26 July Blenheim Sun Newspaper

Marlborough’s NZ champion

By Chris Valli

Blenheim’s Chloe Kyle is a New Zealand champion.

The Marlborough Girls’ College Year 11 student took out the highest ranking at the New Zealand Highland Dancing Championships in Tauranga recently. Chloe was the highest ranked female dancer in the under 16 category and was also one of two recipients of the Lady Amie MacRuari of Garmoran Memorial Prize.

Continued on page 1.

Chloe Kyle, a Year 11 student at Marlborough Girls’ College, is a national U16 champion after ranking the highest at NZ Highland Dancing Championships recently.

Katrina Whiteside

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‘A natural aptitude and passion’

Continued from page 1.

Chloe was judged and won on a range of 10 individual New Zealand dance disciplines which included the likes of the Sword Dance (dancer crosses two swords on the ground and dances around and within the four quarters), the Irish Hornpipe and the Irish Reel.

She won four New Zealand Championship titles, three seconds, two fifths and one seventh place, achieving the highest points overall. Indeed, nothing captures the spirit of Scottish culture more than the sight of Highland Dancing telling a story. It was the 15-year-old who interpreted various dances and narratives to be the best of the best.

Chloe has been dancing since she was an eight-year-old.

When asked if she felt like a champion there was a graceful humility albeit a proud smile on full display.

“Yeh, kind of but in some ways it doesn’t feel real that I have won it,” she reflects.

“I’m lucky that I have someone like Robyn in my corner who is passionate for not only me but every dancer in what we do.”

“We focus on little bits at a time like pointing feet or turning legs out – the technique of it all. Then we practice and practice.”

Marlborough Academy of Dance teacher

Robyn Simmons says Chloe has a natural aptitude and talent as a ‘beautiful dancer’. However, what sets her apart and special, according to Robyn, is her drive, passion and commitment.

younger MAD dancers and we are enormously proud of her.”

Robyn says all the MAD dancers have an ‘interpretive quality’ and have to do their respective theory or homework on the back story of all the Highland dances and complete this through their exams they have to sit.

“The Seann Triubhas is a classic Highland dance which is a story of how the Scots were forbidden in the last Battle of Culloden (April 1746) to wear their Highland kilts or tartan including their bag pipes,” says Robyn “The music is slow so the dance is soft and graceful, then the piper breaks into a quicker tune and becomes joyful and light to show the joy and delight of being able to once again where their kilts.”

Every MAD dancer returned home achieving placings with the following overall rankings in their respective age groups; Sophie Popham, ninth overall Under 18; Ella Meys, fourth overall 12-14 years; Hemione Roach sixth overall, 12 – 14 years; Hannah Blick fourth overall, 10-12 years; Annabelle Hook, fourth overall, 8 – 10 years; Willa Connor, runner up six and under; Sophie Hook, third overall, six and under.

Modern Highland dancing emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries. It was ‘created’ from the Gaelic folk dance repertoire, but formalised with the conventions of ballet.

Monday - Thursday

“Her work ethic is amazing,” she says. “She does the hard yards and is willing to listen and improve. She is a beautiful

Footnote: The Lady Amie MacRuari prize is a cash scholarship sponsored by Clan Donald Trust for the Gaelic Performing Arts for the highest ranked

Bob Barnes Thelma & Alistair Sowman Barry Holmwood Ethan Williams Terry Ryan Faye Partridge

Chloe received the accolades in Tauranga. Chloe is a dancer with the Marlborough Academy of Dance and has been dancing since she was an eight-years-old.

Manu Ora’s Georgy to ‘take flight’

By Chris Valli

Blenheim Doctor Georgy Walton

is part of the small primary health care team that is Manu Ora. Manu Ora refers to the bird taking flight having achieved haoura/wellbeing.

After meeting the enthusiastic 38-year-old, it’s clear she is ready to take flight and spread her own musical wings when she takes the stage as Amy Winehouse singing Valerie in next month’s Star in Your Eyes.

Georgy trained as a doctor in the United Kingdom and came out to sunny Marlborough with a cohort of fellow doctors over 11 years ago where she worked as a junior doctor in the emergency department at Wairau Hospital.

So are there parallels between being a doctor and taking the stage next month as Amy Winehouse?

“Living with uncertainty,” she laughs. “As a GP that is the gig. You’re never quite certain. I’m not in the hospital and don’t have the

same access to x-rays and scans. I have to rely on my self-belief and experience a bit more,” she says.

Her Mum’s recent death presented Georgy a different lens or perspective and grabbing opportunities when they come about. Hence, Stars in Your Eyes ’23.

“I guess there was that sense of don’t live life with regret,” she says.

“I’m not getting any younger and if I talked myself out of it now it would never have happened.”

Georgy says there were other artistic options on the table for the charity event from the Icelandic Bjork to Anastasia to Adele. However, it was the deep, expressive contralto vocals of Amy Winehouse and Valerie that was the ultimate choice.

Winehouse’s remake on the English Indie rock band the Zutons original from 2006 reached number two on the UK singles chart in 2007 and was written by British record producer Mark Ronson. Rolling Stone called the cover Winehouse’s

only ‘notable recording’ after Back to Black. The song featured in the movie 27 Dresses and Amy (2015), a documentary film biography of Winehouse.

“The tone and its likeability is great – how could you not like that song?” she says. “I can change my singing voice to sound like her, well, I try to anyway. You have to do a weird old thing with your tongue,” she laughs.

Georgy’s charity will be the Wairau Children’s Programme which runs under Women’s Refuge. It’s an initiative which is dear to her own heart and holistic values.

“It’s run like a breakfast club where they have a counsellor that runs the club for children,” she says. “In my job I see whanau that are affected or impacted, it’s a great programme.” Her work

colleagues are very excited about her upcoming performance. Georgy suggests there have been ‘a great number of tickets’ which have been sold through work alone.

“They really are so excited and I’m quite humbled by it, no pressure aye?”

As for the bird spreading her wings analogy, it’s fitting to use the Manu Ora whakatauki/proverb to encompass Georgy’s own holistic approach to give back to the Blenheim community.

“Ma te huruhuru, ka rere te manu, Me whakahoki mai te mana ki te whanau, hapu, iwi. Kia korowaitia aku mokopuna ki te korowaitanga hauora.” Adorn the bird with feathers so it can fly and return the mana to us. Let our future generations be embraced in good health.

Sun The

Next steps in Speed Management Plan review

Council received over 110 submissions on its Speed Management Plan.

A sub-committee, made up of councillors Brian Dawson, Scott Adams and Barbara Faulls, has been established to hear submissions from people who wish to speak during the hearings in September. The sub-committee is chaired by Councillor Dawson and will also consider the written submissions before reporting back to the Assets and Services Committee.

The Speed Management Plan proposes speed limit changes on local roads around schools and marae, in small townships and in current 70 km/h and 90 km/h areas. The plan also addresses some speed limit inconsistencies and proposes reducing speed limits on some roads in the Marlborough Sounds.

Picton property inquiries up

Major investment into Picton’s new ferry terminal is spurring on recovery of the local property market as work begins across the town, with the average time taken to sell a home decreasing by 40 per cent, and property enquiries up. REINZ data shows the median price for a home in Marlborough was $635,000 in May 2023, up from $617,500 in April this year.

Kaipupu AGM July 30

The Kaipupu Sanctuary AGM is to be held this Sunday July 30 at 3pm. It will be held at the Queen Charlotte Yacht Club which has the best view of Kaipupu in town. So come along for an insight into what has been happening on and behind the scenes at Kaipupu this past year.

Each of these famous performers will be portrayed in the Stars in Your Eyes competition.

Georgy Walton.

From builder to navigator

By Chris Valli

Resilience. Passion. Commitment.

Any bloke that gets on his bike and cycles the length of New Zealand and the width of the United States has to be mentally tough and somewhat crazy.

In 2017, Craig crossed the length of NZ in the fastest time ever, riding 2,175 km (around 1,350 miles) in less than four and a half days while supporting The Graeme Dingle Foundation. Two years later, he finished the 5000-kilometre, 12-state race after a torturous 10 days and 15 hours on the bike.

So it’s a perfect fit and dynamic that Blenheim builder Craig Harper has joined forces with the Graeme Dingle Foundation in Marlborough.

Craig has taken on the role as ‘Industry Coordinator’ for the Toroa Career Navigator programme. The position will see him working with Marlborough’s unemployed rangatahi and alongside local employers.

Professional development over the past fortnight for Craig included a three day conference in Auckland to get up to speed.

“I hit the ground running. There was team building and sharing goals and vision with other regional coordinators,” he says. “I’ve learnt there are some coordinators who were once participants in programmes such as Career Navigator or Kiwi Can (life skills and values programme) in their own schooling are now involved and working with the foundation.

Craig says he has been looking at his options outside of the building industry for a few years. Mentoring with Marlborough’s youth in recent times ignited a passion

and a desire to join the team and ‘make that difference’. He admits the transition has been ‘weird’ but is thriving on the challenge and new personnel.

“I really enjoyed and am pretty passionate about youth development. It’s an opportunity and I just had to take it,” he says. “There are some kids in our community who have become disconnected from our society for whatever reason whether that is school hasn’t been for them or other circumstances. Getting the youth together as a group and talking about skills, strategies, culture or points of difference is invaluable.”

“It’s about reconnecting.”

Craig says his profile with being on the bike and the media coverage presented mentoring and speaking opportunities and admits, it ‘kind of just happened.’

“If I go back five years ago, I never set out to inspire people or create a role of mentorship. I just wanted to ride my bike,” he says. “What it’s made me appreciate is that being on the bike gives you an insight into tough and good days in life also. He says if he didn’t understand what he stood to gain what he was taking on whether on the bike, as a builder or now with the Graeme Dingle Foundation, then he wouldn’t do it.

“Not being afraid to take on something risky is a great life lesson. We’ve all got fears and someone who talks to us in our heads. It’s turning that around and understanding the benefit of taking on a challenge and putting yourself out there.

“Everyone’s capable of achieving or being great at something, no matter who you are. Everyone deserves an opportunity or a helping hand.”

Former Broadcaster Challenges our Views on Ageing Well

KORU NUTRITION

As she enters her seventh decade, journalist and former news presenter Judy Bailey has become aware that society’s attitudes towards older people need, in her words, ‘a rev up.’

“Once you pass 65, people tend to think it’s a downhill slide to the Zimmer frame. But that’s far from the truth.”

“Many of us remain physically active, paddleboarding, cycling, and even tramping well into our 70s.”

With population of older adults expected to double over the next 20 years, Judy is teaming up with Koru Nutrition to change the way New Zealander’s view and experience ageing.

With a focus on holistic wellness and a commitment to excellence, Koru Nutrition aims to empower individuals to take charge of their health as they age.

The New Zealand-owned company specialises in natural health products, including Koru FX and Koru Joint.

As part of the project, Judy will be interviewing health experts and uncovering practical steps that help us age well.

“I’ll collaborate with health professionals such as nutritionists, physiotherapists,

dietitians, doctors, psychologists, and osteopaths alongside the Koru Nutrition team to bring the latest research to the forefront the conversation around ageing well.”

On why she chose to work with Koru Nutrition, Judy had this to say: “I love Koru Nutrition because it’s family-owned New Zealand company whose ethos aligns with my own.”

“They make quality products

with the best ingredients and promote a holistic approach to ageing. I believe that if you can age naturally, that’s all for the better.”

“I live an active lifestyle, and as I get older, I would hate to have walks with the dog curtailed or not be able to lift the grandchildren onto the flying fox.”

Judy Bailey is all set to uncover the most up to date truths on what will help us age well from some of the country’s leading health

experts.

Don’t miss out on the latest discoveries about how to age well. Visit koruhealth.co.nz/join and sign up for free to be notified when Judy Bailey interviews an expert and learn for yourself what she discovers.

Koru Nutrition products including the fast-acting joint support cream Koru FX are available in all good community pharmacies.

Try it for yourself today.

Craig Harper has taken on the role as ‘Industry Coordinator’ for the Graeme Dingle Foundation Toroa Career Navigator programme. The position will see him working with Marlborough’s unemployed rangatahi and alongside local employers.

Normalising post-natal depression

By Chris Valli

While Marlborough and the rest of the country celebrated Matariki and a national holiday on July 14, eleven of the region’s bravest and courageous wahine took to the ocean at Whites Bay.

It’s the second year, a fundraiser for Maternal Mental Wellbeing Marlborough (MMWM) has taken place. The charitable trust provides a dedicated focus to reduce the impacts of mental health experienced by mothers, fathers, infants and families.

Board Trustee and Mum Hazel Thomson says there was a great sense of connection and community amongst the swimmers.

“Everybody remarked about how good they felt afterwards and that they should do it more often. We had some new swimmers this year and would welcome

anyone who would like to join,” says Hazel.

The most likely time a woman will experience depression in her life is in the first three months of having a baby.

“It’s a very common and misunderstood concept, compounded by the fact that there is a ‘societal expectation’ that women should be happy leading up to having a baby,” says Hazel.

Hazel was referred by her own midwife and went through a course with MMWM six weeks after having her first daughter in 2021.

“The course empowered me to build strength within myself and gave me confidence in my new role as a mother,” says Hazel. “Once I was able to face and accept that my anxieties were perfectly natural and that many other women shared them, I began to relax and enjoy my beautiful daughter even more. Once

I found my feet again I wanted to give back to this wonderful cause with my time, and applied to be a Trustee.”

Hazel says MMWM are running more groups than ever as there is a growing need in the community. Currently, they run four postnatal groups each year while ante natal groups are run all year- round. The fundraiser raised just over $400 after raising close to $1200 the previous year.

Active in Marlborough since 2005, MMWM is planning to host an annual fundraising Mother’s Day event, celebrating ‘Motherhood’ to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around post-natal anxiety or mood disorders.

“Educating our communities about it will help normalise these experiences in society, and hopefully encourage women to seek support when they need it,” says Hazel.

SHE’S A TAD FRESH: Eleven brave Marlborough women took to the ocean at Whites Bay on July 14 as a fundraiser for Maternal Mental Wellbeing Marlborough (MMWM).

RNZNA dedication of benches

By Chris Valli

The Marlborough branch of the Royal New Zealand Naval Association has dedicated two benches at the RSA section of Fairhall cemetery.

Spokesperson Christine Grant says it is almost two years since it was suggested to their committee the association could place a bench at the Fairhall cemetery.

Committee members of RNZNA Marlborough on one of their two new benches at Fairhall cemetery. Front row, left to right; Ian Jacques (President), Terry Grant (Secretary) Charlie Govind (Treasurer) and Rod Shoemark (Committee). Back row; Trevor Slipper, Barry Rolton, Laurie McGuire, Warwick Bull (members), and Bill Ross (committee)

After numerous phone calls and Covid delays the idea finally came to fruition to coincide in honour of the late Queen

Elizabeth II, in commemoration of her platinum jubilee.

“A plaque was also unveiled. It is good to think that when people visit the cemetery they have the opportunity to stop awhile, on one of these benches and rest, or reflect. Hopefully, these benches will be well used in the future,” says Christine. The branch would like to acknowledge Grahame Smail, Parks Officer, Marlborough District Council and Angela Mead, Artisan Memorials, Blenheim.

In 1985 the Christchurch

Branch of the Ex Royal Naval Men’s Association left the Association and changed their name to the Royal New Zealand Naval Association. In 2007 both associations met to voluntarily wind up to form a new association called the Royal New Zealand Naval Association.

The Marlborough branch is one of 15 throughout New Zealand with over 700 members enjoying the comradeship of others they served with and the new friends they have met in joining the Association.

How do you feel about Countdown’s multi-million dollar rebrand when people are struggling with grocery prices?

They could’ve picked a better time to do it not when everyone is running pretty low on funds. There’s better ways to spend money.

I

know enough on why they rebranding but I do know that supermarkets are making an extraordinary profit and they shouldn’t be.

to the editor

Letters on issues 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

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.

Dear Editor $320,000,000!!!

Yet another example of how AI - actual intelligence - is absent from 21st Century N.Z.

We learn that our most recent Census cost you and I a huge, scandalous 320 MILLION dollars.

‘Actual intelligence’ would have made it clear that anyone failing in their duty to complete the census form would be summoned to appear in the Magistrates Court where a fine of $500 plus costs, would be levied for anything but the most ironclad reason for failing in this simple act of citizenship.

We, surely the most ovine taxpayers on earth - thank you GST - have an unimaginably vast set of regulations covering everything we do or don’t do, but our bureaucrats have not the slightest incentive to enforce meaningful basic rules like those dating right back to Roman times. What on earth are we NOT thinking.

Yours faithfully

Bill Holvey

Dear Editor

I would like to thank Akbabas Turkish Cuisine for their fabulous food and service. If anyone is wanting kind, friendly, efficient people with yummy food - I recommend you

use Akbabas. They honoured an older voucher and even wished my son a happy birthday. Blenheim is lucky to have you and your business.

Christine Brooks

Needing pet lambs?

This year Ellie Cranswick from Ballyams Farms is supplying lambs. These will be fabulous for pet day, lifestyle blocks, and kids learning experiences and can be

returned when they start eating the garden. See Ellie’s Facebook page for details or message her on 027 9145282 to go on the list.

Community feedback forms future thinking for Wither Hills

Marlborough residents place a high value on the Wither Hills Farm Park in their daily quality of life.

That is one of the clear themes in feedback received from the public on the Wither Hills Farm Management Plan discussion document. More than 90 submissions were received during the submission period, open for comment for six weeks, with many positive of the progress in erosion control, planting and the range of recreational activities the park provides.

A general theme was the importance of the Wither Hills in the visual, recreation and cultural identity of the community and a need for a longterm vision for the park.

There was strong support for increasing native plantings to help with erosion control and reduce fire risk.

Some wanted the area open for dog walking or at least a dog exercise area, others suggested toilets at the Sutherland Stream car park, while new seating at key locations was also requested.

A range of opportunities to further improve and enhance the park into the future were identified along with the need for more development of recreational opportunities as the area became more popular.

Some submitters sought clear signage on biking and walking tracks, expansion of well graded tracks to suit users with less mobility including pushchairs and wheelchairs and continued improvement to track maintenance standards. There were also requests for horses to use the park on bridle paths, changing stiles to gates for ease of use, a sunshade on the play area, provision of drinking fountains, education panels or QR codes providing history of the park, more bike cattle stops and signage from Blenheim to park entrances.

The majority of those who responded to the discussion document recognised the importance of a range of management objectives with recreation and biodiversity restoration the most important, after soil conservation.

There was significant interest in the farming operation with value being seen in urban residents able to experience a working farm. It was also noted there was a need to remove grazing in some areas for allow for biodiversity restoration and erosion control and some submitters felt farm infrastructure such as fencing and buildings needed upgrading.

All the suggestions will be considered as the management plan is developed, Parks Planner Linda Craighead said.

“Once a draft management plan has been completed it will be considered by Council before being approved for release for a further round of submissions by the community,” she said.

If you wish to speak with someone about the review, contact Linda; ph. 03 520 7400 or email witherhills.planreview@marlborough.govt.nz

You can read the submissions at www. marlborough.govt.nz/recreation/parks-andopen-spaces/parks-and-open-spaces-plansand-reports/wither-hills-farm-park-managementplan

Dublin Street closed early

For safety reasons, Picton’s Dublin Street was closed to traffic and pedestrians on Thursday.

The closure was planned for 1 August but was brought forward to remove the risk of traffic not following the one-way detour system. The road will be closed for about 20 months.

The closure is necessary to enable work on the Dublin Street overbridge which, once complete, will create a key connection for vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists between Picton town and the port area.

It has been carefully designed to feature a dedicated lane for pedestrians and cyclists, with urban design and greenery reflecting the cultural story and landscape of Waitohi Picton.

Broadway will also close to through traffic between Market and Auckland streets but stay open for pedestrians and cyclists.

This is all part of the redevelopment of the new terminal to accommodate

Swimming spots in Marlborough safe

Most of Marlborough’s popular swimming spots have been given a clean bill of health.

All samples taken from Pukatea/Whites Bay, Waikutakuta/Robin Hood Bay, Waikawa Bay and the Wairau River at both the Blenheim Rowing Club and Ferry Bridge during the 2022/23 summer period showed bacteria levels deemed safe for swimmers. Occasionally samples with unsafe bacteria concentrations were detected at Anakiwa, Picton Foreshore, Momorangi Bay, Waihopai River at Craiglochart, Taylor River at Riverlands and Rai River at Rai Falls, but these were often from surface run off after rainfall.

The annual recreational water quality report was presented to Council’s Environment and Planning Committee. Environmental Scientist Steffi Henkel said that despite generally good water quality, waterborne pathogens could occasionally pose a health risk, especially to those people with underlying health conditions. Council monitored popular beaches and rivers during the summer period from November to March. Full monitoring results can be viewed at www.lawa.org.nz

While most spots were good, the Taylor River and Picton Foreshore had an increased risk of bacteria concentrations.

“Water in urban areas has the poorest quality because it is subject to greater pressure,” Ms Henkel said. “But the quality can quickly change and is often the result of rainfall.”

Ngakuta Bay showed an improvement since the previous season.

Sites will be monitored next season, with the possible inclusion of Okiwi Bay and Mistletoe Bay.

Brightening up Marlborough streets through cabinet art

Cabinet art is coming to Marlborough and now is the time for artists to get designing.

Chorus is partnering with Council to beautify six cabinets across the district and artists are encouraged to submit designs before the deadline of 31 August.

Chorus Community Relations Manager Jo Seddon said it made sense to partner with local councils as they knew their communities.

“We are thrilled to be working with Marlborough District Council and we’re really looking forward to seeing what local artists come up with to reflect their community’s stories,” she said.

The painted cabinets bring colour and vibrancy to the streets, often telling stories about the communities

in which they are located and help to discourage tagging.

Mayor Nadine Taylor is pleased to welcome the cabinet art programme to Marlborough.

“This is our first year managing the Chorus Cabinet Art Programme and we’re excited to work with the local community to bring creativity to our streets,” she said.

Submissions are open until 31 August and the winning design will be chosen from entries received.

Information can be found at: www.chorus.co.nz/community/cabinetart-programme

Current nationwide murals can be seen at: https://www.chorus.co.nz/ blog/cabinet-art-gallery/

Now’s your chance to brighten Marlborough streets

A map showing the road closure affecting Dublin Street

Interislander’s two new purpose-built ferries and create a welcoming gateway for Waitohi Picton. For more information go to: www.irex.co.nz

one

on

A Jump Jam regional competition is being held at Marlborough Girls’ College next weekend. Chris Valli spoke to Witherlea School teacher and Jump Jam enthusiast Courtney Haley-Stewart about the aerobic program that Marlborough children are buzzing about.

who she had taught Jump Jam to since they were year one at Springlands.

The Murphy’s Road kura has won the Year 5/6 category in the regionals since its inception.

to support coaches and students to succeed.”

Designed to challenge fundamental movement skills, increase fitness, develop student leadership and motivate students to move and enjoy exercise, all the music sourcing and choreography has been done. In a world where teachers are asking for additional help with time and resourcing, it certainly is a luxury resource.

Courtney and former colleague at Springlands, Stacey Grainger, were passionate about Jump Jam and ran it for fun at lunchtimes, alongside whole school and class sessions.

“Back in 2013 Stacey and I saw there were competitions held in Christchurch each year. We sent in a video and our team made the top 10 to qualify. Since then I have taken a team to Christchurch every year,” says Courtney.

In 2018 she emailed Brett Fairweather to see if there was any chance she could organise a mini inter-school Jump Jam competition in Blenheim.

Courtney says the choreography for the strictly competitions is created by Brett and as a team they work together to choose one of his routines and learn it exactly how he does it ready to perform.

“We add in chants and facial expressions to make the performance pop. There is a competition in Christchurch called ‘Jump Jam Challenge’ where you can add your own choreography into his routines, use costumes, props and make up.”

The students Courtney says, not surprisingly love it.

JUMP JAM is a fusion of dance and fitness disciplines along with cultural interpretations that capture the look, attitude, posture and elements of aerobics and fitness. It’s continuously transforming and redefining itself with each new generation of music genre from the likes of pop to funk, disco and R & B.

Witherlea School teacher Courtney Haley-Stewart, who is new to the kura had got stuck right in coaching a year 5/6 team. Previously, Courtney spent 10 years implementing a hugely popular Jump Jam culture at Springlands School. Over those 10 years she has entered over 500 students into regional and national competitions. She is also coaching a Bohally Intermediate team who are in the last year they can compete, mostly made up of children

“They were super keen, as long as there was a good uptake of schools interested. This was the year that the regional Strictly competitions started here - organised by them. Blenheim has one of the biggest regional competitions (minus the big city competitions) every year. It has been running ever since,” says Courtney. “Each year I normally have multiple teams I coach entered in the Blenheim competition.”

So has she met Brett Fairweather?

“Yes, I have met him on numerous occasions, and so have the students.

Brett travels the country and runs his ‘student development workshop’ each year, and also runs school wide Jump Jam sessions on these trips. In the past he has hosted it at Springlands, with me supporting with sound and venue.”

“I’ve had lots of conversations with him over the years about how to choose a good routine, and how to turn them into a successful routine. Brett is very approachable and wants

“They love getting to perform in front of a crowd, especially when they get involved with cheering and clapping. They form new friendships and have fun. It’s also good for a quick fitness boost during brain breaks in class.”

The inclusive nature of the programme has seen an interest in boys shaking their tail feathers too with Springlands having an all-boys team this year competing in the year 1-4 category.

“I have trained multiple all boys’ teams which is awesome to see, they have a different type of energy and performance factor about them,” says Courtney.

The transferrable skills Jump Jam provides outside the classroom are about leadership and an ever-growing self-confidence in front of their peers, teachers and families.

“It gives opportunities for students to be leaders and lead jump jam at their kura, their confidence grows and they are more willing to do things outside of their comfort zone, especially in the arts area such as joining dance classes

and singing,” says Courtney.

The experienced primary practitioner says she loves that the programme gives another platform for children to perform, especially in smaller towns.

“It boosts their confidence and allows them to develop coordination skills doing something fun - they barely realise they are exercising.”

Witherlea School has three teams involved in the Strictly competition next month with a Year 3/4 team, and two year 5/6 teams entering. The event has been running in Blenheim for six years. Schools involved include Blenheim, Bohally Intermediate, Fairhall, Grovetown, Riverlands, Seddon, Springlands, Tua Marina,

Waikawa Bay, and Witherlea. Altogether there are 28 teams competing over four different categories. Year 1-4 Freshman, Year 5-8 Freshman (these are teams where the majority of students haven’t competed before), Year 5-6 Open, and lastly Year 7-8 Open. Since the JUMP JAM programme was developed in May 2000 it has been adopted by over 90% of New Zealand Primary Schools and it is also now being enjoyed in Singapore, Australia and some international schools. For Sun readers interested in coming along to watch and support their tamariki at Marlborough Girls’ College, competing tickets can be purchased from https:// www.trybooking.co.z/OOI.

“We add in chants and facial expressions to make the performance pop”

CLASS OF 2021: Springlands Teachers Brittany Nixon and Courtney with the Year 6 Jungle Janes Jump Jam team which performed the Tarzan and Jane routine at the NZ national championships in Christchurch.

Thinking of

Blackmore

owned and independent

Sara

over New Zealand

and in senior management for a multinational chain. When Sara and her husband returned to Blenheim to raise their family she saw there was a real need for an independent audiology provider in Marlborough and so they opened Blackmore Audiology in April 2022. As an independent provider Blackmore Audiology is not owned by or have preferred supplier arrangement with any hearing aid manufacturers so Sara is able to recommend the best option for each individual client. With 15 years as a clinical audiologist and a member of the New Zealand Audiological Society, Sara is a proud local, serving locals. Sara is registered with ACC, Veterans Affairs and Enable to access a wide range of funding options.

training new graduate

Jo is passionate about Early Childhood Education. She graduated in 1992 from Wellington College of Education and has had an interesting and varied teaching career having taught in Wellington, Auckland, London, the Wairarapa and lastly here in her favourite place, Te

Kate helps groups and individuals work together to become more comfortable using technology in everyday life. "I am not a technical expert and have been known to shout at the computer myself from time to time... so I quite understand how challenging it can feel. The good news is there is lots of help out there, and its my job to let you know who to contact."

How to Eat Like a Child – a different style of theatre

By Chris Valli

After the success of previous productions such as Penny’s Dragon and Sour Creme the StageLab students can definitely put on a big, loud, all singing, all dancing musical.

This year’s production How to Eat Like a Child is a musical romp through the joys and sorrows of being a child and is based on the book by American author Delia Ephron.

Director Rose Platenkamp says this year she wanted to challenge her students by putting on something ‘a bit different’.

“This show is more raw and intimate and will allow the audience to fully appreciate the performer’s talent. It really allows the students to explore the full range of their abilities. “How to Eat Like a Child” was perfect for this as it allows for this style of theatre and is adaptable to any number of performers, so every student has their moment in the spotlight.”

So how does this show compare to previous ones?

“I wrote the script from scratch for the two previous shows, and this time around we bought an existing script and accompanying music. Without giving too much away, the style of this production is different to what we have done before. This will give the students a fantastic opportunity to try a different style of theatre.”

Junior Thursday class

Front row L-R: Jayden Forlong, Hettie Ellis, Mahli Scoon, Jane Thompson, Hazel Barnett, Olivia Diaz.

Second row L-R: Jane Levett, Matilda Harris, Archie Pearce, Harriet McQuillan, Chloe Cellie Florence Rosene, Hafwen Moore, Eliza McLennan, Samara Harris, Scarlett Clemmet-Jones.

Third row L-R: Sophie Price, Remy Scoon, Caris Foster.

StageLab now has 90 students immersed in the production process. Rose says it’s great to see so much young talent in Blenheim.

“Rehearsals have been great,” she says. “A big thanks needs to go out to both Witherlea School and Marlborough Boys’ College for letting us use their space. A definite highlight has to be watch-

ing how hard the students are working. That moment when that hard work pays off and produces a genuine and beautifully executed song or scene is one of the biggest highlights of doing a production,” says Rose. She says MBC as a venue has been great as a central location in town with lots of parking and

Intermediate Thursday class

Front row L-R: Eliza Kersten-Brown, Peter Kersten-Brown, Charlie Banks, Ivy Barnett Second row, left to right: Nina Marfell, Arthur Pinheiro, Ava Lang.

Third row L-R: Isadora Pinheiro, Lily Parker, Joy Xu, Deryn Smart, Leila Bacon, Ruby Lammas, Sienna Miranda-Taylor, Sophia Carson.

Back row L-R: Claudia Richmond, Jack Bacon Missing: Lili Phillips.

plenty of space on stage to accommodate the performers.

“We have a fantastic team of backstage helpers working behind the scenes. The junior performers have been split into two teams and are doing three shows each.

Even though the hall can accommodate large audience numbers, we decided to keep seat numbers

small for each show, to create an intimate feeling for the audience with seating close to the stage,” says Rose. Without giving too much away and being a spoiler, Rose adds all the adults watching it so far during the rehearsal process have had their, ‘Oh my gosh, I remember doing that’ moment.

So what is the most important lesson in the show?

“Just because you’ve grown up on the outside doesn’t mean you’ve lost your inner child. Every now and then we need to stop and listen to that voice and let loose a little,” says Rose.

Sound advice indeed.

Rose says the process has allowed her to reflect on the ethos and vision on why she does what she does. She says StageLab is all about teamwork, creating a safe and inclusive environment for the students to express their creativity, increase their confidence, and learn to work as a team by supporting and being kind to each other.

“Performing in a musical theatre play is so much more than singing, dancing and acting. It requires teamwork, the ability to listen to each other on stage, resilience and concentration. Being able to completely ‘immerse yourself’ in a character while simultaneously staying present in the moment. A task easier said than done. A performer is only as good as their team.”

Rose, who grew up in the Netherlands, says she’s ‘always amazed’ by the community here in Blenheim.

“So many people are helpful and generous with their expertise, and time. Nigel Peterson from NP Builders kindly offered to build cubes. Simon Clark is our Sound Guru. Stewart Wiggins is using his creativity to create the beautiful posters and programs.

Robyn Simmons from Marlborough Academy of Dance for lending out her costumes. Paul Sainsbury from The Boathouse Theatre is helping us with lighting.”

“We can borrow set pieces from

Senior class

Front row L-R: Tommy Henry, Ruby Cook, Lou Muir, Ellie Beamsley, Josephine Walkenhorst.

Second row L-R: Mia Van Der Vyver, Willow Baker, Poppy Fernandez, Emma Straker.

Back row L-R: Libby Grigor, Sophia Ladeia, Cushla Cook, Aimee Stewart, Joseph Stallard Missing: Ayla Burrows

Blenheim Musical Theatre. Robert Tucker and Megan Rosene for their help with the vocals. All the sponsors. The list goes on.”

Rose says a massive shout out and credit needs to go to Margie Fletcher, production manager and Tash Stewart, props and costumes.

“It feels that those ladies are easily spending 50 hours a week in the background getting everything organised for the performers. I feel so, so grateful for all these amazing people.”

How to Eat Like a Child is on from August 10 – 13 at Marlborough Boys’ College. Tickets are $20 each and available at the ASB Theatre.

Junior Friday class

Front row L-R: Eddie Davies, Tilly Helistrom, Aurora Corbyn, Oli Armour, Mac Levett, Nieve Hope.

Second row L-R: Eleanor Hellstrom, Elaine Huang, Beatrice Cameron, Eveline Tucker, Nina O’Conner, Isabella Thomson, Leo Taylor.

Intermediate Friday class

Front row L-R: Charlotte Stewart, Olivia Delves, Molly Whitty, Charlotte Hogg, Daniella Clarke, Laila Balasoglou.

Second row L-R: Emily Hulburt, Anna Banyay-Rocas, Petra Valli, Hamish Hogs, Cecilia Tucker, Florence Cameron, Eve Taylor, Alex Davies, Lydia Parker.

Back row L-R: Mac Rosene, Grace Price, Olive Taylor, Ruby Barlow, Maia Armour, Tahlia Bassett, Farron Armour.

We are No.1 for readership in Marlborough - FACT!

Stronger than ever… the paper our community can trust that gets results and is always worth the read!

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2023 DRAW

go to on Grove Road

CarBuffs Autospa

You know you can count on three things in life; taxes, death, and a reliable car. Who else in your life gets up early in the morning or late at night to take you and the kids from here to there, never complaining, never ringing in sick, always starting first time, always there for you.

Yes it’s your reliable car, always there to have a laugh and a cry, to share a joke, to have a coffee.

When it comes to my Mazda Axela, it’s like a warm pair of shoes. Cozy on the inside with a dirty exterior on the outside.

The Mazda Mum Taxi or ‘Zoom Zoom’ - as she is affectionately known - has seen copious adventures on the regions roads, not to mention the beloved dog slobber which has created a lifetime of memories.

After a day in CarBuffs Autospa –she is like a new car, excited to get out on the road once again and strut her stuff. At CarBuffs they get back

that showroom look and feel. The sense that no matter how old or new, how battered and bruised, every car gets its chance to shine! And we get the satisfaction and pride in getting behind the wheel again. Rebuilding that old connection that we have.

The dog will now sit on the mat, wet wipes will be in the glovebox and food and drink will be consumed outside the car.

Sometimes, knowing what makes a car look good and healthy is intrinsic and comes from the DNA. Mike, Jamie and the team at CarBuffs Autospa are passionate about automotive detailing and using their grooming techniques and technology to always help every car have its day in the limelight, to be rewarded for the hard work, to have its chance to shine!

Make an appointment today and see the team work their magic on your ride.

Auto Super Shoppe opens new site

Locals Grant Davis and Kelly Church are excited to be opening a new Auto Super Shoppe on Grove Road to compliment their Houldsworth Street location. Auto Super Shoppe have a nation-wide reputation for top notch service and workmanship, and Grant and Kelly have built on this reputation since buying the Houldsworth Street location on 2021.

To celebrate the grand opening of Auto Super Shoppe Grove Road on Saturday August 5th they are planning three hours of fun for the whole family. There will be DIY workshops, slot car racing, exclusive offers, spot prizes, and raffles, plus of course a free sausage sizzle.

Add to that a display of the latest cutting-edge vehicles from Honda and you’ve got an exciting morning out. So whether you’re a car aficionado or just love a good

time, this event has something for everyone so bring your family, friends, and fellow car enthusiasts to celebrate this momentous

occasion with Grant, Kelly and the team at Auto Super Shoppe, 40 Grove Road, 10am to 1pm next Saturday August 5th.

Before CarBuffs Autospa.

After CarBuffs Autospa.

Grove Road

The Furnishing Centre

An eclectic mix of home décor products

By Chris Valli

The Furnishing Centre Ltd has existed for over 30 years and is well-known throughout Marlborough.

Since 2011, it has been locally owned and operated by Denise Dinmore. Denise has a background in the paint, wallpaper and building industries which gives her a unique perspective on bringing interior design and home decorating projects to life.

The Furnishing Centre is a unique boutique retailer with a focus on individual client style.

Denise says people come in to see her with their concept first and it’s her job to help them define it.

As such, Denise says they are able to provide the complete picture with personal attention to detail.

Denise says there is no current furnishing trend and deals with a variety of requests on a daily basis.

Whether you like to follow trends or you prefer to stay comfortably within your personal style, you can count on The Furnishing Centre to bring your design vision to life.

Competition to promote hunting wild goats

By Chris Valli

Marlborough’s hunters will be licking their lips after the Department of Conservation and the New Zealand Deerstalkers Association have partnered to run a new National Wild Goat Hunting competition.

Local hunters and those across the country will be able to participate with permission from the local landowner or authority from August 1 to November 26.

DOC and NZDA are partnering to encourage hunters to target wild goats in a win-win for hunters and conservation.

DOC National Programmes Director Ben Reddiex says increased hunter efforts will reduce the damage wild goats can cause to native plants, and alpine and forest ecosystems.

“High densities of wild goats cause significant damage to New Zealand’s native plants and habitats. They are becoming widespread, with significant numbers in some places.”

NZDA National Vice President Callum Sheridan says, “NZDA is excited to partner with DOC on this competition because many hunters start out their hunting career by shooting wild goats, but often move to deer and then overlook wild goats.”

“This is something we think recreational hunters will enjoy supporting because hunters spend a lot of time in New Zealand’s remote areas and are passionate about conservation. Many contribute to maintaining trap lines to protect our native species like whio and kea.”

Ben says the issue is wider than just on conservation land. Wild goats are also a problem for many private landowners, damaging and destroying fences, pasture,

new trees, and native plantings.

Fe derated Farmers National Board spokesperson Richard McIntyre says the competition is a fantastic idea, especially for landowners struggling to control wild goats. He says potential hunters need to recognise they need to seek permission of farmers to access their land.

“I encourage farmers to have a positive conversation with those seeking to hunt on their land. Let’s welcome hunters on to our farms and foster ongoing relationships that could reap benefits to hunters and farmers alike for years to come. I’m a keen hunter myself – as are many farmers.”

NZDA’s Callum Sheridan says while goats are not classed as game animals like wild deer, pigs, tahr, and chamois they are still a valuable resource for food and developing hunting skills.

“There’s no question that managing wild goat numbers is essential for restoring and maintaining the health of our whenua and ngahere,” says Chris Sharland, from Hunting and Fishing NZ Ltd – competition supporter and founding sponsor. “If we can symbiotically put food on the table, enjoy the outdoors, and promote hunter-led conservation, then everyone wins.”

The competition is free to enter, and hunters will have the opportunity to win some great prizes, kindly donated by the hunting and outdoor sector. NZDA will be running ‘Goat Competition Hubs’ throughout the country where local competitors can attend venue open days to lodge their tails and score their horns.

More information on how to enter the competition can be found at www.doc. govt.nz/wild-goat-hunting-competition.

Thumbelina

Local hunters and those across the country will be able to participate with permission from the local landowner or authority from August 1 to November 26.

New programme offers focus on beekeeping

By Chris Valli

Marlborough’s apiculture enthusiasts can upskill with a free programme on all things beekeeping.

The level two New Zealand Certificate in Primary Industry Skills Apiculture programme is designed for backyard beekeepers or anyone curious about the industry and is open for applications now.

Dion Mundy, apiculture tutor at NMIT Te Pūkenga in Marlborough, says the programme covers a range of subjects.

“We cover skills such as safe handling of bees and how to control the grass and weeds around the hives as well as sharpening tools and maintaining small motors,” says Dion.

He says the programme will also teach ākonga (students) health and safety aspects, beehive construction, understanding bee biology and the legal requirements for owning bees and producing honey.

“According to the Marlborough District Council, you can keep bees on your property as long as they don’t cause a nuisance,” Dion says.

Correct placement of the hive is crucial - as Dion explains bees have a waxy poop which doesn’t go down too well on clean washing hanging out on a line.

“Bees also don’t swim well,” he says. “We teach you how to create ideal water sources for bees.”

The practical requirement of the programme will enable

learners to extract honey using campus facilities.

“The programme is designed to be fun, engaging and a great introduction to the world of beekeeping,” says Dion.

Dion is also a member of the Marlborough Beekeeper’s Association.

“If you’re interested in beekeeping, then join the club, get a mentor and sign up to study at NMIT,” he says.

The apiculture strand of this programme is one of several at NMIT that offer transferrable primary industry skills. Others include sustainable horticulture, viticulture and logistics and distribution.

https://www.nmit.ac.nz/news/ might-you-bee-keen-on-beekeeping

School of Rock teaches life lessons

By Chris Valli

After a four-year hiatus, next week’s combined college Production School of Rock is ready to rock.

Amidst a certain pandemic, it is the first combined college production since 2019 with Young Frankenstein, which was directed by Jeannie Mark. The 2023 production includes students from Richmond View College who have brought freshness and an added creative dynamic to the young cast.

The story takes off when Dewey, played by Daniel Brunel, (Priscilla, Queen of the Desert) is rejected by the No Vacancy Band. With his dreams of becoming a rock star in tatters, Dewey faces poverty and despair in his bedroom in Ned’s (Cory Clemett) house. This is made worse when Patty (Jessica Sinclair) demands rent money or

eviction. Dewey hangs onto his dreams with “When I climb to the top of Mount Rock.”

Dewey is saved when, posing as Ned, he gets a relief job teaching at the prestigious Horace Greene Prep School. There he turns a classroom of nerds into rock and roll musicians and into a band. Dewey encourages the class to understand that rock isn’t about being perfect. It’s about sticking it to the man. He enrols the kids in the Battle of the Bands, hoping to win the competition and gain $20,000 to solve his financial woes. Meanwhile, the highly achieving parents, who have focused goals for their children, discover that Dewey has not taught the syllabus. All is not well. Dewey’s world turns topsy-turvy when he discovers that the parent-teacher meeting clashes with the highly-anticipated Battle of the Bands competition.

The kids pull Dewey out of despair, hijack the bus and compete in the Battle of the Bands. Although they don’t win, Dewey has some life lessons for the class.

Musical Director Robin Randall impresses with a great sound from the three bands and Dewey’s songs are outstanding. Director Jeannie Mark thoroughly deserves a lot of credit for developing the action packed story, witty characters and dynamic stage energy. Ngaire Searle is the producer.

This is a well-acted and smart production, with finely executed choreography and music. Written by Andrew Lloyd Webber, the musical premiered on Broadway in 2015.

School of Rock is on from Tuesday, August 1 – Saturday, August 5 with a 2pm matinee on the Saturday. Tickets are available from the ASB Theatre.

Dion Mundy, apiculture tutor at NMIT Te Pūkenga in Marlborough says the programme covers a range of subjects and is designed for backyard beekeepers or anyone curious about the industry.

Matariki celebrations at Spring Creek School were held last Friday, July 21. The kura invited the community, past and present for breakfast and Matariki inspired activities. The kai was provided by the kura and supported by Ngati Rarua. Pictured is Bec Boniface and Heather Hart and Gemma and Luka Long.

SCHOOL OF ROCK/PRAYER TIME: Dewey (Daniel Brunel) with the prestigious Horace Greene Prep School students. Dewey turns a classroom of nerds into rock and roll musicians and into a band. School of Rock is on at the ASB Theatre from August 1 - 5.

Sun The txt talk with

Nice surprise

Called into a cafe (on business premises) for brunch today. Not only were the staff friendly, coffee was good, and they gave out a voucher for petrol discount. All helps to remember where to go for hospitality. Thanks.

Health and Safety gone mad

A sea of orange safety vested individuals, armed with 2 way-radios, have recently been spotted lurking on every st corner, of Picton as the new ferry construction heats up. Joke is, 2, who were seen guarding one hole, went off together for lunch, leaving a hole unmanned. Now how crazy is that!

What a joke

An article on Wednesday the 5th paper about calling the police or getting evidence about drivers using their cell phones while driving. So here I am, driving out of Picton up the elevation and a police car coming towards me, and here he is very clearly on his cell phone. Now before anyone texts in saying they are allowed to in an emergency only, if they are on their own, well there was a police officer passenger so why didn’t that person take the call? I wonder if he gave himself a ticket.

Career over

Kiri Allen - oh dear. Once a bright young rising star, now gone-burger. She lost me though when she started pushing the hate speech message. Very dangerous territory.

Coed colleges

I heard on talk back the other week, the results of a recent study that found that whilst girls do perfectly fine academically in coed schools, boys do much worse than they would at a single sex school. Why then, are we switching to coed here in Marlborough?

Stuff ads

Anyone else irritated by the ads that now pop up when you go into Stuff to read the NZ news of the day?

I’ll stick to The Sun.

Youth crime

Just watched the news and listened to the prime minister blame the country for the state of youth crime. It’s quite obvious he and his pathetic labour colleagues just haven’t got a clue. Yes their slogan of we’re here for you, should include the words but we haven’t got a clue.

Justice system

I hope all those people that endorsed the use of the customary rights act feel guilty for helping this killer keep out of prison where he should have been with his criminal background. Customary Rights nothing short of a joke.

Interpretation of Te Kahu O Waipuna

The intrigue of Te Reo Māori is that many words have a variety of meanings. So interpretation is up to the imagination of the reader as Te Reo Māori is a language of abstract images not accurate descriptions.

Red lights

Trains running red lights trip arms. Have been around for 45 plus years. Red light trip arm is up, hits bracket on break, stopping train. Green arm is down easy as, simple time for a Chinese in for structure up grade road and rail.

Specs please?

Having read specs on electric cars have failed to find any safety information or pricing of replacement batteries. Why is this? Are the cars unsafe in an accident? Are battery prices quite prohibitive in replacement? Could we have these facts published. Full specs please!

Extra rates charge

So we now have the council sending us mail to tell us that they have flown a drone over our property and since we had an above ground warehouse swimming pool up for a few months, we are getting charged extra in our rates.

Rebrand

Countdown to spend a hideous amount of money on rebranding to Woolworths.

Completely tone-deaf! Read the room! As costs rise you keep putting your prices up to maintain your not unsubstantial profit margin, putting many everyday items out of reach for the average kiwi. And now you are throwing your profits around on this. Very poor form and very bad timing. Why not take a bit of hit like most other NZ businesses are at the moment. Heartless!

Got an important issue to share

Great service

Mayfield takeaways great friendly service and awesome cheese burgers.

Bike bells

Perhaps dog walkers and runners along the river path would hear the cyclists ding their bells if they took their ear plugs out. Not always the cyclist’s fault.

Totally crass

$400 million + just to change a supermarket chain’s ‘imaging’!!!

Wouldn’t it make a lot more sense to lower their (obviously unnecessarily excessive) profits by reducing their essential food prices? Would help a seriously struggling society and also increase turnover by increasing (restoring) Customer support!

Home and Garden Show

The stands that personable people certainly got the people around them. Pretty disappointed in the few stalls where person manning or should I say one lady in particular. Went past her several times, not once did she make eye contact or get off her phone.

Brassed off

Do any other motorists get brassed off when trying to pay for petrol and having to wait while people get served food and coffee? Five minutes wait this morning and no one at the petrol counter. It’s a regular thing. Other so called petrol stations are just as bad. Petrol buyers are not important it seems.

Bike bells continued

To the cyclist lady who cried, ring ring!! upon approaching a walker on the Taylor River path, from behind. Take a bow!! She hasn’t purchased her bike bell yet. AND to the ignorant cyclists who haven’t followed the suggested texts (or can’t read either) be shamed!! Again!!

Post Office

Went out to Renwick today and was shocked to see that there is NO POST OFFICE. So how do people pay their phone bill ? Oh wait they have to use a computer but what if that don’t have one.

Talk of the week

Thank you

I would like to thank the kind person who found my insurance receipt and popped it in my mailbox. May God bless you for your thoughtfulness.

Local legend

Marlborough lost one of our great legends last week with the passing of Terry Proctor AKA the Mainland cheese man. Go well Terry. A true gentleman and genuine hard case who had time for everyone.

Heartfelt thanks

Heartfelt thanks and blessings to the kind and honest gentleman who handed in my wallet to the police.

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.

Spot on

I may not be the biggest Paul Henry fan but my word he has some spot on comments on our country and why he has moved away. I agree NZ is becoming sick and I’m less proud of it as every day goes by. Thanks to Labour we now have a lot of debt plus a divided nation.

Sports hub?

So if the Boys’ College is moving over to Bohally, the intermediate is moving to College Park. What’s happening to the old college indoor covered sports hub maybe that would be nice.

with Marlborough? Text your thoughts to 027 242 5266

Winter Warmth

Up to 45% of heat can be lost through windows, and well-fitting curtains and blinds can reduce that heat loss by up to 60%.

Talk to us for design advice and inspiration. Building or renovating? We can provide a free quote from your plans.

Margie Fletcher

Production manager for StageLab’s upcoming production of “How to Eat Like a Child”

 Are you a dog or cat person?

Well our cat Arthur moved all the way from Scotland with us… So I think that answers that one!

 My friends would say I am Busy. At the moment I have very little time between work and helping out at StageLab. It will all be worth it when the kids take to the stage in a few weeks’ time.

 The best advice I ever received was?

Call your mother. She worries.

 What would you buy if money was no object?

Right now a dedicated theatre space for children’s performing arts. It would be great to have something in town to nurture the next generation of talent.

 Local coffee haunt?

I love mixing it up around town. I’d say my top three at the moment are Karaka, Chantilly’s and Thomas’s.

 Favourite takeaway?

Definitely Minghetti’s Pizza. I’m convinced Marco must be a magician.

 The shop you can’t walk past is?

The ASB ticket office. There is always something great coming to town. I just bought my tickets to School of Rock.

 What’s the most thoughtful gift you’ve ever received?

The wonderful Sheryl Whiting gave me some photographs and a programme of my first show with the Marlborough Children’s Theatre from back in 1997. It was really touching that she remembered me and kept those memories for so many years.

 Where is your happy holiday place?

Probably back home to Scotland where my husband is from. Especially Edinburgh where we were living before moving back to Blenheim four years ago.

 Favourite programme or series currently watching?

We just finished watching Succession on Neon.

 What’s one thing on your bucket list?

I’d love to become fluent in a foreign language.

A new plant disease control: By

Plant diseases appear when a plant is lacking in one or more elements or the plant is in stress for whatever reason.

Normally we spray a fungicide to prevent or control a plant disease which sits on the surface of the leaves and branches.

Dependent on the disease we use a copper fungicide or a sulphur fungicide, alternatively the compound p otassium permanganate and in some cases a combination of two or the whole three sprayed together.

In some diseases such as curly leaf on stone fruit trees (nectarine and peach) we apply a fungicide copper every 7 to 10 days or again after rain, if we have not used Raingard in the spray.

With curly leaf in stone fruit the disease often strikes when it rains because the spores are splashed up from the soil below but if the rain has washed off the copper fungicide then there is no protection.

Curly leaf in stone fruit is a difficult disease to prevent and dependent on how bad the leaves are damaged means a loss of some or even all the crop.

In severe cases the tree may die also.

Now this is interesting and extracted from an article I received recently...

People misunderstand the use of copper as a fungicide. They drench the plant and often create excesses of this mineral in the soil.

75 per cent of the copper response comes from within the plant, rather than on the leaf.

Dr. Don Huber is a retired professor of plant pathology from Purdue University in Indiana, USA.

He has over 50 years of experience in researching plant diseases and soil-borne pathogens, as well as their relationships with microbial ecology, nutrient availability, and crop productivity.

Dr. Huber has published numerous peer-reviewed articles and book chapters on these topics and has received many awards for his contributions to the field of plant pathology. He is also a recognized authority on the potential risks associated with genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and the use of glyphosate herbicides.

However, excessive use of copper-based fungicides can lead to copper accumulation in soil and water, which can have negative environmental impacts and they are proving to be less effective than some

Wally Richards

alternative forms of copper.

As a result, there has been increasing interest in the use of copper nutrition products as an alternative approach to controlling plant diseases.

C o mparative studies between Copper nutritional products and Copper Fungicide have consistently shown that the preventive and curative efficacy of the former is often significantly higher, and in the worst case, similar to that of the Copper Fungicide.

Copper Nutritional products demonstrated exceptional performance in terms of their long-lasting efficacy, compared to Copper Fungicides.

They maintained significant levels of control for up to 90 days, whereas Copper Fungicides showed a notable decline in control after just 7-14 days.

The difference in their mode of action explains this contrast; Copper Nutritional products are systemic and designed to increase the plant’s copper levels, whereas Copper Fungicides are contact-based and remain mostly on the leaf surface, making them susceptible to weather-induced degradation and physical removal.

Copper nutrition products work by providing plants with a source of copper, which is an essential micro nutrient required for plant growth and development.

Copper helps to activate enzymes involved in several physiological processes in plants, including pho t osynthesis and respiration. Additionally, copper has been shown to have anti-fungal properties, which makes it effective in controlling plant diseases.

Studies have shown that copper can enhance plant immune responses by regulating gene expression and enzyme activity involved in defense mechanisms.

For example, a study by R. Mehari et al. (2015) in the journal Plant Physiology and Biochemistry found that copper enhanced the activity of enzymes involved in the synthesis of

lignin, which is a component of plant cell walls that plays a crucial role in plant defense against pathogens.

I am pleased to say that we now have a copper nutrient which I have called Wallys Super Copper Nutrient and is available from our mail order web site in 250ml bottles.

Or you can ask your local garden centre to order the product in for you.

I was told of a trial that was done on a stone fruit tree to prevent curly leaf.

Only one part of the tree was treated and that part had no curly leaf and even the following season still no curly leaf where the rest of the tree suffered from the disease.

Used at the rate of 10ml per litre for initial application and then at 5ml per litre of water for maintenance.

If you have a stone fruit tree that suffers from curly leaf then spray the tree now before spring movement at 10ml over the branches where the leaf buds are. Coverage should be as good as you are able to achieve all over the tree.

When there is a show of leaves later on spray again at the 5ml rate.

If the tree is flowering only spray the foliage at the end of the day when pollination has finished for the day.

Another spray of foliage at 5ml per litre of water can be done after fruit has set.

Trials that I have read about diseases on other plants have also being very good at controlling various disease problems.

Thus where you have problem diseases such as on roses and other plants this copper nutrient maybe the answer for them also.

Dr. Don Huber also commented that the only reason copper fungicides helped in control of various diseases is that some of the copper would get into the plant which would then help the plant as written above.

But applying Wallys Super Copper Nutrient cuts to the chase reducing or eliminating the need for copper fungicide sprays.

Order from www.0800466464. co.nz link at plant diseases.

Let there be rock

the combined college’s School of Rock production is on next week from August 1-5 at the ASb theatre. Rehearsals have taken place at both colleges. the cast and crew pack in to the theatre today for opening night on tuesday.

Jungle disco

Friends of Renwick Schools (FORS) annual Disco was held on Friday night and was another great success. the theme was Jungle and the fluro decorations featuring a massive waterfall did not disappoint. Students, parents and teachers dressed up as all sorts of wonderful animals, plants and explorers. A fabulous night was had by all.

WHAT DOES PATTY DISCOVER? : Jessica Sinclair (Patty) and Cory Clemett (Ned).

PARENTS EVENING: Lucy Soper, Lyriks and Xavier Rae Caldwell.

THE PIT BAND: Louis Girling, Simon Evans and Lachlan MacNeill.

MAN: Daniel Brunel (Dewey) in full vocal flight.

Venus flytrap. Mrs Schroeder with Tucans, Louis and Anaïs Valk.Deryn, Eira, Flynn and Struan Smart heading into the jungle.

FORS chairperson, “Brenna Gorilla” fresh from the jungle, whipped this costume up after not sewing since she was at primary school herself.

Jemima Nation, Kaitlan Ikenasio and Nevaeh Cairns.

Anaïs Valk, a Toucan with Zebra and principal Mrs Spencer.

Adult For Sale

XXX rated pleasure, here only until 30 July.

Ph 02041058586 no

Public Notices

HAV e LoCK BOWLING CLUB AGM. Will be held in the Club rooms. 7 Neil Street, Havelock. Sunday 13th August 2023 at 1pm.

Bridge lessons for beginners

Wednesday evening, starting 16th August.

$30 for series of 10 lessons or $50 includes lessons and Bridge club membership for the rest of this year.

Contact Andrew 578 8573.

MOLESWORTH POSSUM CONTROL OPERATION

Vector Free Marlborough (VFM) wishes to advise the public of its intention to aerially apply the toxin Sodium fluoroacetate (1080) to parts of Molesworth Station and the adjacent Muller Station for the purpose of controlling possums. The Molesworth possum control operation is being carried out on behalf of OSPRI as part of its TBfree New Zealand programme, which aims to eradicate bovine tuberculosis from wildlife vectors that pose a risk to farmed cattle and deer.

Unfavourable weather conditions over recent weeks have delayed the planned commencement of this operation, originally scheduled for early May 2023.

Description of Control Area

The control area takes in a substantial tract of Molesworth Station and part of the adjacent Muller Station. The control area is more or less bounded by the Acheron Road in the east, Tophouse Road/Wairau Hanmer Springs Hydro Road in the west, including the head of the Wairau River, the Clarence River in the south and the Raglan Range to the north. A number of waterways flow through the project area, with the most notable of these being the Clarence and Wairau rivers.

The permission area for the Molesworth operations take in approximately 104,000 hectares of publicly owned land, administered by various agencies including the Department of Conservation, Land Information New Zealand and several local authorities. A detailed map may be obtained from VFM as per contact details below.

Commencement Date

The 2023 Molesworth operations will be carried out in two stages:

Bush Gully - Tarndale

Control in the approximately 96,000 hectare Bush Gully - Tarndale block is scheduled to commence from 29 May 2023, with the aerial application of non-toxic cereal pre-feed pellets. Note: Most pre feed will be dyed green, however in some areas non-dyed (straw coloured ) pre-feed will be used. This will be followed approximately 7-10 days later by the aerial application of bait containing biodegradable Sodium fluoroacetate (1080) also dyed green. In addition to aerial methods, supplemental ground control, using hand-laid 1080 pellets may be undertaken around sensitive areas and other places unsuitable for aerial methods.

All work is weather dependent, and commencement may be later than indicated. In the event of an extended delay, further notices will be placed to advise the public.

Yarra – Five Mile

Control in the approximately 8,000 hectare Yarra – Five Mile block is scheduled to commence from 01 September 2023. Public notices for this operation will be placed nearer the time. Control methods for this block will be the same as the Bush Gully & Tarndale block.

Bait Description

Aerial and ground control using 1080:

• Pre-feed - Non-toxic cereal-based pellet, approximately 16mm long, cinnamon-lured, non-dyed ( straw coloured) and/or dyed green

• Toxic bait - Cereal-based pellet, approximately 16mm long, cinnamon-lured and dyed green with a toxic loading of 0.15% Sodium fluoroacetate (1080).

Note - all prefeed and 1080 bait for aerial and ground application will contain deer repellent.

Precautions

For Sale

VenetiAn blind 150cm width x 150cm drop. As new $150. Ph: 027 427 2189.

Firewood: 2.2m3 gum/pine $200 or pallet wood $150. Sunday Blenheim delivery. 0275970492.

KindLing or cones: 1 banana box $8, or 2 $15, 3 $20. Sunday Blenheim delivery. 0275970492.

Public Notices

FOR SALE

Reconditioned Bicycles at affordable prices. Heaps to choose from.

8Am-1Pm Saturday 29 July 164A Muller Road, Household effects, tools etc.

Situations Vacant

CLEANER REQUIRED

Permanent position

Good hourly rate 8am-4.30pm

4 on 4 off roster

To apply email facilitymanager@ashwoodpark.co.nz

Applications close 31/08/2023

We are looking for a reliable, empathetic and motivated dental assistant to join our diverse team on a casual basis, possibly extending to part time for the right candidate. This position would suit a candidate looking for extra hours who is retired or looking for extra hours here and there. We boast a supportive team, excellent equipment and a long-standing patient base in a positive and progressive working environment.

Please email office@blenheimdentalcare.co.nz with your CV and a paragraph about yourself to apply herein. Alternatively ring 03 578 9009.

MARLBOROUGH

The public are reminded of the danger that toxic baits and possum carcasses pose, particularly to children and dogs.

• Do not touch or eat baits

• Children must be kept under strict supervision in the control area.

• Dogs must be kept under strict control at all times and not have access to, or be taken into, the control area, as they are particularly susceptible to harm from contact with toxic baits and poisoned carcasses. The risk that poisoned carcasses pose to dogs may extend downstream of the control area.

• Toxin warning signs will be installed at main public entry points and the public are reminded that it is an offence to remove this warning signage. Please follow the instructions on the signs.

• Game animals should not be sold or taken for eating from within or adjacent to this area until it is declared clear of pesticides.

**If you suspect poisoning

Contact your local hospital, or dial 111

National Poisons Centre 0800 POISON – 0800 764 766

In the case of a domestic animal being poisoned, contact a local veterinarian.

For further information please contact

VFM Operations Controller - Molesworth

Vector Free Marlborough PO Box 5171, Springlands, Blenheim 7241

Free Phone: 0508 548 008

Email: communications@vectorfree.co.nz

Website: www.vectorfree.co.nz

OSPRI helps protect and enhance the reputation of New Zealand’s primary industries and currently runs the TBfree and National Animal Identification and Tracing (NAIT) programmes.

Visit the Medzshed Blenheim

4 Dillons Point Road

We are open in the afternoon on Mondays and Thursdays and on Saturday mornings.

Don’t miss our Mini Garage Sale Last Saturday of each month.

Situations Vacant

Learning Assistant

30 hours per week (term time only)

Marlborough Boys’ College is looking for a supportive learning assistant, who is committed to improving the education and life chances for our ākonga. The position involves facilitating differentiated programs to students identified as being ‘at risk’ due to learning, social or behaviour challenges. While all applications will be considered, preference will be given to applicants with a background in education, outdoor education, social work, youth mentoring, or experience working with young people with disabilities. Practical skills and an enthusiasm to share these with our ākonga would also be very valuable.

Applicants must have good literacy and numeracy skills and a medium level of computer competency.

The start date is as soon as possible.

If you are passionate about the youth of Marlborough and enjoy working in a school environment, please email a covering letter and your CV to apply@mbc.school.nz

Please Note: In accordance with the Education Act 1989 and the Children’s Act 2014 a police vetting check will be required for this position.

Public Notices

PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

MARLBOROUGH PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

An established support group meeting in Blenheim for men and their families living with a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. Spouses, partners and family members welcome.

Meetings:

Time:

Venue:

First Tuesday of each month* 7.15pm

An established support group meeting in Blenheim for men and their families living with a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. Spouses, partners and family members welcome.

October Meeting:

Cancer Society Blenheim House 76A Maxwell Road, Blenheim

Date: Tuesday 1st August 2023, at 7.15pm

Venue: Cancer Society Blenheim House, 76A Maxwell Road, Blenheim

For more information please contact:

Support Group Coordinator Murray Eyles

For more information please contact:

M: 027 608 5667

Support Group Coordinator Murray Eyles

M: 027 608 5667

E: marlborough@prostate.org.nz

E: marlborough@prostate.org.nz

W: www.prostate.org.nz/support-meetings

W: www.prostate.org.nz/support-meetings

0800 477 678

0800 477 678 inFOrMAtiOn linE

Annalise flying high

By Chris Valli

Blenheim gymnast Annalise

Dasler has a great deal to be proud of after finishing second equal on the vault at the 2023 Gymnastics New Zealand Championships in Tauranga recently.

The 11-year-old attends Bohally Intermediate and has been with the Blenheim Gymnastics Club for five years. She was part of a team of four in the Women’s Artistic Step 5 (juniors) grade. More than 900 gymnasts were put through their paces at the championships. Annalise was the sole Blenheim representative in the Top of the South team (Blenheim and Nelson) and qualified for the nationals through a series of regional competitions since the beginning of the year.

To achieve selection as part of the Top of the South team for Nationals requires a two fold qualification process:

Annalise had to achieve a total of 50 on two occasions at competitions within the period March to May 2023 and only could be

within the Top of the South area, the other had to be in a province outside of Marlborough and Nelson.

The club’s coaching coordinator Tony Quirk says the total represents an average of 12.5 for each of the four apparatus.

“It is not an easy target to meet,” says Tony. “On beam, for example, if someone falls there is a deduction of 1.0 taken from the score. The maximum total is 15 per apparatus on the basis that the gymnast achieves all skills required for that apparatus.”

Tony says in addition, where there are more than four gymnasts in a Step, they must go through an internal TOTS selection process.

“The basis of that is that three events are identified and the gymnast must compete at each of those three events. It is then a mathematical total received depending on their placing at each of those events that determines whether they are in the team.”

She achieved her highest mark for the season at the Nationals.

This year was particularly

close says Tony but Annalise performed exceptionally well in the final event and managed to achieve inclusion in the team.

“This is what one would like to see all the time, but it rarely happens. It shows she peaked for Nationals which is a great outcome,” says Tony.

Tony says he has high regard for gymnasts from Blenheim achieving selection.

“Our club is one of very few in the country running the programmes we do that is still entirely volunteer,” he says. “It means our coaches have work commitments and therefore the hours available for training are much less than other clubs involved. The gymnasts and coaches therefore need to be extremely dedicated to offset those reduced hours.”

The primary coaching is now done by Astra Solly who has taken over from her mother, Erica Ticehurst. Astra has only just started but according to Tony is doing an excellent job with the gymnasts ably assisted by Renee Ashby.

Picton duo a champion pair

By Chris Valli

Helen McIssac and Jenny Anderson are the toast of the Picton Bowling Club.

Jenny won the Picton Bowling Club’s Champion of Champion Pairs with Jess Looms who then moved to Waikato. As a result, Jenny asked Helen to be her lead going forward and they then went on to win Bowls Marlborough Champion of Champions Pairs recently.

The ladies then travelled to Dunedin to play in the National Champion of Champion Pairs in early July, winning all their games and qualifying for the quarter and semi-finals before taking out the Gold Medal, winning the competition.

Hosted at the Hopes Dunedin Lawn Bowls Stadium, 20 men and 17 women (pairings) converged to contest the final stage of a threetier competition, with play first commencing at club championship level throughout the season.

The format required three out of four wins to progress to post-section play, with eight pairings making the cut in the men and five combinations among the women.

The women’s final saw Helen and Jenny defeat the highly-fancied Hinuera (Waikato) combination of Debbie White and Bev Corbett, running out with the win, 21-12.

The win completed a clean-sweep for the Picton duo, with Jenny clearly starting to show promise among the Marlborough ranks, having enjoyed several successful seasons in Canterbury, prior to relocating clubs to Picton last season.

Jenny, who has been playing bowls competitively for one year says her pairs partner Jess, had moved to reside in Waikato after

they had won the Picton Club Pairs so she asked Helen if she would be her lead going forward to the Marlborough competition.

“It was great to win a national title against very good opposition and good to share it with a club mate,” says Jenny. “I had been over playing in the Australian Open in June and then in the National Champion of Champion singles in Hastings the week prior to the pairs in Dunedin so it was a good lead up with tough competition.”

Jenny adds she is never one to shy away from putting in the hard yards practising.

“Not having played together before, Helen and I combined very well as a pair and got to know each other’s game better every game we played and the confidence in one another just grew. Plus we gel very well off the green as well which is also important in any team sport. You end up playing for each other

Golf Results

Wairau Valley Golf Club

Sat 22 Jul: Medal/LGU/Putts:

Ladies: Yvonne Wallace 67, Mel Hampton 72, Robyn Pupich 72, Maureen McKenzie 73, Alison Graham 73, Sharon Giles 73. Men:

Richard Bruce 68, Bevan Roughan 69, Bevan Boon 70, Grant Hagen 70, Pete Bishell 71, Mike McKenzie 72, Rex McGarry 73. Putts: Richard Bruce 25, Rob Chee 28.

Marlborough Golf Club

Tue 18 Jul: 9 Hole Mixed Net

Medal Div.1: Debra O’Keeffe 39, Suzanne Clifford 2, Julia Petrie 44.

Div.2: Rebecca Harvey 34, Roslyn

Leov 37, Eleanor White 40.

Wed 19 Jul: Canadian Foursome:

Jo Grigg & Lyndy Larkin 81, K Morris & Debra Nicholls 82, Bev Parker & Sue Lissaman 84. 20 July.

Men’s stableford: Dave Knappstein 36, David Wilkins 35, Tom Kelsall 33, Jock Glennie 33, Guy Latham 33, Andrew Petherbridge 32, Tony

Armstrong 31, Ken Steel 31, Brian Burgess 31.

Sat 22 Jul: 9 Hole Mixed Stableford: Pam Morris 15, Leana Gargiulo 13, Caroline Cornelius 13. Men’s Stableford Div.1: Mike MacLeod 38, Tracy Goss 37, Mark Watson 35. Div.2: Euan MacKellar 32, James Tyson 32, Kevin Price 31. Div.3: Brian Chippendale 37, Glenn Kirkwood 32, Graham McHaffie 31.

and for the pride of the club that has given you the opportunity.”

President Jackie Swanson says the Picton Bowling Club members are extremely proud of the pair and their achievements.

It was a double celebration for the South Island as North East Valley (Dunedin) pairing Keanu Darby and Roger Stevens also took out the Summerset National Champion of Champions Pairs against their North Island counterparts, all four of them securing their maiden national title.

Jenny says she will be involved with the invitational tournaments at Naenae in September and Dunedin and Nelson in October.

“A bit of a no bowls zone for a few weeks in order to get hungry again for the start of the next season,” says Jenny. “I’m looking forward to watching the New Zealand team in the World Bowls Champs (29 Aug – 10 Sept).”

Blenheim Golf Club

Wed 12 Jul: Stableford 0-29

Judith Ba tty 35 Elaine Brown 35

30+ Bernice Arnold 24 9 holes

Margaret Hamilton 14 Barbara

Looker 12 July 13th Par Mike

Gardiner 2 John Cootes 1 Graeme

Parker -1 Des Campbell -1 Don

March -2 Don Lamond -3 Morgan

Bowe -3 Duncan Cassidy -3 Glen

Hurcomb -3. 9 Hole Stableford:

Ross Agnew 18 Roy Lilley 15

Ian Clark

Thu 13 Jul: 5th Stableford Ryan

Windleburn 39 Alf van der Hulst

38 Graeme Parker 37 Roy Lilley

35 Michael Daines 35 Andrew

Stowell 34 Ladies Sa-Nga Grupp

31 Judith Batty 31 NTP Fairweathers: 9/18 Roy Lilley Sowmans 3/12 Michael Daines.

Mon 17 Jul: 9 Hole Stableford:

George Addis 19 Glen Hurcomb 18

Ian Clark 17 Mike McConnell 16

Dave Menzies 16 Allen Knight 15

Brian Burgess 15 Stuart Parker 15

Leo McKendry 15 Graeme Parker

15 Ladies Elaine Brown 19 Jenny

Evans 18 Helen Neame 17 Bernice

Arnold 17 July 10th Single Par

Judith Batty -1 Colleen McLeod -2. 9 Holes Stableford: Barbara

Looker 18 Yvonne Hore 16

Thu 20 Jul: Combined Stableford:

Stuart McLagan + Graeme Parker

79 Colin Pitkethley + Stuart Parker

76 Jim Findlay + David Waters 75

Graeme Parker + Tere Poa 70

Phil Starkey + Steve Anderson

70 Graeme Daines + Ray Herd 70

Mike Gardiner + Steve Anderson

69. 9 Holes Stableford George Ad-

dis 18 Roy Lilley 17 Alan Wilson

17 Ian Clark 16 Barry Mosley 16.

Sat 22 Jul: Medal Trent Davies

66 Kobe Hart 68 Jim Findlay 69

Graeme Parker 69 Doug Shaw 70

Ladies Rachel Bell 73. Browne Memorial Best 3 of 4 Net Medal rounds Brian Yarrall 208 NTP

Fairweathers 9/18 Leanne Stowell

Sowmans 3/12 Luke Yarrall

Blenheim Gymnastics Club member Annalise Dasler achieved her highest mark at the nationals in Tauranga recently.

Winners are grinners: Picton Bowling Club’s Helen McIssac and Jenny Anderson with Bowls New Zealand President Ann Wright after winning the National Champion of Champion Pairs in earlier this month in Dunedin.

For the love of herbs

By Chris Valli

Reckon you know your herbs from your spices?

The Marlborough Herb Society (MHS) was founded in 1983 by Monica Russell with a group of like-minded, knowledgeable, and interested people.

Meetings were held on the 4th Tuesday of the month, in various homes until a suitable venue was found. On June 28th, 1983 with 22 people attending the first meeting and annual subscriptions were set at $3.

A Herb of the month (HOM), featuring at every meeting was initiated to increase knowledge. To share information a newsletter, The Garlic Press, was compiled and sent out quarterly. The MHS logo was designed by Aston Greathead to symbolise the Marlborough Region at the time, Marigold and Garlic were included.

President, Renée Charles, says the group still meets on the 4th Tuesday of the month unless on field trips or workshops.

“Meetings continue to include a Herb of the Month where detailed information and examination of a chosen herb is discussed and tasted (if edible), usually in a soup, cake, or pesto. The recipes are shared and enjoyed together,” says Renée

Past field trips have included visits to lavender, flower, and gingko farms while they have also visited

organic wineries, hydroponic farms, and multiple destinations in Nelson.

Renée says well attended workshops include bread making, dyeing with natural plants, fermentation, mushroom talks, and a Chinese Tea Ceremony.

“We are a member of the Herb Federation of New Zealand, a nationwide group who share

informative herbal information and provide certificate courses for those wishing to further their knowledge,” says Renée.

A quarterly newsletter, The Garlic Press, keeps everyone informed of their upcoming and past events and also includes interesting historic and current herbal articles, herbal food recipes, pest repellents, skin salves and more.

The Herb Society tends the herb beds at the Marlborough Community Gardens in Ballinger Drive and has been described as the “Heart of the Gardens” since 2018, providing food for bees, birds, beneficial insects, and a venue for regular propagation sessions and tutorials.

Annually MHS has a stall at the Garden Marlborough Fete where

all herbs are grown by members. To celebrate the 40 years of (MHS) Ruby Anniversary, members and friends will attend a dinner at the Fancy Cow Restaurant tonight.

If you’re interested, you are welcome to come join them. Please contact Renée or Janne at mhsgarlicpress@gmail.com for more information.

SUNNY MARLBOROUGH: Caption: Marlborough Herb Society members Kris Fowler, Linda Davies, Janne Hickman, Joanna Hepburn and Diana Brooks at the Farmers Market.