2 February 2022 The Blenheim Sun by The Blenheim Sun

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Blenheim Marlborough

February 2, 2022

Sun Weather

Today 20-25

Thursday 18-25

Friday 14-23

for Today Saturday 12-19 Outlook Partly cloudy, with rain.

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Marlborough’s world leadership in the wine industry has come to the fore again – but this time not in a bottle. Instead, it is a locally-designed and built driverless ‘smart’ machine that performs several tasks including canopy spraying, mulching, mowing, trimming and leaf defoliation. The Blenheim-based project, three years in the pipeline, will be used for orchards as well as vineyards. Continued on page 2. Smart Machine founders Nicholas Gledhill, Walter Langlois and Andrew Kersley.

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The Sun

Wednesday February 2, 2022

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Oxin ‘Smart’ machine to transform viticulture with STIHL

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Continued from page 1. Local innovator, Walter Langlois, along with Nicholas Gledhill and Andrew Kersley are the founders of The Smart Machine Company that created the Oxin machine which they believe is set to transform the local viticulture sector and have international appeal. The Government is contributing $622,360 through the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) Sustainable Food and Fibreglass Fund to help develop additional functionality for the tractor. The Burleigh based, Smart Machine Company, is taking the lead and contributing an additional $945,520. The outcomes of the project should see Oxin lower carbon emissions through the exploration of electrification and provide additional sustainability benefits such as improved canopy spray technology to reduce spray drift and improved soil health through reduced compaction. So what exactly is an Oxin? Smart Machine Chief Executive Officer Andrew Kersley says, Oxin are advanced autonomous machines with smart technology implements for doing mechanised tasks on vineyards and orchards. He says the machines allow growers to better utilise the labour they have available while improving efficiency, safety and sustainability of their operations. “They drive around on pre-

planned missions by themselves with sensors to understand where they are spatially. They monitor the environment they are working in and make decisions around * stopping for obstacles and the operations that need to be done.” Andrew says the end goal is to develop a fully electric version of the machines. “While we want to go fully electric, we need to be sure it will be fit for purpose. Battery technology needs to improve to allow us to continue to work for extended periods of time and undertake all of the tasks the Oxin is capable * of. We also need to consider infrastructure,” he says. Some orchard tractors run 20 hours a day, seven days a week, so if growers have a fleet that needs frequent recharging that might not be practical.” Smart Machine is working on a diesel hydraulic system with some electrical components with the view to converting to full electricity in the future. * Andrew says Oxin is a commercially viable product for vineyards and orchards. The next 12 – 24 months is about developing the Oxin’s canopy spray capability. He says it’s the one big piece of the puzzle which is missing, especially for application in the apple orchard space. It will also be a fundamental part of future export opportunities.

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Nick Gledhill, co-founder of the smart machine at Pernod Ricard Winery.

“The Australian and US markets for growing grapes, they don’t do things exactly like we do. The one similar piece of the puzzle they are heavily reliant on is the canopy spraying. It’s crucial that the next step is to get that functionality right and working,” says Andrew. He says discussions with local growers throughout the Marlborough region have been favourable with a huge amount of interest and support. The relationship between Andrew,

Nick and Walter began 10 years ago. Both Andrew and Nick had a mechanical design business with Walter, one of their original clients. “He reached out to us. Over the years we have worked on a number of projects together in exciting areas. He (Walter) realised the Oxin project was too big to pursue himself and he realised he needed some additional skill sets.” The project has plans to take the initiative to Motueka and Hawke’s Bay next year.

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The Sun

Wednesday February 2, 2022

Serious local Covid cases to be transferred Covid patients at Wairau Hospital who start to deteriorate and who need to be ventilated will be transferred to Nelson or Wellington hospitals. Dr Nick Baker, of Nelson Marlborough Health, said while there was some high dependency care available in Wairau Hospital, Covid-19 patients who required ventilation would be transferred to Nelson or Wellington. “If they come into hospital, and they’re deteriorating, and they look like they will need to be ventilated, it’s easier and safer to move them before they get desperately ill,” said Dr Baker. “We have a preference for Nelson, because it’s easier access for family.” Covid-19 patients would be cared for in the hospital’s negative pressure rooms, which controlled airborne contaminants, such as bacteria and viruses, and restricted contaminated air from circulating. Wairau Hospital has four negative pressure rooms and five ventilators ‘ready to go’ across the hospital and Emergency and High Dependency units. Modelling suggests at its peak Nelson Marlborough can expect between 200 and 700 Omicron cases a day. Dr Baker said while the variant was leading to fewer hospitalisations, this could require the use of between 15 and 30 hospital beds for Covid-19 patients across the region at the peak of the outbreak. He said all modelling at the moment, indicated a peak by late March, or in April. “Typically Omicron peaks five to 12 weeks after it starts,” he said.

inbrief

The Sun

Fatal crash at Koromiko A person died following the serious crash on State Highway 1 at Koromiko, on Monday night. The single vehicle crash was reported shortly before 9pm. One lane of the highway was still closed on Tuesday morning as police continued a scene examination.

Suspicious activity An observant farmer in the upper Awatere Valley has reported suspicious behaviour by the occupants of a vehicle recently. The dark coloured Holden V8 sedan possibly green or black - was seen in the area around 1.30am and 2.30am Saturday 29th January 2022 near the ‘Jordan’ on the Awatere Valley Road. The male driver had a shaved head. Sergeant Michael Porter of the Blenheim Crime Prevention Unit urged people to follow the farmer’s example and let police know about the suspicious movements of vehicles by ringing 111 immediately.

Wither Hills fire danger

Wairau Hospital is ‘ready to go’ with ventilators and negative pressure rooms.

Users of Wither Hills Farm Park are being asked to be particularly careful due to the high fire risk as the dry, hot weather continues in Marlborough for the next few days. Marlborough District Council’s Parks and Open Spaces Manager, Jane Tito, says although all of the farm park’s tracks remain open, the current high fire risk means walkers, runners and mountain bikers are advised to exercise in the morning before 10.00 am when the fire risk is lower and stick to the lower tracks if it’s windy. “Council will continue to monitor the fire indices on a daily basis. If the hot days with drying winds continue and the indices reach critical levels Council will have no option but to close the Farm Park’s Upper/Valley tracks and the mountain bike park,” she said.

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The Sun

Wednesday February 2, 2022

Obituary

Edwin (Ted) Swain 21.03.1931-22.01.2022 The Renwick Volunteer Fire Brigade last week marked the end of an era with the death of Ted Swain. Ted was a former president of the fire service’s Nelson Marlborough Gold Star Association, and a life member, and the last of the foundation members, of the Renwick Volunteer Fire Brigade. His 35 years of dedication to the fire service began when the township was growing and the local general store was razed by fire on the night of November 19, 1956. Until then, volunteers had fought fires using the Marlborough County Council’s tanker and sprayer, and often wet sacks and green branches. Later on the council bought 50 knapsacks, but none of these were adequate for the blaze they faced that night. Following a public meeting a week or two later, Ted was one of the 26 volunteers who stepped up to put things on a more formal basis. A joiner by trade, he took a lead in the building of the young brigade’s first station, The Old Tin Shed, on the site of what is now the skateboard park in Uxbridge Street. A no-nonsense character with a strong sense of community commitment, Ted was well known for “calling it like it is”. “But he lived for the brigade,” says son John, adding however, that his focus and skills were also put to work in the establishment of the Scout and Cub Den which was built on Gee Street, Renwick and he was also a mainstay of the Renwick Rugby Club, of which he was a life member.

And he recalls a little-known story of Ted’s heroism during flooding on the Northbank Road, with the Wairau in full flood from bank to bank. Ted, his wife Margaret and his two sons were in the truck when he suddenly saw a car, a huge De Soto with a family of five, go over the bank. It landed upside down in the fast flowing water, with mud and slurry holding the doors firmly shut. “Only a foot or so of it was showing,” says John, adding that Ted didn’t hesitate. “He plunged into the water, and got his fingers under that huge heavy door. He just prised it open and off its hinges to get the family out.” John remembers nothing else. “When the young girl was brought out covered in blood, I fainted.” The rescue was never officially recorded or marked in any way, but, says John, that was how his father was. “It was never mentioned again. But he saved that family’s lives.” After Ted’s funeral service at the Mayfield Chapel in Blenheim on Wednesday January 26, he was accorded the rare honour of a guard of honour at the fire station in Renwick. As the hearse approached the siren sounded loud and long, then past and present brigade members spaced out and stood to attention as it paused to take Ted on his last journey. Ted is survived by his wife of nearly 69 years Margaret, sons Peter and John and daughter Roseanne Armstrong, as well as his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Ted Swain ‘lived’ for the Renwick Fire Brigade and his family.

An honour guard of present and former members of the Renwick Volunteer Fire Brigade stood to attention last Wednesday as the hearse waited for the station's siren to sound in respect for the decades of service given by founding member Ted Swain.

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The Sun

Wednesday February 2, 2022

reDwOOD Chris Valli will profile the nine principal leads in Blenheim Musical Theatre’s production of Les Misérables in May 2022. This week is Blenheim Doctor Sara Bishell. To fit a musical theatre show such as Les Misérables into life there has to be a payoff. In the case of Sara Bishell, auditioning and being cast in the role of Fantine is unquestionably a family package deal where everyone had to be on board. “I couldn’t do this without them. I wanted to have things set up in case I was successful and we had a discussion as a family. I have an amazing husband who is a great supporter and parents locally. While my Dad (Colin) ordinarily would be backstage as stage manager he took the hit and decided he’d be chief helper for the kids. It has to be worth the sacrifice.” Sara has loved Les Misérables since she was a kid and used to listen to the double CD soundtrack on car trips all the time. “My parents were into musicals and when they did it here in 1995 I had some friends in it who were the younger children in the ensemble. “If I didn’t audition, in 20 years’ time I would have kicked myself for not giving it a go.” Sara says having played strong, dominant lead roles before (Tania in Mamma Mia in 2016, Svetlana in Chess, 2014 and Velma Kelly in Chicago, 2007) the role of Fantine comes with several layers and complexities. “She is an amazing woman who just gives everything for her child (Cosette). Time after time she gets knocked back. The more I delve into the lyrics and the individual characterisation, there is that soft, maternal side to her, trying to be the best she can be and it just doesn’t work out.” Sara says she has struggled herself emotionally when Fantine dies during the rehearsal process. “Purposefully, the way that it is being por-

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trayed is quite emotive and the first points in the show where the audience will experience the misery that Les Mis is or can be.” Last August, Sara was part of a team of general practitioners who opened up Manu Ora, in Howick Road, a charitable trust which provides low cost care to people who needed it with a focus on improving equity for Maori patients in Marlborough. “We wanted to provide care that is holistic, looking at all aspects of hauora or well-being. Our aim is to make sure where our staff really felt valued and got a great deal of satisfaction out of work. Part of that is making sure people are acknowledged as a whole, rather than just workers. Doing Les Misérables the team is like, yay, we’ll come along!” Indeed, it seems musical theatre is just the ticket for Sara Bishell and her hauora.

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The Sun

Wednesday February 2, 2022

Not so sunny Blenheim Marlborough may have to find a new slogan for marketing of the district. Signs approaching the city have, for some years, been marketing the region as “New Zealand’s sunniest place.” Blenheim has only been the sunniest place in New Zealand once since 2000. Figures from the Marlborough Research Centre of Plant & Food show Blenheim was only 10th in sunshine hours for January. Blenheim had just 313 hours compared to New Plymouth’s 359.1 hours. Richmond had 344.9 hours (2nd highest) and Appleby 334.5. Nelson snuck ahead of Blenheim with 317.5 hours. Plant & Food Research said that while Blenheim experienced a very sunny January, so did all the other towns that are normally in the running for sunniest town. Blenheim’s January total was only in 10th place. New Plymouth looks like it wants to keep the sunniest town title it earned in 2021, as it recorded an extremely high sunshine total in January 2022. It said to put the New Plymouth’s January sunshine total of 359.1 hours into perspective, Blenheim’s highest ever monthly total from 1930 to 2022 is 335.3 hours recorded in January 1957; i.e. New Plymouth exceeded that total by 23.8 hours. January 2022 rainfall was markedly below average with 12.6 mm with the mean air temperature of 18.3 0c. The highest maximum temperature was on Wednesday, January 19 with 310c. Plant & Food said: “Most people would probably think that temperatures in January were warmer than they actually were. If January’s temperatures were not out of the ordinary, why did January seem like a great summer month? The lack of consistently hot days was made up for by high sunshine hours and low rainfall. The weather was great for getting outdoors while on holiday.”

Chinese New Year Celebration in full colour By Chris Valli

A celebration of Chinese culture took place at St Christopher’s Anglican Church over the weekend. The Blenheim Chinese community were in full voice and colour for the Chinese New Year with a number of local families participating. 2022 is the year of the Water Tiger. The Water Tiger is known as the king of all beasts in China. The zodiac sign of a tiger symbols strength and braveness. Blenheim Chinese Association spokesperson Mandy Li says as they couldn’t celebrate together physically, many families prepared a wish card and greeted each other via digital devices. “We also recorded some children’s performances and it will be shared online on Monday night to add some joy and fun to celebrate.” Mandy says many local Chinese celebrate the Chinese New Year by children wearing hats or shoes with a tiger image for good luck. She says the ongoing support from the Blenheim community has been invaluable to maintain and lift the profile of the Chinese Association here in Blenheim. “We have had great support from the Multicultural Centre, the Red Cross, Duncan Mackenzie from the library, Anshul Gupata from Ray White and Luke Katu from the Ministry of Social Development.

Members of the Blenheim Chinese Association in full colour at the Chinese New Year Celbreations at the weekend. 2022 is the Year of the Water Tiger.

The Chinese Zodiac system originated 2000 years ago, it is a system of understanding the cosmos and the interaction with the elements on earth. The Chinese New Year is associated with several myths and customs. One such custom is the decoration of windows and doors with red paper cuts and couplets (lines of poetry). Popular themes among these pa-

per-cuts and couplets include good fortune or happiness, wealth and longevity. Other activities include lighting firecrackers and giving money in red envelopes. Eight year old Petra Valli was surprised to be presented with a red envelope after attending the celebration. “How cool is that? That was really lovely of them and a nice surprise.”

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The Sun

Wednesday February 2, 2022

He korero no te Kaunihera o Wairau NEWS FROM THE MARLBOROUGH DISTRICT COUNCIL

Wither Hills Farm Park users urged to be aware of fire risk Despite some rain forecast over the next week, the hot weather is set to continue in Marlborough and Council is asking people to take care when using the Wither Hills Farm Park. Council’s Parks and Open Spaces Manager, Jane Tito, says although all of the farm park’s tracks remain open the current high fire risk means walkers, runners and mountain bikers are advised to exercise in the morning before 10.00 am when the fire risk is lower and stick to the lower tracks if it’s windy. “Given the mixture of dry fuels, elevated fire danger and slope, if a fire does start it has the potential to spread very quickly, placing park users at risk,” Ms Tito said. “We know many in our community enjoy walking, running and mountain biking on the Wither Hills for their physical health and well-being, but when the hills are so dry we need to consider the fire risk to those using the farm park.” “Council will continue to monitor the fire indices on a daily basis. If the hot days with drying winds continue and the indices reach critical levels Council

Library art gallery progress You may have noticed the progress of the new library and art gallery building in Blenheim’s central business district. The plywood roof covering and membrane is nearly complete and the roof iron is 70 percent installed. Robinson Construction has also been progressing the guttering and the external framing on the ground floor.

The glazing has started to arrive and Alutech has started installation of the first floor sky light and seismic window framing to the ground floor. Electricians are also onsite and busily installing the new service cable trays throughout the building. The new facilities are expected to open in early 2023.

will have no option but to close the Farm Park’s Upper/Valley tracks and the mountain bike park,” she said. But for now, if you’re planning on going up the Wither Hills make sure you heed the information on ‘The Burning Day’ signs at the park entrances. Please also remember that smoking is not permitted in the farm park.

Give our street trees a drink Marlborough’s summer can make life hard for our street trees. While watering of younger trees is carried out regularly by contractors the trees also appreciate a helping hand from residents over the hot summer months. Please keep an eye on the tree outside your place - if it’s looking dry then feel free to give it a drink with a hand-held hose or a watering can, either early in the morning or in the evening. Using recycled water from the bath or sink is a good idea.

You can help care for our street trees by: • Keeping lawn mowers and grass clippings away from the trunk to prevent bark damage • Not spraying, but weeding around the base of the tree • Not parking over the tree’s roots • Reporting any vandalism or wind damage to Council The Council plants smaller, drought tolerant street trees, maintained by professional arborists who are responsible for their care. Please contact the Council on Ph: 03 520 7400 if you notice a problem with a street tree.

Council services on Waitangi Day holiday - Monday 7 February Marlborough District Council Blenheim Office Monday 7 February - closed. Marlborough District Library (Blenheim) and Picton Library and Service Centre Monday 7 February - closed. Refuse, recycling and kerbside collections Kerbside refuse and recycling collection due for pick up on Monday 7 February will be collected on Tuesday 8 February. The Resource Recovery Centre, Re-use Centre and Waste Sorting Centre will be open from 8.00 am until 4.30 pm. The landfill will be open between 8.00 am and midday only. The Picton and Havelock transfer stations will be open as per a normal weekday from 8.00 am until 4.00 pm.

Rai Valley Transfer Station will be open from 9.00 am until midday. Transfer stations in Seddon and Wairau Valley will be closed. Bus Service The bus services will not run on Monday 7 February.

www.marlborough.govt.nz

Sport and arts funds open for applications Are you part of a rural sports club or team or involved in the arts? If so, now’s the time to get your application in for funding through the Sport NZ Rural Travel Fund or the Creative Communities Scheme Local Arts Fund. The Sport NZ Rural Travel Fund aims to encourage youth (5 to 18 years) in rural areas to participate in local sports competitions. Community Partnerships Advisor Jodie Griffiths said the funding is available to rural sport clubs and rural school teams with young people who need help to fund their transport costs to local competitions in Marlborough. The application period for the Sport NZ Rural Travel Fund closes at 5.00 pm on Friday 4 March. For more information or to apply visit: www. marlborough.govt.nz/ourcommunity/grants-and-awards/sportnz-rural-travel-fund “The Creative Communities Scheme Local Arts Fund aims to increase access and participation in local arts activities,” Mrs Griffiths said. “Individuals or groups can apply to this fund for support for materials for arts activities or programmes, venue or equipment hire, personnel and administrative costs for short-term projects, and promotion and publicity of arts activities.” “Over the past two years Covid-19

Street Address: Phone: 03 520 7400 15 Seymour Street Fax: 03 520 7496 Email: mdc@marlborough.govt.nz Blenheim 7201 New Zealand

has had a huge impact on the arts sector. We really encourage anyone involved in arts activities and projects to put forward an application and we’re happy to discuss any ideas with groups or individuals prior to them submitting to the fund,” she said. Applications for the Creative Communities Scheme Local Arts Fund close at 5.00 pm on Friday 4 March. For more information, or to apply visit: www.marlborough. govt.nz/our-community/grantsand-awards/marlborough-creativecommunities-scheme For further information about the Sport NZ Rural Travel Fund or the Creative Communities Scheme Local Arts Fund please contact Jodie Griffiths, Community Partnerships Advisor, on Ph: 03 520 7400 or email: jodie.griffiths@marlborough.govt.nz

The Sun

Wednesday February 2, 2022

Sun readers have their say... with the WORD on the Street.

Q: What are your plans for Waitangi Day/weekend?

Tim Duncan Renwick Popping over to Nelson for the day. Usually go over at Christmas but that didn’t happen this year.

Pam Landon-Lane Nelson I’ll be working. I’m a taxi driver so I’m lucky to have a job.

Dean Heiford Blenheim Having a quiet weekend at home with the family, but if could travel a long weekend in Australia would be nice.

Brendan Sekemuna Blenheim I’m planning on going fishing, depending on the weather – here’s hoping.

Astra Dollimore Blenheim There’s not too much to do these days. It’s not really enjoyable going out wearing a mask - and it’s hot.

Angela Jones Blenheim Will probably stay at home, safer than being on the roads. There are too many idiots on them.

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Dear Ed The High Court Judgment on December 23, 2021 found against Marlborough District Council’s Responsible Camping 2020 Bylaw noting that MDC made late changes to the draft bylaw and failed to carry out any consultation in this regard. Furthermore, the Court noted that the late change made by MDC to the bylaw

prohibiting freedom camping across Marlborough, except for five freedom campsites, was illegal as it did not comply with the Freedom Camping Act. The High Court awarded costs against MDC. MDC hurriedly redrafted the Responsible Camping Bylaw before receiving the judgement and is currently consulting on the 2022 draft bylaw with the

public. However, the redrafted bylaw still contains the illegal blanket provision to prohibit freedom camping across the district which was struck out by the Court! This leaves MDC wide open to further legal action against them, no doubt costing rate payers many tens of thousands more dollars for a case they cannot win.

With a Red Traffic Light, it’s time to apply the brakes Dear Ed Modern life rarely feels peaceful or relaxed. There are always all these pressures on us; perhaps anxiety from watching the news, worry about the climate, our mortgage or rent hikes, job security and now this. COVID has finally made it to New Zealand in a form that

we cannot stop. The barriers that gave us a couple of years to prepare are beginning to crumble and we move from stopping the disease to slowing it’s spread. Hopefully in order to give healthcare workers a chance to stop it killing us in droves. So this is my advice, take a

deep breath, make yourself a nice cuppa and take advantage of that big brain evolution gave you to have a think about the next step. Reach out to your network of friends and family for advice and support and spare a little thought for what happens next. Whether you agree with our

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The Sun

Wednesday February 2, 2022

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Wednesday February 2, 2022

The Sun

Paula’s road of discovery This Friday, February 4 is World Cancer Day. Blenheim woman Paula Olliver was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019. She tells Chris Valli about her own journey to wellness and the importance of family and support along the way.

Paula Olliver feels like she is back and herself again. It’s been a road of discovery for the 46 year old after she discovered a lump in her breast just before Easter in 2019. After feeling the fittest and healthiest in years it came as a complete surprise. “I had recently won the Marlborough Women’s triathlon and had just completed my first half Ironman in which I had qualified to represent New Zealand at the worlds in France for my age group, so it came out of the blue.” Paula came across the lump in the shower and admits to not being a regular self-checker. “I’m not sure what made me check that day but I’d been feeling very tired which I associated with overtraining and I think that led me to check. Anyway I felt a lump, a very small hard pea type lump. At the time I thought that’s unusual but don’t panic.” A word of encouragement from her husband Richard advised her to get it checked out. The initial conversation with the Doctor suggested it was just a non-malignant cyst. Subsequent testing followed with a mammogram, ultrasound and biopsy from the radiographer. “I had to wait for what seemed like forever to get a response and it was quite an unsettling period, knowing that you have a lump in your breast that may or may not be cancer.” Like most people who get the diagnosis that they have the BIG C, the wait and news would change Paula’s life overnight. A week later, a phone call on the Friday asking Paula to come in and see the Doctor sent alarm bells. “It was Friday about 2pm and the nurse called to say they had my results. My stomach did a wee somersault. Friday is a busy day in a doctor’s surgery.” Paula says the diagnosis was confronting. What transpired was an emotional journey. Initially she found one of the hardest things was keeping up appearances and not breaking down in front of her two daughters, Kate and Sarah. “We had decided not to tell them until we knew what we were dealing with. Thankfully my lump was small and contained so I didn’t need chemotherapy and a lumpectomy (removal of a discrete portion of breast tissue) was recommended.” The first part of comprehending the reality of cancer was the impact on her mental health. Two years on, she freely admits to being depressed. It was a time where her own te whare tapa wha (four dimensions of well-being) was

pushed to the limit. It certainly didn’t help that she had to wait nearly two months for treatment to finally begin, the longest period Paula says, of her life. Like anything in life, support and collaboration is paramount to achieving outcomes. In the case of supporting cancer patients, the team at Margaret Stewart House, a Newtown, Wellington based Blood and Cancer centre was just the tonic for Paula talking and listening to other people going through similar experiences. “It was there that I started to understand the power of support. I received my first ever tattoos - little spots to mark where the radiation beams should point. The hardest part was being away from the kids. I opted to fly back each weekend and see them, which was good for all of us.” It was during this time Paula was at her lowest ebb. After her radiation treatment she was advised to start the recommended anti-cancer drugs, which went against her own preferred natural alternative(s). As a result, the drugs put her system into early menopause. “The drugs for whatever reason played havoc with my system and I really struggled. I couldn’t sleep and had mood swings like I haven’t experienced. It culminated in me in tears at an oncologist appointment with my Mum and husband as support.” Paula is thankful for the amazing support she has received from The Cancer Society in Marlborough and in some ways is giving back by helping set up a Breast Cancer support group. “Gina Saunders, Felicity Spencer and Murray Eyles deserve special mention. Their drive and passion has helped make it happen.” The fear of cancer returning is forever present for Paula and she says it is one that is taking a while to come to terms with. However, she says going through what she has endured including depression was the start of her pathway back to health. “Antidepressants and a great mindfulness course run up at the hospital were game changers for me. I am now off the medication and with the help of mindfulness; the black dog is at bay.” So what now? “My short term goals are to maintain and establish the support group and the women’s cancer exercise group in Marlborough. Long term, I would like to run some fundraisers to get better imaging technology for breast cancer.”

Kate, Dino Sarah and Paula Olliver: “The hardest part was being away from the kids. I opted to fly back each weekend and see them, which was good for all of us.”

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The Sun

Wednesday February 2, 2022

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The Sun

12 Wednesday February 2, 2022

New craft boosts Sounds safety By Glenise Dreaver

Coastguard Marlborough was finally able to take its new support craft out on the water for their first training run recently. The 9.5 metre Rayglass Protector, with its two 225hp Mercury outboards, is a huge step up from the 6.8 metre two-seater Naiad that’s been their support boat until now. The local Coastguard was one of 12 units nationwide which, three years ago, made successful applications to receive the support craft designed for the last America’s Cup. Now adapted for its new role, and with the group “very happy” with the initial sea trials, Dave St John, vice president of Coastguard Marlborough, says the boat is expected to be officially commissioned this week. “And instead of paying $400,000, we only had to find $40,000,” he said.

Gawith Burridge would like to welcome back

Rebecca (Bex) Dewes Bex initially started with us in 2005 as a legal secretary before qualifying as a legal executive. In 2015, she relocated to Blenheim, where she currently resides. She now practices as a Registered Legal Executive and re-joined us remotely in January 2022. Bex enjoys the challenge of a variety of property and commercial work and will be involved in residential, rural and commercial transactions. She also has a background in trusts, wills and estate administration and will be available to assist our Estate Administration and Elder Law Team from time to time. Bex’s strength is her “can do, will do, resolution orientated” attitude making sure the process for clients is as stress-free as possible. ‘I am very excited to bring a bit of Gawith Burridge to Blenheim, and to help you with your legal needs’.

Contact Bex today rmd@gawith.co.nz 06 3700869 DDI 06 378 2847 Fax

That will be raised with the sale of the previous, aging, support boat which says Dave, means they effectively have the cost covered. The new boat will free up the local medical ambulance, the only one in New Zealand, if there is more than one big job at a time, a situation that, Dave says, occurs on a regular basis. Its main functions, as well as rescues, will be training and as a safety craft for on water events. The new craft will carry four crew including the Skipper, as against the two in the older Naiad, and the seats, built to allow for higher speeds and rougher water than its predecessor, can be adapted to carry a stretcher if necessary. With the ever increasing amount of callouts the new vessels arrival is a “welcome and needed addition to the unit,” says Dave.

Ready for a familiarisation session. Coastguard Marlborough crew members were, last Wednesday evening ready for their first trip on the water in their new support boat. From left they are Dave St John, John Aitkin, Jessica Cameron, Hans Rector and Shari Merritt.

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Breast cancer awareness

Marlborough young winemaker, Jess Wilson from Whitehaven Wines, came second at New Zealand Young Viticulturist of the year. She also won $1000 for the best report and presentation on a research report entitled “Assess various pruning options during a labour shortage”, addressing one of the real challenges currently facing the wine industry.

Women in the Marlborough region can ‘hop on board’ Breast Cancer Foundation NZ’s iconic pink caravan, ‘Pinkie’, next week, where specialist breast nurses will be available to chat about breast health. Pinkie will be at the following sites between 9am-2:30pm each day: • Fresh Choice Picton on Tuesday 8

Snap! Mousetrap closed The Boathouse Theatre’s planned production of The Mousetrap has been sprung by Covid. With Omicron looming the Boathouse Theatre is not able to go ahead and although there was an option of presenting at a later date the rights are no longer available as an Australasian tour is planned for later

in the year. The Mousetrap, a murder mystery play by Agatha Christie, opened in London in 1952 and played continuously until Covid closed theatres in 2021. The late Duncan Whiting was to have directed this play as the final production for 2021.However Covid delayed this until 2022. The produc-

tion was to be dedicated to Duncan. A spokesperson said the

Sun Business Update

OmegaFlex – Flexi-Breathe Syrup As we enjoy the warmer weather of Marlborough’s summer it is timely to take stock of our well-being as we head toward winter and the colder months. OmegaFlex New Zealand, based here in Marlborough, has developed a range of products that offer gentle and natural options to improve the lives of people and pets, produced from the highest quality, sustainable New Zealand sources. There have been several scientific studies demonstrating the benefits of Green Lipped Mussel (GLM) extract for people and pets who suffer from a variety of inflammation-based ailments. GLM oil and pow-

February • PAK’nSAVE Blenheim on Wednesday 9 February • Countdown Redwoodtown on Thursday 10 February About 120 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in the Nelson Marlborough DHB area every year, and around 20 will die from it.

der of the highest quality is used in Omegaflex products and this is extracted locally from mussels harvested in the Marlborough Sounds. In addition to a range of established products for people and pets OmegaFlex New Zealand has developed Flexi-Breathe, an effective and natural syrup for the whole family that contains Ginger, Lemon, Manuka Honey and GLM oil to support long-term chest and lung health. Keith Bowhill, OmegaFlex NZ director says the product is ideal for people who suffer from asthma and hay fever. “Flexi-Breathe is very soothing and calms the throat, reducing coughing and allows people to ulti-

Boathouse will find ‘something’ exciting in the future to make up for it. NZ 10 O 0% W NE D

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mately get a better night’s sleep. Although not a cure, Flexi-Breathe provides significant relief for those who have suffered far too long.” Omegaflex Flexi-Breathe is now readily available through local pharmacies in Havelock, Poswillo’s Phar-

macy, Francis Street, Blenheim and Picton Healthcare Pharmacy. Or you can order direct from www.omegaflex. co.nz where the full range of products can be viewed. Use the code SUN at checkout for free delivery. Grab yours today.

Soothes dry, tickly airways. Soothes and calms the throat. Promotes healthy breathing for a good night’s sleep. A tasty liquid form of GLM that can be consumed in conjunction with our Supernol GLM capsules to assist with natural support for chest and lung health.

Order yours NOW at www.omegaflex.co.nz

The Sun

Wednesday February 2, 2022

EDUCATION Stay close and study local Have you received your NCEA results, want to upskill in your current employment, consider a complete career change, or simply wondering what to do next? NMIT Marlborough has over 25 programmes available, with many designed for local industry to address regional skill shortages. We offer flexible part-time, online or blended study options. These include study and career preparation programmes to ready you for a Bachelor in Nursing qualification, an array of business qualifications or practical trade-based and aviation engineering programmes. You can even get a taste of what it’s like to be at the centre of wine education at NMIT, whether you are preparing for your first vintage season or ready to go to the next level. NMIT students regularly connect with local businesses, researchers, industry experts and potential employers. Enabling us to offer students work placements and apprenticeships throughout their studies. You might even be able to reduce your study costs or gain tools for success with easy to apply for scholarships. There has never been a better time to live, learn and earn in the region you love.

Study FREE at NMIT Apply for free study with the Targeted Training and Apprenticeship Fund, and gain a qualification in the growth industries of Te Tauihu.

Programmes in these areas start soon: > Aquaculture

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Marlborough Lines, into a structured programme which will run once a yea from March through to August. Most of the activities will be between 2-6 ho un otherSweekend in duration on either a Saturday or Sunday morning, every The

14 Wednesday February 2, 2022

EDUCATION The Marlborough Lines Young Eagles Whether you are interested in aviation as a career or just for fun, the Marlborough Lines Young Eagles at the Marlborough Aero Club could be a starting point to your lifelong aviation career. We are transforming the Young Eagles with support from major sponsor Marlborough Lines, into a structured programme which will run once a year from March through to August. Most of the activities will be between 2-6 hours in duration on either a Saturday or Sunday morning, every other weekend. As a Young Eagles programme

member, you will get the opportunity to experience flying for yourself, to take the controls and experience how an aircraft works with a qualified Marlborough Aero Club flight instructor. Successful applicants will receive 4 half hour flying lessons, a trip to Nelson Aviation College IFR training centre to fly the Boeing 737 simulator, a fly away for lunch and a visit to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. Participants will also gain the study material and opportunity to sit their radiotelephony exam, the first exam required to gain their private

pilot license. Applicants must be between the ages of 13-18 years old. We will select up to 12 students to participate in the programme. Following a successful application a sign up fee of $300 applies. This fee we would ideally like to be raised through the candidates own initiative. At the end of the programme a Sounds Air scholarship worth over $2000 will be awarded to a candidate who demonstrates promise, effort and attitude to be put towards further flight training at Marlborough Aero Club.

The Marlborough Lines Young Eagles at the Marlborough Aero Club.

Scots College, Wellington Located in Wellington a short distance from the airport and CBD Scots College offers onsite boarding in their family-orientated boarding house for five and seven day boarders, ensuring students feel safe, happy, healthy and motivated.

Scots College is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School with a focus on guiding students to contribute as global citizens who think creatively, reason critically, communicate effectively and develop the necessary skills to learn for life. Innovative and

project-based learning are embedded through the curriculum from Year 7 to 13, equipping students with the necessary knowledge and soft skills essential for their future in a rapidly evolving world. Focus is on building all-round character at Scots, students are en-

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couraged to realise their potential through the many opportunities available across academics, sporting, cultural and service. Students are supported through a robust pastoral care programme both at school and within boarding life. Join Scots College Principals,

Boarding staff and members of the College’s community while visiting Blenheim at a Boarding Information Evening at 6pm Monday 21 March at Spy Valley Wines. Find out more and register to attend at www.scotscollege. school.nz.

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Information evening in Blenheim Monday 21 March. Find out more at scotscollege.school.nz

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Information evening in Blenheim Monday 21 March. Find out more at scotscollege.school.nz

The Sun

Wednesday February 2, 2022

EDUCATION Attending school every day matters Regularly attending school really matters, right from the first days at primary school to the end of secondary school. Importance of attendance Children and young people need every opportunity to learn and participate in school. Attending school is key to setting our young people up for life, as well as being required by law. If your child is under 16 years old, they must go to school every day, unless they are sick. Getting a qualification is one of the main building blocks for success, and regular attendance at school makes all the difference. If a child or young person stops attending school regularly, it becomes harder for them to stay connected to school friends and teachers, and harder to catch up with work they have missed. Research about attendance A Year 11 student who attends school

every day has about a 90% chance of achieving NCEA Level 1, but this drops to a 1-in-5 chance if they only turn up at school half of the time. Attendance in Year 10 is important for attainment in NCEA This graph shows the relationship between attendance in year 10 and attainment in NCEA level 1. Source: He Whakaaro: What is the relationship between attendance and attainment? Everyone has a role to play Parents, families and whānau, as well as teachers and school leaders, can work together to make sure that every child and young person is engaged and actively involved. This means making sure the school is providing a positive learning environment that values every child and young person, and any issues are addressed so that children and young people attend school regularly.

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The Sun

16 Wednesday February 2, 2022

Grey Power Marlborough The Association for people 50+

MARLBOROUGH

Advocating for people 50 +

Wishing all our members a special merry Christmas and a happy new year

President’s report Phone 03 578 4950 or visit our website on www.greypowermarlborough.co.nz

I once again find myself reading about proposed home care cuts and it makes my blood boil. I was a home care worker when Florence Nightingale and Presbyterian support were the major home care providers stationed in Blenheim, and while there were issues, they were never like they are at the present time. When the contracts were up for tender, Access Health and Nurse Maude won the contracts and accepted bulk funding. In my opinion, this is when the system started to break down, not because of the agencies, but the restrictions put on them due to bulk funding. Also, the agencies were based in Nelson with a much larger catchment area to care for. The strategy of home care was to allow people to stay in their own homes as long as possible with enough care to enable them to live comfortably and safely. As I see it, this will no longer be the case if cuts are enforced. We need the government of the day to step up and fulfil its obligations to our seniors, not see how they can diminish an already basic service to those in need. Grey Power New Zealand is lobbying Government to continue to provide a robust home care service and not to keep looking at ways to cut costs. COVID-19 is now being blamed for

Gayle Chambers President, Grey Power Marlborough. lack of staff. In the beginning, when restrictions were put in place, I could understand that, but now, again in my opinion, it is just a good fallback position. My hope is that the government will realise that those receiving care cannot have their care time slashed any further. Meanwhile Grey Power will keep on fighting the fight for our seniors in home care. Gayle Chambers President, Grey Power Marlborough Inc.

Scams There is a possible scam under the guise of The Warehouse involving a clearance sale of TVs and vacuum cleaners. Apparently false, best to check the sender’s address or contact the local Warehouse to verify. Beware and be wary. There are many

scams being worked on the internet- some very obvious from overseas, and some much more sophisticated purporting to be NZ companies like NZPost, Couriers, various banks. Brian McNamara, Publicity Officer

Further news The first meeting for Zone 5 comprising Marlborough, Tasman, Nelson and the West Coast in 2022 is to be held on 6 February in Murchison. The following are excerpts from Marlborough’s report to that meeting. “Our membership at December 2021 was 4,754. National membership is 50,080 so Marlborough maintains its steady 9.5%.” (One per cent of NZ’s population provides nearly 10% of its Grey Power membership here in Marlborough). “Zone 5 numbers in 2021 were 12,794 members, being 25.5% of the total. Zone 5 has increased slightly as a percentage of national numbers. “Marlborough Grey Power continues to meet with its MP and Mayor and next meetings are scheduled later in February.” Reports will be found in the March newsletter. Elsewhere in this newsletter you will find more news that we proudly report to our neighbour associations.

Three of our members are involved with Federation Board subcommittees in Law and Emergency Management, ACC and the Remits and Constitution Committee. Our president, Gayle Chambers, is currently Zone Director, chairing the Zone 5 meetings. Our committee meets with the Mayor and MP as mentioned above, and our representatives meet at least twice a year with the Nelson/Marlborough District Health Board. We have representation also on MDC committees and are involved with input into various committees in the province. Our business is advocacy, speaking on behalf of Marlborough senior residents, fifty years and older. We publish an annual booklet of discounts offered to our members, and we promote membership of Grey Power Electricity offering very good prices for energy. Our membership is entitled to claim discounts offered to Grey Power members anywhere in the country.

Our Advocacy re ACC and personal injury The ACC National Advisory Group is preparing a submission to the Minister for ACC requesting that the section of the Act relating to personal injury, that is clause 26 (4, a), be removed because it informs that ‘personal injury - does not include personal injury caused wholly or substantially by the ageing process.’ Grey Power is concerned that this could well be a breach of human rights as they relate to ageing. ACC carries very limited

statistics on these injuries. We believe many are never notified since doctors know the claim may very well not be accepted so therefore do not send one in. If this has happened to you, or you have been refused ACC cover with regards to this section, could you please let us know via the office ph 578 4950. Graeme Faulkner, Chair ACC National Advisory Group

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At the CAB we are here for you with information and support. Due to the Covid-19 traffic light setting change, Citizens Advice Bureau Marlborough is not currently seeing clients face-to-face at the office. However, we’re still here by phone and email. All services are free and confidential. Marlborough Community Centre 25 Alfred Street, Blenheim 03 578 4272 | www.cab.org.nz

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The Sun

Wednesday February 2, 2022

Grey Power Marlborough

MARLBOROUGH

The Association for people 50+

Advocating for people 50 +

Wishing all our members a special merry Christmas and a happy new year

Notice of meeting Phone 03 578 4950 or visit our website on www.greypowermarlborough.co.nz On March 10 we feature two talks at the of

Wesley Centre, one in the afternoon and the other in the evening. John Collyns, the executive director of the the Retirement Villages Association (RVA) is the guest speaker. Full details will be published in our March newsletter, or you can visit our website. The RVA represents the interests of the owners, developers and managers

retirement villages throughout New Zealand and represents approximately 80% of the retirement village industry. It deals with a wide range of government agencies, other organisations (both in NZ and overseas) and the media. One of its activities is to promote the benefits of retirement village living to potential residents and the public.

Office news The office manager advises that it will be business as usual at the office under the Red traffic light rules. We are still collecting plastic bags

and carrier bags for Foodbank Marlborough. Drop your spare bags into our office at room 19, 25 Alfred Street. Office hours are 9am to 1pm.

Newsletter delivery Picton/Waikawa members are advised that The Sun, delivered on the first Wednesday of the month, is now the vehicle for the delivery of our newsletter, along with our website and email delivery. Finding deliverers for the Sun in Picton and Waikawa has been found difficult. The Sun is using this opportunity to ask for persons in Picton/Waikawa

area interested in earning some pocket money delivering The Sun. Contact Simon Byrne phone 5777 868. In the meantime The Sun is dropped off in bulk at the Seaview Rest Home, the Marine Cove retirement complex, the Picton supermarket and Library for collection by Picton/Waikawa residents at these venues.

Notice of our 2022 AGM Our AGM is scheduled for Monday March 21 at 2 pm at RSA rooms in the Clubs of Marlborough. Please contact us via the office about standing for any office or position on the executive committee of Grey Power Marlborough. Forms are available for nominations.

There are vacancies through resignation from the committee this year. They will need to be filled at the AGM along with electing and re-electing all the other office holders through the normal process of elections at the AGM.

Identity Theft Jeff Montgomery, Registrar-General, Births, Deaths and Marriages and General Manager, Services and Access from the Department of Internal Affairs has recently sent out a message about identity theft. Every year, 130,000 Kiwis fall victim to identity theft - with passport details the most commonly stolen information. He warns us against using unofficial websites to renew our NZ passport, or when ordering birth, death and marriage certificates online. He says we can trust our official govt.nz website to access online services, confident they are protecting our information. New Zealand passports are among the most powerful in the world, making them a target. New security measures added to passports make it a lot harder to counterfeit or use them fraudulently. However, the identity information on passports could be used online by someone to impersonate us for, say, opening online accounts or making purchases. It’s important we protect the identity of ourselves and our loved ones. As technology and the digital world become increasingly more accessible, we’re also faced with more risks. Use our official govt.nz online services since third-party sites can pose as official sites or mimic government services, so be diligent. These sites put us at risk of being scammed, as they can harvest our information for more sinister reasons. Sites might try to pull us in by appearing to offer a money-saving deal – but there is a standard fee for these documents and our official govt.nz site offers online services at no extra cost. If you are ever unsure the website you are on is official, just give Internal Affairs a ring – they’re always happy to help. It’s also important to protect your identity offline – when travelling, make sure your passport is in a safe place. When

Savour the Summer Sunshine

Every year, 130,000 Kiwis fall victim to identity theft. in New Zealand, the Registrar-General recommends keeping it at home, in a secure spot. Whether renewing your passport, or ordering birth, death or marriage certificates, be diligent, make sure to use official govt.nz passports, citizenship and identity website.

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The Sun

18 Wednesday February 2, 2022

Brayshaw Heritage Park Open Day By Chris Valli

The Secret Garden Photo by Bruno Cyrillo. A selection of Bruno's photographs will feature regularly, showcasing landscapes and happenings from our region.

For your next photography assignment contact Bruno brunocyrillo@hotmail.com • 021 141 4127

Who doesn’t like coffee and donuts? Or fire station engines on display with all the bells and whistles? Then come down to the Brayshaw Heritage Park Open Day this Waitangi Weekend. The Open Day this Sunday is from 10am - 4pm with a variety of activities on offer for locals. Some activities include the popular Blenheim Riverside

Railway train and railcar rides to the Rock and Mineral Club Gold Panning activities. This year will also see a live mermaid on display at Girlings in Beavertown from 1 - 2pm. Entry is free and donations are welcome and appreciated. The Heritage Park was inspired by the late Norman Brayshaw, who was the Secretary/Treasurer of the Marlborough Historical Society from 1960 to 1972. Norman was an advocate for the establishment

of small museums at Renwick, Havelock, and Picton. The heritage park houses a collection of Marlborough’s original buildings and memorabilia as well as being the location of many of Marlborough’s heritage clubs with their displays and working exhibits. Red Traffic Light settings apply including vaccine pass, contact tracing and mask wearing for everyone twelve or over. Social distancing also applies.

Shout out to Marlborough motorcyclists Win a $200 voucher through our Business Promotion Campaign Marlborough is a perfect place to ride a motorcycle. Great weather and plenty of open road to explore makes riding an attractive recreational option. But riding a motorbike comes with significant risk – from other road users, the environment and the fact that the rider isn’t protected by a metal shell, as someone in a car is. The more skills and knowledge you have, the better equipped you are to deal with any situation on the road

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Marlborough Road Safety is teaming up with Marlborough businesses and riders from January through to the end of May to promote Ride Forever training to our many riders. Riders visiting participating businesses will be encouraged to take up the opportunity for free rider training to get more enjoyment out of their riding every day. Any rider who completes a scooter, bronze, silver or gold course before 31 May will be eligible to go into the draw for one of 5 x $200 vouchers for goods or services

from one of the five participating businesses. Marlborough Motorcycles Chris Parnwell Motorcycles ITS Marlborough Picton Tools and Tyres Wayne Brock Motocare Thanks to councils in the Top of the South the training is free – go to ridetolive.co.nz. to find out more. One rider wrote after a ride in 2021 “My expectations for the Ride Forever course was to improve my riding skills. I am really pleased that I did take the course and I know I

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speak for others; we were all surprised to learn how much we didn’t know!” Over the next few weeks we will be following the journeys

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The Sun

Wednesday February 2, 2022

Valentines Day F ebrua ry 14 t h

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For that special Valentine’s gift visit our newly refurbished store! A visit to the Makana Boutique Chocolate Factory is an experience not to be missed. Come watch us make our tantalising confections, Makana Confections – Hand Made in New Zealand since 1998. Makana - the ultimate chocolate experience!

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6 Things to Do on Valentine's Day for a Romantic Date Night

Enjoy Something Chocolatey What’s better than chocolate-dipped strawberries? Or chocolate-covered marshmallows? Or chocolate...period. You get the point!

Book a Staycation To feel like you’re on vacation without going very far, book a one-night stay at a hotel or bed and breakfast nearby. Treat yourselves to room service and a dip in the hot tub if there’s one available!

Have a Movie Marathon

There are endless romantic movies out there to stream with your other half this Valentine’s Day. Try classics that’ll tug at your heartstrings or fun rom-coms if you need a good laugh.

Set Up a Scavenger Hunt Set your partner on a scavenger hunt throughout your house or even your neighborhood. Include cute handwritten clues that reference your favorite memories together.

Re-Create Your First Date

Order a Takeout Food Feast

Take a trip down memory lane by re-creating the first time you went out together.

Skip cooking this evening and order out instead. Pick up dinner from your favorite take out spot—or get a variety of dishes from a handful of different restaurants!

The Sun

20 Wednesday February 2, 2022

Levies increase for farmers A double edged sword but a necessary evil. Federated Farmers says nobody welcomes extra costs but levy increases are necessary, as Operational Solutions for Primary Industries (OSPRI) consults on proposals to increase the National Animal Identification

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and Tracing Program (NAIT). OSPRI is consulting with farmers to increase the NAIT tag levy from 90 cents to $1.35 and the slaughter levy from 50 cents to $1.77. “It is frustrating for farmers to see levies take big jumps due to historical underinvestment in industry assets such as NAIT. It would be far better to have appropriate, well-planned investment with gradual increases in levies rather than big increases to fix problems,” Federated Farmers Meat & Wool Chairperson William Beetham says. The initial levies in 2012 were $1.10 and $1.35 respectively but in 2014 were dropped to the current lower figures and haven’t been reviewed since. Beetham says if we’re (farmers) to achieve a user-friendly system that delivers biosecurity critical to the sustainability of our industry, we’ll need to get the revenue in place and hold OSPRI to account to deliver a system that empowers farmers, not frustrates them. Federated Farmers Dairy Chairperson Wayne Langford questions whether the current planned investment goes far enough. “It is the act of tagging, registering and complying with NAIT that is an issue for farmers as well as the actual interface itself,” Wayne says. The NAIT Board is two years into a fiveyear programme to replace the NAIT data-

Federated Farmers Meat & Wool Chairperson William Beetham.

base, provide more regional and call centre support and generally make the system more reliable and easier to use. “They’ve eaten up accumulated reserves to fund the program and to continue the upgrade programme, they need more revenue,” Williams says. “It’s pertinent to note the 35% Crown contribution is also proposed to increase from the current $2.14 million to $5.54 million.” Bottom lines for Federated Farmers are that the drive for an accurate, up-to-date and reliable animal tracing system should provide

direct benefits to farmers, particularly as regards ease of use and practicality. “We can’t stumble on with a f lawed platform and farmers being fined when sometimes non-compliance is because of lack of support to help them make sense of a poor-performing system.” “Federated Farmers also wants to see improved measures for transparency around transactions in NAIT animals, and new stock agent standards governing behaviour, retained as priorities,” William says.

Awards Dinner postponed Following the move to red in COVID-19’s Traffic Light system, Beef and Lamb New Zealand has made the decision to postpone the awards dinner scheduled for today. Beef and Lamb New Zealand’s Chairman, Andrew Morrison says the difficult decision was made in consultation with sponsors, finalists and other stakeholders. “We took into account a number of factors including the need to limit the number of those attending the Awards Dinner to 100,

uncertainty about the extent of Omicron outbreak and the need to minimise the risk of transmission of COVID-19 in the red meat sector.” Mr Morrison says it was very disappointing to have to postpone the inaugural Beef and Lamb New Zealand Awards Dinner with 300 people from all over the country scheduled to attend the event. “So many people were looking forward to the evening to hear the announcement of the winners of the eight

award categories and to celebrate our world-leading red meat industry, but ultimately the health and well-being of our finalists and all those attending must be our primary consideration.” He says the organisation was looking at a number of options in which the industry could come together to recognise the finalists and celebrate the winners in the near future and will be communicating its decision as soon as possible.

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The Sun

Wednesday February 2, 2022

Urgent action to stop carbon farming rort

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Too much farmland is being sold for forestry.

Federated Farmers is calling on the government to live up to its pledge and review the Overseas Investment Act ‘special forestry test’ and be fair to sheep and beef farmers. Multiple government policies are driving farmland being sold for pine tree carbon farming, and a multitude of changes are needed to restore balance to land use policy, Feds Meat and Wool Chair William Beetham says. “Sorting the special forestry test is straightforward and a good first step.” The Overseas Investment Act ‘benefit to New Zealand’ requirement is waived under the special forestry test when overseas investors buy farmed land for ‘forestry activities’. This policy makes it much easier for foreign investors to purchase New Zealand farms to convert to trees, and is one of many distortionary policies that are advantaging carbon farming over other land uses such as sheep and beef farming, William says. Technically, the forestry test indicates that the planted trees eventually be logged but there is no mechanism to ensure this actually happens, nor even any rules to ensure that

pruning or pest control is done. “That’s not fair even to our responsible New Zealand foresters,” William says. “The recent spike in the afforestation of sheep and beef farms is not the result of consumer driven demand, but heavy-handed and short-term Government policies designed to incentivise more trees, regardless of whether or not they are the right tree in the right place.” The price of carbon under the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) has hit a record $68 per unit. Polluting industries looking to offset their greenhouse gas emissions are behind big increases in the value of land used for raising sheep and beef cattle. Other than when the trees are first planted for carbon credits, there’s little or no employment benefit. Rural families move out, school rolls fall, meat processing plants close, downstream industries suffer and it becomes a vicious cycle of rural downturn - never mind the loss of export earnings from meat and wool, William says.

Stuart Smith

MP for Kaikōura Electorate

Let’s talk I’m listening

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The Sun

22 Wednesday February 2, 2022

Doomed experiment on ferry crossings Nigel Parry of Blenheim well remembers when, in 1994, the Interislander Line (Railways department) chartered the twin-hulled Condor 10 fast ferry to run across Cook Strait in the Christmas holidays. “It could carry over 500 passengers and many cars,” he says, adding that the vessel was an instant success, taking just half the time of the regular ferries. However, in early February 1995 a speed restriction was imposed on the fast ferries when entering Wellington harbour. That was to reduce the onshore wash and protect vessels berthed in Aotea Quay. “Later, in May 2000, a restricted speed limit was imposed on all ships in the Sounds after complaints of shoreline damage in all parts. “But it was particularly bad in the narrow Tory Channel,” he says. The wake was really its downfall, with the wash being, he says, “really quite extraordinary”. The wave action travelled under the surface and was hard to detect. “Ï witnessed and timed the different wakes several times in Waikawa Bay. “The regular ferry wake was on the beach in 11 to 12 minutes, while the Lynx was bigger and sharper and arrived in just eight to nine minutes.” With speed restrictions being im-

The fast ferry the Condor 10 in April 1995, after a complete power failure saw it grounded on a rocky beach on the Picton side of the Snout.

posed at both ends of the trip meant the “fast” aspect was negated. “The time was just 30 minutes quicker than the Arahura and Aratere,”he says. Not only that, cancelled sailings were frequent. That was, he says, because nor-

mal ferries had the advantage of being able to operate in swells above the Lynx limit of four metres. On one of the last trips of the season in April 1995, the Condor 10 travelling into Picton, had a total blackout of main power.

“With the vessel still moving it ran aground on a rocky beach near The Snout,” he says. After several hours, the divers found however, the ship was not holed and it refloated itself on the incoming tide. There were some other fast ferry

ventures, with the Top Cat running for a while before giving way to the Strait shipping Bluebridge group. “The last Lynx ferry left in April 2005, ending a great innovative way of crossing Cook Strait,” says Nigel.

In our 20 year! th

Stronger than ever… the paper our community can trust that gets results and is always worth the read! Contact our team today! Ph 5777 868 | 72 High St, Blenheim news@blenheimsun.co.nz | simon@blenheimsun.co.nz katrina@blenheimsun.co.nz | les@blenheimsun.co.nz

Wednesday

The Sun

Wednesday February 2, 2022

txt talk with The Sun

Expo at Dubai No wonder this country has no money, $62 million to send people over there to advertise our country when money is needed here for housing, better pay for nurses, doctors, education, the list goes on. It was bad enough the gangs got that money to get their english tattoos removed and replaced in Maori. The next government that gets in will have a huge debt made by labour.

txt talk of the week

Great service

Perfect timing

We had waffles and cakes at Sweet Creations, John Street this morning. Absolutely amazing!!

Thanks to the timely ad from Cresswells shoes when I began my search for my sons school footwear for the year. Good service and reliable brand shoes.

Such a shame Shame on council they place us all on water restrictions then go and use huge sprinkler system on the Redwood sports grounds, in the heat of the day no less. Wouldn’t it be more sensible to water them during the night when less water is lost through evaporation and grass burn off doesn’t occur.

Do it yourselves See some southland farmers complaining that govt. has been too slow in allowing overseas workers in to operate harvesters. Whatever happened to the farmers getting in the machines themselves to bring in the harvest. We did, no foreign help needed but then we were real farmers, not cheque book landowners.

A big thumbs up to all those involved in the Battys Road/New Renwick Road roundabout. The traffic flow is much improved, it was definitely worth the wait. Love those roundabouts.

Where does our elected Mayor and councillors sit on the 3 Waters issue? No formal position statement issued as yet? Strong leadership means taking a position and informing those who elected you!

Be fair in tennis Is it time for women to play best of five in tennis majors? We are supposed to be equal yet they still get the same amount of money.

Take it home

Re: Gangs I am 70 years old and live next door to a gang. And guess what they look after me. Nothing more to say.

Re: Countdown In support of Countdown town, the carpark actually belongs to the MDC. Tell them to up their game. Check your facts.

Advert What a great new advert for Specsavers. So good to have a laugh now instead of doom and gloom on TV.

Could the person who walks their dog on Lakings Road between Purkiss and Barry St please refrain from repeatedly placing their plastic bag with doggy poo in our greenwaste bin. We pay for greenwaste only and respectfully ask you take your dog excrement home.

Keep your promise Will the Prime Minister insist that her cabinet keep her election night promise ‘to govern for all New Zealanders’ by making a start this year? It sounded as if she thought democracy is good. What’s the chance?

Pigeon poo Please MDC do something about the unhygienic amount of pigeon poo covering the footpath on the corner of Scott Street and Francis Street. This is a high pedestrian area and the filth is just mounting up. Feel sorry for people in wheelchairs or motorized scooters have to ride through the muck.

Super great guy Thank you to Ron in Havelock for his thoughtfulness and generosity in putting flowers in the Havelock toilets. It sets them apart from any other I’ve seen and puts smiles on many faces. We welcome your texts on 027 242 5266. Limit to 70 words please. We reserve the right to publish at our discretion. Please note the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Sun management.

3 Waters

Great flow

Look after your community I brought my KN95 masks at Bunnings for 20 cents each. They are hard to get now but heard there were some at Omaka Pharmacy only to find out they are selling them for $5 each!

Re: Letter to Ed I totally agree with Mr Sutherland about the cat shootings. Police have a duty surely to investigate these actions against our poor fur babies. As the writer said these happenings could one day inflict a human being. Not good.

A land of trees Plantations only for tax carbon credits, timber processing plants closing down is it any wonder there is now a two pack limit on toilet paper in town. Take your own when travelling, as we await imports. Thinking of installing a bidet in the bathroom. Think again 3 Waters and council permit first. Hmmm

Got an important issue to share with Marlborough? Text your thoughts to 027 242 5266

The Sun Christmas colouring winners Left to Right: Clara Watt, Alyssa Haronga, Alvin Frederic Moar, Bella Rentoul and Eleanor and Elizabeth Trieu.

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The Sun

Wednesday February 2, 2022

Danica ‘We Will Rock You’ cancelled Danica Manson played Sophie in Blenheim Musical Theatre’s Mamma Mia in 2016. She tells Chris Valli about the cancellation of Palmerston North’s production of We Will Rock You and the learnings of a two year schedule performing Queen’s biggest songs. A former Blenheim actress is devastated after the show she was to perform in has been cancelled due to Covid. Danica Manson was set to take the stage tonight in Palmerston North’s We Will Rock You as the character Scaramouche. The musical tells the story of a group of Bohemians who struggle to restore the free exchange of thought and fashion, and live music in a distant future where everyone dresses, thinks and acts the same. Danica had lead roles in Blenheim Musical Theatre’s Productions Phantom of the Opera as Meg and Mamma Mia where she played Sophie. She moved to Manawatu in July 2019 after her husband Josh relocated with the Air Force. She says the decision to cancel has been devastating for all concerned and felt she grew as an actor, vocally. “This two year journey has been like nothing I’ve experienced. The incredible cast,

crew and creative team worked their butts off for this one in what would have been one of the biggest shows to bring Palmy to its feet. I’m so incredibly proud of what we achieved and learned and I’m grateful for the people I’ve met. The music itself was challenging and I have grown hugely as a vocal performer. Singing Queen songs is not an easy task but I was able to explore different parts of my voice and learn to harness them in ways I didn’t think was actually possible for me. The cast were all so incredibly talented and hardworking and it was amazing getting to work with them several times a week and grow friendships and connections.” Danica says the Production Manager informed the whole cast to cancel after the Government’s press conference for the whole country to go into the Red Light settings. “The cast were in rehearsal about to start a full run through. The board had a meeting after the 11am press conference where it was revealed that New Zealand would go into Red at 11.59. It was very emotional.” It’s been some sort of theatrical rollercoaster for the 31 year old. The resilience and patience of the cast were tested in ways unimaginable.

In February 2020 auditions were called for with initial plans for the show to be staged in August 2020. Covid intervened with reauditions in December 2020. Rehearsals started once again in March 2021 and performance wise things looked promising for the cast with four shows completed in August and then, you guessed it, Covid reared its head and the rest of the season was postponed. A beacon of light beckoned in December 2021 with rehearsals restarting and in January, 10 days out from finally reopening the show was cancelled. Danica says that due to the scale of the show (set, technical elements) it could only be performed at the Regent on Broadway’s Theatre, the irony being the venue was completely booked out up until the end of 2022. Danica says whatever happens moving forward with Covid the enjoyment of life is through creative expression in any form - visual art, digital art, dance, music, theatre, and film. “As humans we need it and it’s the sector that is being hurt the most through this pandemic. For me personally it is what gives me purpose and joy.”

Former Blenheim actres Danica Manson as her character Scaramouche in Palmerston North’s production of We Will Rock You.

Ali (Elin Duggan), Sophie (Danica Manson) and Lisa (Lynne Fitzpatrick) in Blenheim Musical Theatre’s Mamma Mia in 2016.

Marvel opens new TESTINGHealth FOR ALLERGIES clinic in Nelson AND TOXINS: Detect Hidden

Providing total body health scans that Health Threats with a screen for the hidden cause of disease

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A G

new screening service designed to diagnose health etting to the root cause of anybioproblems using advanced disease, especially chronic magnetic scanning will open diseases, requires examining the in Trafalgar Street, Nelson this June. entire body since all organs and systems Marvel Health brought the concept areNew interconnected and function as a a to Zealand from Europe about whole. year ago and opened their first clinic in To illustrate, chronic diseases of the Christchurch. digestive system maywhich not necessarily The Nelson Clinic will be arise from and intestines. located at the Thestomach Brook Room, Trailways They may originate from damages Hotel, 66 Trafalgar Street, Nelsonin the immune system thata promote provides patients with full bodythe scan growth of to microbes which in turn cause designed detect the underlying inflammation and diseases the gut. causes of diseases such asofchronic Also, atherosclerosis can restrict inflammation, viruses, bacteria, blood heavy flow to the and intestines and metals andstomach allergens. The scan also cause gut problems. examines all systems in the body, And then, cardiovascular, there are environmental including respiratory, factors. Sensitivity to natural foods gastrointestinal, skeletal, blood and and food additives in processed foods lymph.

Co-founder Tiamara Williams says the new Nelson practice joins Marvel can cause digestive symptoms such Health clinics in Christchurch, Rangiora, as chronicWhangarei, stomach pain, bloating, or Dunedin, Spain and Ireland constipation. Nutrientsscanning play a crucial and the bio-magnetic role in keeping our systems equipment they most use is “thehealthy and preventing diseases. Magnesium advanced diagnostic technology in deficiency a common the world. is People travelcause from of all chronic over constipation. Europe to our clinic in Spain.” It is“A not always the case that a symptom huge amount of people who will originate fromhad an associating come to us have some kind organ of or system of the body. chronic condition where nothing has The Marvel Health Scan is unique. It worked, and we have a high success examines the entire rate with them,” shebody says.to pinpoint theThe hidden cause scan of a health problem. full-body is non-invasive The Brain, Heart, Lungs, Stomach, and simply involves a patient sitting Intestines, Liver, Kidneys, anda other in a reclining chair wearing headset organs in the body are inspected in hour and other connectors for up to an detail. while readings are taken. The resulting The scan searchesand the abody for data is analysed, personalised likely diseases present possible report drawn up, whichand a doctor then

goes through with the patient during an online or phone consultation. This is followed by a Lifestyle consultation underlying by phone with the Lifestyle for 30 min causes. It can identify microbes, nutrient specialist. deficiencies, foodexactly allergens and wrong “We pinpoint what’s environmental contaminants. or what’s required, and, from there, we After the scan, Marvel Health recommend the use of science-based,

Total Health MOT

clinically trialled natural substances. We don’t use pharmaceuticals,” Tiamara says. international doctors review the reports A patient guide will be coming and can recommend science-based up from Christchurch to run local natural therapies lifestyle changes screenings once and a month initially, to encourage the body’s healing followed by consultations, education processes. and appropriate therapies.

Whole Body Diagnostic Scan, Report, Consultation and Therapy

All included: • Detailed Examination of All Organs & Systems • Diseases Present and Complications • Detection of Viruses, Bacteria & Fungi • Food Allergies & Sensitivities • Non-invasive Blood Test • Detection of Lead, Mercury & other Environmental Toxins • Body Composition Analysis

CALL TODAY

03 669 5410

The Brook Room | Trailways Hotel | 66 Trafalgar St, Nelson | www.marvel.health

Disclaimer: The inspection from the scan is not a substitute for medical inspections. It is not designed to state the final diagnosis

The Sun

Wednesday February 2, 2022

EVENT: Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year Celebrations, St Christoher’s Anglican Church on Saturday, January 29. 2022 is the year of the tiger.

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The Sun

26 Wednesday February 2, 2022

gardening this week minutes with

Steve Smith Volunteer firefighter, business coach, and avid writer.  Are you a dog or cat person? Cat. I’ve never walked past a cat I haven’t wanted to pat.  What did you want to be when you grew up? I would’ve liked to have been in the military, especially the paratroops.  Not quite a hidden talent, but I’m very good at? For as long as I can remember people have said I’m a good storyteller.  If you could donate $1m to any charity who would it be and why? Any charity to do with cancer. My extended family has had more than its fair share of this.  My all-time favourite food is? I can’t pick one. I love pizza, a good roast, steak, pumpkin pie, tiramisu, coconut and pineapple. I detest eggplant.  The shop you can’t walk past is? I like bookshops. I can walk past any other shop.  What song is likely to get you on the dance floor? That song hasn’t been written yet.  Your dream weekend involves? Going to the gym with my wife in the morning, heading to a local cafe for breakfast, racing off to a fire call in the afternoon then sitting around in the evening with my mates, sharing a soft drink and no doubt re-living what had just taken place.  If you could meet anyone in history who would it be and why? My great-grandfather. He died in the First World War. I visited his grave in France. It was real lump in the throat stuff.  Favourite programme or series currently watching? Chicago Fire.  What’s one thing on your bucket list? Can I have two? I would like to visit Guernsey which is kind of my ancestral starting point, and I’d also like to see the big waves being surfed at Waimea Bay in Hawaii.

Insect pests: By Wally Richards Having a neat summer for a change has brought a problem for many gardeners and that is the number of insect pests such as leaf hoppers, whitefly and vegetable beetles that are ravaging our gardens. When one finds hundreds of these types of pests attaching our plants; the plants will be suffering and in some cases will succumb and die. A common problem is that we may repeat spray our plants for control but never seem to get on top of the problem. I had an example of this recently with leaf hoppers and discovered why when I decided to pull out an area of bracken ferns nearby. The ferns were covered in leaf hoppers, young fluffy bums and adults. By getting rid of this source or breeding plant I then was able to get control over my preferred plants. If the breeding ground happens to be over the fence you either need to get permission to control there or just hang in with lots of repeat sprays till winter knocks them back. I had a lady call me the other day to say that everything was ok in her garden till the owner of the section next door decided to clear the vegetation to build. Within days all those pests that were living on the weeds and plants next door, invaded her gardens. The safe way to maintain some sort of control is to place Neem Tree Powder on the soil in the root zone of plants and then to do repeat sprays, late in the day using Wallys Super Neem Tree Oil and Wallys Super Pyrethrum. Only spray just before dusk when the pests are settled for the night and the sun is down so foliage is not damaged by the oil. Repeat sprays would be between every three to seven days till the situation is under control or till the weather turns cold and nature knocks back the breeding cycles. Just one of the things we gardeners have to face on a good summer. Glyphosate and kidney failure Using the herbicides containing glyphosate such as Zero, Roundup etc is a cheap convenient way of killing weeds and unwanted plants but there can be a price to pay that you are not aware of. Generally speaking if you wear protective clothing, rubber gum

boots, a chemical protection mask and eye shield, rubber or vinyl gloves; you are reasonably protected. If you are using a back pack sprayer you should have on a raincoat so any leakage does not run out and down your back/spinal cord. The eye shield is important as minute droplets can enter through your eyes. Harmful chemicals can enter through both exposed skin and eyes. Best to have a shower straight after using any chemicals to reduce and dilute. Clothing worn should be washed separately and not with other clothes. Then the main problem is the amount of glyphosate in our food chain and from overseas studies there is a lot in cereal crops, plant based oils such as soya. Glyphosate from Roundup Ready GE crops (not grown in NZ) but in imported processed food stuffs. Hence why I am publishing this article I received this week. Ways to Remove Glyphosates from the Gut The bacteria that are in raw apple cider vinegar, sauerkraut and other ferments will degrade Glyphosate in the gut all the way down to carbon dioxide, water and phosphorus.

And for those that don’t consume much ferments humic fulvic acids are good too, and move glyphosate through the feces rather than the kidneys which is really good. In Brazil a quarter of the people working in the sugar cane field die of glyphosate toxicity, which some would call end stage kidney failure. Other crops were mentioned like rice and wheat, and not just in South America. When glyphosate chelate with the minerals in crops like these it is too big for the kidneys to filter, it plugs them up. You cannot escape glyphosate completely, even if you eat all organic. It really is important to learn safe ways to detox in today’s world. One simple way is to eat sauerkraut and other ferments with each meal, and drink apple cider vinegar with water before meals, and even after meals. Make sure it’s raw, organic apple cider vinegar. It will also increase your stomach acid therefore help in digestion. Apple cider vinegar is likely the best thing for acid re-flux as well. While Fulvic humic acid may be a great thing, it is not cheap. It is far more affordable to learn to make things like sauerkraut and other ferments if you don’t already. It is not very hard to put water, salt and cabbage in a jar.

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The Sun

Wednesday February 2, 2022 Wanted to Buy

Death notices

URGENT services Urgent Care Centre: Wairau Hospital Grounds. Entry off Hospital Rd, Blenheim, 8am-8pm daily. Phone (03) 520 6377. Ambulance: Urgent 111. Non urgent 579 4870. After Hours Chemists: Springlands Pharmacy: Monday - Friday 8.30am 6pm, Saturday 9am - 5pm, Sunday and Public Holidays 10am - 5pm. Closed Christmas Day. Ph 578 2271. Community Care Pharmacy: Within the Blenheim Warehouse, open 7 days 9am8pm. Only closed Christmas Day. Lifeline Marlborough: 0800 543354, 24hr helpline. Women’s Refuge and Sexual Violence Support Centre Marlborough: Crisis line number phone 0800 refuge or 03 5779939. Victim Support: 0800 VICTIM (0800 842 846) Alcoholics Anonymous: 0800 AA WORKS - 0800 229 6757. Citizens Advice Bureau: Free, friendly, confidential advice. Mon - Fri 9.30am 4pm. Phone 578 4272. Wairau Hospital: Hospital Visiting Hours: Daily 11.30am-7.30pm, children under 12 may visit parents only. Maternity Ward: 10am-noon, 4pm-7pm. Children's Ward: Daily 10am-8pm. Visiting at all times is subject to the discretion of the nurse in charge of the ward. Picton: Ambulance: Urgent 111. Non-urgent 579 4870. Chemist: Picton Healthcare Pharmacy. Ph 573 6420 Mon -Fri 8.30-5.30pm, Sat 9-2pm. Medical Centre Pharmacy, Ph 928 4265, Mon-Fri 8am-5.30pm

WEAVER, Mark Alexander (Tuska): On Monday January 31, 2022, after a short illness. Aged 77 years. Best friend and loved husband of the late Gayna. Loved and adored Dad of Trish, Gary and Nic. Special Pop of Tagan and Paora, Kelsey, Jack and Georgie; and Poppa to Tamatea and Charlie. Lifelong friend of Brian, Trish and their family. Messages may be sent to 17 Oudenarde Street, Renwick 7204. Due to Covid restrictions, a private service will be held.

Fridge for Sale 2years old, ex condition, cash only. Surplus to requirements due to downsizing ph 03-578-9934 BAR Fridge, Haier HRZ130, good condition. Phone 02102611285

Community notices Marlborough Community Housie Big night this Thursday, February 3. 50 housies, early bird, teno, 2x supers and raffles. Light food available. Doors open 5pm. Early bird starts 6.45pm. Blenheim Bowling Club, Weld Street.

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CLINGIN: Norman Lewis ‘Norm’ Passed away peacefully 18th January 2022, among family. 1 month shy of 89 years. Loved partner of the late Dawn Mortimer and Step-Dad and Father-in-law to Christina and Danny Mortimer-Jones, Adrienne and Harry Harragan, Rachel and Robert Hutchison. Cherished friend of Jeanette and the late Max Rhodes and beloved Grandad and Great Grandad. A great innings and a life well lived. Rest in Peace.

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Quick crossword

Down 1. React (7) 2. Sea nymph (5) 3. Spectacles (7) 5. Bird house (6) 6. Tease (9) 7. Burgundy or merlot (3,4) 8. 25-year celebration (6,7) 14. Blackmail (9) 16. Adage (7) 18. Architectural style (3,4) 19. Heartless (7) 20. Samples (6) 23. Commence (5)

Fill in the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9

20 21

M 26

Last week

Across: 1. Surpass, 5. On paper, 9. Risks, 10. Potassium, 11. Threefold, 12. Emend, 13. Scold, 15. Tradition, 18. Fireworks, 19. Reins, 21. Slang, 23. Surrogate, 25. Operation, 26. Taint, 27. Nascent, 28. Expense. Down: 1. Stratus, 2. Reservoir, 3. Aisle, 4. Supporter, 5. Outed, 6. Posterior, 7. Poise, 8. Ramadan, 14. Downgrade, 16. Assurance, 17. Imitation, 18. Festoon, 20. Spectre, 22. Abets, 23. Swift, 24. On tap. www.thepuzzlecompany.co.nz

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Across 1. Quit (6) 4. Haggle (6) 9. Operator (4) 10. Devotee (10) 11. Indicates (6) 12. Word for word (L) (8) 13. Opponent (9) 15. Rancour (4) 16. Walkway (4) 17. Debauchery (9) 21. Lover of good food (8) 22. Physical struggle (6) 24. Opposition (10) 25. Shortly (inf) (4) 26. Exile (6) 27. Unborn human (6)

For Sale

Respectfully cared for by GEOFFREY T SOWMAN FDANZ Tel 03 578 4719

CLINGIN: Norman Lewis ‘Grandad’ On Tuesday 18 January 2022, peacefully at home with family, a good 88 years. Beloved husband of the late Eleanor. Beloved father and father-in-law of Dianne and Jim Stuart and Roger Clingin. Much loved Grandad and Great Grandad. Messages to www.cloudybayfuneralservices. co.nz Many thanks to Sarah of The Farewell Trust. A private celebration has been held as per Grandad’s wishes.

news tips

Stamp collections, coin collections, old toys, post cards etc. Cash paid. Ph 021 138 8949.

GOODE, Joy Merle (née Gillespie): On Wednesday January 26, 2022, at Waterlea Lifecare, Blenheim. In her 86th year. Dearly loved wife of the late Barry, cherished mother of Kelvin, Grant, Jacqueline and Alana. Much loved grandmother, great grandmother and aunt. Special thanks to the staff at Waterlea Lifecare. Messages may be sent to 22 Clyde Street, Renwick 7204. A private service for Joy has been held.

Respectfully cared for by GEOFFREY T SOWMAN FDANZ Tel 03 578 4719

H L L

M G

R V E

R S Last week

S A H

A O

A O L

I A

S T A V E L A T I N

5x5

Insert the missing letters to complete ten words — five across the grid and five down. More than one solution may be possible.

Last week

S L A M S

H A L A L

A M I G O

R E V U E

P R E S S

224

The Sun

Classifieds Advertising Ph 03 577 7868

Wednesday February 2, 2022 Situations Vacant

Situations Vacant

MARLBOROUGH DISTRICT COUNCIL

Secretary/Administrator (Part time) We have an opportunity for an experienced individual to take up the position of a Secretary/Administrator (part-time, 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday). The purpose of this role is to provide a range of secretarial and administrative duties including formatting documents, organising meetings and minute taking, so an eye for detail is essential. It will suit a team player who is flexible and takes pride in producing professional work. About you Our ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate: • Intermediate to advanced experience of Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word and PowerPoint). • The ability to manage competing workloads and priorities whilst working under pressure and statutory deadlines. • The ability to treat information with sensitivity and confidentiality. • The ability to use your initiative, in particular when editing others’ work ensuring excellent English, grammar and layouts are achieved. • Experience taking meeting minutes or a willingness to learn. We offer • A workplace that supports flexibility, health and well-being. • An environment where input, initiative and innovation are encouraged. • A competitive remuneration and benefits package. If you’re ready to progress your career with Marlborough District Council, apply now! Applications close 5.00 pm on 13 February 2022. Applications should be made online via the careers page www.marlborough.govt.nz/your-council/careers/current-vacancies where you will find full information on the vacancy and how to apply. For further information you are welcome to contact Bernadette MacDonald (Team Leader – Secretarial Services) on bernadette.macdonald@marlborough.govt.nz. COVID-19 Vaccination Requirements: Please note that Marlborough District Council is currently undergoing a health and safety risk assessment of all roles and positions that are at a high risk of exposure to COVID-19. The outcome of that assessment may result in this role requiring the successful applicant to be fully vaccinated. Shortlisted applicants will be informed after the assessment is complete.

www.marlborough.govt.nz www.marlborough.govt.nz

MARLBOROUGH DISTRICT COUNCIL

Environmental Health Administration Officer Become part of the team that ensures Marlborough is a safe and healthy place to live and enjoy. We have an exciting opportunity in our Environmental Health team for someone that has strong administration and customer service skills. This role is the public face of Environmental Health at Marlborough District Council and will suit someone that is able to engage with the public to provide them with guidance regarding best practices in all areas of Environmental Health. As an Environmental Health Administration Officer you will provide administration support to our Environmental Health Officers in assisting Council to carry out its functions under the Health Act 1956, Sale & Supply of Alcohol Act 2012, Food Act 2014 and associated Regulations. About you Our ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate: • Experience in the field of administration and customer service (minimum of three years). • Strong oral and written communication skills with the ability to adapt these skills to meet the needs of the audience. • Their ability to deal with sensitive and confidential situations in an appropriate manner. • Excellent attention to detail and time management skills. • Working knowledge of the relevant statutes related to environmental health (would be preferred). We offer • A workplace that supports flexibility, health and wellbeing. • An environment where input, initiative and innovation are encouraged. • A competitive remuneration and benefits package. If you’re ready to progress your career with Marlborough District Council, apply now! Applications close 5.00 pm on 6 February 2022. Applications should be made online via the careers page www.marlborough.govt.nz/your-council/careers/current-vacancies where you will find full information on the vacancy and how to apply. For further information you are welcome to contact Karen Winter (Team Leader - Environmental Health) on karen.winter@marlborough.govt.nz. Please note that Marlborough District Council is currently undergoing a health and safety risk assessment of all roles and positions that are at a high risk of exposure to COVID-19. The outcome of that assessment may result in this role requiring the successful applicant to be fully vaccinated. All shortlisted applicants will be informed accordingly as soon as the assessment is completed.

www.marlborough.govt.nz www.marlborough.govt.nz

CARETAKER FOR WITHERLEA SCHOOL Hours: 30-35 hours per week Hours: 7am – 11am or 12 noon and 2pm - 4pm We are seeking a self-managing & practical person to keep our school maintained, looking great and providing a safe environment for students, staff and the community. KEY DUTIES: • Security • Lawns and gardens • Preventative maintenance repairs and upkeep. • Co-ordination with tradespeople and contractors • Health and Safety compliance • Pool management • Support for school events The successful applicant must be able to demonstrate the following: • A general knowledge of gardening • A passion for good presentation • Adaptability: able to problem solve • Strong relationship skills with people of all ages & abilities • Honesty, reliability & flexibility • Able to work independently & self-manage, with the ability to also be team focused to support staff. The successful applicant must be fully vaccinated for Covid-19 as per the requirements of the Ministry of Health mandate for school employees. This position is subject to police vetting. Full Driver licence is essential. Salary is as per School Caretakers’, Cleaners’ & Canteen Staff Collective Agreement. To apply, please send covering letter, and CV with 3 referees to: Executive Officer Witherlea School 214 Weld Street BLENHEIM Or email to: accounts@witherlea.school.nz Applications close Tuesday 15th February 2022.

news tips

2019 2022 Grape Harvest Tractor & Harvester Drivers Vintage modern fleet fleet of ofharvesters harvesters Vintage Harvesters Harvesters operates operates aa modern and and tractors tractorsthroughout throughoutthe theMarlborough MarlboroughDistrict. District. We for experienced experienced harvester harvester and and tractor tractor We are are looking looking for drivers. minimum of of aa class class 11 driver’s driver’s drivers. You You will will need need aa minimum licence endorsement for for licence for for tractor tractor driving driving and a wheels endorsement harvester harvesterdriving. driving. We commence approximately midWe anticipate anticipatework workwillwill commence approximately March and finishing mid-April. Drivers must be must available mid- March and finishing mid-April. Drivers be for extended and hours weekends. available for hours extended and weekends. Please phone the office on 578 5300,

Please phone the office on 578 5300, text Jason Tripe on 027 043 427 12421 ororemail email admin@jtcvit.co.nz admin@jtcvit.co.nz www.vintageharvesters.co.nz www.vintageharvesters.co.nz

Part-Time Visitor Host Position at Marlborough Museum, Brayshaw Heritage Park, Blenheim 7201 Are you looking for a change? Do you have skills relevant to customer service and office support? The Marlborough Heritage Trust is looking for a part-time Visitor Host at Marlborough Museum to greet and assist our customers. You will be fully trained for this position. We are a fully vaccinated venue; mask wearing is mandatory. To apply, please email your CV to info@marlboroughmuseum.org.nz or drop it in to Marlborough Museum, Brayshaw Heritage Park, 26 Arthur Baker Place. We are looking forward to hearing from you. Start date: early February 2022. Minimum of 13 hours per week, two days per week, 9.45 – 4.15. Applications close 4 February 2022

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Wednesday For more information phone Anne on 577 7868 or email: office@blenheimsun.co.nz

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Clothing Alterations: by Lynette Atkinson-Parker For your sewing requirements Phone 03 578 1010 or 027 578 1010 Quality Service Guaranteed

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GOLD BUYERS Scrap gold Gold coins Gold medals Gold pocket watches Gold wrist watches Gold jewellery Broken or damaged gold Any Sterling Silver items

ph 0800 00 24 25 Eric Jackson Antique Buyers, PO Box 665, Picton

Harvest accommodation Wanted Vintage workers looking for accommodation for the Harvest period (March 2022- May 2022). If you can assist, please email Delicia at delicia@nzwineries.co.nz

Want to advertise your

in marlborough

Wednesday 2 February

Friday 4 February

Blenheim Depression Support Group:

Vintage Farm Machinery:

Meets every Wednesday from 10am – 11.30am. We meet to support each other, have regular speakers, outings, share in a safe environment. Further details phone Virginia on 0273 035 879. Support group for postnatal mothers:

Every Wednesday from 9.30am to noon. Child minders help with the babies. Call Tatiana 0279 019 807. Like to know more about the Lion’s Club? Would you be interested in becoming a Lion? Tea meetings are held on 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month. Contacts: Delphine Lee 029 942 5004. Picton Mahjong:

Marina Cove Club Room at 1pm. Vaccination Passes required. Marlborough Newcomers Morning Tea Wednesdays:

Marlborough Multicultural Centre. Every Wednesday till March 30. 10.30am11.30am. Our morning teas are often the starting point for newcomers to Marlborough, providing friendship, support, advocacy and navigation to relevant agencies, to support people’s settlement process.

Thursday 3 February Social Badminton:

Thursday mornings 9am-noon. Simcox Stadium, Battys Road. $5. All adults welcome. For more details phone Sara 579 9474. Ulysses Retreads Group:

Meet Brayshaw Park Thursdays 11am. Ride to various destinations for lunch. Come by bike, tin top or magic carpet. Bring your laughing gear, a thermal to wear and a story to share. Choir:

Thursdays 7-9pm. St Ninians Hall, 1 Riley Crescent, Redwoodtown (opp. church). Come and join Creative Kids Trust community choir Creative Voice. All musical abilities and new members welcome. Keep U Moving:

Gentle indoor walking exercise for Seniors. 11:30am to 12:30pm Thursdays except the 4th Thursday of the month. Walking exercise followed by a cuppa & chat. Cost $2. Contact Diana Brooks, Eldercare Coordinator St Christophers Church Ph (03) 578 0139. Starts February 3. Vaccination passport required. Book Club Virtual Meeting:

Phone 5777 868 to book your space in our Garage Sale Column!

what’s on

Lions’ Club of Blenheim:

HEAT PUMP SALE SERVICE AND INSTALL

Wednesday February 2, 2022

Picton Library and Service Centre 6:30pm - 8:00pm. Calling all book worms! Join us in meeting new people and chatting about books. We meet on the first Thursday of each month. To register and receive the details of where and when the meeting will take place please email pictonlibrary@marlborough.govt.nz.

Open daily, 10am to 3pm, Brayshaw Vintage Farm. John 577 7442. Saturday 5 February 2021

Street School Hall, Whitney Street. Come and try it! You don’t need a partner. For information ring Miriam 928 4479. Blenheim Badminton Club:

Blenheim Chess Club:

Every Monday: Juniors 5.30-7pm, seniors 7-9pm, St Mary’s Hall, corner Francis and Hudson Streets. Anna or Mike, email blenheimshuttlers@gmail.com.

Marlborough Show Jumping Waitangi Weekend Championships:

Tuesday 8 February

Meets at Delicia Café, Scott Street, every Saturday 10am – 1pm. All welcome. Marlborough Equestrian Park 8:30am - 5:00pm and Sunday. 6 Feb, 8:30am. Bringing the top horse and rider combinations in the South Island for a great weekend of competition. Held over two days catering for all levels and ages of riders.

Art therapy group for pregnant women:

Sunday 6 February

Picton Line Dance Classes:

Marlborough Farmers’ Market:

Marlborough A&P Showgrounds. 9amnoon. Fresh produce from your local farmers. Tasty line up of fresh and seasonal, gourmet and artisan produce and products that this region has to offer. Picton Rail and Sail:

On the Foreshore - mini train rides and mini yacht hire to sail on our pond every Sunday 11am - 3pm, operating every day during school holidays. Still only 20 cents per ride / yacht hire! Blenheim Bonsai Group:

Islington Gardens, Rowberry Road on the 2nd Sunday of the month 1pm-3.30pm. Heritage Day:

Brayshaw Park 10am – 4pm. Come and enjoy our Annual Open Day. Family fun and great new experiences with lots to see and do! Blenheim Riverside Railway:

Brayshaw Park Open Day. Continuous return trips by Diesel Loco and Railcar to Beaver and Omaka Stations from 1pm-4pm. Approx. 1hr. Omaka Line. Brayshaw Park Station to Omaka and return approx.. 25mins. Beaver Line adult $12, child $6. Omaka Line adult $7, child $4. Combo deal and Eftpos available. Operating under Covid level restrictions: My vaccine pass, scan and mask required.

Monday 7 February Rotary Clubs in Blenheim:

Meet Monday & Tuesday evenings at 5.30pm. Rotary is a world-wide service club for men and women – doing great things in your community. For further phone Kevin on 0211 738 784.

Every Tuesday 5pm to 8pm. Call Tatiana 027 901 9807. Persistent Pain Group:

Meet every Tuesday at Biddy Kates 5pm-6pm. For people with persistent and chronic pain and their supporters. All welcome. Anglican Church Hall 10am. $6 per class. Beginners Welcome. Vaccine Passes required. Enquires Carol 0212125252 / Raewyn 021715484. SAYGO (Steady As You Go):

Balance/Exercise Class at 11:30am12:30pm, followed by a cuppa & chat. Cost $2. Contact Diana Brooks, Eldercare Coordinator St Christophers Church Ph (03) 578 0139. Vaccination passport required.

Rides Calendar Every Saturday, Coffee at The Runway Cafe 10am. Sunday Rides depart Railway Station carpark as listed. Thursday Rides depart Brayshaw Park carpark 11am. All Rides are weather dependent. Thurs 3rd Feb. 11am. Retreads Group Sun 6th Feb. 11am. Murchison Thurs 10th Feb. 11am. Retreads Group Sun 13th Feb. 1pm. Rai Valley Wed 16th Feb. AGM Meeting. Tim Wills Thurs 17th Feb. 11am. Retreads Group Sun 20th Feb. 11am. Kaikoura Thur 24th Feb. 11am. Retreads Group Sun 27th Feb. 1pm. Okiwi Bay Karaka Café SH1 3rd March. 11am. Retreads Group

Coming Up Blenheim Canine Training Club:

Is running a six week dog agility foundation course commencing Monday, February 14. This course is an introduction to dog agility. For further information visit www.blenheimcaninetraining.co.nz.

Witherlea Indoor Bowling Club:

Every Monday at St Ninians Church Hall for 7pm start. Soft sole shoes essential. Contact Gary 578 4704 or Heather 578 9350. Blenheim Scottish Country Dance Club:

Every Monday at 7.30pm at Whitney

If you have an event for the next issue of ‘What’s On’ email The Sun office@blenheimsun.co.nz

Wednesday

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The Sun

sport

Wednesday February 2, 2022

sports talk With Jacob Page

Alcott deserves attention, not Kyrgios at Aussie Open Dylan Alcott deserves the adoration of tennis fans, rather than Nick Kyrgios. The quad tennis player bowed out with a runner-up finish at his home open after being named Australian of the Year just a few days prior. Alcott is a 15-time grand slam singles champion and eight-time grand slam doubles champion. Unashamedly I’ll admit I knew nothing of the 31-year-old until this past week but he is so admired across the Tasman that Channel 9 delayed their evening news to continue to show his Australian Open final live and uninterrupted.

That’s making a difference and inspiring people. By contrast there’s Nick Kyrgios, the self proclaimed bad boy of the Aussie game. The 26-year-old seemed to have wound everyone up during his singles and doubles run in Melbourne. He willingly asked his “feral” fans to turn up to his doubles encounters and got right under the skin of Kiwi doubles specialist Michael Venus after the latter was beaten by Kyrgios. Venus and the German Tim Pütz went down in three sets to Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis on Tuesday at Kia Arena, where a raucous

crowd supported the all-Australian partnership who had hammed it up for the vocal fans. Venus, 34, on Wednesday said the sledging from the crowd was at times intolerable and some spectators made comments about him and his family as he prepared to serve. “It felt like a circus out there and not really a tennis match,” Venus told One News. “Between serves [they were] geeing the crowd up and getting them to cheer at times like that. I don’t think that’s really on. “You know if it’s on the other foot, old mate [Kyrgios] would have

flipped his lid. “He already did get mad there by himself. It’s amazing, he can smash a ball out that hits a kid and just ’cause he gives them a racket afterwards people can say he’s such a good guy.” Venus went on to describe Kyrgios as “a knob”. Kyrgios is not my kind of player he’s too brash and cocky while also grossly underachieving. One thing I will say, he has got more eyeballs on doubles tennis than I’ve ever seen which presumably is a positive. Every year there’s talk about how Nick Kyrgios is “must watch and

Janet selected for the Commonwealth Games By Chris Valli

Janet Udy has come a long way from Zimbabwe - and is now heading briefly to Burmingham. The Blenheim local has been chosen as a squash umpire for the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Birmingham starting in late July. Janet says the selection is a massive opportunity for her and she is excited to have the opportunity to attend the Games. She was notified last week and is looking forward to working with fellow referees from other Commonwealth countries. “I received an email from the Birmingham 2022 Technical Officials Team confirming I’d been appointed. Glenn Carson from Hamilton has also been appointed.” The criteria for being a referee at the Commonwealth Games came through nomination by one’s home country. Janet says referees needed to be qualified to a high enough standard to manage the calibre of players attending the Games. As to what level of competition she will be umpiring, Janet has an open mind as to what that may look like. “There will be referees at the Games with much higher qualifications and more experience than me, such as Glenn (Carson) so I don’t expect to be referring to the top

matches. I am looking forward to gaining more experience and having the opportunity to learn from some of the best referees in the world.” The former Zimbabwe native started playing squash as a teenager. The school had a squash court and there were no formal competitions and often Janet and her friends played by themselves. After moving to Marlborough from Dunedin in 1993, Janet joined the Marlborough Squash Club and started playing in the local competition. “A friend of mine at the time, Lyn Clarke, was interested in learning to referee so she organised for us to go to the Wellington Open in 2007 to referee that tournament and get assessed on our refereeing. In 2008 I qualified as a New Zealand National Referee which required you to get passes on a higher standard of players (A grade).” Prior to Covid, New Zealand hosted several Professional Squash Association (PSA) tournaments each year with international players starting out on the professional circuit attending. “I had the opportunity to referee at those tournaments and get feedback (assessment) on my standard of referring from Glenn Carson who is world ranked by World Squash Federation (WSF).” Janet says she has been fortunate to gain

appointment viewing” at the Australian Open. In terms of singles grand slam performances, I don’t see it. His two best results at a grand slam are quarter-final efforts at the Australian Open in 2015 and Wimbledon in 2014. He was knocked-out in the second round of the singles last week. Perhaps Kyrgios is happy to play the clown and never live up to his potential. The Aussies do love a larrikin. Hopefully the tennis public continue to give Alcott more of the spotlight. He’s worth it, I’m not sure Kyrgios is.

Golf Results Wairau Valley Golf Club Saturday, January 29: Summer Stableford: Bill Linklater 40, Mel Hampton 38, Robin Lacey 38, Maureen McKenzie 35, Dave McFarlane 35, Colin Baker 33, Mike Collins 33, Elaine Brown 32.

Marlborough Golf Club

Janet Udy - I am looking forward to gaining more experience and the opportunity to learn from the best referees in the world.

experience through appointments outside of New Zealand including referring at the Oceania Junior Championships in Australia in 2016, the Victorian Open in Melbourne in 2016 and the Pacific Games in Samoa in 2019. Such experience can only hold her in good stead as she flies the flag for not only New Zealand but Marlborough. Janet and Glenn arrive three days before the Games start (July 25) and will be in Birmingham for two weeks.

January 23 - Tolerance Cup Combined Stableford: C & J Leith 85, D Pickering & D Knappstein 80, M & J Dwyer 78, T & A Rutledge 74, H & A Beard 74, T & M Tripe 74. January 26 - Diana Pye Stableford: Pru Jensen 39, Judy Dwyer 37, Angela Beard 36, Karen Morris 36, Annette Wilkinson 34, Jackie McGarry 34, Kirsty Hardie Boys 34. January 27 - Men’s stableford Div.1: Bede O’Malley 41, Hugh Bay 39, Malcolm McKenzie 37, Michael Dwyer 37, Paul Eden 35, Scott Allen 35. Div.2: Adrian Joshi 42, Ken Bennett 40, Nevil Paterson 39, Richard Anderson 36, Graeme Parker 36, Paul Ham 36. January 29 - Women’s stableford Div.1: June Maslin 38. Div.2: Annette Mason 37, Pru Jensen 36, Bobbie Glennie 35. Men’s stableford Div.1: Stephen Harvey 37, Bede O’Malley 36, Pete Marfell 36, Bruce Snowden 36. Div.2: Michael Dwyer 41, Trevor McGarry 40, Daniel Adriatico 39, Daniel Taylor 38, Bob Nicolle 38, Peter Diack 38, Graeme Parker 38. Div.3: Jeff Clarke 35, Adrian Joshi 31.

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The Sun

Wednesday February 2, 2022

WAI-ITI SECTIONS FOR SALE! YOUR DESIGN HERE

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