23 November Blenheim Sun Newspaper

Marlborough Academy of Dance students Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tinman and the Lion after melting the witch. The dance with the senior jazz and highland students was called 'look what you made me do'.

Marlborough Academy of Dance production Wizard of Oz was met with positive feedback at the weekend.

The show combined hip hop, highland and Irish Dancing and jazz, contem porary and acro to portray the 1939 film narrative of Dorothy and Toto on their adventures beyond the rainbow.

MAD Director Robyn Simmons says the support from everyone leading up to the weekend was fan tastic.

Robyn says the MAD team would like to thank their main sponsors Cay thorpe Family Estate and the Sun Newspaper along with local businesses who supported them with their advertising feature.

"We acknowledge and truly appreciate the amaz ing team who worked on sound, lighting, set and props, costumes, backstage crew and children's super visors. We couldn't put on a show like this without you," Robyn says.

Aquarium has month to vacate building after High Court ruling

land, following EcoWorld’s 16-month “occupation”.

By Maia Hart Local Democracy Reporter

Port Marlborough says the welfare of EcoWorld’s animals remains its top priority and “specialist” staff have been contracted to assist them when they take over the site next month.

It comes after a decision from Justice David Gendall, released on Friday, ruled EcoWorld owner John Reuhman had 20 working days to leave the water front building, after a High Court bid to stop his eviction failed. He could look to rehome animals during that time, should he wish to.

Port Marlborough would take over responsibility of the animals which remained after the 20 working days.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Port Marlborough said they were pleased with the court order, which granted them “repossession” of their

“The decision of Justice Gendall not only confirms the legal position of Port Marlborough as landlord, but also endorses our conduct throughout this challenging period,” the statement said.

The port said they hoped Reuhman would “finally do the right thing” and look to rehome the animals and vacate the site, as directed by Justice Gendall.

“Notwithstanding, the welfare of the animals remains our top priority, and we have contracted specialist staff to assist in this process,” the statement said.

The port would continue to work with Te Papa Atawhai/the Department of Conservation, the Zoo and Aquarium Association, Ministry for Primary Industries/Manatu Ahu Matua, iwi and other expert bodies to co-ordinate the sustainable rehoming or release of the animals if required, the statement said.

The statement said planning for the site was underway, and they looked

forward to consulting with the Marlbor ough community, iwi and stakeholders on how the site could “best serve the community” going forward.

Reuhman told the reporter his lawyer had advised him not to talk.

However, in a statement provided by his lawyer later in the day, Reuhman said he was “bitterly disappointed” by the High Court’s decision.

“We are still considering the profound implications of last week’s judgement and EcoWorld’s options moving for ward,” Reuhman said, adding he felt “privileged to have run EcoWorld for nearly 20 years”.

Reuhman said it came as a “terrible shock” when Port Marlborough in formed him in April 2021 that it was not renewing EcoWorld’s lease.

“EcoWorld and I are considering our options. However, even if the Court’s decision means the Port takes over the building and its creatures, I still hope it will not destroy EcoWorld, but will build on the work that EcoWorld has

done over the past 20 years, for the benefit of the Picton community, the wider Marlborough region and, perhaps most of all, the environment.”

The decision from Justice Gendall dismissed Reuhman’s claims “in their entirety”, and said Reuhman built his case “exclusively” around a letter from Port Marlborough, in 2015, that offered him a right of renewal of EcoWorld’s lease. But instead of accepting that offer, Reu hman went back with a “counter-offer” and tried to negotiate better terms for the lease. It was a basic principle of contract law that a counter-offer was a rejection of the original offer, Justice Gendall said in the decision.

Justice Gendall said the port was entitled to damages for the costs of removing im provements from the land, including the aquarium and its stock which remained after the 20 working days.

Reuhman must also pay any legal costs incurred by Port Marlborough as part of the proceedings.

Imogen Grayson played the Wizard in the Marl borough Academy of Dance production Wiz ard of Oz. Imogen is the current NZ Highland Dance Champion of Champions for 18 years and over. Photos: Mark Grammer Photography

Christmas giving tree requires giving

By Chris Valli

A Christmas tree inside Stadium 2000 will encourage giving this festive season.

The idea from School Start First Impressions Marlborough was in spired by Foster Hope Marlborough (local charity) who had a giving tree in a local cafe where they collect Christmas gifts for foster kids.

School Start First Impressions Marlborough works to reduce the impact of poverty on the education of Marlborough children by supply ing everything a child might need to start at school.

The initiative is designed to give Marlborough’s at-risk new entrants the opportunity to commence school on an equal footing with their peers, enabling them to em brace the transition to school and give them the chance to be the best they can be.

SSFIM Chairperson Michelle Munro says stadium staff is putting donated items away each night in the lead up to Christmas.

“We are supplying boxes for the donations to go under the tree which will be fenced off with a lovely picket fence.”

“The tree creates a place for the public to donate items for SSFIM ‘5 kitboxes’. The items are left under the tree and a tag acknowledging the donation is hung in the tree.”

A ‘5 kitbox is for children turning five whose families are experienc ing significant hardship. The kit contains everything a child needs

to celebrate their fifth birthday and commence school. Each kitbox is customised and includes items such as a school uniform, hat, stationery, swimming gear, sunscreen to a lunchbox or pencil case.

There will be forms for monetary donations which can be left in the ‘Santa Letter Box’ adjacent to the tree.

Michelle says the stadium is an ideal venue to have the tree as it has the highest foot traffic in Marlborough, with numerous families accessing the venue daily.

“We use it ourselves regularly and know some of the staff, so asking was really easy. We have had a Christmas giving tree the prior two years, with Ray White as the venue. They have been wonderful, but we chose to go with this new opportunity for which we are grateful.”

The O’Dwyer class from Rapaura School took on the challenge of mak ing decorations and hanging them on

the tree this year. Michelle’s own son attends Rapaura School. However she says, SSFIM like the idea of choosing a different school each year to be involved in making the decorations and if possible again hanging them for us. She says this would increase both community participation and awareness.

A highlight of the day for the Year 3 and 4 students was getting a ride on the double decker bus courtesy of Gary Wright from Road Trips Marlborough.

SSFIM was recently acknowledged for the work they do in the community from Volunteer Marlborough where they won in the Community Social Services category.

“We are incredibly honoured to receive such an award, it reinforces that our charity is on the right track to making a real difference for Marl borough’s kids that need our help,” says Michelle.

inbrief Sun The

More space for boat trailer parking at Memorial Park

Council has listened to community feedback and given the go-ahead for increased vehicle and boat trailer parking at Picton’s Memorial Park during peak holiday times.

Mayor Nadine Taylor said last summer’s busy holiday period saw the demand for boat trailer parking outstrip supply. A number of boaties had to park their trailers on roadsides, causing traffic safety issues.

“Those who gave us their views during the recent submission period and hearings were keen that the system that was trialled over Easter this year continues. The hearings panel agreed but also expanded the area available for trailer parking even further,” Mayor Taylor said.

Space will be available on the eastern side of Memorial Park to ensure walking and biking access is not obstructed and the northern side would be available for recreational users. Council’s park booking system will be used to help administer the process.

Westpac offers CPR Rescue rashies

Westpac NZ is helping Kiwi families to stay safe around the water this summer, by providing rash vests that unzip to reveal clear CPR instructions.

Westpac Rescue Rashies are designed to fit children aged 2 to 8. They provide potentially life-saving information in a rescue situation, and remind families about the importance of water safety. The bank is giving away about 1,000 Rashies to Kiwi kids around the country over the next few months. The remaining 7,000 are on public sale as of Monday with 100% of the $25 purchase price going to the local rescue helicopter of the purchaser’s choice.

A highlight of the day for O'Dwyer class was getting a ride on a double decker bus courtesy of Gary Wright from Road Trips Marlborough.

Rapaura School student Charlotte d'Auvergne adds her decoration to the tree at Stadium 2000.

Cricket Association frustrated

By Chris Valli

The Marlborough Cricket Association has been left feeling once again frustrated after their pavilion and clubrooms were tagged last week.

Tagging - refers to writing an ‘artists signature’ or their pseudonym on a public surface. Whatever the definition, the asso ciation’s general manager Ed Gilhooly says they had spent a lot of time cleaning tagging from a few weeks ago.

“It’s very frustrating. It seems to be coming more prevalent recently. We have

the national over 40s tournament starting today so it will be a challenge to try and get the tagging removed or painted over before then,” says Ed.

The national over 40s tournament, is the first year such a tournament has been organised for the age group. There are four districts taking part at Horton and Oliver Parks with the top of the south players rep resenting the Wellington/Tasman district. Among those due to take part are former Black Caps twin brothers Hamish and James Marshall along with Marlborough player Andrew McCaa.

Horton Park meets the needs of Marlbor ough cricket over the summer season and accommodates three cricket blocks and an extensive pavilion including the home of the Blenheim Judo Club.

Ed says after the tagging a few weeks ago he bought some cleaning agent which managed to clean off most of the worst affected areas. However, he suggests it will need repainting this time around.

“We were also targeted two or three years ago and had to repaint but haven’t had any instances until the one a few weeks ago.”

Ed says the association has had a couple

of offers of help already which he says is greatly appreciated.

“I get the impression this is a growing problem across town.”

Meanwhile, a toilet block on Stephenson St, on the other side of the park had been badly vandalised, with the toilets broken, facilities ripped from the walls, items strewn over the ground and tagging on the outside of the building.

FOOTNOTE: A cricketer from a local women’s team, Jody Klempel, helped clean up the tagging on Friday after driving from her home at Cape Campbell to Horton Park.

Zonta says No’ to violence

By Chris Valli

Zonta Marlborough will be joining forces with their international counterparts in mark ing a week of ‘Zonta says No’ to violence against women and families.

Zonta is an International women’s service

organisation which advocates for women and girls on a range of rights-based issues including access to education, ending child marriage and anti-violence awareness. There has been a Zonta Club in Marlborough for 27 years.

This year’s event will see Zonta Marl

borough partnering with the Marlborough Violence Intervention Project (MVIP).MVIP is a network of organisations and members of the public working to make Marlborough a safer place to live. Their vision is to ensure Marlborough is a community where people enjoy personal safety and security, and are free from victimisation, abuse, violence and avoidable injury.

Spokesperson Christine Law says Zonta Marlborough has had a long involvement with the Marlborough Violence Intervention Project (MVIP) having had a representative at the monthly meetings for 15 or so years.

“Over time we have collaborated with MVIP with projects when we could such as when White Ribbon bike riders came to Blenheim and when Norm Hewitt spoke at the White Ribbon dinner, and we assisted with the set up and production of posters, and of signage with the Makos at the Lansdowne Park.

The purpose of MVIP aligns well with

Zonta’s mission and the annual campaign Zonta Says No to Violence Against Women with 16 days of activism against gender discrimination from November 25 to De cember 10.”

Estimates published by WHO (World Health Organisation) indicate that globally about 1 in 3 (30%) of women worldwide have been subjected to either physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence in their lifetime.

Orange is the signature colour for all Zonta Says No awareness events and Christine says lighting will be facilitated with Marlborough Roads for the Grove Road Bridge to be orange from November 26 - to December 4 2022 to promote the awareness week.

“The outcome we seek is an increase of awareness of the ongoing effect of violence in our communities and a determination to address and stop violence - especially when it affects women and girls.”

Marlborough Cricket Association General Manager Ed Gilhooly says they have the national over 40s tournament starting today so it will be a challenge to try and get the tagging removed or painted over before then.

Zonta Marlborough will be partnering with the Marlborough Violence Intervention Project (MVIP) from Saturday, November 26 - Sunday, December 4 as part of the 'Zonta says No’ to violence awareness campaign against women and families. From left; Clare Pinder, Christine Law, Bridget Orman and Susan O'Kane.

After

Glen Murray has 25 years experience from gastro-pub to fine dining, and has worked alongside some well-known celebrity chefs.

Glen believes 'fresh is best' and sources all his produce locally from Meaters and Fresh Direct.

"I'm really looking forward to cooking some good honest food for our diners. While some favourite dishes will be the foundation of our menu, others will be changing regularly to keep it fresh and exciting."

Charlie Banks Blenheim

I made a little ball with glit ter, it makes me feel happy because it’s nice and shiny.

Rapaura

Harriet D’auvergne Blenheim

I made a little person. It means every time I come to go swimming at the stadi um people can see what I made.

Tiahuia Finch Blenheim

My decoration has little sparkle things which con nect with a crystal attached. I thought that’s a great idea.

Skarlett Brown Blenheim

I made two - a sign which says Merry Christmas and the second decoration is like a globe with snow on it.

Archie Allison Blenheim

I made a bauble. I thought it was a nice thing to do.

Letters

of community interest are welcomed. A maximum of 150 words please.

They must be signed and a street address provided to show good faith, even when a nom de plume is provided for publication.

The editor reserves the right to

abridge letters or withhold letters from publication.

Email them to news@blenheimsun. co.nz or present to our office at 72 High St.

Please note that your name and street address MUST be provided with emails.

CluBS - is it too late?

Dear Editor, I’m afraid I - along with several thousand other Marl burnians - am vicariously responsible for the closure of Clubs of Marlborough.

I read there were something like 4000 paid up members of the club, but only 100 or so regulars. When I first arrived in Marlborough I wanted to participate in local affairs as much as possible, so joined

Clubs of Marlborough. Un fortunately, I only went a couple of times. Perhaps put off by a pretty average meal the first time and watching major sports events from the comfort of my lounge.

However, if the full mem bership had been advised of the need to boost regular attendance - say two or three times a month - to stave off the club closing, I’m sure they

Tamatea Starkey Blenheim

I made a popsicle stick and decorated it - it was nice and easy to do.

Dear Ed,

A Pa rliamentary committee is considering having rail passenger travel made possible in NZ. Kiwirail tells us the Mainland is too sparsely populated for this to work; true if you are thinking passenger trains, but what we need are railcars, which log ically we can get from the superseded Auckland units which have been providing employment for a security company in Taumarunui for decades. Get them reconditioned at Hillside

Workshops, which were magically brought back to life by Labour not so long ago, against the wishes of Kiwirail bosses. Oh dear. Ok, so that same hierarchy are dead against using rail for public transport – witness how they made sure Christchurch didn’t get suburban rail a couple of decades back, in spite of the shining example of Aussie cities doing just that. So, put the railcars in the hands of teams such as those now making a success of passenger outings on revitalised

steam trains at various locations round the country. Have their back-offices consist of high school teams, doing the sort of research they are showing themselves so good at. What, use amateurs you say? Have a look at the vollie Fire & Rescue crews, and am bulance likewise; see what a success volunteers have made of Omaka and Wanaka aviation setups. Contrast our employees drawing six-figure salaries at Kiwirail, all 1700 plus of them, costing us 170million bucks

pa, for what?

Railcar operating teams based in Picton for the Christchurch run, and Dunedin for that to Invercargill; give it a go. The Exchequer won’t like it since road transport makes seven times as much CO2 as equivalent rail hence less emissions revenue, and of course four times as much diesel burned hands over that much more taxes, RWC etc. Our Marlborough uni students deserve economical, eas ier riding transport to the Canterbury

would have responded. Begs the question: Is it too late now?

I reckon that communication could well have spurred the extra attendance/revenue re quired to keep the Club viable and, hopefully, profitable. It’s a shame as I thought the Clubs did a good job of communi cating its activities with its members.

Mark Hanson Omaka Landing

campuses; the planet deserves less polluting methods too.

Finally, how sad the hierarchy made sure the line to Nelson was not going to happen, against spirited protest by our people out here all those years ago. Kiwis sacrificed a lot to get the main truck pushed through; let’s not use it.

Yours faithfully Bill Holvey

PS They’re spending about $1,800,000,000 on the rail tunnels under Auckland.

Year ¾ school students decorated the School Start First Impressions Giving Tree at the stadium last Thursday.

Merry Christmas from us all at The Marlborough Art Society

Blenheim to host Global Cities NZ Conference

Delegates from around the country will descend on Blenheim next November for the Global Cities New Zealand Conference 2023.

Mayor Nadine Taylor made the announcement at this year’s event in Wellington last week, saying she was delighted Marlborough would host the event.

“With the disruption we’ve had over the past three years, it will be a wonderful opportunity to get together, to reconnect with old friends and meet new ones,” she said.

Marlborough has a long history of sister city relationships with the first created in 1989 with Japanese city Tendo. That relationship was built on shared cherry export industries, and two years later another relationship was formed with Otari Village in Nagano.

Mayor Taylor is a keen advocate for

sister cities and was one of the first to travel on an early Council youth programme, visiting for a working holiday at the ski fields in and around Otari after leaving university.

In 2016 Marlborough signed a sister region agreement with Ningxia in China – a relationship focusing on economic development in the wine industry.

“The benefits of sister city exchanges are varied and many - from economic benefits to the mutual exchange of ideas and technology, alongside the cultural experience, friendships and relationships that are made when visiting another country,” Mayor Taylor said at the conference. “That is what we want to build on next year - and showcase the very best Marlborough has to offer.”

The conference is set down for 7 and 8 November.

Want to see wheelie bins rolled out? Be sure to make a submission

If you’re keen to see wheelie bins rolled out across Marlborough now’s the time to make your voice heard by making a submission.

Solid Waste Manager Dr Alec McNeil says it’s important Council receives feedback on the proposed changes to the region’s waste services that reflects the view of our community.

“You don’t have to be against the proposal to make a submission - we still want to hear from those who are for the proposed changes, and those who have feedback that isn’t included in the current statement of proposal,” he said. Marlburians might have different ideas or might have alternative suggestions and we want to capture that feedback to ensure the new service is as effective and efficient as it can be.”

Council is proposing to introduce a new 140-litre wheelie bin for rubbish collected fortnightly and a 140-litre bin for recycling, excluding glass, collected fortnightly. The current recycling crate will be used for glass only. Refuse and recycling are proposed to be serviced on alternate weeks.

Residents Affected Venue

The proposal also sees the expansion of the kerbside collection area to Grovetown, Havelock, Rarangi, Rai Valley, Renwick, Seddon, Spring Creek, Tuamarina, Wairau Valley and Ward.

The rural coin skips are proposed to be replaced with remote transfer stations with ten 1,100-litre wheelie bins for recycling, excluding glass, ten 1,100-litre wheelie bins for refuse and a skip for colour-sorted glass.

To watch an audio visual presentation on the proposed changes or to make a submission visit: www.marlborough.govt.nz/ services/refuse/community-consultationwaste-services

To learn more and have your questions answered, you can attend one of the community information sessions being held this month. If you missed the first Blenheim meeting, a second meeting will be held on 24 November - see details below.

“Each township has its own situation so being able to talk about how the proposal relates to them is hugely beneficial,” Dr McNeil said.

Community information sessions

Date Time

Blenheim Springlands School Hall Thursday 24 November6.30 pm – 8.30 pm

Seddon Seddon Community HallFriday 25 November6.30 pm – 8.30 pm Ward Ward Community Hall Tuesday 29 November6.30 pm – 8.30 pm

Check your swimming pool is safe for summer

If you have a swimming pool now is a good time to check it’s safe and secure.

Council’s pool compliance officer is visiting homeowners and renters to check their pool meets the required standards. Inspections also cover temporary pools over 400mm deep - the type that can be bought cheaply from a hardware store.

The standards include ensuring:

• Your pool has a physical barrier that restricts access to children aged under five. The barrier must be at least 1,200mm high and not have a deck or garden beside it that reduces its height. You also need to ensure you don’t have anything nearby that could be used to climb over the barrier. It must not have any opening bigger than 100mm.

• Your pool gates open away from the pool, self-close and self-latch

• Only pool related activities happen in the pool area; you don’t have a vegetable garden, clothes line or kids’ playground equipment inside the barrier

• A backflow preventer is installed on the tap used to fill the pool, even if you only use the tap occasionally.

Remember that temporary pools must meet the requirements of the legislation and be fenced. A building consent is needed if you construct a pool barrier or want to alter your existing barrier.

Pool owners can expect an audit visit every three years from Council.

The homeowner/occupier and/ or pool owner have a shared responsibility to ensure that secure barriers are installed and maintained to the required standard.

For more information email pools@marlborough.govt.nz or Ph: 03 520 7400.

Spring annuals giveaway

Council’s annual giveaway is back after a three year hiatus due to Covid-19. Mark Tuesday 29 November in your calendar and come along to Seymour Square to get your hands on some free plants. Twice each year, Council’s gardeners plant thousands of annuals in the flower beds of Seymour Square. With spring here, the time has come for them to be removed and the garden beds prepared for summer planting.

Next week, the beds will be dug over and the viola, pansies, poppies, chrysanthemums and polyanthus removed and given away.

Bring your garden fork and containers and come along on 29 November from 8.30 am to 10.00 am. Our gardeners will be on site to help If it’s raining, this event will be postponed to Wednesday 30 November.

Street Address: 15 Seymour Street Blenheim 7201 New Zealand

He kōrero nā te Kaunihera o Wairau

Your local news from the Marlborough District Council

Some of the beautiful blooms that will be removed and given to keen local gardeners as Council prepares Seymour Square’s garden beds for summer planting

Mayor Nadine Taylor announcing Marlborough will host next year’s Global Cities New Zealand Conference.

The pure emotion and buzz of live music

The venue of Raupo is apt. Relaxing on the terrace overlooking a Taylor River which has seen its fair share of deluge over the winter months of 2022. The location is right in the heart of the wine region. Yet, here we are. Sampling a Hazy IPA and a latte no less - rock and roll lifestyle for sure.

On first impression, Neil Sullivan’s beard infers a chap who hails from a Led Zeppelin bygone era of rock. Yet, behind the bristles is a 40-year-old who admits he enjoys the domesticated lifestyle that Blenheim brings. The Jules Taylor Wines, ‘logistics king’, believes it’s a beautiful thing that a bunch of grapes, hard work and patience can bring people together.

I’d also suggest it’s a beautiful thing when three like-minded musicians come together and click. So how did the ‘accounts guy’ end up in Waiharakeke?

“I played drums with them both (Phil and Sam) at an open mic night (Yard Bar). Their drummer at the time was Midge McCleary who was off to the UK, so I kind of filled in. The more we played, the more we got used to each other, in our minds anyway,” reflects Neil.

“I fell in love with the place (Marl borough), got a good job and stayed.”

Neil’s musical influences are varied, he says. He credits CCR, Kiss and Led Zeppelin as having a sway in his devel opment although being ‘half Tongan’ he went through a phase of Hip Hop in the Waikato.

“Most of my stuff came from my old man. He loved rock and that was the thing that stuck with me. I worked at the student bar ‘The Outback’ and there used to be a great live music community there. I was fascinated by the whole thing. I played drums loosely when I was at college and often looked up to guys in a band called 48 May (pop

rock). I was in awe of them. I wanted to do what they did but not practise,” he laughs.

“I remember at college I wanted to play guitar because it was cool and got all the ladies. I was sitting in the music room with a guitar and had no idea what I was doing. One of them says, ‘why don’t you jump on the drums’ and it came to me naturally.”

Full time musician and vocal guitarist Sam Merrall, 34, takes a sip of his latte and interrupts Neil throughout the interview. “I used to be a priest, do you know that?” His banter albeit refreshing takes Neil off on tangents to gather his own thoughts.

Hailing originally from Taumarunui in the King Country, Sam moved to the top of the south after breaking up with his then girlfriend in Queenstown where they both played in a band.

movie Crossroads (starring Ralph Macchio).”

The band formed at the end of 2014 after Neil moved down to Blenheim from Hamilton for a relationship. It was through networking in a football team that Neil was advised to reach out to Sam and Phil.

Were there any intentions of Sam pen ning his own song about the break up?

“It’s too hard so yeah nah. I’ve made attempts with riffs but that’s about it.”

Sam credits his influences to the likes of the San Francisco based Steve Miller Band yet when he discovered the buzz of playing guitar it was the ascendency of guitar greats like Stevie Ray Vaughan which left an impression.

“The music from Dad was nostalgic and when I started learning guitar it was Joe Satriani, Stevie Ray Vaughan and Steve Vai, the guy that plays the guitar duel at the end in the (1986)

Meanwhile, bass guitarist Phil Waters is the local lad who was born and educated in Marlborough and married no less to Sam’s sister - a brotherhood indeed.

As for how the band got the name?

“When we first started jamming, we were doing an open mic night. An easy key to jam in is A minor. On the fretboard it allows you to play diversely up and down the board and is a good position. A lot of the music we play is in A minor and we came up with the name for the band,” says Sam.

Neil says the dynamic of the band is a ‘healthy mate ship’ and

advocates they are all lucky to have stumbled across each other.

He says with a mutual sense of humour it allows them to not take things too seriously.

“I’m lucky I get to play alongside Phil and Sam, we get on well and it works.”

I ask Sam if he agrees with Neil’s comment. “Nah, not at all. I only like Phil,” laughs Sam. “But nah it’s good fun to play music with these boys.”

Neil says there is a great deal of muso talent in Marlborough. Open mic nights he says, allow them to have an opportunity and what it’s like to play to a live crowd. They both acknowledge the Yard Bar, Marlborough Public House and Seumus’ Irish Bar in Picton as venues who are doing great mahi for live performers.

“It comes down to the bar venues if they want to have live music. There is something powerful about live music,” Neil says. “It’s good

having the wineries and bars which allow it over the summer and that breaks things up variety wise and with wedding venues too,” says Sam.

As a covers band, there is one song which has a unique effect on getting punters on their feet and losing their inhibitions.

Written by Bob Dylan and per formed in recent times by Darius Rucker of Hootie and the Blowfish fame, Wagon Wheel is a Marlbor ough favourite.

“Wagon Wheel is like blood in the water. I had never heard of it before I moved to the south island,” says Neil. “Watching people react to it is hard case, grabbing their sisters and getting amongst it. It’s a banger.”

“The better you learn a song, the more fun you’re going to have playing it,” says Sam.

“It’s about giving more to the audience than just playing chords and half assing it.”

Blenheim three piece covers band AMinor Thing will be playing at Pure Events, Savour in the Park this weekend. Band members Neil and Sam spoke to Chris Valli about their musical influences and why playing live gigs is the epitome of creative expression.

“I’m lucky I get to play alongside Phil and Sam, we get on well and it works.”

Neil and Sam be lieve the music they play comes down to the mate ship of the band and having fun while doing it.

Local environmental groups continue to inspire: Yealands award grants to five new biodiversity focused projects in Marlborough

Yealands Marlborough Sustainability Initiative (YMSI) is awarding a further five local environmental groups with grant funding as part of ongoing community support and focus on protecting Marlborough’s biodiversity. The grants will support the recipients inspiring efforts to improve fresh water quality, preserve sensitive natural areas, and protect biodiversity in the Marlborough district.

The latest recipients of the funds are:

• Marlborough Sounds Restoration Trust: Restoring the landscape and biodiversity of the Marlborough Sounds through wilding pine control.

• Picton Dawn Chorus: Restoring native bird populations, through predator control and education.

• South Marlborough Landscape Restoration Trust: Protecting South Marlborough’s hill and high country landscapes and biodiversity through wilding pine control.

• Hinepango Wetland Restoration Group: Restoration of the Hinepango Wetland through the clearing and control of invasive species and planting.

• Endeavour Inlet Conservation Trust: Protecting and enhancing the natural eco-systems and heritage values of the Endeavour Inlet through pest control.

Congratulations to all of the grant recipients and thank you to everyone that applied for YMSI funding.

For more information on the Yealands Wines Marlborough Sustainability Initiative, please visit: www.yealands.co.nz/sustainability-grant/

Yealands is committed to playing a long-term role, alongside its community, to enhance Marlborough’s natural environment.

Calling for community Christmas cheer

By Chris Valli

Every year, the Salvation Army has the privilege of sharing the joy of Christmas with families in the community through Op eration Gifts for Kids. However, this can only happen through the generosity of donations.

Salvation Army Community Ministries Team Leader Bridget Nolan says as always they need the support from the Blenheim community to make Operation Gifts for Kids successful.

Bridget says they expect to see over 115 families over four days, who come to pick out gifts for their children, who may otherwise miss out. She says agencies around the community are invited to refer whanau they are working with.

Each family is given a time and a day to come in and enjoy a ‘shopping experience’.

“A team of volunteers are here to support every family as they make their way through the Christmas room,” says Bridget. “We rely on volunteers to help make all this happen. Hours and hours are spent on collecting, buying and organising gifts.”

The gift list could be gift vouch ers, craft activities, family games, outdoor and sports equipment or

financial donations towards the purchase of gifts

Bridget, who is a registered social worker, says Operation Gifts for Kids, is fundamentally about ‘showing a bit of love’, for those who are less fortunate and suffer a whole realm of emotions.

“Throughout the year I am privileged to be part of someone’s journey as they navigate adversi ty, disaster, sadness, grief, stress. Life is tough but just for a moment hope is seen in the faces of many who come to our centre.

“People experience a sense of worth and value because we value them.”

Donations towards Operation Gifts for Kids can be dropped off to The Salvation Army’s George Street centre, Wednes day - Friday, 9:30am - 12:30pm by December 9 to be included in Operation Gifts for Kids. They are able to continue receiving donations after this date.

Meanwhile, the Roadhouse Breakfast Toy Appeal in partner ship with the Salvation Army is on once again on Sunday, December 4 from 8am - 11am. The breakfast is held on the first Sunday of every month at the Riverlands Roadhouse on SH1 just south of Blenheim Spokesperson Luton Anderson

Salvation

says in previous years they have filled two vans with toys for children within the greater Marl borough community.

The Roadhouse has raised mon ey in the past for charities such as I am Hope, SPCA and Sands (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death) Foundation.

Luton says they would like to

thank BB Signs Blenheim for sup plying the banner to promote the toy appeal, Details Blenheim for taking the time to design and draw up art work for the posters and fliers along with Auto Electric City.

“We also would like to thank the Riverlands Roadhouse team, for getting behind us and allowing us to use the venue for breakfast and

supplying the greatest bacon butt ies in the whole of Marlborough,” Luton says.

For those that can’t make the breakfast, toys can be dropped off at Auto Electric City at 12 Opawa Street.

For more information, contact blenheim.corps@salvationarmy. org.nz or call on 578 0862.

WHY THE MARVEL HEALTH SCREENING IS AN IDEAL MOT FOR OVER 60S

ASwe grow older, especially over the age of 60, specific health problems may become prevalent.

Getting to the root cause of any disease, especially chronic diseases, requires examining the entire body since all organs and systems are interconnected and function as a whole.

To illustrate, chronic diseases of the digestive system may not necessarily arise from the stomach and intestines. They may originate from damages in the immune system that promote the growth of microbes which in turn cause inflammation and diseases of the gut. Also, atherosclerosis which refers to narrowing of arteries can restrict blood flow to the stomach and intestines and cause gut problems.

And then, there are environmental factors. Sensitivity to natural foods and food additives in processed foods can cause digestive

symptoms such as chronic stomach pain, bloating, or diarrhoea. Nutrients play a crucial role in keeping our systems healthy and preventing diseases. Magnesium deficiency is a common cause of chronic constipation. It is not always the case that a symptom will originate from an associating organ or system of the body.

The Marvel Health Scan is unique. It examines the entire body to pinpoint the hidden causes of health problems. The Brain, Heart, Lungs, Stomach, Intestines, Liver, Kidneys, and other organs in the body are inspected in detail. The scan searches the body for likely diseases present and possible underlying causes. It can identify microbes, nutrient deficiencies, food allergens and environmental contaminants. After the scan, Marvel Health international doctors review the reports and can recommend science-based natural therapies and lifestyle changes to encourage the body›s healing processes.

CLINICS IN: Christchurch, Rangiora, Rolleston and Blenheim

Army Community Team Leader Bridget Nolan, Lieutenant Jacob Howan and Luton Anderson.

Art trail success

The Alzheimers Marlborough Art, Craft and Collection Trail or ganisers wish to thank all the Artists and Exhibitors who supported us with their time, sales commissions, sales tables and donations during our recent fundraiser.

We would also like to thank:

• Craig’s Investment Partners for sponsoring our brochures and the businesses who sponsored our media articles.

• Jennian Homes donation of a

venue and G.J Gardner for the parking site.

• The Blenheim Sun and Marlbor ough Weekly, and radio station c o ntacts Gina Maunder and Daniel Tipping who helped us promote the event.

• Volunteers who helped on the weekend and with the Raffle sales.

• Karmyn Ingram our photogra pher.

• T he Marlborough community who purchased Trail tickets and

Raffle tickets. Winners of the Raffles have been notified and prizes collected.

• Thank you to New World, Red wood Countdown, Springlands C o untdown and the Farmers Market for allowing us to sell our raffle tickets at their venues.

The event was a great success and raised nearly $12,000. We look forward to holding the event again in 2023. Thank you all for your support.

Blue Eyes review

By Chris Valli

Lakings Road was transported to all things bobby soxers and big band last week in Blenheim Musical Theatre’s cabaret theatre show Blue Eyes.

Blue Eyes - the music of Frank Sinatra is full of reminiscence and a beautiful insight into the easy listening vocal style which became his vocation and adored by many worldwide with hits such as I’ve Got the World on a String, One More for the Road and New York New York. 150 million record sales is testimony to that.

New York New York would become Sinatra’s last great hit that was originally written for Liza Minnelli to perform in the Martin Scorsese film of the same name.

The cabaret concept is a credit to the BMT committee who decided to do something fresh for 2022 and break the routine of the favourable end of year theatre restaurant show with a choice which went in their – and punters favour.

The cabaret form of entertain ment worked.

The cast of Blenheim locals attest there is no greater escape than theatre. The cabaret and Blue Eyes cast hold weekly day jobs and are balancing respective roles at a busy time on the Marlborough calendar. Yet, one wouldn’t realise, such is their collaboration and interpreta tion of characters which gave one a sense of entertainment and joy.

Legend has it that Sinatra never learned how to read music and worked very hard from a young age to improve his abilities in all aspects of music. A perfectionist, renowned for his style and pres ence, Sinatra always insisted on recording live with his band.

Speaking of presence the talent and maturity of vocalist Jessie Sawers belies her 23 years. Jessie played the lead April in Act 2 and portrayed the musical narrative with great aplomb and then some. Her rapport and understanding with the ‘Ratbags’ band of 16 musicians combining tenor sax to trombone, flute to bass was delicious. Blenheim theatre it is

and professional is unquestionably what it is.

When Sinatra’s film career stalled in the early 1950s, Sinatra turned to Las Vegas where he became one of its best-known residency perform ers and part of the famous Rat Pack consisting of Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis, Jr., Joey Bishop and Peter Lawford known historically for ‘chasing women’

The dancing showcased by Kat Lange, Tracey Blissett and Helen Lyons provided the ambience that is cabaret through portrayal of movement and interaction with punters. It was choreographed, purposeful and contextual. Lange and Dave Barrett’s exposition of ‘The Girl from Ipanema’ meta morphoses one to Brazil and feels of jazz and Bossa Nova.

A slideshow of Frank’s life por trayed a mix of sentimental sur roundings to the New Jersey born Sinatra who received 11 academy awards and was included in Time Magazine’s compilation of the 20th century’s 100 most influential people.

Blue Eyes is a fresh, unique story and a wonderful reflection on the potpourri that is performing arts talent here in Marlborough.

You could say, it was their way, through the music that is Frank, Ole Blue Eyes, Sinatra.

Yealands turns green grapes into Green Apples with global sustainability awards

By Chris Valli

Yealands Wine Group has won two golds at the 2022 Interna tional Green Apple Awards for its ground-breaking Biodiversity Plan, officially launched yester day.

Ye alands attended a special awards ceremony at London’s Houses of Parliament on Novem ber 21 to acknowledge the com pany’s pioneering work to create a more biodiverse environment.

Yealands topped the Regen eration and Carbon Reduction c a tegories at the awards, run by global non-profit The Green Organisation to recognise envi

ronmental best practice around the world. Judges were impressed by the company’s 30-year Bi odiversity Plan, which will see around 270 ha at its vineyard in Marlborough’s Awatere Valley planted with more than 1,000,000 native trees to improve water quality and protect and enhance sensitive natural areas.

As the first wine producer in the world to be Toitū carboNZero Certified from day one, Yealands ha s always measured, reduced and offset all emissions. The Bi odiversity Plan goes even further to make a positive difference to the environment and community.

Grape vines are known to be in

dicator species for climate change, with small increases in tempera ture having a noticeable impact on grape ripening and the character of wines. This has implications for the unique cool climate wines New Zealand produces.

“When we launched, we had an ambition to become a world leader in sustainable wine production. We believe creating a more biodiverse environment makes for a healthier, more resilient vineyard – one that’s also more resilient to climate change,” said Michael Wentworth, General Manager Sustainability and Strategic Projects at Yealands.

Yealands partnered with Wild Lab to develop the plan, with

input from Marlborough District Council and iwi. It builds on existing initiatives including extensive restoration of native vegetation within the vineyard to provide a habitat for rare and native birds and insects, and the in stallation of New Zealand’s largest solar panel array and a boiler that converts vine prunings into energy.

Last month, Yealands was the first winery in New Zealand to sign a Sustainability Linked Loan in partnership with ASB, with borrowing costs adjusted based

on its performance against key environmental, social or govern ance targets. This aims to reduce total emissions and intensity by five per cent per annum.

Jacqueline Hocquard working on piece at her Beaver Road studio, Jacqueline paints detailed New Zealand wildlife and botanicals using mainly watercolour and had exhibited throughout New Zealand and overseas.

Jessie Sawers who plays the lead April showcased a wonderful repertoire and interpretation of Sinatra’s back catalogue.

Sharon Stevens with her amazing collection of 900 miniature shoes. Photos by Karmyn Ingram

Mike Pilkington included his wild life photography with his ‘Military in Miniature’ on display at the Jennian Homes Show Home in Rose Manor.

Artist Emma Null was at Jennian Homes Show Home with graphite drawings and water paintings inspired by objects on the natural world.

Michelle King, Barbara Griffin, and Leslie Corbett admire works in Prue Matthews studio in Waikura Street.

Joe Woodhouse with some of his old sewing machines saved from the dump and made into tractors, steam engines, motorbikes and racing cars.

Re: Street cleaning

When I came to Blenheim many moons ago, there was a lovely, friendly, smiling lady who would be keeping the town centre clean. Was she employed by the council? I often think of her.

Traffic Officers

We should bring back Traffic Officers. That way the Police Force could concentrate on crime instead of driving around giving elderly motorists tickets for going five k over the limit.

Confused

Got a parking ticket recently for parking in Marlborough Clubs carpark on eastern side under the trees. But on western side of trees which is controlled by parking meter. The first hour free but booked for parking in a 30 minute area which is not sign posted so how does that work?

Much appreciated

I would just like to say how much I appreciate dog control after losing my dog at the Taylor today. Some kind person at the refuse station contacted dog control as my dog was on the road and then some very kind lady contacted dog control to say she had found her who then contacted me. They do a very good job, not too many stray dogs around the streets, well done dog control.

pride

Tragic

Closure of the Clubs tragic for Blenheim and the community. Where will us oldies go now for a drink, catch up with friends, perhaps a meal and wee play on the pokies? Answer, nowhere. I do worry for the welfare of some elderly.

Give them a break

Calm the Farm people! Be kind! Have some respect. There are still ‘real’ ripples from the rock that fell into the pond ie covid. Yes some things are still on back order, yes the shipment has been moved yet again! Its not the staff members fault, so give them a break. Staff are hard enough to find without the knowledge able ones quitting..

Dump fees

To the people who left 2 washing machines and a mattress at the clothing bin at Horton Park on Thursday you should be ashamed of yourself. Op shops can’t take electrical appliances. Believe you did that to save you paying dump fees. Why should the op shop have to pay the fees?

Getting worse

All Black rugby is barely worth watching. Look at the pathetic performance against Scotland. In contrast, the Black Ferns world cup win would be the best game of test rugby I’ve seen in 20 years. The difference is so stark. When are NZ Rugby going to wake up and start again with the whole All Black structure. Create some passion and change the whole way they play the game. They’re just getting worse and worse ! !

Sad to hear

Sad to hear the Cubs of Marlborough will close permanently. There shouldn’t be any blame put on any one person or group because of this let alone the staff who put their heart and souls into keeping the place going over the past three years since Covid lockdowns You will be missed and thank you.

No surprise

Well well well so the Club has closed, no surprises there. Maybe the powers that be will listen to what the ratepayers want done with their money now, instead of wasting it. Majority were against it in the first place, but what would we know!

Thank you

A big thanks to everyone who came to my assistance when I tripped and fell outside the Blenheim Library last week. Your help and assistance was appreciated

Pot holes

Maybe all these roading contractors in Marl borough should go to Nelson and get some lessons on how to reseal roads. The lead up on to the High St bridge is now breaking up and its only been resealed a couple of months.

Function centre

Council should do up the old Marlbough Club and turn it into a Function Centre and set aside a space to those Sections who have lost their home at the Clubs of Marlborough. The beautiful old building is not beyond saving.

Patchets when?

Patchets Way, which I understand is a housing development for kianga ora, what is happen ing? No work for 6months apart from weeding, perhaps a new name Patchets When.

Appalled

The situation of the combined clubs logically draws discussion on the former Marlborough Club building sitting precariously and now dilapidated at the end of Russell Tce.

I am appalled at the state of this abandoned building, once a pleasure to attend and which, as proposed in writing at the time - considering their contribution in the combined clubs proposal- should have been gifted to the RSA as their stand alone dedicated establishment. Given an uncertain future, perhaps with voluntary labour (Men’s Shed for example) it could be restored and repurposed for our valued Returned Service folk.

Talk of the week

Quiz Whizz Brides

Thanks Glenn for all the years of organizing the quiz nights at the now defunct Clubs. Good times which will be remembered. Enjoyable bride show so thumbs up to the organizers. Also the venue Rangitane first time for me. Very good.

Shout out

A big shout out to the 3 council workers, Jim, Ian, Nesfin for their prompt attention, knowledge, and common sense attitude when they came to Solway Drive this week to repair a leaking water main. Thank you.

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.

One truck?

Why are rubbish bags and recycling all going into one truck now?

Too dear

Cats

I too agree that it’s about time something was done about mongrel cats coming onto people’s property and doing their business in my garden after I have planted veges in my garden. Maybe I will set a trap and deliver them to the SPCA.

Called into SaveMart the other day, and walked out when I saw the exorbitant pricing. Designer clothes that are definitely not and, as example, second-hand jeans at $129.99!! No one decries a business making a profit but, considering these clothes and other goods are all donated, someone’s doing very well, thank you.

5 minutes with...

AnnA StephenS

Cardboard:

gardening this week

By Wally Richards

Cardboard boxes are everywhere.

A lot of products are transported in cardboard boxes, most products we ship out are in cardboard boxes.

Supermarkets have heaps of medi um to large cardboard boxes which they often put into a recycling bin as a friendly way of disposing of them.

Are you a dog or cat person?



I’ve been really lucky with having some cats in my life that have been really special buddies.

 What did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be an artist – just not there financially yet.

During the week I chanced to have a chat with a gentleman that is doing similar as our company with a range of products to enhance your gardens.

During the conversation he told me of a method that he suggests to people and gardeners for starting or extending their vegetable gardens. A method using cardboard that I had never thought of.

I have in the past suggested using cardboard as a mulch to suppress weeds which works very well.

One thing we’d be surprised to know about you?



Submarines make me pass out – Google Thasapho bia.

 Have you met anyone famous?

I went on a blind date with Orlando Bloom once – he didn’t know it was a date and I didn’t know he was already famous.

 My favourite food to cook or eat is...?

I love chicken way too much and love my veggies.

 The shop you can’t walk past is...?

Any good op shop.

This method is using cardboard to convert part of a lawn area into a productive vegetable garden very simply and very quickly.

In the past when I have converted a lawn to a growing area I have lifted the turf taking the top 50mm of turf off in squares, stacking them some where, grass side down, to rot down.

Then I would dig over the bare soil before raking off nicely for planting.

A bit of work but it made a new growing area.

Now this new way is that you firstly mow the area that you want to con vert as low as the mower will let you.

You then cover the area with card board over lapping to ensure a total coverage of the area.

Do this on a calm day as it is diffi cult to do when it is windy.

&

medium.

(As many as available)

Then we are going to place over these products a further layer of compost 40 to 50mm thick.

You need to choose an area that is fairly sunny and well away from trees, shrubs and vines as you are creating a great food source for your vegetables and those other bigger plants will try and rob your garden creating lots of fibrous feeder roots in the plot.

The first season will be ok but the following season it will be full of roots and nothing will grow.

One time I did several parallel veg etable beds about a metre wide with lawn in between them at the width of my mower. This allowed me to mow between each growing bed and a nice place to work the gardens from.

I love the idea of cutting the lawn low, covering with cardboard to suppress the weeds and then covering that with goodies and compost. Instant vegetable plot.

On existing vegetable gardens that are currently empty except for weeds the same can be done.

Cover the area with cardboard as above, then the other things ready to plant up.

What’s your favourite game of sport to watch?



Dance of any kind – I live vicariously through others’ talent.

 Your dream weekend involves....?

Sun, a good book, cocktails and not having to cook.

Over the cardboard you put a layer of purchased compost about 20mm thick and lightly water to settle into place.

The reason for the purchased com post is that it will be weed free as long as it did not come from a recycling source.

To help prevent this happening and to ensure your vegetable plot has good drainage make a trench around the plot area about to a spade depth.

This will allow surplus water to drain into the ditch where it will evaporate from sun and wind.

It will also help prevent some robber roots happening.

The cardboard will break down over time and the worms and soil life love it.

Then the following year you may want to put new cardboard down over the bed and repeat as above.



Favourite programme or series currently watching?

I’m desperately waiting for the next season of Amer ican Horror Story.



What’s one thing on your bucket list?

I’ve sadly had to say goodbye to my dream of getting to the Greek Islands but as soon as I tick off a hot air balloon ride, I’ll have to start on a new bucket list.

I prefer Daltons Compost as it is good quality and herbicide free.

Most of the others I wouldn’t give you tuppence for as many are just fine bark with some nutrients added or bark with recycled garden wastes.

Once you have the cardboard and compost down then it is time to put minerals and nutrients onto the layer of compost.

I suggest Wallys Unlocking your Soil, BioPhos, Wallys Ocean Solids, Wallys Calcium & Health, Blood

You could lay fence palings on top of this trench to allow a place for the wheels of your mower to ride on when cutting the rest of your lawn.

Give them a couple of coats of acrylic paint to seal in the tanalised chemicals.

If you only make your plot about a metre wide then you can work the area from one side.

If more than a metre wide you need to have a mowing strip on the far side to work all around the bed.

You should avoid walking on the bed as it compacts the growing

If you have a garden with say oxalis this will bury the plants and tubers and make gardening easier for a while. Go to your local supermarket and ask them for their used cardboard cartons or help yourself out of the dumpster.

If you happen to be near where we are in Marton then I can supply you with some large cardboard boxes to use.

We are getting close to Christmas and if you are looking to plant up containers to give away as Christmas gifts then you better get started so they have a bit of time to settle in before you given them away.

Nelson/ Marlborough actress

Bone, animal manures, chicken manure, sheep manure pellets and Bio Boost.

Rapaura School students decorating the School Start

Rapaura School student Mika Burkhart.

Amelia Rojas Beque, Christian Gooseneck and Alex Partridge.

Rick White, Michelle Munro, Grace Wilson and Thomas Chandler.

Maxx Power, Carter Lang and Monica Neylon.

Louis Ryan, Ryan Parkes and Jasmine Clark.

Monty Muir, Georgie Griffiths and Elizabeth Wilson. Lachlan Simmonds, Ned Neal and Kayden Murray.

He Matapuna Ora Trust Family Start

Whānau Worker

Family Start is an early intervention programme focusing on the first 1000 days. We make a difference improving long term outcomes for pēpi and tamariki offering support with their health, learning and relationships, whānau circumstances, environment, and safety.

We are looking for people who can work collaboratively with other community agencies, have sound understanding of issues relating to parenting and care and protection of children.

As a Family Start Whānau Worker you will deliver a child-centred, whānau-focused intensive home visiting programme. You will support whānau to build on their strengths and capability to ensure their tamariki have the best start in life.

You will need to have a recognised qualification in social work and be registered with NZSWRB or eligible to be, or have a relevant qualification in health or education.

A full drivers license is also required. Two positions are available: Hours for both positions are negotiable between 24 and 40 hours per week, to work in our Marlborough team.

CH r IStm AS PRESENTS – Want something different, unique or wacky – JUST BROWSING, 26 Battys Rd. Crystal, gold/silver

Notice of Annual Reporting Meeting

The Trustees of the Marlborough Electric Power Trust advise they will be holding the Trust’s Annual Reporting Meeting for beneficiaries on Tuesday 6th December 2022 at 7.00 pm, to be held at the Whitehaven Room, ASB Theatre Marlborough, 2 Hutcheson St, Blenheim. The meeting is to:

• Report on the operation of the Trust and Marlborough Lines Limited (the Company) during the preceding financial year and on the financial statements of the Trust and the Company for the financial year ended 30 June 2022.

• Confirm appointment of auditor and set their remuneration.

• Enable general discussion and information to beneficiaries of the Trust.

Copies of the Trust’s Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ending 30 June 2022 will be available from Tuesday 29th November 2022 at the offices of Blenheim Accounting Ltd, 36 Maxwell Rd, Blenheim (office hours 9am-5pm, Monday to Thursday) and can be viewed on our website www.mept.co.nz.

BROWN: Yvonne 25 November 2014. Re membering an amazing Mum, partner, nana and friend. Always loved and treasured. Lisa and Wayne xx

All records and Hifi gear wanted. Excellent prices paid. Coming to Christchurch? Penny lane Records Open 7 days 033663278

loW mileage hatchback, prefer later than 2010. Top budget $8500. Phone 021895406

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

WAter lillies, 2 pink, 1 yellow. $10 each. Ph 5776659

Community notices

Havelock lions Market

Outside the Havelock Town Hall. Saturday 26th November 8:30am1pm. Plenty of stall to chose those stocking filler gifts from and to find the bits and pieces needed for your holiday. Sausage sizzle and raffles - win yourself that leg of hogget for Christmas. Stalls still available $5. Phone Ian 574 2558

Sunday 4th December, 2.305.30pm at Westgrove, 107 Lower Wairau Road, Grovetown. Join us for an afternoon of live music, live art auction, silent auction, art and fashion parade (note: clothing also for sale.) Tickets $48 on sale from Hospice Shop, Cleghorn Street, Blenheim, Raukura Gallery, 54 High Street, Picton, Sista & Co, 37 High Street, Picton. Ticket price includes glass of bubbles on arrival, cheese platters and afternoon tea.

Friday 2nd December 2022. Rarangi Golf Club, 217 Rarangi Beach Road, Rarangi. Start 12 Noon. Prizes for best dressed terms, Two’s, closest to in, spot prizes. Raffles on sale during the day. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. $100 entry fee for teams of four. Entry forms available from your club or email: promotions@ mht.org.nz for an entry form. For more details please email Jane Ingram: jancla@xtra.co.nz

Afternoon tea with entertainment. Nurse’s Rec Hall, Wairau Hospital, 2.00pm - 4.00pm, 10th December 2022. Tickets Age Concern.

Community Noticeboard is for non-profit organisations! For $10.00 + GST you can publish up to 25 words. EXCLUDES: AGMS, sporting notices or special meetings. All notices must be pre-paid. Call into our office at 72 High St.

WATERMAN: Betty Dawn. On November 20, 2022 peacefully at Wairau Hospital, aged 90 years. Messages to 14 Mickell Road, RD3 Motueka 7198 or www.cloudybayfunerals. co.nz At Betty’s request, a private cremation has taken place with a Memorial Service to be held at a date to be advised.

Cloudy Bay Funerals

Kerry. Slipped away peacefully on Wednesday November 16 at Hospice Marl borough after a short illness at the wonderful age of 88. A service celebrating Kerry’s life was held at Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funer al Services, 15 Boyce Steet at 2pm on Monday 21st November. To view the full notice please visit our website www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz

Death notices

BROUGHTON Gillian Merle. Passed away 20th November 2022 at the Marlbor ough Hospice surrounded by loving family members. Messages to c/- PO Box 9 Blen heim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co. A Memorial Service to celebrate Gillian’s life will be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Service 15 Boyce Street on Sunday 27th November at 10.30am. Fam ily and friend’s welcome. To view the full notice please visit our website www.cloudy bayfunerals.co.nz

NICHOLSON: Irene. On 17 November 2022 passed away at Hospice Marlborough, Blen heim, aged 79 years. A funeral service for Irene was held at the Woodbourne Chapel, Base Woodbourne Blenheim, at 1pm on Tuesday 22 November followed by interment at the Fairhall Cemetery. To view the full notice please visit our website www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz

KNIGHT; Elizabeth Jo (nee Steel). On No vember 22nd 2022 at Wairau Hospital Blen heim, aged 87 dearly loved husband of the late David Knight. A Celebration of Elizabeth’s life will be held at St Christopher’s Church, Redwoodtown, Blenheim on Friday 25th No vember 2022 at 1pm. Messages may be sent to 14 Knights Lane, Grovetown, Blenheim 7201 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz To view the full notice please visit our website www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz

MCPHERSON: Donald Bruce (Don). Passed away 15 November 2022 at the Marlborough Hospice. A private family Memorial Service is to be held in the new year to honour the lives of both Margaret and Don. To view the full notice please visit our website www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz

EDEN: Frances. On 30 October 2022, peace fully at Springlands Lifestyle Village. Dearly loved wife of Paul. A private cremation has taken place with a Memorial Service to be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funer al Services, Boyce Street Blenheim on Friday 25 November at 11.00am. To view the full ser vice please visit our website www.cloudybay funerals.co.nz

LESLIE: William John (John). On 17 No vember 2022 at Springlands Lifestyle Village after a short illness, aged 85 years. A Funeral Service for John will be held at the Spring lands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street, Blenheim on Wednesday 23 November at 10.30am followed by private cre mation. To view the full notice please visit our website www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz

RIDDER, Philip Mark. On Monday 7th No vember. Dearly loved youngest son of Brian and Bev. Suddenly as a result of an accident. A private cremation has been held at his request.

TILDESLEY, Mark John: It is with much sad ness we announce the passing of Mark at his home, on Sunday November 20, 2022. Aged 54 years. Beloved son of Trevor (deceased) and Patricia. Dearly loved husband and soul mate of Gabby. Much loved and adored father and father-in-law of Nicole and Lewis. Cher ished poppa of Frankie. Dearly loved brother and brother-in-law of Jane and Marcus, and Nicoletta. Dearly loved uncle of Chelsea, Jayden, Tyler and Sophia. Messages may be sent to 17 Rush Lane, Canvastown, RD 1, Havelock 7178. A celebration of Mark’s life will be held at the Canvastown Hall at 2.00pm on Thursday November 24.

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

UFFINDELL, Janet Campbell “Jan” (née Cross): Peacefully on Saturday November 19, 2022, at Maxwell Lifecare with family pres ent. Aged 86 years. Adored wife of the late Ian (“Uff”). Loved mother and mother-in-law of Joanne and Stephen Bezar, and Diane. Trea sured grandma of Jacinta, Ryan, Andre and Chanelle and their partners Jake, Belinda, Ja nine and Seth. Adored great grandma of Quade and Micah, Louis and Alexander, and Lucas. Special thanks to Waterlea Lifecare and Max well Lifecare. Messages may be sent to the Uffindell Family, c/- 3 Ashwood Drive, Blen heim 7201. In accordance with Jan’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place.

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

sports talk

Bumbling All Blacks end season on typical note

Thank goodness the All Blacks season is over.

The 25-all draw was the perfect unhappy note to end a truly mediocre year.

This team has shown glimpses of brilliant play but more often than not, have not played up to the standard expected of the All Blacks history.

England roared back from 25-6 down with eight minutes to go to draw the match at Twickenham and seemed delighted with a share of

the spoils.

The All Blacks, not for the first time this season, had a command ing lead and again flopped when the game should have been safely in-hand.

Many people, like myself, believe we have no chance at winning next year’s World Cup and collapses like the one on Sunday morning do little to dispel the pessimism.

Without trying to be a broken record, Ian Foster has never been

a winner as a player or a coach and he seems to have brought his career mediocrity to the All Blacks.

Losses to Ireland and Argentina combined with a French-referee assisted escape against the Wallabies were all warning shots that this All Blacks era is one of the poorest in the professional rugby era.

This team doesn’t attack with flair, they’re obsessed with kicking the ball in all areas of the field and lack a killer instinct and composure in

crucial moments.

As my wife said to me after Sun day’s latest catastrophe - they’re not a likable team.

Key players are too inconsistent and only Ardie Savea can be con sidered world class.

For me, defeated as I am by this brand of All Blacks rugby, I look at it as one more season of Foster before the Scott Robertson era begins.

That is an era that should have started after the 2019 Rugby World

Cup semi final exit.

I can endure another 12 months but what is obvious to the fans is that change is desperately needed in all areas.

Changes in tactics and team selec tion are a must and only 2024 seems to offer any of those solutions to a constantly bewildered fanbase which has had to put up with the mediocre rugby dished-up by Foster and co. Roll on the summer months, it’s long overdue.

Innovations to benefit rugby

By Chris Valli

New Zealand Rugby’s (NZR) re cent announcement of three game innovations to be trialled for the 2023 community rugby season has been warmly welcomed by the Tasman Rugby Union.

The changes are supported by the 26 provincial unions and include a significant reduction in tackle height to below the sternum across all community rugby, including senior premier club and school First XV games.

The innovations are designed to im prove player safety, flow of the game and to keep the ball in play more.

Tasman Rugby CEO Lyndon Bray says the new tackle height was inter estingly tried in France (community game), with very positive outcomes.

“They lowered the tackle height to the waist and the outcomes were significantly less injury to both the

tackled player and the tackler. It is not well known by rugby people that the tackler is more likely to get injured than the tackled player.”

The trial will see the first tackler required to target the belly area below the sternum, with the second tackler still able to legally tackle below the shoulders in accordance with current rugby law.

Feedback from community grades trialling the reduced tackle height this season found that 78% of participants believed it improved the tackler’s safety, 73% felt it made the game faster and 72% thought there were more opportunities for offloads.

Bray says ultimately technique is very important to helping reduce the injury rate.

“I think the intent of this change is positive and then the coaching of technique sits in behind the law, to help especially younger players learn how to tackle safely.”

The other innovation is the halfback of the team not in possession must remain one metre from the scrum and not advance ‘past the tunnel’ until the scrum has ended.

Bray says this will make it easier for the attacking team to clear the ball at the base of the scrum. He suggests the intent of the law is to help improve the clearance of the ball and attacking rugby.

The third innovation is a maximum 1.5 metre scrum push for all commu nity rugby excluding senior premier club grades.

Does this innovation set or lose a precedent over set phase dominance for an attacking team?

“When this first got introduced to community senior rugby, people were concerned that it would take away the powerful dominance of a good scrum. The reality is different. Very few scrums in today’s game go beyond 1.5m anyway, and what this law helps

do, is minimise the pressure placed for an undue period of time on front row players and encourages teams to learn to clear the ball while their scrum is moving forward and gives the backline maximum advantage on the front foot. I like it as a rule and the fact that you can still push from the 5m line to achieve a pushover try makes this law more readily

supported.”

Bray says the Tasman union has good dialogue with NZR and have been kept briefed on outcomes and proposals for changes.

“I think these initiatives are well thought out and are attempting to help the game, both as a sport to play and watch and in terms of safety for the players.”

Wairau Valley Golf Club

Marlborough Golf Club

16 Nov: Women’s Closing Day stableford Div.1: Jane Anderson-Bay 39, Julie Nicolle 36. Div.2:Julie Smith 35, Janet Leith 34, Elaine Brown 34. Div.3:Marion Tripe 37. Div.4:Helen Lissaman 38, Kath Elley 37, Elaine Porter 36, Leanne Stowell 34, Leigh Andrews 34. 17 November, Men’s stableford Div.1:Jock Glennie 41, Robin Whiting 40, Lindsay Mason 37, Ross Goodall 37, Malcolm McKenzie 36. Div.2:Richard Anderson 39, Ross Inder 38, Paul Ham 37, Colin Marsden 37, Ken Bennett 35.

148, 2nd net: Jon Nicol 149, 3rd net: Paul Meehan 150, 4th net: Hugh Bay 152 c/b. Women: Overall best net: Bridget Quaife 143. Gross:1st Marilyn Keenan 184, 2nd gross: Janet Laing 185 c/b. 2nd net: Denise Pickering 146, 3rd net Julie Smith 152, 4th net: Tina Marfell 153, 5th net: Helen Lissaman 154. Pairs 4BBB: 1st net Lance Nuttall & Grant Coles 125, 2nd net Allan Parker & Paul Ferguson 127. 3rd net Tom Hindmarsh & Tony Nicol 128 c/b.

19 Nov: 100 Year Stableford Div.1: June Maslin 36, Jane Anderson-Bay 33, Marilyn Keenan 32. Div.2: Denise Pickering 37, Leanne Stowell 34, Jean Dowling 32, Helen Lissaman 32, Phyl Paul 30. Men’s stableford Div.1:Matt Croad 35, Duncan Bint 34, Lance Nut tall 33, Paul Silke 33, Tracy Goss 32. Div.2: Ravi Johl 38, Andrew Stowell 37, Steve Holtum 37, William Harrison 37, John Muir 33. Div.3: John Rodgers 38, Hans Blohm 33, Greg King 33, Ian Newport 33, Colin Marsden 31.

Sat 19 Nov: Summer Stableford: Robyn Pupich 37, Jan Rutherford 33,

Grant Hagen 33. Two’s: Mel Hampton

Picton

Tasman prop Tyrel Lomax tackles Wel lington's Vaea Fifita during the Mitre 10 Cup premiership final in Nelson in 2019.