on the chairlift,” he said.

McKenzie doesn’t take the award for granted, understanding that there are many other skifields across the country gunning for the top spot.

McKenzie said the Mt Hutt team prides itself on being a big family and personalising each of its guest’s experience.

“When you go to Mt Hutt you do get a sense of family.

“For example, if you ski regularly the lifties will get to know

your name and say hi,” McKenzie said.

While Mt Hutt may not have some of the fancy features that Queenstown have, McKenzie said their main focus is to get people on the snow.

That focus shows in their off-season investments. Over the summer they plan to put another $1.2 million into snowmaking,

these awards we saw some higher quality applications coming through.

“Generally the go-to is down south [Queenstown]. But I think increasingly people are looking here [Mt Hutt] for the winter season.”

McKenzie said beyond Mt Hutt, the Methven community helps support the operation,

following the installation of new snow guns last summer.

McKenzie said the awards help the mountain get recognised more by those looking to head to the Southern Hemisphere to work the ski season.

“When we started picking up

adding to guests’ experience.

“The Methven community takes pride in the achievements of Mt Hutt.”

McKenzie and his team now turn their focus to mark their 50th anniversary celebrations, which take place next year.

The big 50: Lauriston Fire Brigade crew members, Mark Shears and Carol Wilson, are doing the final preparations for the brigade’s 50th birthday.

PHOTO DANIEL ALVEY

A proud crew: Smiles all round for some of the team from Mt Hutt (from left) James Urquhart, Jen Tod, Lana Schiphorst, James McKenzie and sitting in front is Josh Verberne.

PHOTO SUPPLIED

Generally the go-to is down south [Queenstown]. But I think increasingly people are looking here for [Mt Hutt] the winter season

“

Farming ideas for changing climate

How farming might adapt to a changing climate is the subject of a special presentation being hosted this month by the Ashburton District Council.

Industry experts and 27 farmers, many from Mid Canterbury, shared their thoughts for a research project called Supporting Land Use Adaption for a Climate Changed Future and the findings are now being shared at a free public presentation at the Hotel Ashburton on 12 December, starting at 7.30pm.

Council’s agricultural portfolio advisor Richard Fitzgerald led the project, which aimed to improve farmers’ knowledge of a changing climate and enhance their ability to apply that knowledge to action on the farm.

Council Chief Executive Hamish Riach said the project identified how industry could engage more effectively with farmers on the topic of a changing climate and what sort of information they needed at their own farm level.

“In a climate changed future, the growing conditions for plants and animals will be different. There will be different weeds, pests and diseases and our farmers may need a different approach.

“For example, if it gets hotter and drier, would farmers need to shift their lambing dates or grow different crops? If so, that will have a flow on effect.”

Mr Riach said farming was heavily influenced by the climate and focus groups were created to accurately capture farmers’ views.

“They challenged the view that farmers were slow to change and said they were

constantly adapting their businesses and making investments in things like irrigation to cope with cycles of the weather and climate.”

The project was funded by Our Land and Water and offers several recommendations for enhancing farmer engagement with climate change.

For instance, climate change data is usually presented at a regional and national level, but having localised data was seen as having huge value.

If farmers better understood how frequently extreme rainfall events would occur in a changing climate, they might change their farm set-up and infrastructure like bridges, culverts, flood protection and drainage.

Mr Riach said Council was pleased to be part of the research project as agriculture was an important part of the district’s economy.

“Anyone who is interested in changing land use in the future should come along to the presentation on 12 December and hear Richard speak about what could lie ahead.”

Tickets can be reserved at: https://www. eventbrite.co.nz/e/supporting-land-useadaption-tickets-474384405527

New flying fox will be soaring in new year

Council’s Open Spaces team is preparing a summer surprise in the Ashburton Domain – two new flying foxes that will run side-by-side.

The 50m flying foxes will be installed on the eastern side of the walkway that runs from the central carpark to Walnut Avenue and work will begin soon on the

necessary infrastructure, which includes a soil mound at the southern end with a long ramp for accessibility. Softfall material will be added underneath.

Council is spending about $100,000 altogether on the site.

The old flying fox, on Walnut Avenue, was taken down in 2020 and the new one is

Carolyn Cameron - Councillor

part of a 30-year development plan for the domain.

People using the domain over the next few weeks will notice earthworks and construction at the site, and the installation team is working flat out to try and have it up and running early in the new year.

Fingers crossed!

Think local in the leadup to Christmas

How good to see the giant Christmas tree installed on East Street and ready for its big role in Light up the Night.

It is quite magical to drive on East Street or walk along the green at night and see the fairy lights twinkling in the trees and the Christmas tree taking pride of place at Burnett Street. It’s hard to believe a year has gone by since the CBD renovations were finished and good to see the vibe of the town centre returning.

Light up the Night, the first of Council’s three free Christmas events for the community, provides a chance for us all to get together and usher in the festive season with some Christmas carols and family fun. So, bring a deck chair and a blanket, and get comfortable for

the night as there’ll be something for everyone, and not a covid restriction in sight.

As a practising pharmacist and a retailer, I can certainly say that the pandemic has left its mark – but we have also learned new ways of keeping ourselves connected with friends and family, and doing business. These are new times.

So, I urge you to shop local this Christmas - it will be appreciated by a business community that has sweated blood and tears in the past couple of years, and continues to invest money and energy into your town.

If you are coming to the free Christmas movie on 17 December, I also urge you to bring along an item for the foodbank – these will be collected on the night and donated to organisations helping

families doing it tough at this time of year.

It’s been great to welcome new faces to the Council table for the 2022-2025 term, and we are settling into our work. On the agenda last week was a presentation from Waka Kotahi, largely outlining the process that needs to be followed for our second bridge to make it onto the national land transport programme for 2024-2027.

The cost of the bridge has gone up, not surprisingly, and a fair amount of discussion will be still required between Council, regional leaders, Government and Waka Kotahi to align the planets on this project.

You can be sure that we will be pushing hard for the project, and a fair share of funding and resources.

Knit one, pearl one, natter some

The Ashburton Public Library has introduced a new activity that combines handicraft and socialising!

Its new Craft and Chatter group is run on the second Saturday of each month and people are invited to bring along their craft projects and have a cuppa and chat while they work.

Library manager Jill Watson said people were encouraged to come along with their knitting, macrame, embroidery or other craft work and enjoy a cup of tea and a chat with others doing their own craft work.

“This is a great way to connect with others, but also a great way to share skills and learn some new ones.

"If you don't have a craft to bring along, that's no problem as people are welcome to come and do an activity set up by the library staff."

The Craft and Chatter group runs from 10.30am until 12.30pm, with the next gatherings on Saturday 10 December and Saturday 14 January.

Save the date: The art of gift wrapping, at the library on 15 and 22 December (an event for teens).

Another big issue discussed at the same council meeting resulted in our Council re-affirming its opposition of the Three Waters reforms, as they are currently proposed.

This is fast becoming a political battleground with Councils like ours that have invested well in drinking water, wastewater and stormwater over the years, caught in the middle. Clearly, we will continue to represent the views of our community on this issue.

I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and safe holiday period.

Richard Fitzgerald will present a research project about land use in a climate changed future.

Tinwald pool opens this Saturday!

The Tinwald pool opens on Saturday, ready for another summer of outdoor swimming and water fun.

The pool, in the Tinwald Domain, will be staffed by lifeguards and will be open every day of the week, except public holidays, until about March.

Weekend hours are 12pm-7pm, and 4pm7pm weekdays during term time, moving to 12pm-7pm during the week once school holidays kick in.

The facility has two pools – one 25 metres long and 1.2 metres deep, and a smaller shallower pool about 13 metres long for smaller children to play in. A wall in the middle divides the two pools.

The pool is an arm of the EA Networks Centre and centre manager Richard Wood said staff had been flat out preparing it for another summer.

“There’s been a pool in the Tinwald Domain for well over 100 years and the current one was remodelled in the 1950s. We’ve been able to keep her ticking along with some regular TLC and people really

enjoy swimming there because it’s an outdoor pool.

“Another bonus is that we don’t completely rely on the sun and we heat the water a bit, so it’s a very pleasant swimming environment whether you’re doing a few laps or just splashing around having fun. We’re really looking forward to seeing everyone.”

Swimming at the Tinwald pool costs

$3.50 for a child (5-17 years) and $4.50 for an adult. Swimmers can also buy a concession card, which reduces the cost over 10 swims - $31.50 for a child and $38 for an adult.

The pool also has picnic areas that border the pool deck, so families can bring their own food if they want, though the pool shop is fully stocked with a range of drinks and snacks and aquatic accessories.

Follow our trail of lights through the Arcade

Several buildings in the CBD and the Arcade will be glowing with special lighting effects for Light up the NIght this Friday.

Before gathering to watch the giant Christmas tree on East Street light up, people are invited to go on a festive walk along Burnett Street, the Arcade and Tancred Street to soak up the twinkling atmosphere.

The Arcade shops will also be open for business.

Light up the Night, kindly sponsored by Hokonui, is the first of Council's three free Christmas events and Friday's line-up will also include music and entertainment, as well as special kids' zones.

Acts appearing on stage include Life Dance Academy, Netherby Kapa Haka Group, Court Jesters and returning favourites, the

Samoan Christian Congregational Church Ashburton Choir. MC for the event will be Hoops from Hokonui.

Remember to bring a deck chair and blanket so you can park up and enjoy the occasion in comfort.

A small amount of drizzle won't dampen the Christmas spirit, but keep an eye on Council's Facebook page for any notice of cancellation if the weather turns sour.

PUBLIC NOTICES

ROAD CLOSURES

Ashburton District Council gives public notice of road closures to allow Council to hold its Light up the Night event:

Stage One - Closed from 1pm to 5pm Friday, 2 December 2022

• East Street, full closure between Havelock and Burnett Street

• One-way closure for traffic heading north from Tancred Street

OPEN: Burnett Street from Cass Street heading west then turn left onto East Street.

Stage Two - Closed from 5pm to 11.59pm Friday, 2 December 2022

• East Street full closure between Havelock and Moore Street

• Tancred Street full closure from Cass Street to east Street

• Burnett Street full closure from Cass Street to East Street

Ashburton District Council gives public notice of a road closure for the purpose of allowing the community event of the Ashburton Santa Parade

Stage One - Mona Square

Road to be closed from 10.30 am to 11.59am Saturday, 3 December 2022 Mona Square from Cass Street to Kermode Street

Stage Two - East Street – Kermode Street - Moore Street – Tancred Street

– Burnett Street – Havelock Street –Cameron Street – Victoria Street.

Period of Closure: From 11.30am until 2.30pm on Saturday, 3 December 2022

• MONA SQUARE, between Cass Street and Kermode Street

• KERMODE STREET, between Mona Square and East Street

• EAST STREET, between SH1 South and Cameron Street

• MOORE STREET, between SH1 and Cass Street

• TANCRED STREET, between Cass Street and East Street

• BURNETT STREET, between Cass Street and East Street

• CAMERON STREET, between East Street and Victoria Street

• VICTORIA STREET, between Cameron Street and Cass Street

These notices of closure are made under the Local Government Act 1974 - Schedule 10 (11 (e)). It will be an offence under the above regulations for any person otherwise than under the authority of an authorised permit to use the roads/streets for ordinary vehicular traffic during the period of closure.

NEIL McCANN Infrastructure Services Group Manager

TRIENNIAL MEETINGS

Mt Hutt Memorial Hall - Monday 5 December, 9.30am at Mt Hutt Memorial Hall

Hall board seeks new faces

The Mt Hutt Memorial Hall board is holding its triennial meeting on Monday 5 December and is hoping to see a few new faces around the table.

The board manages the running of the hall which includes the iHub, events and the ski and agriculture encounter.

The hall was built in 1957 and underwent

COUNCIL OFFICE

5 Baring Square West

Mon, Tue, Wed & Fri 8.30am - 5pm Thursday 9am - 5pm

a major transformation in 2011, and it is an important function centre for the community, and for the visiting public.

The board currently has seven members and meets every six weeks.

Monday’s triennial meeting is to elect a new board to manage the facility for the next three years. The meeting will get under way at 9.30am, in the meeting room at the hall.

ASHBURTON PUBLIC LIBRARY

180 Havelock Street, Ashburton 7700

Mon - Fri 9.00am - 8.00pm

Sat 10am - 1pm | Sun 1pm - 4pm

COUNCIL MEETINGS

Tinwald Reserve Board - Monday 12 December, 5.30pm at Ashburton Vintage Car Club

Hinds Reserve Board - Tuesday 13 December, 7pm at Hinds Fire Station

Highbank Reserve BoardThursday 15 December, 7pm at Highbank Hall

Ealing Hall and Reserve BoardMonday 19 December, 7pm at Ealing Hall

Rakaia Memorial Hall - Wednesday 1 February

EA NETWORKS CENTRE

20 River Terrace Mon - Fri 6am-9pm (pools 7pm, gym 8pm) Sat & Sun 7am-7pm (pools 5pm, gym 6pm)

ASHBURTON ART GALLERY & ASHBURTON MUSEUM

327 West Street 10am - 4pm daily, late night Wed to 7pm

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Time to spread some cheer

December, where did you come from?

It doesn’t seem all that long ago that we were returning from holiday breaks over last summer, a little sun-kissed and ready to leap into another working year.

Yet somehow, we’ve seen 11 months go by since then and it’s nearly time to do it all again.

I never used to think too much about that saying that the years were getting faster. But perhaps, now there’s some truth in it – it at least certainly feels like it.

Of course, December’s arrival means we are soon to be inundated with Christmas.

Anything prior to this point is just over-zealous festive lovers

looking to get a head start on anything else.

It is now socially acceptable to put up your Christmas tree and start blaring out The Pogues’ version of Fairytale In New York at full blast as much as you want.

Consider this your permission slip.

It’s an exciting time of the year, especially for the younger members of our community. The school year is nearly finished and

the prospect of whiling away the summer days with family and friends has them jumping for joy.

The working year is almost complete for many too, and the chance to put the feet up and relax for a few days or weeks will be welcomed after another big year of just existing in this crazy place we call the world.

But while Christmas is exciting for a lot of people, it also brings about a sense of dread for many as well. The financial impact of the festive season weighs heavy on homes across our district, and while few would be keen to speak publicly about it there will be large portions of people out there who need to seek help just to get through it all.

But the good news is we can help.

Last week we saw the good achieved through the annual Toot For Tucker event, which replenished the shelves of some very important charitable organisations in our community.

It’s they who will need those things the most to distribute over the coming months.

But it shouldn’t stop there. We’ll start to see so many initiatives and opportunities to help make someone’s Christmas time a little more cheerful in the coming weeks and it should be the goal of everyone who is able, to do their own little bit to help.

It doesn’t have to be much either. Just something is good.

Life has become difficult for so many families with the cost of living rising and it becoming harder and harder just to get by from week to week. Many of us are OK, we’ve got out head above the parapet, and if that’s the case we should lend a helping hand this year.

Whether it be a donation into a gift box, tossing some coins towards the charity that’s standing on the corner of the street, or donate some of those unused items lying around the house that are just taking up space.

To us it might be insignificant, but to someone else it could make their December great.

And that’s what this time of the year is all about.

Matt Markham

PlayPlanner

whatson@theguardian.co.nz

Every day

Mt Hutt Memorial Hall

10am, 160 Main Street, Methven. NZ Alpine and Agriculture Encounter, Art Gallery and Hall of Memories.

Ashburton Aviation Musuem 1-3pm, Ashburton Airport, Seafield Road.

Weekdays

Mid Canterbury Connector

Provides low-cost return trips to Ashburton, Mondays to Fridays, any time between 9am and 4.30pm.

Ashburton Aviation Museum 1-3pm. Ashburton Airport, Seafield Road.

Mondays

Age Concern Ashburton Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday at 10am.

Ashburton Bridge Club 1.05pm, Bridge Club Rooms, 79 Alford Forest Road.

Ashburton Community Walking Group Mondays and Fridays at 10.30am. Walnut Avenue Pavilion.

Ashburton Pipe Band practice Pipe Band rooms, Every Monday, 7.30pm onwards.

Mid Canterbury Linedancers

Weekly beginner class 1pm-2pm, Easy intermediate & intermediate 2pm-4.30pm at the Tinwald Memorial Hall. Instructor Annette Fyfe.

MSA Dance Section Monday 4.00pm to 6.00pm. All welcome at the MSA Havelock St.

Tuesdays

Ashburton Menz Shed 9am-2pm at 8 William Street.

Age Concern Ashburton Steady as you Go Gentle Falls Prevention Exercises. All levels of ability are welcome. $2 per 1hr session.

• Held at Methven All Saints Anglican Church Chapman St at 10.30am.

• Rakaia St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church Bridge St at 1.00pm.

• Hampstead Hakatere Church Rooms, Oxford St at 1.30pm.

MSA Tai Chi Classes at 11am. Cost $3 per session at the MSA on Havelock Street.

Justice of the Peace JP available for all signing services on Tuesdays and Fridays at 12pm-2pm. No appointment necessary. No fee. Community House, 44 Cass St.

Ashburton MSA Petanque Club

Competition and social play, all welcome from 1pm at 115 Racecourse Road.

RSA Indoor Bowls

Every Tuesday at 12.45. RSA in the Doris Linton Lounge. $2, followed by a cuppa & chat.

Pickleball Ashburton EA Networks Centre from 5-7pm. Paddles provided.

Mid Canterbury Badminton Club Badminton Club night from 7-9pm. All abilities welcome at EA Networks Centre.

Waireka Croquet  Club

Draw 9.45am GC Handicap Singles. Ist Tuesday in the Month Handicap Singles 19 hoops. Draw 1.15pm. Singles Handicaps -0 5; 6-9; 10-16.

Wednesdays

Ashburton Menz Shed 9am-2pm at 8 William Street.

Ashburton Ladies Friendship Club 9.45am, Sinclair Centre. Speeches, morning tea, every fourth Wednesday of the month.

Wednesday Walk Group

What’s on Where

Do you have an event for Play Planner? Email us with all the details to whatson@theguardian.co.nz.

9.30am. Meet Walnut Avenue on the west side of the Ashburton College Auditorium entrance.

Age Concern Ashburton Steady as you Go Gentle Falls Prevention Exercises. All levels of ability are welcome. $2 per 1hr session.

• Held at Allenton St David’s Church, Allens Rd at 9.30am.

• Held at Ashburton Buffalo Lodge Rooms, Cox St at 10.30am.

Held at Ashburton Buffalo Lodge Rooms, Cox St at 1.30pm.

• Held at Staveley Community Hall at 2pm.

Pickleball Ashburton

Every Wednesday from 9.30am - 11.30am at EA Networks Centre.

St Stephen’s Anglican Church Holy Communion at 10am on Park Street.

Age Concern Ashburton Programme for the elderly runs Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday at 10am.

Hip Hop for Seniors 10am-11am at the Ashburton Seniors Centre, 206 Cameron Street, Ashburton, $5.

Ashburton open coffee mornings All are welcome at the Plunket rooms, 222 Cameron Street. 10.30am - 12 noon.

Thursdays

Ashburton Menz Shed 9am-2pm at 8 William Street.

Age Concern Ashburton Ladies exercise class at 9.30am at Ashburton Seniors Centre at 206 Cameron Street.

Park Street Line Dancers 9.30am - 11am at St Stephen’s Parish Centre.

Mid Canterbury Badminton Club 9.30am-11am at EA Networks Sports Centre.

MSA Tai Chi Classes at 11am. Cost $3 per session at the MSA on Havelock Street.

Age Concern Ashburton Steady as you Go Gentle Falls Prevention Exercises. All levels of ability are welcome. $2 per 1hr session.

• Tinwald Holy Spirit Church, Thomson Street at 11am.

• Ashburton St Stephen’s Church, Park Street at 1pm.

Ashburton Buffalo Lodge Rooms, Cox Street at 1pm.

Ashburton MSA Petanque Club From 1.30pm at 115 Racecourse Road.

Fridays

Ashburton Community Walking Group

Walking for about 30-40 minutes on Mondays and Fridays at 10.30am. Meet Walnut Avenue Pavilion.

St Stephen’s Anglican Church Seniors Coffee Club, 2nd and 4th of the month at 10.30am, St Stephen’s Parish Centre, Park St.

Ashburton Justice of the Peace JP available for all signing services from 12-2pm. No appointment necessary. No fee. Community House. 44 Cass Street.

Pickleball Ashburton EA Networks Centre from 6-8pm. Paddles provided.

Saturdays

Ashburton Farmers Market Saturday mornings, 9am-12.30pm, north end West Street car park. Plants, hot and cold food, vegetables.

Ashburton MSA Petanque Club

Social play from 1.30pm at 115 Racecourse Road, Ashburton

Ashburton Aviation Museum Ashburton Airport from 10am - 3pm.

Ashburton Woodworkers Clubrooms at Plains Museum site 1pm-4pm.

Seventh-Day Adventist Church

• 10am, Weekly worship & Bible Study. • 11am, Sabbath singing & Sermon. At Grace Presbyterian Church building, 63 Princes St. Ashburton. All welcome!

Vintage Car Club

86 Maronan Road, Tinwald

The Museum and Parts Shed will be OPEN on Saturdays during the month of November, Time: 10.00am to 12 noon.

Waireka Croquet Club

AC Singles or Doubles. Draw 9.45 and 12.45, GC Draw 1.15 pm Doubles. New players welcome, mallets available.

Sundays

Ashburton Anglican Parish Sunday - St Stephen’s Anglican Church, Park St, 10 am. Holy Communion Sunday - St Andrew’s Anglican Church, Thomson St. 10 am. Holy Communion, 2nd & 4th Sundays of the month St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church 10am Morning Worship. Service led by Rev. Eric Mattock. All welcome. Sinclair Centre, Park Street.

Grace Presbyterian Church 10am at 63 Princes Street.

Hakatere Presbyterian Parish Morning Worship at 10am, Rev. Johanna Warren.

• 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month at 65 Oxford Street

• 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month at 127 Thomson Street Tinwald Pickleball Ashburton Sunday is organised competition day at EA Networks Stadium from 5-7pm. Prior registration through our facebook page is required. Some courts are available for social play.

Every Monday and Saturday

Allenton Assn Croquet Club Venue Allenton Sports Club. Monday, Saturday. Start every week Monday September 19 until March 27 2023. Starting time 1.15pm.

Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday

Methven Croquet Club

We play croquet every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 1.30pm at the Methven Domain. All welcome to come along.

Every Tuesday and Friday

Methven Museum

60 Main St. Open Tuesday and Friday 2-4pm Does Dalgetys or Wright, Stephenson & Co or Pyne Gould Guinness ring a bell? Our current display is Farm Supplier Stores of Methven & districts (history since the early 1900s). Come in and learn how the stores evolved and fill out your name if you worked at any of them. Admission is free but donations are welcome.

Every Thursday and Saturday

Ashburton Toy Library

Open every Thursday and Saturday from 9.30am-12.30pm, plus every alternate Tuesday 3.30pm-5pm at 106 Victoria Street.

Every Wednesday, Saturday Allenton Golf Croquet Club Wednesdays & Saturdays. Start every week from Wednesday September 21 2022 until March 29 2023, starting time 9.45am.

Last Sunday of every month Nor’Westers Muso’s Club All are welcome, as is any style of music. 2pm - 6pm at Feeneys Lounge, Devon Tavern.

First Sunday of every month

Methven Market

At Methven Resort, from 9am to 1pm.

Third Monday of every month

The Ashburton Electronic Organ & Keyboard Club meets on the third Monday of every month (except December/January) at Seniors Centre, 206 Cameron Street at 7.30pm

Second Fri of every month

In Colour, art and craft club

Bring along your art and craft projects to share with others over morning tea once a month. 10.30am - 12 noon.

Second and fourth Friday of every month

St Stephen’s Anglican Church Seniors Coffee Club 10.30am on Park Street.

Monthly

Ashburton Embroiderers’ Guild Meet Seniors Centre, 206 Cameron Street

first Saturday of the month 10.30am-3.30pm, second Thursday of the month 1pm-3.30pm, third Tuesday of the month -9pm, and the fourth Thursday of the month 10.30am3.30pm.

November events

Plains Railway Precincts Christmas Celebration

Sunday December 11 from 11am-4pm. Ja1260 will the haul the Christmas Train, Market Stalls, Kids Santa Hunt, Popup Playground, Ashburton Silver Band play from 11.30am-12.30pm, Santa visits at 2pm & more! Hot Food & Coffee available. Located in the Tinwald Domain, 62 Maronan Rd, Ashburton.

St David’s Union Church

Friday December 2, 6.00am Women’s Circuit Training, 48 Allens Road.

Sunday December 4, 9.30am. St David’s Union Church. Worship & Communion Service led by Rev Henry Mbambo. 48 Allens Road.

Monday December 5, 6.00am. St David’s Union Church. Women’s Circuit Training. 48 Allens Road.

Tuesday December 6, 9.30am. St David’s Union Church. Walking Group meets outside church. 48 Allens Road.

Wednesday December 7, 6.00am. St David’s Union Church. Women’s Circuit Training. 48 Allens Road, Ashburton.

Wednesday December 7, 9.30am. St David’s Union Church. Steady As You Go. 48 Allens Road.

Wednesday December 7, 11.30am. St David’s Union Church. Midweek Service, Communion & Lunch. 48 Allens Road.

Thursday December 8, 10.00am. St David’s Union Church. Fit Kidz for preschoolers & caregivers. 48 Allens Road.

Friday December 9, 6.00am. St David’s Union Church. Women’s Circuit Training. 48 Allens Road.

Waireka Croquet Club

Philip Street. Tuesdays, Waireka Croquet Club GC Draw 9.45am and 1.15 Singles.

St Andrews Presbyterian Church 10am Morning Worship. Commemorating St Andrew’s Day and Remembrance Day. Service led by Rev. Eric Mattock. All welcome. Sinclair Centre. Park Street.

It’s often hard to throw something delicious together quickly when you’ve just finished work and your mate’s coming around to eat bad food and watch a movie with you.

You could go for the usual chips and dip, or you could try this pull-apart bread, it oozes deliciousness and is so quick and easy.

1 large cob loaf

1/2 c melted butter (110g unmelted)

2t fresh thyme leaves

2t freshly chopped rosemary

Salt

Freshly ground black pepper

250g wheel of brie or camembert, cut into thin strips

2x 275g jars of whole-berry cranberry

sauce (or less, depending on taste)

■ Preheat oven to 180°C and line a large baking sheet with baking paper. Using a serrated knife, crosshatch cob, slicing every inch in both directions and making sure not to slice all the way through the bottom.

■ In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, thyme, and rosemary and season with salt and pepper.

■ Brush cob with butter mixture, making sure to get inside crosshatches.

■ Stu each crosshatch with brie and cranberry sauce and wrap bread completely in foil.

■ Bake until cheese is melty and bread is warm and toasty, about 20 minutes.

■ Let cool 5 minutes, then serve.

PHOTO DANIEL ALVEY

A stylish executive home on 4452sqm overlooking the popular Lake Hood.

The home features a raked ceiling through the kitchen dining living area, also a second lounge with both areas opening to a large deck with superb views.

There are five spacious

bedrooms, two with ensuites and also an o ce nook.

The home has a large kitchen with walk-in pantry and is heated by a logburner, heat pump, along with underfloor heating in the three bathrooms. This quiet cul-de-sac is the perfect haven.

Call for an appointment to view.

Tucked Away

21C Nelson Street

This private town house which is tucked away on Nelson Street is beautifully presented with a lovely outdoor area and gardens.

A spacious open

OPEN HOME

OPEN HOME

Dream Big

55

Here is an opportunity to own a spacious villa in a superb location within walking distance to the Ashburton Domain and town centre. Three fabulous size bedrooms, two living rooms and spacious kitchen with bifold windows. Gas cooktop and electric oven. Two log burners and HRV system. Sunny deck to relax on to entertain family and friends. Four car garaging and a great 1014m2 size section.

Price: $545,000 Web ID AUW3487470

View: Saturday 3, 10.00am – 10.30am

Cosy and Quiet

A Piece of Paradise

car garage with a shared driveway, fully fenced.

O ers Over: $440,000 Web ID AUW3493382 View: Saturday 3, 10.00am – 10.30am

OPEN HOME

Character Beauty

Brand New And Waiting For You

163A

141A

Price on Application Web ID AUE3125730

View: Saturday 3, 10.45am – 11.15am

O

By Negotiation Web ID AUW3482309

A Family Dream Opportunity

121 Racecourse Road, ALLENTON Set on a beautifully established 2786m2 section sits this well-appointed large family home. Six bedrooms, two bathrooms and two toilets in the home, one bedroom sleepout with bathroom and toilet. Bright and sunny kitchen with all the modern conveniences is central to the spacious living and dining. Three heat pumps, two in the home, one in the sleepout. Double garage, large spacious garden shed and separate workshop.

O ers over: $815,000 Web ID AUW3449919

19A Baker Street, ALLENTON Tucked away in a private rear section, this home will be brand new. Three bedrooms, two bathrooms, master with en suite and WIR. Open plan kitchen, dining and living areas perfectly positioned for the sun and heated with a heat pump. There is a separate laundry as you walk through to the double garage. The property will be easy care with room for o -street parking.

O ers Over: $675,000 Web ID AUW3376570

Wills Street, ASHBURTON

RightonTrack

Mid Canterbury’s horse and dog racing action

Faulty gear proves expensive

A broken string cost Bolt For Brilliance his second round Inter Dominion heat and saw his Grand Final odds drift.

Just when trainer-driver Tony Herlihy started his move and went to pull the plugs, the string broke and everything went wrong at Shepparton on Saturday night.

Only one ear plug released,

M6

the blinds malfunctioned and Bolt For Brilliance ducked in and locked wheels briefly, losing valuable ground.

While all that happened, driver James Herbertson skipped away on the leader Nephew Of Sonoko with a big break.

Bolt For Brilliance rocketed home, but the bird had flown and he missed by a nose.

“The string broke when I pulled it.

“He became unbalanced and then we locked wheels,” Herlihy said.

“He absolutely flew home when he got going.”

Surprisingly given the circumstances, Bolt For Brilliance drifted from $2 to $2.50 for Saturday week’s final.

Riccarton gallops

1200m 17:22 1 4456X Show Us Plenty S Wynne 58.5 2 406X5 Archerfield T Comignaghi 58.5 3 Cockahoop L Callaway 58.5 4 Trumby J Laking 58.5 5 X6X62 Clark Kent T Moseley 57 6 2X Nor tibutnice K Williams 56.5

7 0X0 Red Orchid G Jogoo 56.5

8 09X0 Fun Fun Fun K Kwo 56.5 9 80X77 Love Fifteen A Balloo 56.5

10 Irish Moss K Chowdhoory 55

R6 WORLD TRAVELLERES MAIDEN $14,000 1200m 17:56

1 236X4 The Number One Son R Mudhoo 58.5 2 4X346 Authority J Laking 58.5

3 705X Litigator BB Hong 58.5 4 6X0X Crushing 58.5

5 In Awe L Callaway 58.5

6 27276 Night Raider K Chowdhoory 57

RACEDAY SUITE IN 2023 MAIDEN $14,000

7 X9540 Capital Expense T Moseley 56.5

The picture will be clearer when he meets local star Just Believe, who is unbeaten in his two heats, in the last round of heats over 2570m at Geelong on Saturday night.

Just Believe drew the pole and looks the leader with Bolt For Brilliance next door in gate two.

It will be a hugely decisive race for the final.

The other big player in the trotting final, the Kiwi-owned Queen Elida, led throughout to easily win her heat at Shepparton on Saturday.

“She did that easily.

“She’s just so versatile,” driver Chris Alford said.

“I wouldn’t swap her for anything else when it comes to the final.”

8 X067X O’Dua T Comignaghi 56.5

9 Cossette L Allpress 55

10 Miss Brittany M Taylor (A3) 55

R7 INGLEWOOD STUD RATING 75 $14,000 1400m 18:29

1 X5583 Harbourside M Taylor (A3) 60

2 1710X Vague G Jogoo 58

3 50070 No Rock No Pop S Muniandy 57.5

4 10307 Matscot T Moseley 56.5

5 X9045 Just Tickety Boo D-Rose Tait (A4) 56

6 5X314 Aerial Blue T Comignaghi 54.5

7 X3918 Namibia Miss R Mudhoo 54

R8 RACECOURSE HOTEL AND MOTOR LODGE RATING 80 $14,000 1400m 18:59

1 8X60X Come Back Tiger G Saejorhor (A3) 60

2 1039X Ideal Warrior 60

3 50X08 Rocastano L Allpress 60 4 51980 Anteater J Laking 59

5 5308 Yeah Right T Moseley 59

6 547X7 Power N Passion K Chowdhoory 58

Forbury harness, at Wingatui

7 7760X Vardon Road M Taylor (A3) 57.5

8 5039 Fame Shines B May 57.5

9 0980X Holy Loch L Callaway 57.5

10 3676 Soo Dusty S Wynne 57

11 3000X Float T Comignaghi 56.5

12 22008 Sweet Lilly R Mudhoo 56.5

13 50X5 Ruby Sunrise K Williams 54

Matt Markham’s Riccarton Selections

Race 1: Kudos de Sothys, The Growler, Its So Easy, Red Rufus

Race 2: Mia Sorella, Vaudevire, Sassy Chouxs, Philote

Race 3: Alta Bella, Arabia, Lovingyourwork, Ideal Warrior

Race 4: Make Believe, Show Bazz, Vino Bella, Tiffen

Race 5: Archerfield, Nortibutnice, Clark Kent, Trumby

Race 6: The Number One Son, Cossette, Authority, Litigator

Race 7: Namibia Miss, Harbourside, Just Tickety Boo, Aerial Blue

Race 8: Rocastano, Sweet Lilly, Anteater, Ruby Sunrise

BEST BET: Mia Sorella (Race 2) VALUE: Namibia Miss (Race 7)

Kholi Trouble, Lil Miss Muscles, Majestic Whisper Race 4: Paradise Valley, Hes Santas Excuse, Spicy Girl Becqui, Nyla Race 5: Always B There, Jaccka Connor, Boxer, Razor Sharp Race 6: I Dream Of Jeannie, Tweedledee, Sioux Princess, Light Of Da Moon Race 7: Katherine, Gotta Elect Bill, Step It Up A Notch, Mcandrew Navigator Race 8: Onedin Hurricane, Ariella, Lous Deal, Mighty Reactor Race 9: See It Thru, Shandon Bells, Boyz Invasion, Night Watch

Race 10: Robyns Shadow, Jonique, Major Dolmio, La Moth

BEST BET: Warrior Easton (Race 2)

VALUE: Paradise Valley (Race 4)

Ashburton Bowling Club

Correction to last week’s report regarding the Friday Triples at MSA on 18th November. Please read Peter Collins for Peter Quinn, my apologies!

The Ashburton Ladies Championship Pairs are still ongoing after some courageous bowling during the week in howling nor’ westers. However the Friday Triples on 25th (sponsors Toyota/Skip2it) was played in lovely weather. The results are as follows: 1st M Quinn, G Dowie, W Watson – 3 wins, 16 ends, 27 points, 2nd D Kinvig, D Prendergast, P Quinn – 3 wins, 15 ends, 33 points, 3rd M Hill, P Collins, T Pearce – 3 win, 14 ends, 40 points, 4th C Dennis, J Argyle, C Cheghorn – 2 wins, 15 ends, 34 points, 5th L Kearns, J Bell, D Bell – 2 wins, 15 ends, 30 points, 6th L Muir, D Muir, K Muir – 2 wins, 14 ends, 21 points.

Our Inhouse Quaich Trophy (sponsors Robbies Undercar Specialists) was played on Saturday 26th. The results are as follows: 1st Colin Bird, Peter Quinn, Roy Keeling with 3 wins, 2nd Gladys Body, Russell Lowe, Lynn Curd with 2 wins, 1 draw, 3rd Doug Kinvig, Gordon Sparks, Wendy Herriott with 2 wins.The 4th game was curtailed because of the inevitable rain! Congratulations to the winners and thanks to our sponsors.

The Bowman Cup - Ladies Fours (sponsor Property Brokers) will have been played on Monday, November 28, weather permitting. Good bowling everyone!

Ashburton County Lions

President Jeanette welcomed members to her home for our informal November meeting and apologies were received.

Being a nice evening, many enjoyed looking around her lovely garden prior to sharing a delicious potluck meal.

President Jeanette’s theme for this month is: Show your friends, whanau and community, love and support. Several members went on a mystery outing, visiting the Homestead at Orari, lunch at Winchester then visiting the Mill Road store just out from Pleasant Point, stopping off at Geraldine on the way home. It was a great day out and enjoyed by all.

On NZ Trotting Cup Day, some members got all dressed up for the occasion, and met at the Phat Duck for some food, fun, and a little flutter on the horses, not that any of us knew a lot about the horses, but it was a lot of fun.

Several members supported the Life Education fundraiser, Ethel & Bethel Bingo Night, which certainly was a hilarious night out and a very worthy cause to support. We had another very successful “Toot 4 Tucker” - many thanks to everyone in the community for their wonderful support and to those who helped with the mammoth job of sorting and packing all the goods - 460 boxes in total, distributed between Presbyterian Support, Salvation Army & St.Vincent de Paul community foodbanks. Thank you to everyone who helped in any way.

During the month, Members have been involved with the Daycare Driving, and will assist with Meals on Wheels in December and will donate baking to the local Hospice. Plans are well under way for the”Festive Forest,” event to be held  Frid 9th Dec 2 – 7.30pm & Sat 10th December, 10am–6pm. at the Event Centre. Lots of decorated Xmas trees, Xmas Grotto with Santa and some stalls. It will be a lovely family Xmas outing.

This year we had a combined Xmas function with the Ashburton Lions and Pakeke clubs, held at the RSA. District Governor Jules was present and he announced the winner of District 202J Lions Peace Poster Competition, Ruby Bartlett, a student from Ashburton Intermediate School. A great effort on her part.  After enjoying a lovely meal, we were entertained by several members of the three clubs - a great night with much fun and laughter.

Ashburton Electronic Organ and Keyboard Club

Bev – it was great to hear you playing a selection of well-known tunes as we arrived, providing a welcoming atmosphere for the evening. Your lovely music and the cheery Christmas decorations, set the scene for a beaut night.

Michael – kindly filling in at short notice, you entertained everyone by playing a variety of songs on the electric organ, including Autumn Leaves and Sleigh Ride – with interesting bell sounds, plus an upbeat version of Jingle Bell Rock, Hey Look Me Over, then finishing with White Christmas, which reminded me of Bing Crosby and snow in New York city.

This was followed by Mary Did You Know, Oh Holy Night, Winter Wonderland, White Christmas and Silver Bells. The audience intently listened to your clear vocals as they enjoyed the music. Thank you for helping to make our night special.

Cross Street Group – Karen played the piano, Robin and Ian S were on ukes, Jim on banjo, Margaret on drums and Irene and Suzie on accordions. They played a selection of tunes including Sioux City Sue, Knock On Your Door, Stolen Moments, Have you Ever Been Lonely, Hello Mary Lou, and Let him Go Let Him Tarry. They also included short solo items, which gave lots of variety. Well done team.

John Davis – welcome back! John entertained everyone by playing a selection on his keyboard including You’re Worth Your Weight In Gold, The Holy City - with marvelous organ sounds, a rock ‘n’ roll Hoots Mon and several tunes by Strauss – big band waltzes and a fast toe tapping polka, then ending with the Swinging Bells of Limburg. John, your keyboard certainly produces some amazing sounds!

Rose Stead – Bev randomly chose Christmas songs out of a book for Rose to play and the audience to sing along to. With graceful piano playing, Rose had the audience singing and tapping their toes while enjoying Away In The Manager, Mary’s Boy Child, Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer and Santa Claus Is Coming To Town. The perfect way to finish a great night of entertainment, leading us into a supper.

Thanks to Bev for organising tonight’s entertainers and to the Christmas Elves who decorated.  See you in 2023!

Ashburton U3A

Neill Pickard spoke about “Big bands, soloists and how to make the hit parade.” He spoke of the rise and fall of the big band phenomenon, and the factors enabling it.

Dancing played a big part in the development of the big bands, and the huge halls needed a big sound. The big band phenomenon was global and attracted charismatic leaders and soloists.

We heard names of soloists from the 30’s, 40’s, and 50’s that the audience was very familiar with, along with the names of different dancing styles.

His talk was interspersed with videoclips of various big bands playing, as well as Neill demonstrating various musical concepts on both the piano and the guitar. Social history was part of the talk.

Radio and television, as well as the race issue in America had an influence also on big bands.

Also mentioned was the influence of World War on the fall of the popularity of the big band. Neil advocated using

Youtube and Spotify as wonderful resources for finding good music.

We can expect people to be searching for clips to listen to the sounds of Glenn Millar and Billie Holiday as well as goog-

Ashburton Writers Group

Vice President Julie welcomed members and two visitors to the November meeting of the Ashburton Writers’ Group.

The book Group Therapy was presented to Fiona Giles from Hospice and a $500 donation of the profits from the book will also be given to them. The quotation was read - “If my Doctor gave me six minutes to live I wouldn’t brood, I would type a little faster.”

Discussion Point From Stephen King’s book on Writing: Observe the pattern of novels, the lines of type, the margins and most particularly the blocks of white space where paragraphs begin or leave off. Is it easy or hard to read?

Assignment: Write an argument between two characters that begins in bed. Members wrote of rumpled blankets, perfect smile, pillow talk, wordle, hangover, clashing twins, gummy mouth and blanket hogger.

Instant Exercise: What would you say to your younger self. Members wrote of no difference, educated, bigger chest, not be in a hurry, don’t stop reading, foreign correspondent, bitcoins and pace yourself.

A Christmas party will be held on Thursday December 7, members to write either a Christmas Story or Poem using the words - Holly, Jolly, Folly. Visitors are welcome, please phone Rae at 3088927.

Late in November Hospice Mid Canterbury, Fiona Giles, Outreach Co-ordinator attended as well to be advised of our donation of $500, the proceeds of the book Group Therapy that Writers produced last year. The book has stories by members and also some of the winners of our Short Story Competition. Julie and Stacey were the two members who worked hard to produce the book.

Hinds Women’s Institute

Christmas is coming . . . and already the festive season is upon us with business decorations evident and enticing.

The Hinds Women’s Institute met in the Davison Room where President Valmai welcomed the members. The Ode and Aspirations preceded the minutes, apologies and business notes all relating to the Women’s institute. Hinds WI General Business included given dates for 2023 - Meals on Wheels 25 January, Hospital flowers 3 February and Founder’s Day 21 February.

Thanks and congratulations were extended to Jenny and Valmai for the A&P exhibits they created. Rosa shared the recent letter from Joy Blenkinsop, our UK Marchwood WI Link Lady who wrote that with the autumn days she had recently been blackberry picking in the forest. This brought back memories of when we, as young mothers, also picked wild blackberries from the country roadside brambles.

The Christmas luncheon is to meet on Tuesday December 6, at a member’s home for a finger food gathering. Then it was time to participate in creating a Christmas Santa using a child’s sock, rice, ribbon and colourful jewels,

all under the talented guidance of Val Goodridge. Some members made a Christmas Santa’s Sleigh and all women were delighted with their final masterpiece.

Hostesses Christine and Elizabeth arranged the tea and tempting food treats, and a time of fellowship was enjoyed before it was time to depart.

Tinwald Garden Club

“An Inspiration” is how the secretary of the club described the presentation by local floral artists, Fiona Williamson and Anne Watson.

Their ten “quick and simple to create” Christmas arrangements offered practical ideas on the theme “Be Creative at Christmas”.

They presented both modern and tra-

ditional arrangements with much of the floral material being foraged and other materials sourced from recycling outlets. Both ladies displayed their obvious enjoyment in creating things. They offered the 22 members present practical hints which included * wrapping glad wrap around oasis to keep the water up * using kebab sticks to poke into the oasis  * if using Christmas candles use nail polish or hair spray to make the wicks stand up and finally * As with Ikebana “Less is more!”

Members look forward to creating their own arrangements in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

Competition Results - 1 Delphinium: 1st Pam Tait 2nd Gwenith Quelch 3rd Annette Simister, 1 Peony Rose: 1st Alison Scammell 2nd Lorraine Baughan 3rd Annette, Simister 1 Stem Hybrid Rose: 1st Gwenith Quelch 2nd Alison Scammell

3rd Val Johnson, 1 Full Blown Rose: 1st Val Johnson 2nd Alison Scammell 3rd Pam Tait, 1 Stem Floribunda Rose: 1st Val Johnson 2nd Annette Simister 3rd Carolyn Cumming, 1 Any Bearded Iris: 1st Carolyn Cumming 2nd Jill Blacklock,1 Head Rhododendron: 1st Alison Scammell 2nd Jill Blacklock, Miniature Bloom: 1st Alison Scammell 2nd Gwenith Quelch

3rd Val Johnson, Miniature Rose: 1st Annette Simister 2nd Val Johnson 3rd Jill Blacklock, Spike: 1st Alison Scammell 2nd Annette Simister, Cluster: 1st Val Johnson, Branch Flowering Shrub: 1st Gwenith Quelch, Flower not on schedule: 1st Alison Scammell 2nd Val Johnson 3rd Pam Tait, Flowering Climber: 1st Gwenith Quelch, O’Keefe/Young Trophy for Best Bloom: Alison Scammell.

New Members welcome. Contact Pam Tait. Phone 027 435 5373.

Wakanui Women’s Institute

Wakanui Women’s Institute Christmas meeting was held at the Woodbury Cafe on Wednesday November 23. President Juliana welcomed 11 members. Minutes of the previous meeting had been circulated to members. “Motto”A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor”. Two previous members who had passed away recently were remembered by members.

A donation to the RDA will be given by the Wakanui W.I. in support of the ongoing work that they continue to do in the community.

Two members will sell Federation raffle tickets next week.

The Federation Luncheon on Friday December 2 will be attended by members. With the meeting closed members then enjoyed lunch and a social time together. Following lunch members visited the Woodbury Rhododendron nursery where we found husband and wife owners busy working in their extensive garden. With 1000 rhododendrons plus Maples, Cornus and other trees and shrubs the garden was an amazing sight.

Members all agreed that it had been a worthwhile visit and a very pleasant outing.

Leanne Gichard and Ann Allott – it was a pleasure to listen to our guest Leanne, sing a powerful version of Don’t Cry For Me Argentina, accompanied by talented Ann on the piano – you make a good team!

ling Boogie Woogie and Lindy dancing. The next meeting is on 28th February, 2023.

The Ashburton Writers Group made a donation of $500 to Hospice Mid Canterbury from the proceeds of their book, Group Therapy that writers produced last year. The people in the photos are (from left) Julie Sergeant (vice chairperson), Fiona Giles and Stacey Broadbent.

Two of the wonderful Christmas displays on show at a recent meeting of the Tinwald Garden Club.

Weather can’t deter Challenge entrants

Back on top of the world

RNZ

More than 500 people braved the weather and tackled the coast on Sunday at Longbeach.

The popular Longbeach Coastal Challenge returned to the calendar at the weekend after two years away through Covid interruptions, and while numbers weren’t at the highs they were pre-pandemic, organisers were happy to be back out enjoying what has become a staple event for so many each year.

The weather gods didn’t play their part though, with wet and cool conditions on offer, but it didn’t deter the hundreds who lined up on the start line for one of the eight different events held as a part of the major fundraiser.

And while for most the results and times mean nothing in the bigger scheme of things, they showed that the weather didn’t impact on the quality of action out on the course with some good times and solid results achieved by those in some of the marquee events.

On foot, Jayson Spittal recorded the fastest time in the off-road half marathon to take overall honours ahead of James Busby and Tony Fallon, while Julia Chamberlain was the fastest female on the course, finishing a full 23 minutes clear of her nearest rivals Lisa Elliot, who was second and Monique Gray who claimed third.

The 12km run was won by Liam Wilson in the male category, with Andy Armour and Mar-

tin Armour finishing second and third respectively.

Eleanor Burgess’ time in the female category saw her finish third overall while Charlotte Waddell, who finished second, was fifth overall just ahead of Jessica Schmack who was third.

The 12km scenic walk titles went to Darryn Harris in the male event, who finished ahead of Kelvin Leach and Richard George, while Katrina Palmer carved out a very slick time to win the female event ahead of Emma Perry and Rose Gould.

Many of the youngsters involved took their part in the 5km fun run and walk with Romeo Warren-Webb finishing ahead of the pack, while Charlotte Ri-

garlsford winning the female category in a tight-finish with less than a minute separating the first four to reach the finish line.

In the always-competitive mountain-biking events, Logan Horn took home $500 as the fastest male on the course in the Classic Mountain Bike Challenge raced over 35km, beating Mitchell Sincock and Cole Harris while Priscilla Thompson did the same for being the first female home, just ahead of Annabel Bligh and Lucy Reeve.

The recreational ride over 23km of terrain was won by Ollie Hanson in the male category from Ian Walsh and Ricky Brown,

while Emma Murray won a tight race to the line to beat Jane Anderson and Sarah Priddle in the female event.

In the family 12km ride Ben Veldkamp was victorious from Joshua Woods and Henry Pottinger, with Megan Robertson winning the female race from Andrea Woods and Elise Gill.

This year’s event also saw the inclusion of a new category for the rapidly-growing in popularity E-bikes.

Luke McGoldrick was the fastest on the course beating Zander Etheridge in the male race, while Emma Murray headed home the pack in the female event from Sonia Etheridge and Max Corney.

Lydia Ko is number one again. Ko, who notched three LPGA Tour victories and nine other top-five finishes in 2022, moved up one spot to eclipse American Nelly Korda as the number one player in the women’s world golf rankings.

This is the third time Ko, a 19-time LPGA Tour winner, has reached the top spot.

She also held number one from 2 February to 14 June, 2015, and from October 2015 to June 2017 –104 weeks in all.

“I’m very grateful to be world number one again,” the 25-yearold said.

“To be honest, I wasn’t sure if I’d ever be back here again.”

She was just 17 when she ascended to the top spot in 2015 and became the youngest player, male or female, to reach number one in the world.

Among her wins this year, the New Zealander claimed the largest first-place prize in the history of women’s golf ($3.2 million) for winning the season-ending Tour Championship in Florida last week.

Ko was named Race to the CME Globe champion and Rolex Player of the Year for the second time.

She also took home the Vare Trophy, awarded to the player with the season’s lowest scoring average, for the second straight year.

Finishing the year with 25 points toward the LPGA Hall of Fame, she is now two points away from induction.

Away from the course, Ko will marry Chung Jun this summer.

The All Black who ran with the ball

dirty big grin on my face.”

Cameron was one of about 100 former students who attended the school celebrations at the weekend.

Rakaia’s Dennis Cameron vividly remembers picking up the ball when inside centre David Hewitt dropped it in a match between the British Lions and a combined team in 1959.

It was near the Mid/ South Canterbury/North Otago 25 yard line but, instead of passing it back to the forwards to trundle it up at Fraser Park, Timaru, he did something remarkable.

He ran 75 yards with it, beating the Lions fullback with an “in and out” and scoring near the posts.

Dennis, one of seven All Blacks who attended Borough School, felt elated and waved to his cousin in the crowd as he returned the ball to Moray Watson, the fullback.

“Of course you shouldn’t show emotion,” he said, “but I had a

His heroics on the day, which included some fierce tackling, saw him included in the All Black trials and he was selected in the ABs to tour South Africa in 1960.

Injury limited his appearance over there.

On the journey he played in a match in Perth and broke his finger. He consulted another All Black, Dr Hugh Burry, and was told to keep quiet until he reached Johannesburg, otherwise he’d be sent home.

Cameron finally told manager Tom Pearce and stayed in the squad, missing the first few games until his finger healed.

Dennis married Joy on his re-

turn to New Zealand and, shortly after, they moved to Pukekohe, then to Waikato and Bay of Plenty before relocating to Christchurch two years ago to be closer to their three children and five of their seven grandies.

Rugby wasn’t his only sport.

At Borough and Ashburton High he was an athletics and swimming champion and competed in two national swimming championships, one where he met Joy in Auckland.

If he was in the ideal position on the rugby field in 1959 he also chose the perfect location to survive 50 years later.

The Camerons were visiting friends in Palmerston North in 2009 when he felt unwell.

“I saw a doctor and was taken by ambulance to Emergency where I had a massive heart attack,” he said.

Dennis Cameron, now 84, survived and returned to Ashburton last weekend to catch up with Borough School’s other All Blacks.

Former All Black Dennis Cameron meets John Driscoll, both ex-students of Borough School which celebrated its 150th anniversary last weekend.

PHOTO SUPPLIED

Riders set off to tackle the mountain bike challenge under grey skies at the Longbeach Coastal Challenge at the weekend. PHOTO LONGBEACH COASTAL CHALLENGE

Malcolm Hopwood

Of course you shouldn’t show emotion, but I had a dirty big grin on my face

“

Matt Markham

Make one limp awkwardly around the East (5)

Be so loud it will render one unhearing (6)

choice and ___ spirits of this age’ (J Caesar) (6)

with a laser if size is wrong (7-5)

As I try to drop every other one, the place is filthy (3)

Garment that will allow one to vocalise for a start (7)

Big Apple abbreviation, no matter which (3)

Plaster one with shot? Hot stuff! (6)

Cooks minced veal, say, in a vessel (6)

Once a change is effected, a great deal of water appears (5)

Stars

ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 19): Not all inaction is alike. Doing nothing out of fear, laziness or confusion is very different from doing nothing because the best move is not to move. Today calls for disciplined inaction.

TAURUS (Apr 20-May 20): You offer compassion to others easily. Can you offer it more readily to yourself, too? All work and no play is an unkind approach. Relax, have fun. It’s good for you and necessary to your well-being.

GEMINI (May 21-Jun 21): No one becomes skilled overnight. What seems like it’s happening in the spur of the moment is the culmination of hours of preparation. Be patient with yourself as you work on a new skill.

CANCER (Jun 22-Jul 22): Partnerships closed off from the rest of the world will not have enough emotional oxygen to thrive. A friendship will be improved by shared experiences and outside influences. Stay open.

LEO (Jul 23-Aug 22): Accessible things will seem less interesting to you now because you crave challenge. Like a diver after pearls, you’ll plunge the depths to search for what is truly rare and beautiful.

VIRGO (Aug 23-Sep 22): You’ve a specific knowledge and expertise best understood by those in the same area of interest. Your ideas are good. The people around you aren’t necessarily qualified to judge.

LIBRA (Sep 23-Oct 23): Some of your reasons for doing what you do are mysterious even to you. That’s normal. The most helpful move in your relationship with yourself will be to exchange all judgment for acceptance.

SCORPIO (Oct 24-Nov 21): The old way of thinking won’t work for this new challenge. To see the way forward, you’ll need to move away from the ideas that are so comfortable to you. The next turn must be made in faith.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22-Dec 21): Some bring out the best in you by way of their support, friendship and love. Others spur you to new heights from a place of competition or opposition. Either way, you only get better.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 19): There are plenty of people around who, with the slightest provocation, will be forthcoming with help, advice and more. But this time, you’ll really get more interesting results by trying to figure it out on your own.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20-Feb 18): You will readily see how your mood impacts the moods of others. Since making yourself happy will help everyone, what are you waiting for? Do the thing that will bring smiles all around.

PISCES (Feb 19-Mar 20): You are seen in different ways. Sometimes, you can shape this, but today, it’s out of your control. Relax and be confident in your choices and it will all work out.

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ADULT

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GARAGE SALES

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HIRE

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Open Monday-Friday 7.00am – 5.30pm; Saturday 7.30am - 5pm; Sunday 8.30am12.30pm - Phone 308 8061. www.ashburtonuhire.co.nz

MOTORING

WHEEL alignments at great prices. Maximise the life of your tyres with an alignment from Neumanns Tyre Services Ltd, 197 Wills Street. Phone 308 6737.

WANTED RECORDS, DVD’s, CD’s, Large and Small Collections. Top Prices Paid. Phone or Text Neville 021946362.

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Complete Local Care Since 1982 We are the only Mid Canterbury funeral home providing local, caring and dignified cremations.

RENNIE, Dorothy Margaret (nee Tippet) –Died peacefully at Taieri Court Rest Home, Dunedin, on Monday, November 28, 2022, 2 days after her 94th birthday. Dearly loved and loving wife of the late Allan, most loved and treasured mother and mother-in-law of Lynne and Duncan Knowles (Hinds). Now at peace and reunited with Dad. A funeral for Mum will be held in Dunedin. Messages to 47 Reed Street, Hinds, RD 5, Ashburton.

FUNERAL FURNISHERS MASTER MONUMENTAL MASON E.B. CARTER LTD For all your memorial requirements New headstones and designs Renovations, Additional inscriptions, Cleaning and Concrete work Carried out by qualified tradesmen. 620 East Street Ashburton Ph/Fax 308 5369 or 0274 357 974 ebcarter@xtra.co.nz NZMMMA Member It starts with your gift … Or call 0800 53 00 00 to make your donation today Scan the QR code salvationarmy.org.nz/christmas Give Joy with a gift under the tree—and put a smile on someone’s face. Give Peace with a Positive Lifestyle Programme—and strengthen people’s mana. Give Hope with Financial Mentoring—and provide budgeting skills to help with debt. For some Kiwi whānau, increased costs of living will mean they won’t participate in Christmas festivities this year. But beyond the few days of celebration, they will continue to struggle. The effects of poverty are still prevalent after the Christmas tree is packed away and people return to everyday life. You can make the difference for them now and beyond with your gift. Please give a Gift of Hope today. Call the Guardian for all your classified requirements. 307 7900 Looking for a person to join your business? Level 2, 73 Burnett St, Ashburton | Members of I.B.A.N.Z & Brokernet NZ Ltd. Level 2, 73 Burnett St, Ashburton | Members of I.B.A.N.Z & Brokernet NZ Ltd. Level 2, 73 Burnett St, Ashburton | Members of I.B.A.N.Z & Brokernet NZ Ltd. Level 2, 73 Burnett St, Ashburton | Members of I.B.A.N.Z & Brokernet NZ Ltd. Level 2, 73 Burnett St, Ashburton | Members of I.B.A.N.Z & NZBrokers 73 Burnett St, Ashburton Level 2, 73 Burnett St, Ashburton | Members of I.B.A.N.Z & Brokernet NZ Ltd. Level 2, 73 Burnett St, Ashburton | Members of I.B.A.N.Z & Brokernet NZ Ltd. Level 2, 73 Burnett St, Ashburton | Members of I.B.A.N.Z & Brokernet NZ Ltd. Level 2, 73 Burnett St, Ashburton | Members of I.B.A.N.Z & Brokernet NZ Ltd. Level 2, 73 Burnett St, Ashburton | Members of I.B.A.N.Z & NZBrokers Call David Rush today on 03 307 1990 for expert advice and a free no obligation risk assessment. For just $10* Book your birthday greeting, including a photo, for just $10! Ten words only* (Under 12 children’s birthday greetings remain FREE) ASHBURTON Phone 03 307 7900 Email classifieds@theguardian.co.nz Guardian Your opportunity to tell Mid Canterbury of your next event or meeting Daily Events is a FREE DAILY LISTING of MID CANTERBURY EVENTS to be held in the immediate future by non-commercial organisations. To arrange for events to be published in Daily Events, clip this form, fill in the applicable details and hand in to our LEVEL 3 office on Burnett Street or post to: Ashburton Guardian, P.O. Box 77, Ashburton 7740, 5 (five) working days prior to the first publication. CONDITIONS: 1. Telephoned information NOT accepted. 2. Forms MUST be signed by an authorised representative of the organisation concerned. 3. A separate form MUST be submitted for each future event and may be lodged with the Guardian as far in advance as desired. For example: A club which meets monthly may submit, say, 12 separate forms simultaneously – one pertaining to each meeting scheduled over the following 12 months. 4. The organisation acknowledges that no responsibility for errors or omissions will be accepted by the Guardian Company. Family notices are important to everyone and among the most well-read aspects of our newspaper. If you would like a family notice published, be that for a death, a memorial, or an acknowledgment, then please note the following: Email all notices (not just for deaths) to: deathnotices@theguardian.co.nz Information required: Please provide your full name and phone contact details. How to send family notices Buying or selling a vehicle? Call the Guardian today for your motoring advertising requirements. 307 7900

Thursday

Mountain weather hazard: Wind Chill.

Mainly fine, but areas of cloud and rain in the early morning and again late evening.

Wind at 1000m: SW 30 km/h, rising to W 45 km/h in the afternoon.

A broad trough and fronts gradually clear away to the east of the country during the day, followed by a cool, showery southwest flow. Another weakening front moves onto southern New Zealand late this morning, embedded in the southwest flow. The southwest flow remains over New Zealand through Sunday as a high pressure system lies over the Tasman Sea.

16.3 11.8 –

Wind at 2000m: SW 45 km/h.

Freezing level: 2200m.

Friday

Mountain weather hazard: Wind Chill.

Scattered rain, with sleet possible to 1500m.

Wind at 1000m: SW 30 km/h, turning light SE by afternoon.

Wind at 2000m: SW 30 km/h, turning light SE by afternoon.

NIWA

S 41 2:12pm

19.6 12.7 8.3 116.4 0.0 7.6 220.8

SE 39 2:27pm Tue

H 11:10am 11:38pm L 4:46am 5:27pm

H 10:55am 11:23pm L 4:34am 5:14pm

4:30am 5:11pm

12:09pm 5:47am 6:25pm

11:52am 5:34am 6:11pm

11:53am 5:31am 6:09pm

W 37 12:14pm SUN PROTECTION ALERT Data provided by

12:34am 1:05pm 6:46am 7:18pm

12:19am 12:49pm 6:33am 7:05pm

12:18am 12:49pm 6:30am 7:02pm

5:44am 9:00pm 5:44am 9:01pm 5:43am 9:02pm

1:20pm 2:33am 2:32pm 2:56am 3:42pm 3:17am

16.2 9.9 –86.4 4.0 ––PROTECTION REQUIRED Even on cloudy days – 9:10 5:30 ampm

FinalWhistle

calling time on a week of sport

All Black on the run

Former All Black, Dennis Cameron was in town last weekend as part of the Borough School 150th celebrations and took time to catch up with fellow old boy John Driscoll to reminisce about his times wearing the silver fern.

FULL STORY: P17