28 February 2024 The Blenheim Sun

By

Eight

Valli

also deaf.

However, for foster owner Leonie McDonald, the family ‘don’t really notice’ as their two other dogs don’t really listen to them either.

“It does make vacuuming easier,” she says. “We have been teaching her some signs for sit, come, stay. At home, we really haven’t found it a problem. We are more cautious when we take her for walks and are aware she might not pick up cues if other dogs are growling at her.”

Continued on page 2.

Foster owner Leonie McDonald and Gracie. Leonie says Gracie has been a wonderful addition to her family while waiting for her forever home.

‘Independent in her disposition’

Continued from page 1.

“One of our dogs learnt she doesn’t respond to barking and growling so has started communicating with her more visually, it’s very cool. We don’t let her off the leash because we can’t call out to her so just have her on a long leash or in an enclosed space.”

About a year ago, Leonie says she saw a post where Marlborough Four Paws (charity run by volunteers) was looking for someone to foster a puppy they had taken in.

“I messaged the page and had our first foster puppy the next day,” she says. “Since then we have had ten or more puppies come to stay until they find homes. It’s incredibly rewarding.”

“Obviously it’s great for the puppies because they get a taste of a real life, get acclimatised and

have new experiences. For potential new owners it’s great for decision making too as we normally know if they’re good with kids, other dogs and cats. We get them on a lead, teach basic skills and can let them know what their personalities are like so they can decide if they’ll fit in.”

Leonie says Gracie has been fixed and is often quiet and independent in her disposition.

“She’s hilarious and her favourite place to sit is the dining room chair,” says Leonie.

Leonie says they took Gracie in when she was about 10 weeks old, adding the family foster for as long as it takes to get a new home for them.

“Sometimes they go so quickly and sometimes they need a bit more training or settling before they are

Central Otago Man

Reviewed by David Searle

We’re lucky in Marlborough to have such regular, well-paced and directed, locally made theatre. It’s something we can’t take for granted, else it disappears off to our larger, less accessible neighbours. Central Otago Man continues this tradition and it was pleasing to see a large and appreciative audience in the Sunday matinee. At its core, Central Otago Man tells of how the world’s problems can be solved by the folksy common-sense wisdom of a white middle aged rural Kiwi ‘fulla’ - Tryfen Gribilco (Chris

Valli). It’s not exactly a PC message, but surely not every play needs to fill that role. ‘Everyone is entitled to my opinion’, states Tryfen early on - and that effectively sets the scene. Along with a truly astonishing and impressive array of cliches, Valli delivered some exceptional one liners that kept the audience laughing ‘mi casa es tu casa, as they say in Outer Mongolia’ indeed. Marty Wellings (Billy Rayner)) is Tryfen’s long-suffering colleague, and Wellings warm stage presence is a delight. Vincent Van Kuyk, Megan Ponder-West, and Shalom Del’Monte-Aberhart are excellent as a series

ready for adoption. It’s nice being able to offer them a home but it’s so exciting when they find the right home. It makes it easier to say goodbye to them knowing they’ll be loved and in a safe environment.”

Leonie says Gracie didn’t get the best start in life and from what she has heard it was ‘horrid’.

“You couldn’t tell now though, she’s not jumpy or easily startled, quick to trust and never snappy. Some puppies we have had from awful beginnings fight for food or are scared to eat but not Gracie, she’s too cool for any of that.”

“She’s a wonderful addition to our family while waiting for her forever home.”

If Sun readers know of someone in the community who would be a good fit, apply to @marlboroughfourpaws

of tourists-come-victims to Tryfen and Billy’s high-end bungee-jumping operations.

Rachel Kenyon as the tourist/love interest ‘Heidi’ stole the show and was, unfortunately, a little under-utilised. It would have been interesting to tease out some of the tension between Tryfen’s unasked-for folk wisdom and his own conflicted and complicated inner-turmoil.

Writer Justin Eade has created an impressive body of work over the years.

‘Maungatapu’ was excellent, and I found ‘The Wairay Affray’ particularly moving. In Central Otago Man, Eade

has gone for more of a Roger Hall vibe - and if you’re a fan of Hall you should see this show.

The production team (Geoff Anderson, Eade, Philippa Hyndman, and Phillip Rayner) have done an excellent job assembling the show. You can notice good production values when there aren’t any issues - and this was smooth and professional running. I appreciated the pacing of the show, and the diction from all the actors was outstanding. Well done, team.

The smiles on the faces of my fellow audience members as we walked out said it all. Go see this show.

“Gracie is hilarious,” says Leonie. “Her favourite place to sit is the dining room chair.”

James tackles new challenge, growth

By Chris Valli

Outward Bound instructor

James Gallant has not surprisingly, a strong passion for the outdoors.

From filming National Geographic documentaries in the Falkland Islands to instructing people how to survive in the great outdoors, and now a combat-ready role with the New Zealand Army Reserve Force.

“I wanted to join the Army as there was something new and challenging about it, and I enjoy being part of a community,” Private Gallant says,

The 34-year old, originally from Cape Cod, USA, settled in New Zealand 10 years ago and works as a qualified outdoors instructor with Outward Bound in Anakiwa.

Based in Nelson, he recently graduated from the NZ Army Recruit Territorial Force Basic Training Course, followed by the Reserve Force Infantry Corps Training.

After years of dishing out instructions and telling others to step out of their comfort zones, Private Gallant was reminded of what it’s like being on the other side of that equation.

“I’m used to being the facilitator, so I’ve had to relinquish that responsibility which can be a challenge in itself,” he says. “It’s

given me a better understanding of the frustrations and challenges of being new at something, and has actually given me quite a bit of empathy towards my students.”

“I was working in the sub-Antarctic Falkland Islands for National Geographic filming a story on the people who call the Islands home when I met my wife. She got offered a job in New Zealand 10 years ago and we’ve never looked back.

Private Gallant is qualified in bush navigation, sailing, white water kayaking, rock climbing, coast-steering, waka ama and professional development training, but he wanted to test his limits again with something new.

Learning to live in shared accommodation within a diverse age group and to accept that sometimes, however well you perform, it’s just not going to be up to standard, has been his personal challenge.

“It’s all good for personal growth though, and that’s a lot of what the training is focused around,” he says, Corps training is held every January for nearly three weeks. Trainees are pushed out of their comfort zones both mentally and physically, and learn various weapon systems, battle preparation, patrolling techniques, harbouring routines and battle drills which culminate in live

field-firing activities at Waiouru Military Training Area.

Training builds from theory and classroom work to a week-long field phase where the training is put into action. Battling the tough Central Plateau elements is often an added challenge.

Private Gallant received the Sergeant Major of the Army Award during recruit training. The Award is presented to the recruit who has consistently demonstrated and applied the NZ Army ethos and values, and is

willing to put their mates before themselves.

Alongside his day job and Reserve Force duties, Private Gallant somehow finds the time to give back to his community and is currently training to be a first responder for Hato Hone St John in Blenheim.

“I’ve trained as an ambulance officer and work in a volunteer capacity responding to a variety of situations such as strokes and heart attacks, vehicle accidents and general health enquiries.”

inbrief

Sun The

correction

The Marlborough Decorative and Fine Arts Societies lectures are held in the Marlborough Research Centre’s lecture theatre, not NMIT’s as printed in last week’s edition of the Sun Newspaper.

cranes to be handed over

Cranes at Kapowai and Elmslie Bay jetties in the Marlborough Sounds are to be refurbished and handed over to the D’Urville Island Settlers Association.

Currently the electric cranes are owned and operated by Council and used by fishers to unload their catch, residents to load fuel and supplies and beekeepers to load honey. The cranes are now coming to the end of their lives and need refurbishment to gain certification.

Sounds Ward Councillor Barbara Faulls says the cranes were a valuable piece of equipment for the island community, particularly with the recent loss of fuel supply at French Pass.

“The cranes are an essential connection to the island and also used by Marlborough Roads and DOC,” she says.

rita Angus exhibition

Marlborough Art Gallery is to host a touring exhibition, Rita Angus: New Zealand Modernist, until April 14.

The free exhibition brings together works by one of New Zealand’s most iconic artists. Rita Angus (19081970) who was fundamental to the establishment of a distinctive, modern school of art in New Zealand.

Selected works from Te Papa will be on display that spans Angus’ life and career as an artist, drawing out themes of pacifism, feminism, and nature, which shaped much of her work. The exhibition includes many of Angus’ most important works, including Rutu (1951), Cleopatra (1938) and Central Otago (1953-56/1969).

barrier reels

• 25 metre tape length for larger barriers

• Tape Lock Off function to maintain barrier tape tension

• Red and white striped barrier tape to mark danger areas

• Yellow and black striped barrier tape to mark caution areas

• Magnetic tape anchor point

Applic Ations:

For marking danger or caution areas.

Outward Bound instructor James Gallant receives his Sergeant Major of the Army Award on the recruit graduation parade, presented by Reserve Force Sergeant Major (Army), Warrant Officer Class One Tim Sincock.

Steady As You Go

Steady As You Go classes are up at running at the Renwick Anglican Church at 54 High Street.

The classes help to provide improvement in strength and balance and is a great way to meet new people.

Classes are one hour each from 9:30 - 10:30am and are $3 per class.

Enquiries and bookings to Maria van Kuyk, Eldercare, Ph 0274 782 328.

Kaitiaki of McKendry Park

By Chris Valli

The tamariki/children of BestStart Springlands (formerly ABC Springlands) have taken on the role of kaitiaki/guardians at McKendry Park after rubbish has been left there.

The children have taken on the role seriously by looking after the trees, the daffodils in spring and collecting any rubbish that has been left in the park. Indeed, the children have a strong sense of belonging at McKendry Park. The community based kindergarten has had a close association with the park in Springlands for many years.

“We use it for our nature based

MAKING A POSITIVE DIFFERENCE:

park as our tamariki and kaiako (teachers) often find rubbish at this park – especially after the weekends.”

Springlands BestStart kindergarten children are the kaitiaki/guardians of McKendry Park and have been collecting rubbish to protect and look after the environment. play curriculum for children attending Springlands Kindergarten,” says teacher Kate Harrison. “Over the last six months we have worked with the Marlborough District Council to install rubbish bins at the

“After consultation with the Park and Reserve Manager Rachel Hutchinson it was de-

cided that the best course of action was to put up signs at all three entrances to the park to remind visitors/residents to enjoy the park but to take away any rubbish they may have brought along.

World Day of Prayer

By Chris Valli

40 – 50 people are expected to attend the World Day of Prayer service at St Andrews in Blenheim on March 1. Each year the service is written by women in a different country who share hopes and fears, joys and sorrows, opportunities and needs for their respective countries.

Dawn Neal is an elder at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church - the local Catholic Church being St Mary’s. One of her roles is as the representative from St Andrews on the Blenheim World Day of Prayer committee.

“We meet, from seven local churches, each January to prepare for the local service which is always held on the first Friday in March,” she says.

Dawn says on the day they will commence with morning tea at 10am followed by the service at 10.30am.

“We believe in the power of prayer to the Christian God” as we engage with Christians from all around the world,”

Dawn says.

Dawn adds there will be a service ‘somewhere in the world’ praying for 24 hours for the country who wrote the service on March 1, as well as all Christians around the world.

World Day Of Prayer Committee: StandingMargaret Jarman, Heather Wadsworth and Jan Poswillo. Sitting - Joan Vercoe, Dawn Neal, Beth Sowden and Marie Spencer. Absent: Carolyn Crossly , Mary Tolan and Joy Jermyn.

$20,000 funding for Rural Support Trust

By Chris Valli

Dry weather has prompted extra support for farmers and growers across the top of the South Island.

Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says funding of up to $20,000 will be made available to the Top of the South Rural Support Trust to plan for events and support farmers and growers where needed.

“Conditions on the ground across the Marlborough, Tasman, and Nelson districts are now extremely dry and likely to get worse in the coming months,” he says.

“The top of the South Island is not in meteorological drought, but this step will ensure early support is available for farmers, growers, and rural communities.

Rural Communities Minister Mark Patterson says farmers and growers in the Top of the South are experienced with dry summer months and prepare for this.

“This additional support is needed as forecasters predict the dry weather will linger into the autumn.

The Rural Support Trust, MPI, Federated Farmers, plus farmers and growers, representatives of the forestry and viticulture sectors, and, local councils, have been meeting regularly to discuss the situation.”

Meanwhile, Marlborough is experiencing its driest weather in almost a century. Just 94mm of rain – almost half the average – fell between June and January.

This was the lowest rainfall for that six-month period since 1930. Farmers are running out of stock water as creeks and dams dry. They are feeding out winter supplement and quitting any store and trading livestock.

* Marlborough Federated Farmers president Evan White says farming leaders have written to Agriculture

Ashwood Park Arvida Retirement Village residents ‘broke out on mass’ into the community riding on the train at Brayshaw Park last Wednesday. The residents took in the summer’s day, absorbing the wonders of nature, sights and smells along the one hour journey. While at Beaver Station the engine changed position for towing the return journey for the 60 residents along with the 10 staff to enjoy. All thanks go to The Brayshaw Railway for the awesome volunteer operated community service.

Minister Todd McClay and to the Ministry for Primary Industries advising of the dire situation.

White says the impacted area extends from Upper Moutere and Tapawera in Nelson to include all of Marlborough with the southern parts the hardest hit.

Conditions started to bite about four weeks ago. “It’s getting a bit serious,” White says. “Any stock that is store or trading, it’s gone.”

Cape Campbell farmers Rob and Sally Peter are shocked at how quickly conditions have dried since spring.

Rob Peter says they acted early to reduce

stock numbers to the bare minimum. Lambs were weaned and sold before Christmas, finishing cattle have also been sold, calves were weaned and sold three months earlier than normal and light replacement and capital stock have been culled.

Sheep nuts are being fed to his two-tooth ewes in preparation for tupping.

While this has solved an immediate problem, Rob says they will have nothing to sell later in the year. Their coastal farm is exceptionally dry but a network of dams has adequate water for a year.

Rob says drought accompanying an El

Niño tends to stick around for a few years.

“If we get rain in March we will be okay. If there is none through until June, then it could be serious.”

Nick Story, the Ministry for Primary Industries director of rural communities and farming support, acknowledged the challenges in Marlborough and said it is keeping a close watch.

A group consisting of key sector bodies, the Rural Support Trust, local authorities and MPI is advising on the impacts of the dry conditions and meets fortnightly.

*Additional editorial from Neal Wallace – Farmers Weekly.

Marlborough Federated Farmers president Evan White says farming leaders have written to Agriculture Minister Todd McClay and to the Ministry for Primary Industries advising of the dire situation. Marlborough is heading for one of its driest years in nearly a century. Photo: Jo Grigg

Yes, but depends on what was in them.

Not usually, I have every intention of doing it so sit them on the bench but then when it comes to dishes time I throw them.

Letters

The editor reserves the right to

As an expat born and bred Blenheimite, when I heard of the sale of your paper I was initially very concerned that everything would be done by the new owners out of

No but my mother-in-law does and she washes them and puts them on the line to dry and reuse.

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.

Marlborough. It's happened with other organisations where they were centralised e.g. all operations moved to another city in NZ and the result is you lose that local

input and knowledge.

Yes, wash, dry and reuse. I find them very handy.

Great for putting cake icing in and snipping the corner off for cake decorating.

I wish to publicly thank Marlborough Lines for replying to my request and explaining this year’s discount payment. It is great news to read that consumers will now receive two payments each year.

This will greatly help us budget for the upcoming increased winter heating costs. I along with thousands of others look forward to receiving our $242 payment in late April/May.

Thank you Blenheim Sun for clarifying the matter.

Philip Taylor Power Trust Candidate

I worked in the Telephone Exchange until it's closure and we handled emergency calls to Fire, Police, Ambulance.

After the closure there were situations where a service was dispatched to an incident but it wasn't the closest one to it and time can be critical in these

situations. Or a service was dispatched to an incorrect address due to lack of local knowledge.

So I was happy to see that all staff are being retained and the Wednesday Sun will carry on with local input and stories. It is by far the best local paper and I look forward to receiving and

Yes unless raw meat was in them for the freezer. We get the green composting ones.

When I heard about Marlborough Lines purchasing Yealands back in 2015, I like many others, thought it strange. I didn’t fixate on it, but I was aware of the chatter and the questions being asked. I certainly didn’t imagine that nine years later, I’d be campaigning to become a Trustee on the Marlborough Electric Power Trust!

How a publicly owned power company in the steady business of infrastructure, can justify diversifying into a high-risk industry such as wine –hugely reliant on mother nature, export markets and other fickle variables, was/is puzzling to say the least. The team at Yealands are working hard –this is not about them, but about the levels of governance that have failed

the community.

The issue as I see it is one of overpromising, which was incredibly irresponsible, and then underdelivering but not fronting up to admit they were wrong. This has led to disappointment and disillusion, not to mention many unanswered questions.

As with elsewhere, many in Marlborough are struggling to make ends meet with an estimated 2,000 or so households unable to purchase the basics for everyday life. A month’s free power every year is a substantial help to these families, who are after all, beneficiaries.

I and fellow campaigners, Brendon Burns and Simon Bishell, are campaigning on the shared values of

To the men who helped me,

On Monday 19 February I got knocked over with my scooter.

Many, many thanks to the two men who picked it up for me.

So, so lucky, thank you.

Grateful Scooter Rider

reading it cover to cover every week as it keeps me up to date with what's happening in my home town and surrounding areas.

Best wishes for the future.

Paul R Peacock Brisbane

transparency and accountability. Our aim is to help reduce the financial pressure on Marlborough Lines and get it back to its core business of keeping our lights on, for the lowest possible line charges.

Everyone with a power connection in Marlborough is a beneficiary. That’s you and me. We are the owners of Marlborough Lines Ltd and the MEPT is there as your voice. And it’s a voice we have heard very little of in the last few years – you deserve to know what is happening with your investment. You deserve better.

Thank you

Belinda Jackson Power Trust Candidate

Broghan van Aalst Dunedin

Kate Pombo Fairhall

Lucinda Smail Rarangi

Jules Ingram Blenheim

Andrew Hudson Blenheim

Rhonda Young Kaikoura

Rubbish bags on borrowed time

Wheelie bins are coming which means from 1 July 2024 Council rubbish bags will no longer be collected from the kerbside in Marlborough.

Rubbish bags are on “borrowed time”, Council’s Solid Waste Manager Mark Lucas says.

“Replacing rubbish bags with the new wheelie bin kerbside collection service will save more than 750,000 rubbish bags from going to landfill every year and the wheelie bins have a larger capacity than the existing bags,” Mark said.

Council has a limited supply of rubbish bags left and will sell them until supplies are exhausted. Most supermarkets in the region have already stopped selling them.

“People can use up their supply of rubbish bags but from 1 July these will not be collected from the kerbside. Council will continue to accept them at transfer stations, the Waste Sorting Centre, or the Resource Recovery Centre, but that option will be removed as demand diminishes,” Mark said.

You can redeem your rubbish bag voucher at Council’s Blenheim or Picton Service Centres or

get a rebate until 30 June this year. While stocks last, rubbish bags are available to buy from Council’s Blenheim or Picton Service Centre either individually ($1.85), in packs of 10 ($18.50) or packs of 52 ($96.00).

The new and expanded kerbside collection service covers Blenheim, Grovetown, Havelock, Picton, Rarangi, Rai Valley, Renwick, Seddon, Spring Creek and Tua Marina with household waste collected one week and recycling the next. Two wheelie bins will be delivered to each household from March (ready for the kerbside service starting 1 July), one for household waste and one for recycling, except glass, which will go into the maroon crate currently used for recycling. Residents in new areas covered by the service will also be delivered a maroon crate. For more information on collection areas and days go to Council’s Smart Maps page: https:// links.marlborough.govt.nz/kerbside

If you have questions about the new system go to: links.marlborough.govt.nz/Kerbside-FAQs phone Council on Ph: 03 520 7400 or email mdc@marlborough.govt.nz

Exhibition celebrates weaver’s colourful life

A showcase honouring award winning local weaver Peg Moorhouse (1917-2024) and her artworks has opened to the public at the Marlborough Museum in Blenheim. It runs from 27 February to 14 April.

Titled ‘Peg Moorhouse: A Life in Colour,’ the exhibition features a selection of fifteen artworks displaying her unique style using colour and texture to create eye catching pieces. Moorhouse was the first recipient of Marlborough’s Living Cultural Treasure Award in 2012.

“The works, each in a different pattern, colours, materials, and textures, highlight Peg’s versatility and vision as an artist. The showcase includes some damask pieces and her awardwinning cloak from the World of Wearable Arts,” Marlborough Museum manager Liz Ward said.

Moorhouse won the wool section of the inaugural World of Wearable Art Show in 1987 with her piece ‘Tribal Cloak’. She later modelled in the show to celebrate its 10th anniversary in 1998 at age 81.

From her home in Sunshine Bay near Picton, Moorhouse began her spinning and weaving journey some years after she and her husband relocated to the bay in the 1960s. “In the 1990s, Peg set off to Sweden and learned about damask weaving, importing a special loom from Sweden to master the craft,” Liz said. She has created many masterpieces over the years including a silk and wool wall hanging for the school she attended, Rangi Ruru, for the school’s 125th anniversary.

Marlborough Museum’s hours are Tuesday to Friday 10am - 3pm and Saturday/Sunday 12pm to 3pm.

Mānawatia te Kahui o Matariki/Marlborough Matariki Event Fund now open

Are you part of an organisation planning to hold an event to recognise Te Rā Aro ki a Matariki?

Council is seeking applications for the Mānawatia te Kahui o Matariki/ Marlborough Matariki Event Fund which celebrates and supports the regeneration and sustainability of mātauranga Māori associated with Te Kāhui o Matariki.

Project Lead - Arts Culture and Heritage, Nicola Neilson says the contestable fund, which is now open for applications from Marlborough community groups, organisations, and individuals, aims to support events that recognise not only Te Rā

Aro ki a Matariki, the public holiday, but also the wider kaupapa and principles of Matariki. “The event must take place within Marlborough and be free or low cost, familyfriendly and accessible to all,” Mrs Neilson said.

“The fund will support costs integral to holding an event, which includes venue and equipment hire, marketing and promotion and other costs,” she said. While there is no maximum for applications, it is likely between $2000 and $3000 will be awarded to support events.

Mrs Neilson said priority would be given to events that can demonstrate

documented support from iwi and must show how funding would advance and promote one or more of the three major principles of Matariki. Applications for the 2024 funding round open Friday 1 March and close 5pm Monday 15 April. To apply go to: www.marlborough.govt.nz/ recreation/events/manawatia-tekahui-o-matariki-fund-marlboroughmatariki-community-event-fund

If you have any enquiries about the fund please contact Nicola Neilson, Project Lead - Arts, Culture and Heritage on Ph: 03 520 7400 or email: nicola.neilson@marlborough. govt.nz

Fund recipient last year – the Rangitāne o Wairau Matariki Celebration - held at the Wairau Bar

Celebrating A Life in Colour – the exhibition at Marlborough Museum honouring the life and works of local weaver, Peg Moorhouse

one on one with the Sun

‘Becoming better people and a better community’

A kaleidoscope of colours, sounds, sights and aromas will transform Pollard Park on Saturday, March 9 at the Marlborough Multicultural Festival hosted by the Marlborough Multicultural Centre. For Honza Vesley, sharing ‘the

Coffee is a lifestyle and for Honza Vesley so is Marlborough. The place ‘we’ call home and an extensive network of coastal waterways, peninsulas and islands. Oh, and there’s a few grapes too.

The owner-operator of Blenheim’s Hakuna Matata café in Main Street believes the region is amazing. Apt really that ‘Hakuna Matata’ is a Swahili phrase, meaning “no trouble” or “no worries” and “take it easy”. The 1994 Walt Disney Animation Studios animated film

The Lion King brought the phrase to Western prominence in one of its most popular songs, in which it is translated as “no worries”. See,

“But it’s also important to see your own country from the outside”

culture all around us.

Honza was born and grew up in Prague, in the Czech Republic, also known as Czechia in Central Europe and is bordered by Austria to the South, Germany to the West and Poland to the northeast.

The official language of the Czech Republic is Czech. Spoken by nearly 11 million native speakers, Czech is classified as part of the Slavic branch of Indo-European languages. Many people in the Czech Republic have a base knowledge of the English language which

best of our backgrounds’ is what makes a community, as Chris Valli discovers.

has come in handy for Honza, especially with the Kiwi vernacular.

“I have probably lived most of my life abroad,” he admits. “But we speak Czech at home and go back and keep the Czech traditions.”

After living in Queenstown he admits he didn’t enjoy the transient lifestyle and says the Top of the South and Blenheim is a good fit, raising his family with opportunities and amenities at one’s backdoor.

So how long did it take him to feel he was part of the fabric of the Marlborough community?

“Not long at all, because almost instantly I was involved in helping at places like kindergarten and then school and sports trips.”

The 46-year-old says his own interpretation or definition of culture is through an ‘inheritance lens’ through the implementation of language and customs.

“We should all share the best of our backgrounds and learn from each other,” he says. “It’s about becoming better people and a better community.”

“I started travelling very young and learned different languages and learned that different traditions were associated with religions and events far in the past that we as outsiders can’t understand, but shouldn’t criticise.”

“But it’s also important to see your own country from the outside and realise you’re not the most important or better than others,” he says.

Speaking of not criticising, this writer was informed there are some useful Czech phrases.

None more so than the formal hello of course which translates to Dobrý den. (DOH-bree dehn) or the handy turn of phrase such as please (manners aye Mum?) which is pronounced ‘prosím’ (proseem). As for the old classic, especially after a few Marlborough wines there’s, where is the toilet? Kde je záchod? (Gdeh yeh ZAHH-khoht?).

As for what part he will be play in the upcoming multicultural festival he provides some humour to the question.

“I don’t. I can sing at the end if you’re trying to get rid of people,” he suggests. “I have been to the multicultural festival every year except last year. It’s awesome. You can try meals from all around the world, listen to songs in so many different languages and see people dressed in their traditional costumes. What a vibe. So much colour and so many smiles. Wish there was bit of that kind of food regularly at the farmers market. It brings such a great energy to our town.”

“The best thing about Marlborough is the community. We help each other out. It’s small enough that people care for each other and big enough that we have so many nationalities.”

The festival is once again an opportunity to celebrate all things culture with ethnic foods and traditional dances while being immersed into the rich variety of ethnicities which call Marlborough home.

The Marlborough Multcultural Festival is from 11am – 3:30pm at Pollard Park.

Coffee and community: Honza Vesley, owner-operator of Blenheim’s Hakuna Matata Café, says Marlborough’ s community help each other out and is small enough that people care for each other.

Check out our fresh new menu inspired by a fusion of Pacifica and Asian flavours. All designed for sharing, tasting, and mixing with whanau and friends. Taika is the place to be alongside Bamboo Tiger Cocktail Bar and the Tiki Hut where you’ll

March is all about Seniors

Seniors Expo is back again but this year information for seniors has expanded to include a seminar series, providing even more information about services and relevant topics to older adults.

The Marlborough Seniors’ Expo will take place on Tuesday 5 March at the Marlborough Events Centre, starting from 9am. The day is designed for the whole community to help create awareness of services, groups and activities available for older adults.

A whole range of groups and professionals will be there to answer questions and offer information about what they provide to the community. It is also a social morning, with some great performers as well as light refreshments available. The whole event is free of charge.

While aimed at the over 65s, the Expo is not solely for them, so if you have an older relative or friend or are simply interested to know what support and activities are available for older people, you are welcome to head along.

It’s a perfect opportunity to get vital information for whānau and family members. Whether it’s helping them to maintain an active lifestyle or meeting other people in a bid to reduce loneliness, the Expo can help. Even if it’s just wanting to know where to access advice and support, the Expo is a valuable starting point.

There will be information available about health issues in the elderly, mini health checks,

and representatives from support and legal agencies and health organisations will be on hand.

A good way to get to the Expo is to catch the bus. Check out the bus timetable for your nearest pick up. If you are plan-

ning to drive, parking is best at the Alfred Street multistorey carpark building. It is a short walk across the road to the Marlborough Events Centre.

The Expo runs from 9.00am to 1.00pm at the Marlborough Events Centre, next to the

ASB Theatre, and is free to all. More than 50 stallholders will attend and refreshments will be provided. For more information contact Council on 03 520 7400. We look forward to seeing you there!

Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor at last year’s Senior Expo.

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• Age Concern Marlborough

• Volunteer Marlborough

• Stroke Foundation NZ and Marlborough Stroke Club

• Nurse Maude

• Marlborough Primary Health

• Marlborough Pacific Trust

• Security Alert Medical Alarms

• Citizens Advice Bureau

• Neighbourhood Support

• Wairau Pharmacy

• Community Law Marlborough

• U3A Marlborough

• Inpatient Unit Wairau Hospital - Te Whatu Ora

• The Order of St John

• Estate Busters

• REAP Marlborough

• Blackmore Audiology

• MSD Senior Services

• Blenheim Lions Club

• Menz Shed Blenheim Inc

• Allied Health, Wairau Hospital

• Friendship Club of Beavertown

• Cloudy Bay Funerals

• Marlborough Womens Club

• Marlborough Mulitple Sclerosis Society and Parkinsons Group

• Kiwi Damsels in De-stress Red Hat Society

• Access Community Health

• Grey Power Marlborough

• Enliven - Totara Club

• Preparing for Emergencies

• Unichem Springlands Pharmacy

• Fire & Emergency NZ

• Senior Citizens

• Fitz Gym

• Oceania Redwood

• Nativity Church Blenheim

Many

• Marlborough Community Vehicle Trust

• Absolute Energy

• Hospice Marlborough

• Maataa Waka

• Artisan Memorials

• Blenheim Library

• Marlborough Indoor Bowls

• Inland Revenue

• Triton Hearing

• Falls Prevention

• Stadium 2000

• Marlborough District Council

• Welcoming Communities and Marlborough Multicultural Centre

Public seminars

These seminars are free and suitable for anyone 50 years and over for yourself or if you would like to gain information for family or friends. The topics being covered are below.

There will be time for general questions, but specific questions will not be able to be answered in this public forum.

Tuesday 12th March 2024 Nativity Centre 2 – 3:30pm

Rest Homes

Gain a bit more insight into things such as what is the criteria to go into a rest home, how do rest homes get chosen.

Ministry of Social Development

What is important to know about superannuation and other entitlements through Work and Income.

Warmer Kiwi Homes

What resources and information are key to having a healthy home.

Rates rebate

Who qualifies for a rates rebate and how do you apply.

Fire and Emergency NZ Fire safety in the home.

Tuesday 19th March 2024 Nativity Centre 2 – 3:30pm

Stadium 2000

Find out more about the great programmes and activities offered at the stadium and pool.

Community Law

Legal advice on a number of key topics.

Hospice

What services and care is offered by Hospice Marlborough.

Estate Busters

This unique service in Marlborough explains the support they can offer.

Emergency Management

How people can be prepared for an emergency.

ABOVE: Plenty of information to collect.

LEFT: Catch the Blenheim or Picton bus to the expo.

ROUND 1

Sunday, March 3

Thursday , March 7

Friday, March 8

Saturday, March 9

Sunday, March 10

2

Thursday, March 14

Friday, March 15

Saturday, March 16 ROUND 3

Sunday, March 17 ROUND 3

Thursday, March 21

Friday, March 22

Saturday, March 23

Sunday, March 24

ROUND 4

Thursday, March 28

Friday, March 29

Saturday, March 30

Sunday, March 31

Monday, April 1

ROUND 5

Thursday, April 4

Friday, April 5

Saturday, April 6

Sunday, April 7

ROUND 6

Thursday, April 11

Friday, April 12

Saturday, April 13

Saturday, April 14

ROUND 7

Thursday, April 18

Friday, April 19

Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas

Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas

McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle

Go Media Stadium, Auckland

AAMI Park, Melbourne

CommBank Stadium, Sydney

Titans

Dolphins

Panthers

Broncos

Sharks

Panthers

Cowboys

Storm

Sea

Dolphins

Roosters

Panthers

Warriors

Roosters

Bulldogs

Dragons

Eels

Knights

Roosters

Rabbitohs

Broncos

Dragons

Titans

Warriors

Eels

Rabbitohs

Bulldogs

Knights

Rabbitohs

Sea

Dolphins

Cowboys

Raiders

Panthers

Knights

Storm

Broncos

Dolphins

Warriors vs Sea Eagles

Eels vs Cowboys

Rabbitohs vs Sharks

Wests Tigers vs Dragons

Raiders vs Titans

Warriors vs Cowboys

Roosters vs Storm

Dragons vs Warriors

Eels vs Dolphins

Panthers vs Wests Tigers

Titans vs Sea Eagles

Broncos vs Raiders

Bulldogs vs Knights

Sharks vs Cowboys

Dolphins vs Titans

Warriors vs Titans

Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

Queensland Country Bank Stadium

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

PointsBet Stadium, Sydney

BlueBet Stadium, Penrith

GIO Stadium, Canberra

Queensland Country Bank Stadium, Townsville

AAMI Park, Melbourne

4 Pines Park, Sydney

Kayo Stadium, Redcliffe

Suncorp Stadium

BlueBet Stadium, Penrith

Apollo Projects Stadium, Christchurch

Allianz Stadium, Sydney

Belmore Sports Ground, Sydney

Netstrata

Allianz Stadium, Sydney

Accor Stadium, Sydney

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

WIN Stadium, Wollongon

Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast

Go

McDonald Jones

Roosters vs Dragons

Storm vs Rabbitohs

Sea Eagles vs Eels

Wests Tigers vs Broncos

Cowboys vs Panthers

Knights vs Dolphins

Raiders vs Sharks

Panthers vs Wests Tigers

Rabbitohs vs Panthers

Sea Eagles vs Raiders

Broncos vs Roosters

Bulldogs vs Wests Tigers

Titans vs Storm

Cowboys vs Dolphins

Knights vs Warriors

Sharks vs Dragons

Wests Tigers vs Dragons

Dolphins vs Sea Eagles

Panthers vs Bulldogs

Eels vs Broncos

Wests Tigers vs Knights

Dragons vs Rabbitohs

Storm vs Sharks

Roosters vs Warriors

Titans vs Cowboys

Knights vs Titans

Raiders vs Bulldogs

Sea Eagles vs Broncos

Titans vs Knights

Sharks vs Roosters

Rabbitohs vs Cowboys

Warriors vs Panthers

Storm vs Eels

Wests Tigers vs Dolphins

Raiders vs Sea Eagles

Bulldogs vs Dragons

Cowboys vs Wests Tigers

Sea Eagles vs Storm

Raiders vs Roosters

Sharks vs Panthers

Rabbitohs vs Eels

Broncos vs Titans

Warriors vs Dolphins

Eels vs Sharks

Knights vs Bulldogs

Panthers vs Dragons

Dolphins vs Raiders

Roosters vs Cowboys

Raiders vs Warriors

Dragons vs Wests Tigers

Titans vs Rabbitohs

Carrington Park, Bathurst

Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

Accor Stadium, Sydney

PointsBet Stadium, Sydney

Cbus Super Stadium

Go Media Stadium, Auckland

Allianz Stadium, Sydney

AAMI Park, Melbourne

4 Pines Park, Sydney

Campbelltown Sports Stadium, Sydney

Queensland Country Bank Stadium, Townsville

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

GIO Stadium, Canberra

Allianz Stadium

Accor Stadium, Sydney

4 Pines Park, Sydney

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

Accor Stadium, Sydney

Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast

Queensland Country Bank Stadium, Townsville

McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle

PointsBet Stadium, Sydney

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

BlueBet Stadium, Penrith

CommBank Stadium, Sydney

Scully Park, Tamworth

Netstrata Jubilee Stadium, Sydney

AAMI Park, Melbourne

Allianz Stadium, Sydney

Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

Suncorp Stadium,

WIN

Cowboys vs Warriors

Broncos vs Sharks

Sunday, June 9

Monday, June 10

ROUND 15

Thursday, June 13

Friday, June 14

Saturday, June 15

Sunday, June 16

ROUND 16

Friday, June 21

Saturday, June 22

Sunday, June 23 ROUND 17

Friday, June 28

Saturday, June 29

Sunday, June 30

ROUND 18

Thursday, July 4

Friday, July 5

Saturday, July 6

Sunday, July 7

ROUND 19

Thursday, July 11

Friday, July 12

Saturday, July 13

Sunday, July 14

ROUND 20

Friday, July 19

Saturday, July 20

Sunday, July 21

ROUND 21

Thursday, July 26

Friday, July 27

Saturday, July 28

Storm vs Sea Knights Panthers vs Sea Eagles Bulldogs vs Eels Cowboys vs Panthers

Sharks vs Dolphins Raiders vs Cowboys Rabbitohs vs Broncos

Wests Tigers vs Titans

Warriors vs Storm Eels vs Roosters

Sea Eagles vs Dragons Knights vs Panthers Broncos vs Titans Dolphins vs Storm Titans vs Warriors Roosters vs Bulldogs Rabbitohs vs Sea Eagles

Wests Tigers vs Raiders Cowboys vs Wests Tigers Bulldogs vs Sharks Warriors vs Broncos Knights vs Eels Storm vs Raiders

Dragons vs Dolphins

Panthers vs Cowboys

Roosters vs Wests Tigers

Eels vs Rabbitohs Sharks vs Titans Broncos vs Panthers

Bulldogs vs Warriors

Wests Tigers vs Storm

Cowboys vs Sea Eagles

Roosters vs Dragons Raiders vs Knights Dolphins vs Panthers Dolphins vs Rabbitohs

Sharks vs Wests Tigers

Titans vs Eels

Broncos vs Dragons

Sea Eagles vs Knights Knights vs Storm Raiders vs Warriors

Rabbitohs vs Wests Tigers

Knights vs Broncos

Storm vs Roosters

Panthers vs Dolphins

Sea Eagles vs Titans Cowboys vs Bulldogs

Warriors vs Wests Tigers

Eels vs Storm Broncos vs Bulldogs

Cowboys vs Sharks

Roosters vs Sea Eagles

Dragons vs Panthers Dolphins vs Titans

Queensland Country Bank Stadium, Townsville

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

AAMI Park, Melbourne

BlueBet Stadium, Penrith

Accor Stadium, Sydney

Cbus Super Stadium

PointsBet Stadium, Sydney

Byes: Bulldogs

GIO Stadium, Canberra

Accor Stadium, Sydney

Leichhardt Oval, Sydney

Go Media Stadium, Auckland

CommBank Stadium, Sydney

4 Pines Park, Sydney

McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle

Queensland Country Bank Stadium

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast

Industree Group Stadium, Gosford

Accor Stadium, Sydney

Campbelltown Sports Stadium, Sydney

Byes: Rabbitohs,

Accor Stadium, Sydney

Go Media Stadium, Auckland

McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle

AAMI Park, Melbourne

Netstrata Jubilee Stadium, Sydney

BlueBet Stadium, Penrith

Allianz Stadium, Sydney

CommBank Stadium, Sydney

Byes: Dolphins

C.ex Coffs International Stadium, Coffs Harbour

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

Accor Stadium, Sydney

Leichhardt Oval, Sydney

Queensland Country Bank Stadium, Townsville

Allianz Stadium, Sydney

GIO Stadium, Canberra

Kayo Stadium, Redcliffe

PointsBet Stadium, Sydney

Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

4 Pines Park, Sydney

Byes: Dragons, Eels,

GIO Stadium, Canberra

Industree Group Stadium, Gosford

McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle

AAMI Park, Melbourne

BlueBet Stadium, Penrith4 Pines 4

Queensland

Suncorp

Saturday, July 28

ROUND 22

Thursday, August 1

Friday, August 2

Saturday, August 3

Sunday, August 4

ROUND 23

Thursday, August 8

Friday, August 9

Saturday, August 10

Sunday, August 11

ROUND 24

Thursday, August 15

Friday, August 16

Saturday, August 17

Sunday, August 18

ROUND 25

Thursday, August 22

Friday, August 23

Saturday, August 24

Sunday, August 25

ROUND 26

Thursday, August 29

Friday, August 30

Saturday, August 31

Sunday, September 1

ROUND 27

Thursday, September 5

Friday, September 6

Saturday, September 7

Raiders vs Rabbitohs

Wests Tigers vs Cowboys

Warriors vs Eels

Dolphins vs Roosters

Titans vs Broncos

Storm vs Dragons

Sharks vs Rabbitohs

Panthers vs Knights

Bulldogs vs Raiders

Rabbitohs vs Storm

Titans vs Sharks

Eels vs Panthers

Raiders vs Sea Eagles

Cowboys vs Broncos

Dragons vs Bulldogs

Dolphins vs Warriors

GIO Stadium, Canberra

Leichhardt Oval, Sydney

Byes: Sea Eagles

Go Media Stadium, Auckland

HBF Park, Perth

Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast

AAMI Park, Melbourne

PointsBet Stadium, Sydney

BlueBet Stadium, Penrith

Belmore Sports Ground, Sydney

Byes: Roosters

Accor Stadium, Sydney

Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast

CommBank Stadium, Sydney

GIO Stadium, Canberra

Queensland Country Bank Stadium, Townsville

Netstrata Jubilee Stadium, Sydney

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

Knights vs Wests Tigers

Eels vs Roosters

Panthers vs Storm

Sea Eagles vs Warriors

Roosters vs Eels

Bulldogs vs Dolphins

Cowboys vs Raiders

Wests Tigers vs Rabbitohs

Dragons vs Titans

Sharks vs Knights

Wests Tigers vs Sea Eagles

Warriors vs Bulldogs

Broncos vs Eels

Raiders vs Panthers

Storm vs Dolphins

Rabbitohs vs Knights

Titans vs Roosters

Dragons vs Sharks

Cowboys vs Storm

Bulldogs vs Sea Eagles

Panthers vs Rabbitohs

Eels vs Dragons

Dolphins vs Broncos

Sharks vs Warriors

Knights vs Titans

Roosters vs Raiders

Broncos vs Storm

Wests Tigers vs Eels

Rabbitohs vs Roosters

Dragons vs Raiders

Byes: Knights

Bulldogs vs Cowboys

Panthers vs Titans

Sunday, September 8

Sea Eagles vs Sharks

Knights vs Dolphins

McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle

BlueBet Stadium, Penrith

4 Pines Park, Sydney

Allianz Stadium, Sydney

Salter Oval, Bundaberg

Byes: Broncos

Queensland Country Bank Stadium, Townsville

Campbelltown Sports Stadium, Sydney

WIN Stadium, Wollongong

PointsBet Stadium, Sydney

Leichhardt Oval, Sydney

Byes: Cowboys

Go Media Stadium, Auckland

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

GIO Stadium, Canberra

AAMI Park, Melbourne

Accor Stadium, Sydney

Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast

WIN Stadium, Wollongong

Byes: Wests Tigers

Queensland Country Bank Stadium, Townsville

Accor Stadium, Sydney

BlueBet Stadium, Penrith

CommBank Stadium, Sydney

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane PointsBet Stadium, Sydney

McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle

Allianz Stadium, Sydney

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

Byes: Warriors

Campbelltown Sports Stadium, Sydney

Accor Stadium, Sydney

Netstrata Jubilee Stadium, Sydney

Accor Stadium, Sydney

BlueBet Stadium, Penrith

4 Pines Park, Sydney

McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle

Tue 20th Aug 2024,

Tour #54

Wed 14th Aug 2024,

Wed 21st Aug 2024,

SUITES $4,655 Book now to secure your seats & accommodation!

Byes: Broncos, Cowboys, Dragons, Eels, Knights, Panthers, Sharks

Sea Eagles, Titans

Byes: Bulldogs, Cowboys, Raiders, Roosters, Storm, Warriors

Sharks

Ring Found

I found a ring in a carpark in town on Tuesday 20 Feb. If you’ve lost one it has been handed into the Blenheim Police.

Stop at Stop Signs

Urgent action needed by police before it’s too late.

Cars not stopping at stop signs at Jacksons and Old Renwick Road.

Self Checkouts

It seems to me that those who use self check-outs are reducing the chances of our youngsters getting that all-important first job.

Re: The old track

Head buried in some red tinted sand?

The books were not in good shape. Labour was spending money we didn’t have. That’s why projects have been canned. There’s no money.

Re bird scarring

To all vineyards, this maybe a shock to you, but driving a vehicle down a row is what makes birds fly away!

Driving down a row and blasting a horn doesn’t achieve any more except annoying your neighbors with the noise!!

Totally Reprehensible

Or more to the point, absolutely disgusting for some of our parliamentarians to claim bereavement leave due to the recent demise of a non-family colleague.

The Bereavement Leave employment concessions are sacrosanct and relate purely to immediate Family Members ONLY.

And it’s not as if these thoughtless public servants don’t have enough taxpayer funded perks already!

Be honourable and take annual leave like all genuine Kiwi Workers or simply move on to more suitable employment.

Re CBD boring

Totally agree, enliven Market Street. Make people feel happy to wander around, linger, enjoy scenery.

It is old, stagnant and boring. Council planners need to get more cheerful!

Disrespect

Would the guy in Keiss Street that plays loud music and swears at the top of his voice show some respect. You are freaking out the young family and disrespecting other people in the neighbourhood you can be heard in Main Street.

Unemployment

If unemployment rates are too low, inflation is pushed up. Our system requires a structural underclass to operate. The only thing status quo about this government’s approach is the stoking of hatred towards a group of people who are voiceless. It’s a dangerous and destructive path that we are being led down.

Re ‘No more sugar’

Perhaps you should educate your children of your views instead of blaming everyone else for giving them lollies. Teach them properly and they won’t accept them. It’s your responsibility as a parent. Your views are the exception not the rule. Don’t forget that negativity is poison for our bodies too.

The Old Ferry Terminal

We are told the new Ferry Terminal has nice places to sit. Nah! Its a long rectangular shed with no views (it was planned to be temporary). The old Ferry Terminal has lovely upstairs seating & nice views. Relaxing. Easy access to walk on to Ferry. Why can’t we go back there?

Changing shape of Blenheim CBD

Saying that it’s more becoming a place to socialise, more eateries there. Can I say, eateries are closing too early? 2 pm mostly. Afternoon tea in most places is 3 pm ! This is not good for business to close so early.

A friend from Christchurch here last week, was astounded at the ridiculous hours cafes keep !

Blenheim Street’s

Just spent a couple of days driving around in Nelson, what a pleasure, no swerving all over the roads avoiding sunken hydrant covers and didn’t need a wheel alignment on leaving!! Perhaps Health and Safety should be taking a look at Blenheim Roads?

Over $160,000

In my reckoning, the cost of the now canned grand school enterprise would have cost over $160,000 for each pupil accommodated. People talk of ‘future proofing’, although NZ birthrate is now well below replacement level and many countries are looking at their population being halved by the turn of the century.

Snail Mail Blenheim

Received a letter on 13 February from the Wairau Hospital - the letter was dated 2 February, and due to its late arrival, the information it contained was now historic.

Shame on you NZ Post for your tardy and overpriced “service” - no wonder your company is going down the gurgler!

RIP Lovely Lady

I was sad to read the passing of the lovely Nina Stanley. She had a wonderful talent and flair with floristry and always a smile at the ready.

Spuds

Bought a 10 kg of nadine potatoes 2 wks ago. They were soft had sprouts coming out of them so I empted the whole bag. To find 3 quarters of the bag were rotten or mouldy spuds. Not good enough for what we have to pay. Has anybody else had this problem?

Reel Them In

Texting an opinion is like fishing, the opinion being the bait. You occasionally receive a little tickle depending on the subject. But when that opinion is dabbled amongst a shoal, that’s when you receive a bite. I’m guessing the shoal will be debating this opinion down at their local aquarium later.

Re river weeds

Look at the weeds from High St bridge to the Monroe St entrance there you will see a tree in the river with weeds blocking it completely. Why can’t this be cleaned up because at the moment it’s looks a disgusting mess. Come on Council pull your head out of the sand and do something.

Multiple pamphlets

Who ever delivers pamphlets in Mowat st please stop putting multiple pamphlets in letter box. Had 6 dominos, 5 Repcos plus three countdowns this morning. I realize it’s a tedious job but if you can’t do it give it up.

Talk of the week

Annoying

I agree with frustration by disabled people waiting for toilets that are occupied by physically fit people. Also disabled car parks being taken without disability card in view. In Picton I was told by shop staff to talk to library staff who sent me to police staff who said go to library.

Very annoying

Wonderful

Yes the fresh roses in the Havelock male and female toilets are wonderful to see. Such a friendly little town with lots of interesting shops/ cafes restaurants music playing in the main street. Great atmosphere, take the kids for a bush walk and then fresh fruit ice cream yum.

Thank you MDC

The Cancer Society House in Maxwell road would like to express a grateful thank you to the MDC who donated plants (World Cancer Day Feb 4th) for the garden which is tended by volunteers. Much appreciated.

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.

Sort It

Marlborough Softball Association is just a big joke this year! Who is the little man walking around with New Zealand on his back and always arguing with players, coaches, umpires? Does he think it’s the big leagues? Definitely the best way to kill a sport and stop people showing up. My kids won’t be back to witness your display of poor sportsmanship! How embarrassing!

5 minutes with...

Craig rohloff

Treasurer – Life Education Trust

 Are you a dog or cat person?

Definitely a cat person.

 My friends would say I am…

Not too serious and can be quite sarcastic, but always ready to put my hand up and help where needed.

 The best advice I ever received was?

Never expect to get what you give.

 What would you buy if money was no object?

An island for sure.

 Local coffee haunt?

Not too big on coffee, however, I do enjoy a CPR coffee on the odd occasion.

 Favourite takeaway?

Does Z count as takeaways? Something about a greasy cordon bleu and spicy bratwurst for the road.

 The shop you can’t walk past is...? Bunnings, everything I need and who can’t resist a Bunnings saussie in the weekend?

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

When my little sister was in primary school, her class was given the task to sew something and she chose to make me a fluffy cushion in my favourite colour for my birthday, while all her classmates made something for themselves.

 Where is your happy holiday place?

On the road, I love getting in my car and heading off on a roadie to explore our beautiful country.

 Favourite programme or series currently watching?

After the 57th time watching all six seasons, I would have to say Schitt’s Creek is at the number one spot.

 What’s one thing on your bucket list?

To skydive, and this will be ticked off this year since I received a skydive voucher this past Christmas.

Every week I talk to many gardeners by phone with their questions to answer and information or feedback that they give me.

It is a nice two way street as information regarding Wallys products can be handed on to other gardeners to also try for those particular applications or problems.

I had a few calls over the last couple of weeks from gardeners that have used the new Wallys Copper Nutrient product - we wrote about this product in the early spring as a new way to deal to curly leaf in stone fruit trees.

Here is an extract from my original article: 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 photosynthesis 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. End.

I used the copper Nutrient spray on my small peach tree that is having its third season in the ground.

The previous year over 90% of the foliage contracted the curly leaf disease to later fall off and be replaced with clean foliage.

This year from an initial spray at the 10ml rate prior to bud boost and then a weekly spray at the 5ml maintenance rate while the tree came into full foliage, about 95% of the leaves were clean with only a couple of areas where there were a bunch of curly leaves.

The tree is in the free range area of my chickens and had only set one fruit which I watched with interest each day when tending to the chickens waiting for it to reach maturity.

It was starting to ripen and the following day not a sign of it. Obviously the chickens got it as there was a slight peachy flavour in some of the eggs for a couple of days.

But great results in regards of curly leaf control.

Likewise similar reports from a few gardeners say the instance of leaf curly was greatly reduced.

Talking to the supplier they said that likely the next season using Wallys Copper Nutrient will have even better results as the health of the trees will build up.. I also had some gardeners whose stone fruit have suffered in the past from brown rot tell me that most of their crop this season was NOT damaged and inedible. This was something that I was hoping to hear as brown rot is a terrible disease and one that I have found in the past difficult to control.

The only control that has been found to be successful is a combination spray of

By Wally Richards

copper, sulphur, potassium permanganate and Raingard.

This would be applied to the fruit when halfway towards maturity every two weeks till harvest.

Spraying the fruit gave them protective coating over the growing fruit preventing the disease from establishing.

The Raingard keeping the protection on and preventing it washing off in rain.

It works but a lot of target spraying seeing only the fruit is sprayed not the tree.

One gardener this week said he used the Copper Nutrient on his plum tree and this season he and the birds have enjoyed a lot of plums to eat with only a few showing signs of brown rot.

Another couple of gardeners that used this new copper told me that the fruit are much bigger than normal with one saying his fruit was just about the size of a baseball!

Go back to what I wrote above ‘Copper helps to activate enzymes involved in several physiological processes in plants, including photosynthesis and respiration’.

Bingo... plant getting more energy from sun, better health, bigger and better returns.

So the next step at the maintenance rate of 5mls per litre of water is to spray you tomatoes, capsicum, vegetables and preferred plants such as roses.

Do this once a month during the growing season and you can add Magic Botanic Liquid to the spray as well.

It may help reduce the instances of leaf diseases such as black spot and rust and blights in tomato and potatoes. If later on it helps prevent garlic rust on our garlic that would be another winner.

Besides eating your food crops that contain a little copper will be good for your health also.

Some people with arthritis problems wear a wrist band of copper to help relieve their condition.

My advice to anyone with aches and pains such as arthritis is to take the organic sulphur supplement called MSM twice a day.

Birds and fruit are the bane of gardeners and there are no easy ways to stop the damage.

Bird netting can help but it really needs to be on a frame over and around the tree/

vine in fruit otherwise if just over the foliage birds sit on it and peck the fruit.

Worst thing that happens is birds get caught up in the netting and you have to rescue them.

One answer I found that does work is the Crop Cover that we sell.

You make a cocoon of the cover over a branch that has fruit on it about the time it starts to ripen and the birds start attacking. Cut a strip wide enough to wrap around the branch and at the trunk end tie it on with cord.

Along the seam which should be under the branch join the two edges of the crop cover together with suitable clothes pegs.

You could staple it but the clothes pegs are better and you can reuse the crop cover year after year for this purpose.

As you are harvesting your vegetables you should be replenishing the nutrients and planting cabbages, cauliflower and broccoli for harvesting in winter.

To do the preparation simply spread animal manure or sheep manure pellets over the area, give it a good dusting of blood & bone, Wallys Calcium & Health, Unlocking Your Soil, BioPhos and Wallys Ocean Solids.

Then over this, place a good quality purchased compost - I recommend Value Compost From Bunnings as it is free of herbicides and is not just bits of bark and sticks like most of the others.

You can plant your seeds of carrots, parsnips and spring onions directly into the compost, spraying them with Magic Botanic Liquid before covering.

Also plant your brassica seedlings or seeds directly intro the compost then stand back and watch your garden come to life.

All you have to do is give it a light watering every day, best done in morning or during the day.

You can use the crop cover to keep the white butterfly off the plants, initially just laying over the area but later raised up using rigid alkathene pipe hoops.

Sprinkling Wallys Neem Tree Granules over the soil can also help deter some insect pests.

If Caterpillars start eating your plants spray them with Wallys Super Neem Tree Oil just before dusk.

Add Raingard to the spray so it does not wash off when you water or when it rains.

Turning up and raising funds for Tyler

A fundraising auction and dance night was held for blenheim dancer tyler barnett at Marlborough Girls’ College on Saturday night. tyler, 16, has Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a group of inherited disorders that mostly affect the skin, joints and blood vessels. tyler and her Mum Lorissa are heading to Germany in early March for

Photos:

surgery. Four top of the South dance schools collaborated with Dance on Grove, Marlborough Academy of Dance, Nelson’s Impact Dance Experience and Marlborough tap Studio.

Mackenzie Goodall.

Marlborough Academy of Dance.

Legacy Dance School from Richmond, Nelson provided enthusiasm.

Marlborough Tap Dance Studio performing Bettlejuice.

Dance collaboration: Carol Knox with Okiwi Hawkins and Elly Molloy.

Tyler Barnett receiving sparkly shoes that were purchased via auction for her, from Marlborough Tap Dance Studio Students Evalyn and Grace. Behind is Tyler’s friend Bayley.

CRUISING MARLBOROUGH: Kat Jankowiec, Kae-Lynn Sorensen, Katy Prescott, Linda Buttjes and Andrew Buttjes enjoying a Seafood Odyssea Cruise in the Sounds with the Marlborough Tour Company.

Te Tauihu Performing Arts Dance on Grove students.

Billy Rayner (Marty Wellings) and Sun Journalist Chris Valli (Tryfen) in Central Otago Man. The play is on at the ASB until Saturday night.

Caution during Harvest

The annual grape harvest is about to begin so there will be an increase in the number of trucks and slow-moving harvesters on our roads again.

With the extra traffic it’s more important than ever to be that patient driver. The one who can sit behind slow moving vehicles without the need to use speed and dangerous over-taking manoeuvres to get ahead. When you set out on your travels, expect to get caught up in a procession of trucks, tractors and harvesters at some point and allow a few minutes extra for that.

The worst thing that can happen if you take a relaxed approach when caught up in a viticultural procession is that your trip might take a few minutes longer. A rash decision could cost a lot more.

These slower vehicles doing a very important job for the Marlborough economy will let motorists pass when they can, although they can’t stop as quickly as the family car.

And we want to avoid grape-laden trucks having to stop quickly as their load will most likely spill if they do. This will make travelling on the road more difficult as the spill will need to be cleared up! At great expense!

Especially be mindful at urban intersections and roundabouts where a lot of the spills have occurred in the past. Help keep our harvesting vehicles and roads safe so everyone can get where they need to go this harvest.

We are looking for experienced Gondola Drivers for a fixed term period of 4 weeks for Harvest 2024.

You will:

• Have experience in Vineyard Tractor Operations.

• Want to work in a small friendly close knit team.

• Have a “can do” attitude.

• Have a full driver’s licence.

• Be physically fit and healthy and prepared to work shift work of 12 hours daily.

• Great pay rates

• this has potential to lead to a full-time position for the right person.

If this sounds like the opportunity you’ve been waiting for, we look forward to hearing from you!

Please contact Jeremy Walsh on 021 556 722 or email - jeremy@jwvm.co.nz

Spreader Driver/ Vineyard Operator

Rose Ag manages its own vineyards and provides harvesting, spreading and vineyard development services to clients. We have been established 50+ years and are based conveniently near Springlands with further vineyards in Hawkesbury.

We require a reliable, enthusiastic person to join our small but friendly team. This is a full-time position with extended hours during busy periods.

The position is focused on spreading, truck driving, vineyard tractor work such as spraying and trimming, basic machinery maintenance and hands on vineyard work such as post replacements. Every day is different, that’s how we like it.

Ideally the applicant will have experience driving machinery and have a good health & safety ethic.

Finding the right person to fit our team is important & training will be given. Therefore we are also interested in people that don’t yet have experience in the above areas but have had farm machinery/tractor experience & are keen to learn new skills and after a fresh challenge. We will also support license upgrades. You will need a current fill driver’s license and be eligible to work in New Zealand. As part of our recruitment process pre-employment checks may include drug & alcohol testing.

Temporary accommodation is available if required.

If you would like further information, or to have a confidential discussion please contact Tracy on (03) 578 6580 or 027 4441404.

If this role sounds like you, please forward your cv and covering letter to: tracy@roseag.co.nz

fact of the

The world consumes close to 2.25 billion cups of coffee every day.

RELIEVER POSITIONS

We are growing our pool of relievers at our 3 preschools.

If you are needing hours in an Early Childhood Centre for your study or you are a bright energetic person with a passion for young children, ideally have experience in an Early Childhood setting we would love to hear from you. We are also keen to hear from you if you are a qualified ECE teacher and looking for casual work. Relieving is on a casual on-call basis with variable hours, which include school hours.

Please email CV to jo.dewe@blenheimearlychildhood.co.nz

EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING

SUNDAY 03 MARCH 2024

10.30AM - PICTON RSA & CLUB, 66 WELLINGTON STREET PICTON FINANCIAL MEMBERS ONLY ARE URGED TO ATTEND A FOLLOW-ON FROM THE SATURDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2024 MEETING THE OBJECT OF THIS 03 MARCH 2024 MEETING IS FOR: THE PICTON RETURNED AND SERVICES ASSOCIATION INC EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE TO PRESENT THE OPTIONS FOR A NEW VENUE AFTER THE AGREED CLOSURE OF THE RSA ON 31 MARCH 2024

BACKGROUND INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE FROM THE PICTON RSA OFFICE

Old

2024 Trustee Elections

Voting is now underway for three trustee positions on the board of Marlborough Electric Power Trust.

Retiring Trustees Nicki Stretch and Cathie Bell have been nominated for a further term.

Nominations have also been received from Simon Bishell, Brendon Burns, David William Richard Dew, Belinda Jackson, Brian Nicholas and Philip Taylor.

Voting papers will either be emailed or posted to all eligible consumers named on the consumer roll and identified as connected to Marlborough Lines Ltd network as at 5.00pm on the 22nd January 2024.

Consumers may vote by:

• Voting online (using the unique voter credentials shown in their email or on the voting paper); or

• Posting their completed voting paper to the returning officer using the pre-paid envelope; or

• Hand delivering their completed voting paper to a ballot box at Blenheim Accounting, 66 Seymour St, Blenheim.

To be counted all completed voting papers must be in the hands of the returning officer by 12 noon, Monday 25th March 2024.

If you require to confirm that you are on the consumer roll or require a special vote paper contact the Election Helpline 0800 666 033 or assistance is available at the offices of Blenheim Accounting, 66 Seymour St, Blenheim during their normal office hours of Monday to Thursday 9am to 5pm.

To confirm eligibility for a replacement voting document you will be asked to provide your name, address and your ICP number/(s).

Ensure your vote counts by mailing or emailing your vote paper early or delivering to Blenheim Accounting, 66 Seymour St, Blenheim before 12 noon on the Monday 25th March 2024.

BJ Munro

Returning Officer

URGENT services

Urgent Care Centre: Wairau Hospital Grounds. Entry off Hospital Rd, Blenheim, 8am-8pm daily. Phone (03) 520 6377.

Ambulance: Urgent 111. Non urgent 578 0797.

After Hours Chemists: Springlands Pharmacy: Monday - Friday 8.30am6pm. Saturday 9m - 5pm. Sunday 10am4pm. Public Holidays 10am - 4pm. Closed Christmas Day. ph 578 2271

Community Care Pharmacy: Within the Blenheim Warehouse, open 7 days 9am8pm. Only closed Christmas Day.

Lifeline Marlborough: 0800 543354, 24hr helpline.

Women’s Refuge and Sexual Violence Support Centre Marlborough: Crisis line number phone 0800 refuge or 03 5779939.

Victim Support: 0800 VICTIM (0800 842 846)

Alcoholics Anonymous: 0800 AA WORKS - 0800 229 6757.

Citizens Advice Bureau: Free, friendly, confidential advice. Mon - Fri 9.30am4pm. Phone 578 4272.

Wairau Hospital: Hospital Visiting Hours: Daily 2.30pm - 8pm, children under 12 may visit parents only.

Maternity Ward: 10am-noon, 4pm-7pm. Children's Ward: Daily 10am-8pm. Visiting at all times is subject to the discretion of the nurse in charge of the ward.

Picton:

Ambulance: Urgent 111. Non-urgent 579 4870.

Chemist: Picton Healthcare Pharmacy. Ph 573 6420 Mon -Fri 8.30-5.30pm, Sat 9-2pm. Medical Centre Pharmacy, Ph 928 4265, Mon-Fri 8am-5.30pm

In Memoriam

In Memoriam

NORTON, Noelene Dorothea. 06/12/1936 - 29/02/1992. No matter where I go or what I am doing, I always think, “you should still be here!” Forever in our hearts Mum, from Leigh and Gregor.

Sun The ORSMAN, Coral Vivien (nee Register)

Death Notices for February 2024

1 February 2024

Picke R i N g, Neville Charles (Pick)

3 February 2024

M i Tc H e LL, Ian Balfour

4 February 2024

c LAR ke, Lorna Valerie (nee West)

6 February 2024

HADF ie LD, Robert John

6 February 2024

c H ee SMAN: George Michael

13 February 2024

ke L e P i: Kanitiola (Kani) info to come

M cc ULLO c H: Susan Deborah (Nan)

14 February 2024

SNOWD e N: Marie

17 February 2024

SOR e NS e N: Erna Kristiane info to come

THOMAS: Michael Joseph info to come

W e LLS, Elspeth Mary info to come

F i NDLAY, Natalie Margaret

18 February 2024

gi BBONS: John Cedric

18 February 2024

WASS, Ronald Leonard William (Ron)

19th February 2024

Death notices

P ICKERIN g; Neville Charles (Pick) On February 3, 2024 suddenly but peacefully at Marlborough Hospice after a short illness, aged 74 years. Very much loved and respected uncle, brother, stepdad, poppy and a great mate to all his friends. Adored husband of Pauline and beloved dad to his Scottie dog. Forever in our hearts. A private cremation has been held at Neville’s request. A celebration of Neville’s life will be held in the Havelock Town Hall on March 9, 2024 at 1.30pm. Messages to PO Box 113, Havelock 7150.

AITKEN: Elizabeth Macdonald (Lizzie)

ALLEN: Rosemary Anne Forbes

BEDFORD: Joan Alice Hannah

CAMPBELL: Peter Michael

MCLAUCHLAN: Anne

STEWART: Eileen Patricia

STRAKER: Ronald Noel (Ron) Please visit our website www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz for further information if available.

Acknowledgements

SIMPSON: Brian Malone. Murray, Viv, Vaughan, Richard and their families would like to thank all those who showed their love and support at the passing of our dear Dad. Thank you for the cards, flowers, baking, phone calls and attendance at his service. Your kindness and support has been a comfort to us all. Please accept this as a personal thank you.

Birthday

The deadline is Monday 5.00pm. Please contact the Sun for further details. 72 High Street, Blenheim, email office@blenheimsun.co.nz or phone 577 7868.

CROSSWORD

ACROSS

5. Steep. (11)

11. Cattle breed. (5)

12. Erect. (7)

13. Bailiff. (5)

By Chris Valli

While the Marlborough school year is into full swing for 2024, an Official Information Act document released to NZEI, shows the National and ACT experiment with charter schools cost up to $48,421 per student annually, more than six times the average funding spent on students in state schools,

The experiment which rand from 2014 – 2018, when adjusted for inflation, is more than $60,000 per student in today’s money. In comparison today, public schools are funded at around $9,000 per student.

The total cost to taxpayers of the failed charter school experiment was more than $125 million.

A charter school is one which receives government funding but operates independently of the established state school system in which it is located.

DOWN

DOWN

1. Water nymph. (7)

14. Table-napkin. (9)

15. Easy to mistake. (9)

16. Walk through water. (4)

17. Vienna is its capital. (7)

19. Court usher. (6)

23. Cask maker (6)

26. Poacher’s dog. (7)

29. Accused’s reply to charge. (4)

30. Small lump. (3)

32. Crowd. (3)

34. Formerly. (4)

35. Indicate. (7)

36. Judges’ chamber. (6)

39. Italian sausage. (6)

40. Soothsayer. (7)

42. Eye inflamation. (4)

46. Russian spaceman. (9)

46. Russian spaceman. (9)

48. Cruel. (9)

48. Cruel. (9)

50. Prevent. (5)

50. Prevent. (5)

51. Furnish with money. (7)

51. Furnish with money. (7)

52. Craze. (5)

52. Craze. (5)

53. Grow worse. (11)

53. Grow worse. (11)

54. Clear. (7)

54. Clear. (7)

1. “Golden” king. (5)

1. “Golden” king. (5)

2. Venerated. (7)

2. Venerated. (7)

3. Female relative. (6)

3. Female relative. (6)

4. Suspicious. (8)

4. Suspicious. (8)

5. Flawless. (7)

5. Flawless. (7)

Birthday Celebration 28-2-1934 to 28-2-2024

Errol Stacey turns 90 years Best wishes from family and friends

OIA shows true costs of Charter Schools

New Zealand Educational Insititute

Te Riu Roa President Mark Potter says trying to revive the failed initiative of charter schools makes no sense.

“It is absurd that the Government is even thinking about reintroducing this failed and highly expensive policy at the same time as they are backtracking on vital school building projects that put a roof over the heads of our akonga.

“Charter schools are a proven waste of taxpayer money. Schools need funding directed to areas where systemic change is sorely needed, such as learning support and smaller class sizes, rather than wasting public money experimenting with charter schools. That money would be much better spent on initiatives that benefit all students, such as a teacher aide in every classroom, or timely learning support interventions.”

There are no charter schools in the Top of the South or in the South Island.

By Russell McQuarters

By Russell McQuarters

(N.Z.) (6)

(N.Z.) (6)

45. Large prawns. (6)

45. Large prawns. (6)

46. Variety of beet. (5)

46. Variety of beet. (5)

47. Shin-bone. (5)

47. Shin-bone. (5)

49. Scarcely sufficient. (5)

49. Scarcely sufficient. (5)

6. Urged , on. (5)

6. Urged , on. (5)

7. Unbroken. (6)

7. Unbroken. (6)

8. Burst in. (8)

8. Burst in. (8)

9. Be immoderate. (11)

9. Be immoderate. (11)

10. Onslaught (5)

10. Onslaught (5)

16. Small wire arches (croquet) (7)

16. Small wire arches (croquet) (7)

SOLUTION

18. Bring upon oneself. (5)

18. Bring upon oneself. (5)

For December 8, 2004

20. Derive(from). (7)

20. Derive(from). (7)

21. To understand. (3)

21. To understand. (3)

22. Garment border. (3)

22. Garment border. (3)

24. Out-moded. (11)

24. Out-moded. (11)

25. Heavy wrap. (3)

25. Heavy wrap. (3)

27. Complete. (5)

27. Complete. (5)

28. Fabled bird. (3)

28. Fabled bird. (3)

31. Turkish governor. (3)

31. Turkish governor. (3)

33. Ship’s hospital, sick (3)

33. Ship’s hospital, sick (3)

37. Charlatan. (8)

37. Charlatan. (8)

38. Grant respite to. (8)

38. Grant respite to. (8)

41. Extensive Grass-land. (7)

41. Extensive Grass-land. (7)

43. Beat severly. (7)

43. Beat severly. (7)

44. Venemous spider

44. Venemous spider

Upbeat Development Orchestra –‘a big family’

By Chris Valli

Upbeat Orchestra is the development orchestra for the Marlborough Civic Orchestra.

As the players advance more on their instruments they will move through into the MCO and this year several teenagers have moved through to MCO. Some of the MCO players, who are more advanced, love to come along and help out with the Upbeat Orchestra to provide support and musical experience, to get alongside the younger players and encourage them as well as enjoying playing the different genres of music.

Upbeat Orchestra play a variety of music, with well-known classical pieces, movie music, musical theatre arrangements and pop songs. It's the variety of genre that makes it exciting for everyone.

Blenheim’s Biddy Butters (how’s that for a vocal warm up of alliteration?) assists the conductor and organisers Upbeat Development Orchestra (UDO) Linda Lloyd.

When she attended Marlborough Girls’ College Biddy was part of what was called the Marlborough Youth Orchestra at the time.

“I have been teaching flute, clarinet and saxophone now for nearly five years and feel I am now at a stage where I would like to get involved with more music in the community. It is a privilege to be in a position to support UDO as some of my students are members,” she says.

2023 saw Upbeat Orchestra perform a few local schools concerts for children at the ASB Theatre while they also put on a Christmas concert in December.

“We are just getting into a new year of learning new repertoire,” says Biddy.

“We are playing with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra for a training evening in June with James Judd conducting and we are planning a small concert in September, and a trip to Kaikoura to perform in November.” she says.

Biddy says Upbeat Orchestra has about 35 members with the youngest members as

young as seven and the oldest in their 70's.

“It's great to have the younger ones coming through, developing and learning their instruments alongside the adults who may have already taken that journey when they were young and are just getting back into their instruments again. The relationship between them is lovely as the older adults love being around the children, and the children get the benefit of the years of experience the adults have. It's a lovely big family.”

“We are really keen to help people of all ages start a new instrument and particularly keen to get people onto instruments that are not so well known like French Horn, Oboe, Bassoon and Double Bass,” says Biddy.

Biddy says they welcome all new players, of any ability to come along and give it a try.

There will be a 'give it a try' evening on Friday, March 1, 5pm at St Ninians Church, but actually you can come along any Friday evening or contact Linda at upbeatorchestra@gmail.com.

“If you play an orchestral instrument do come along and give it a try.”

Havelock community to the fore

The Havelock community raised $2428 for Alice and Amelia Kingi at the weekend. Over 80 people attended the Lions Bingo evening raising funds for the sisters who are taking part in the Kiwi All-Stars perfor-

mance troupe, representing New Zealand at the Junior Theatre Festival in the USA in January/February 2025.

Both Alice and Amelia danced during the evening and together with dad Spencer,

sang Close Every Door from Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Bingo, supper and raffles raised $2428 towards the travel of the two talented Havelock youths.

Remy runs two gold

By Chris Valli

Blenheim’s Remy Le Brun won two gold and one silver at the New Zealand Masters Games National Championships held in Christchurch recently.

The gold medals were in the 100 and 60 metres while the silver was in the 200 metres. All three events provided Remy with personal best times, in what was his second Masters event.

The 35-year-old competed in athletics at St Andrew’s College in Christchurch and after a good break away from the sport, began competing at Masters Athletics in 2021.

Remy has recently signed on with Nelson based and influential athletics coach Tony Aikenhead, who has been coaching young athletes for 43 years.

Remy has recently qualified for the open nationals in Wellington in three weeks and is a member of the Marlborough Senior Athletics Club.

His day job is as a sports performance coach and personal trainer (self-employed). The business he owns is called R.L.B Performance PT Based in Blenheim.

Golf Results

Wairau Valley Golf Club

Results for Saturday 24th February: All IronsSkerrett Trophies: Ladies: Mel Hampton 71, Sharon Giles 73, Alison Graham 75, Yvonne Wallace 76.

Men: Richard Bruce 69 (c/b), Steve Shallcrass 69, Bevan Boon 69, Bill Lacey 71, Mike Collins 72

Blenheim Golf Club

Feb 19th 9 hole Stableford Margaret Hamilton

24 Jan Pegler 20 Jane Abbott 20 Jenny Evans 20

Joanna Ainge 19 Dawn Walker 19 Elaine Brown

19 Bernice Arnold 19 Vickie Lane 18 Colleen

McLeod 18 Marion Flynn 18 Shirley White 17 Men

Leo Hawkins 23 Leo McKendry 22 Ian Hatcher

20 David Horrell 20 Bob Tapp 19 David Waters 18

Brian Burgess 17 Don Lamond 17 Brian Brown 17

Dan Crawford 16 Hans Fischer 16

Feb 21st Ladies Opening 18 holes Stableford

0- 19 Mel Hampton 39 Jo Prescott 35 20 -29 Sharon

Giles 41 Vickie Lane 40 Maria McConway 38 30+

Bernice Arnold 38 Maureen McKenzie 37 Colleen

McLeod 36 9 holes Stableford Jane Abbott 23

Barbara Looker 21 Jill Hurcomb 19 Summer

Stableford Competition Jenny Evans

Feb 22 Medal Brian Yarrall 65 Phil Starkey 67

Morgan Bowe 67 Doug Shaw 67 Don Lamond 67

Ian Aldridge 68 Levi Mano 68 Mike McDonald 69

Stuart Parker 69 9 holes Stableford Mike McConnell

20 David Waters 20 Ross Agnew 19

Feb 23rd Twilight 9 holes Stableford Margaret

Hamilton 23 Ann Walker 20 Kobe Hart 20 Ray

Herd 19 Roedolf Erasmus 18 Dawn Walker 18 Ezra

Kahaki 18 Hans Fischer 18

Feb 24th Opening Day Canadian Foursomes Net

Mike McDonald + Ryan Windleburn 63 Clive & Barry Drumond 64 Ben Webster + Warren Ingram

66 Tere Poa + Blue Arthur 68 Norbert Thaler + Ida

Beets-Huchshorn 70 ill + Glen Hurcomb 70 Jim

Findlay + Terry Duff 71 Luke Yarrall + Bob Tapp

71 Albertus + Hendrik van Dyk 71 Fairweathers

NTP 9/18 Trent Davies Mens Summer Competition winners Mixed Fourball Mike Guillemot + Jane Ingram R/up Dave Menzies + Sue Duckworth

Men’s fourball Mike Guillemot + Warren Ingram

R/up Mike McDonald +Ryan Windleburn Singles knockout Brian Yarrall r/up Don Lamond Max

Stephens Memorial Stu McLagan Dave Hutchby Memorial Dave Dyer

Upbeat Orchestra has about 35 members with the youngest members as young as seven and the oldest in their 70's. “It's great to have the younger ones coming through, developing and learning their instruments alongside the adults who may have already taken that journey when they were young,” says Biddy Butters.