There was a bit of excitement at Springlands Lifestyle Village on Monday afternoon with the Ranfurly Shield visiting for young and old alike. In 1973, Marlborough won the Ranfurly Shield with a 13-6 victory over Canterbury at Lancaster Park in one of the bigger upsets of an era when the shield was the greatest prize in New Zealand rugby. To be fair, it still is the greatest prize, given the reception and enthusiasm from the residents to see it after 51 years. Continued on page 2.
Tasman Mako Brand Ambassador Graeme Taylor and Anne Saul with the log of wood at the Springlands Lifestyle Village on Monday afternoon.
Marlborough Sounds - Picton - Koromiko
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‘We
had the most social time’
Continued from page 1.
Resident Anne Saul, 89, wife of the late 1973 Marlborough winning coach Doug Saul was dressed for the occasion and basked in the reflective glory of a time when the shield captivated the region. Her emotion was palpable when asked what the colloquially famous Log of Wood, meant for her.
“I’m so sad he’s dead, he would have absolutely loved it,” she replied when asked what her late husband would have thought of the shield being in Marlborough (and Nelson).
“It set the town alight when it came back to Blenheim, everybody wanted to look at it. We never thought a town as small as us would get it – it was Brian Ford that won it for us.”
“We had the most social time and we were asked out to meals,” she recalls. “We were at the rugby all the time. Look at these oldies here today, this is wonderful isn’t it? We’re all over 74 aren’t we?”
Marlborough’s Shield era begun under coaches Doug Saul and Ralph Caulton and they defended it stoutly through the 1973 season as
they repelled five challenges. They eventually coughed it up, somewhat surprisingly, to South Canterbury 18-6 in their second defence in 1974.
Anne says Doug died in 2022 at the age of 92, after the couple made the move into the lifestyle village eight months previously. They were married for 67 years with the couple having four sons, Greg, (Christchurch), Mark (Blenheim), Adrian (Australia) and Peter (England).
Following a dropped goal from first-five Tony Goddard, Marlborough hit the front with seven minutes left. When Brian Ford then scarpered down the left touchline for a great solo try, the Shield was secured. An estimated 3000 travelling fans were among the 15,000 at Lancaster Park and they swarmed onto the field on the final whistle.
In those amateur days, Marlborough’s players had to take time off work for the game and walked to the ground from their hotel on game day.
Former All Blacks coach, the late Sir Fred Allen played his part
after he took the Marlborough team for a training session the Sunday before the Shield game following a 39-3 win over Buller on July 21. He gave the Marlborough players a pre-recorded speech to listen to before they ran onto Lancaster Park.
Lock Ramon Sutherland, whose brother Alan was also in the Shield team, holds the all-time appearance record for Marlborough with 177 caps, including 135 on the trot.
Anne says she wouldn’t be going to Nelson ‘for that match’ today – referring to the Mako’s game tonight to defend (that should be attack) the shield against Auckland.
“We could get it taken from us,” she infers. “I rang my son and he says he was going over. He didn’t offer me a ride but I wouldn’t be going anyway.”
The Tasman Mako began their ‘Storm Week’ (unions playing three games in the space of eight days) with a 47-31 loss against Otago on Saturday. They have a shield challenge and defence against Auckland in Nelson tonight. If they win, they will play Taranaki on Sunday.
Healing power of creativity
Locally, the Annual Art of Wellbeing Exhibition in conjunction with CARE Marlborough celebrates ‘the healing power of creativity’.
The CARE Marlborough art group created a number of art works throughout the Wednesday afternoon art program, sometimes focusing on
individual sometimes on collaborative approaches. All had their challenges and asked different skills of the artists. Coordinator Verena Frei says the group is very supportive and allows everyone to join in. Often, she says, they have ‘good laughs and lively discussions’ and people left looking
Sunday 20th October, 11am - 4pm BDO Renwick Sports and Events Centre, 10 Uxbridge St, Renwick
forward to seeing each other again. Verena says she has noticed the holistic benefits of their art and how they have individually and collectively achieved a sense of accomplishment and fulfilment. Verena says all the artists have stepped outside their comfort zone which has enhanced their moods.
Care Marlborough invites local artists to submit artworks Thursday and Friday, October 12 and 13 between 10am – 12pm to 26 Percy St Blenheim. The ART OF WELLBEING exhibition will run from October 18 – 29 at the Marlborough Art Society Gallery, 204 High Street
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Anne and her late husband, coach Doug Saul of the 1973 Marlborough Ranfurly Shield team.
Online Safety for Marlborough’s children
By Chris Valli
As the Term 3 holidays begin this week, Rob Cope wants to be present and there for his kids, even when he gets it wrong.
144 parents turned up for a cyber safety meeting, hosted by Bohally Intermediate last Thursday night. The talk from Rob was confronting, compelling and outlined the dangers of online activity for our children.
“The feedback is always the same right across the country. I get comments like that was hard to hear but I needed to hear it and now I feel empowered to do something,” he says. “A couple of weeks ago I got an email from a Dad saying within one week he discovered his daughter was groomed on Discord (instant messaging platform), when I saw the messages coming through I thought that is a predator.”
‘Our Kids Online’ was created in 2018 by Wellington couple Rob and Zareen Cope after all four children in their blended family started asking for handheld devices. Having both authored books in the mental health space, the pair was concerned about reports of increases in anxiety and depression in tweens and teens, so undertook further research.
Rob’s talk covered cyberbullying, social media (how social media is affecting the mental health in 3 out of 5 children.
FOMO, depression, anxiety) and gaming (an oversupply of dopamine leading to dopamine deficiency, synaptic pruning, and the underdevelopment of social skills and empathy).
Other topics included naked selfies (the pressure to send nudes from intermediate up through high school), online predators (the methods they use and how to spot them) and online porn vs healthy sexuality which looked at how consuming online pornography as a child or teen can create a sexual template where violence, aggression, and dominance are seen as normal and consent can become very blurry.
Rob says when his kids are in the lounge at home he puts his phone down and is present. “I keep my phone away from me as much as possible. I compartmentalise my life so I don’t work around my kids, it’s a matter of prioritising and being the parent,” he says. “Kids were reading a lot more and my step-daughter started writing as she had extra time while my son and I would lie in front of the fire and listen to Lord of the Rings on a podcast, it was awesome – it’s exactly the culture I want for my family.”
He admits the drive behind his online advocacy was about what screen time was doing to himself, to those around him and not wanting that for his own kids.
“Once I started researching
this, this was like, this is a billion times worse than I ever thought. We started looking at online predators and porn and that was just the tip of the iceberg,” he says. “We’re robbing our children of their childhood. When you’re online you’re getting hit with dopamine, adrenaline and stress hormones whereas when you spend time with each other you are getting serotonin and the bonding chemicals – that’s what life is all about.”
“Are the devices filtered? Everything you can imagine is sitting there waiting to be discovered. When we need down time, I recommend putting a movie on together so that all the kids can be watching or interacting and
not numbed out, isolated on a single screen, two inches from their face.”
Solutions, Rob says, can range from filters on children’s smart phones so that they are safe and having difficult conversations with children so there is age appropriate dialogue around what is safe.
Principal Nicky Cameron-Dunn says at Bohally Intermediate they constantly hear about issues their young people are having and see adverse effects in classrooms around online use. “Our students are growing up in rapidly changing times, and the risk, frequency, and severity of online harm is increasing. We need to tackle this as a community,” she says.
The
Sounds water/air transport subsidy continues
With summer just around the corner, Council’s water and air transport subsidy will continue for residents, workers and visitors to areas in the Marlborough Sounds that were previously accessible by road.
The $25 subsidy will continue for non-resident and non-emergency road users accessing properties from the Kenepuru Road beyond the Onahau Road turn off.
The subsidy does not apply to properties before the Onahau turn off or accessible by water only, regardless of their location.
The barge subsidy will also continue for residents, workers and visitors to areas in the Marlborough Sounds that were previously accessible by road. It runs in partnership with Johnson’s Barge Service Limited in Havelock and Kenny Barging in Picton.
For more information go to: https://links.marlborough.govt.nz/ watertransport
Snorkeller located deceased, Kaikōura
A missing snorkeler has been found deceased by rescue crews at Kaikōura. Police were alerted at around 4.50pm on Saturday afternoon when the man was about 30 minutes overdue. Sadly, a body was located in the water about 6pm. Support is being provided to the man’s whānau at this difficult time.
Police would like to thank those involved in the search for the person, including Coastguard Kaikōura volunteers. The death will be referred to the Coroner.
Rob Cope and wife Zareen made the documentary Our Kids Online: Porn, Predators and How to keep them safe after discovering dangers kids face online. Photo: Supplied
Get on board the Saturday bus
A Council promotion in partnership with Marlborough Roads to encourage the community to ‘get on board’ the new Saturday bus service between Blenheim and Picton is underway. With Term 3 school holidays, Marlborough Sounds Ward councillor Barbara Faulls says the timing was perfect to encourage more usage of the service between the two towns.
“We want to invite people to have a picnic in Picton or brunch in Blenheim by getting on board the Saturday bus service. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to support local businesses at the same time. It’s just $8 return for adults; $4 return for school children and under-fives and SuperGold card holders are free. It’s fun, affordable and a great day out. Why not get on board and leave the car at home,”
Councillor Faulls says.
For more details on the BlenheimPicton Saturday bus route and timetable go to: www.links.marlborough.govt. nz/BusRoute3
Cheese Festival
The New Zealand Cheese Festival is back for its 4th year at Clos Henri Vineyard, promising a delightful celebration of the country’s finest cheeses and gourmet cuisine. There will be cheese tastings, interactive workshops, a cooking masterclass, and live entertainment. This highly anticipated event will take place on Saturday, October 5th, from 10am to 4pm.
We appreciate you Michael
By Chris Valli
Mike Fordham wasn’t too sure what to make of all the fuss and new-found print and social media coverage last week.
The 59-year-old was recognised two consecutive weeks through the Blenheim Sun Txt Talk, by readers and shoppers acknowledging the contribution he is making to Blenheim’s New World supermarket.
One text talk read GREAT GUY adding ‘he is one in a million’. A terrific person worth his weight in gold. While another read, I was in the New World carpark a couple of days ago. A woman fell over at the western entrance. Michael who does the trolleys was at her side in a flash. He helped her up and took her into the supermarket where he comforted her. Michael is a lovely person who does a marvellous job and is a great asset to New World. Thank you Michael.
Meanwhile, the New World Blenheim Facebook page says ‘rain, hail or shine’, Mike works ‘so hard keeping the carpark clean and tidy, and their shopping trolleys fully stocked’. When this writer caught up with Mike last week he had just come off his lunch break and was headed
back into the carpark to resume his duties.
Mike, who grew up in Hamilton, has been living in Blenheim for just over 30 years and has been helping customers at New World for over 20 years. “They call me the maintenance person,” he adds.
“It’s actually serving the customers I enjoy the most and helping customers,” he says. “I’m not really sure what to make of it,” he says, when asked how he felt about all the attention. “It makes me feel good because people are happy and you know you are doing a good job.”
A horticulture job at Selmes Garden Centre enticed him to leave Hawera at the time where he was living with IHC, for the sunnier climes of Marlborough.
“I was doing some work experience with planting and it was fun,” he says. “I did a polytechnic course in Gisborne on horticulture and gardening, fencing, even to do with how to manage animals and things like that. One of the main things is how to propagate plants and how to do a good potting mix. How to look after your tools, keep them clean and that sort of thing.”
Mike, who is a massive Tasman Mako’s rugby fan quips that
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the past 20 years.
‘Colin Meads was actually born in Cambridge’, when the topic of King Country rugby came up where his parents were originally from. A true rugby fan indeed. The opportunity to join New World, Mike says, came about after the selling of a new site at 141 Batty’s Road in August 2009. Local support has always been strong for Selmes Garden and the employment it provides for people with intellectual disabilities. New World was and is another who saw Mike’s potential and he
joined the team.
“We got put into a job club and how to get a job and New World came up and I had an interview with the trolley thing,” he recalls. “I start at 9:30am and work til 4pm and on Friday 9 – 4pm.”
Mike was presented with a gift basket last Wednesday by owners Greg and Tineke Flannery to acknowledge his wonderful contributions.
“Too much,” he laughs. “It was twice in the paper. It’s been mindblowing.”
MAINTENANCE MAN: Blenheim New World’s Mike Fordham was presented with
basket last Wednesday by owners Greg and Tineke Flannery to acknowledge his wonderful contributions over
Sharing the rich traditions of Korea
By Chris Valli
The Korean community in Marlborough is celebrating with the official launch of the Korean Association of Marlborough.
The new group is aimed at supporting Korean migrants and building connections with the wider Marlborough community. The association, which held its inaugural meeting last week is a small but dedicated group, with many of its members already calling Marlborough their hometown.
Leading the association is Sohee Bae, who has been elected as the president. Under her leadership, the association will focus on providing support for Koreans settling in the region, helping them integrate into the community, and offering a platform for sharing Korean culture and traditions with the
wider public.
“We’re a close-knit group, and although we may be small, we’re passionate about our role in Marlborough,” says Sohee.
“Many of us have called this town home for years, and we want to give back by helping other Koreans who are new to the area and by sharing the rich traditions of Korea with our neighbours.”
The association plans to host cultural events, including Korean food festivals, traditional music and dance performances, and educational workshops.
Additionally, the group aims to promote volunteer work within the local community, contributing to various social initiatives that benefit both the Korean and broader Marlborough populations.
The Korean Association of Marlborough invites all local Korean residents and anyone
A fantastic opportunity
The St Andrew’s Garden Visits are on again this year on October 19th, 9.30am - 4pm.
This year the popular self-directed garden tour has been reduced to one day only and the price has been reduced to just $10 - a bargain to view four quality well-loved and well-tended gardens. This is Marlborough’s opportunity to view a garden which has previously featured in Garden Marlborough and to pick up some hints from ‘green fingered’ gardeners themselves. Get some ideas on supplementing your food supply to
about their role in Marlborough. From top
interested in learning more about Korean culture to join their efforts. The group hopes to build a bridge between Korean migrants and the Marlborough community, enriching both through cultural
exchange and community service. For more information on upcoming events or how to get involved, please contact Sohee Bae at blueocean.s.h@outlook.com or phone 0226091954.
2nd Chance Sale
Sun The
The Beavertown Lions Club 2nd Chance Sale is on 11th and 12th October. Head along to Redwoodtown Community Centre and find pre-loved treasures waiting for a new home - from clothing to household items, there will be something for everyone. Proceeds to The Salvation Army, St John and Child Cancer Foundation.
SeniorNet Drop-in Day
SeniorNet Marlborough Sounds will be holding its Drop-in session at the Linkwater Hall on Monday 21st October from 1pm, to sort any technology problems you may be having. This will be followed by this year’s AGM at 4pm.
Boot Sale Market
The Blenheim Rotary Boot Sale Market is on every Saturday 8am – 12pm at the Blenheim Railway Station Carpark. Everyone welcome. No booking required, just turn up and choose a site. $5 per site. No sales of alcohol, guns, gin traps or children!
You’ll need to bring your entry brochure on the day - don’t miss this fantastic opportunity!
save money and become more self-sufficient, or simply enjoy the variety of plants, the atmosphere, and the environment created with love by these garden owners. Refreshments, plants, crafts, and a raffle will be on sale, so bring some cash and a bag. Tickets are available from St Andrew’s Church Office 9am to 1pm week days or from Cresswell’s Shoes Market Street store, Selmes Trust Garden Centre, Devon Gardens, and Islington Gardens.
Farmers Market
The Marlborough Farmers Market is on every Sunday 9am - 12pm at the Marlborough A&P Showgrounds rain or shine. Come down and support your local growers and producers and help them support you in your local community. A huge range of stalls, and live music.
Sohee Bae says the Korean association are a close-knit group, and although they may be small, they’re passionate
left; Gi-Soo Kim, Joo-Hee Moon, Sijeong Jang, Minkyung Jo, Sohee Bae, Jungeun Lim, Jungmin Ko and Junior Kim(Andy).
The annual Marlborough Science and Technology (SciTec) Fair was on last week at Stadium 2000 with about 350 primary and secondary school students displaying their scientific wonderings.
Felix Ogilvy Bohally
What paper plan would fly the futherest?
Emily Barsanti and Maddison Merwood Springlands
How long do you need to wash your fruit to remove bacteria?
Lachlan Simmonds Rapaura
Could I make a car out of Lego and make it powered by rubber bands using kinetic energy?
Ruby Monteith Bohally
What happens when you put gummi worms in different liquids for 24 hours?
Could we make a boat out of potential kinetic energy?
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
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.
Dear Ed
I’m sad that Blenheim’s excellent water is to be dosed, like for example Christchurch’s, with the disinfectant chlorine.
OK, it’s the law, but how much nicer if it could be done using the UV light method instead. More expensive right now, but surely a bit of research could cut that cost
The three yearly elections for Nelson Marlborough’s Fish and Game council are now open.
In the past, apathy and low voter turnout has plagued recent past Fish and Game elections, in some regions insufficient nominations have been less than the required council seats. It happened in Nelson Marlborough’s region a couple of elections ago. Of course voter apathy is rife in local body and general
back? Obviously it is safer not to use a poison anyway, and long experience of chlorinated water has left me with a reluctance to even smell it, let alone taste it, no matter what assurances authorities give.
Bill Holvey Blenheim
elections too.
There are some classic quotes on apathy. American comedian and social critic George Carlin wise-cracked “Scientists announced today that they have discovered a cure for apathy. However they claim no one has shown the slightest interest in it.”
This time there is an election for Nelson Marlborough Fish and Game with 11 nominations for the eight council seats. So the
At the UN, NZ voted for the Palestinian resolution that all Jewish settlements in Judea and Samaria (renamed ‘West Bank’ by Jordan) be vacated.
This is the area that Israel occupied after one of the wars that were supposed to wipe out Israel and was of course Jewish before the Arab armies arrived.
I dare say that Turkey voted in favour. Their impeccable record includes the 1945 genocide and the occupation of North Cyprus which was once a conquered part of the Ottoman Empire. I believe that machines have been used to destroy any Christian imagery in cemeteries, and in the centre of the walled city of Nicosia, the Ottomans converted the church into a mosque. I had a friend who planned to retire to his mother’s house in the lovely town of Kerenina but she was driven out and the house ‘gifted’ to Turks. Gas has been discovered off south Cyprus and Turkey wants a share of it. It’s navy has been active in preventing development until it’s demands are met.
John Vile
opportunity is there to vote on line or by post. I note there are three excellent candidates from Marlborough in Guy Gardiner, Nev Gane and Wayne McDonald. You don’t have to vote for all eight if you like, just vote for three. Whatever you decide, do vote for the sake of democracy. Democracy is precious.
Tony Orman Blenheim
Tama Starkey Rapaura
Stay safe during magpie swooping season
It’s magpie nesting time and reports of the birds dive bombing walkers and cyclists in Marlborough have prompted a timely reminder.
Council’s Multi Modal Transport
Advisor Charlotte CampbellLamerton said during the nesting season magpies become highly protective of their young. “We’ve received several reports of swooping birds,” she said.
Here are some tips to help keep you safe:
Pay attention to nesting areas
If you see magpie nesting activity
in trees, consider avoiding the area and plotting a new walking or cycling route.
Stay calm
If you find yourself in magpie territory and it’s too late to back out, stay calm. Walk quickly through the area but do not run. Ask children to stay calm too.
Be on the lookout and make eye contact
If you maintain eye contact with a magpie for as long as possible, it will be less likely to swoop. Keep your arms up if you are worried. Magpies often swoop from behind
but are much less likely to swoop if they are being watched directly.
Get off your bike
If you are on a bike, dismount. Bikes irritate magpies and getting swooped on while riding can cause accidents. Your helmet will protect you. Walk the bike quickly out of the magpie’s territory.
Be understanding and considerate
Magpies are highly intelligent and are just trying to protect their young. You only need to be patient for a few weeks during the nesting season.
Get on board the Saturday bus
A Council promotion in partnership with Marlborough Roads to encourage the community to ‘get on board’ the new Saturday bus service between Blenheim and Picton is underway. With school holidays here, the timing is perfect to encourage more usage of the service between the two towns to have a ‘picnic in Picton or brunch in Blenheim’.
It’s also a fantastic opportunity to support local businesses at the same time particularly hospitality in the Picton and Blenheim CBDs.
The bus is just $8 return for adults; $4 return for school children and under-fives and SuperGold card holders are free. It’s fun, affordable and a great day out. Why not get on board and leave the car at home?
Travellers can leave Blenheim at 10am and be at the Picton isite by 10.45am – return time is 1.13pm which provides time for a ‘picnic in Picton’ experience and a visit to the shops.
Alternatively, people can depart from Waikawa Bay at 9am with pickups in Picton to arrive in Blenheim at Seymour Street at 9.45am. Departure from Blenheim is 2pm which gives ample time for ‘brunch in Blenheim’ or a visit to Stadium 2000 and Te Kahu o Waipuna.
For more details on the Blenheim-Picton Saturday bus route and timetable go to: www.links.marlborough.govt.nz/ BusRoute3
Estuary health changing
Seagrass beds in Motuweka/Havelock Estuary are declining, indicating the stress the ecosystem is under. Council’s Principal Coastal Scientist Oliver Wade told the Environment and Planning Committee recently that estuaries were biodiversity hotspots, providing habitat, nursery grounds and numerous ecosystem services.
“We are losing important habitat,” he said. “Estuaries are the interface between the land and sea and the first place to see the effects of what is happening on land,” he said. Motuweka’s seagrass levels had reduced 95 per cent from 21 hectares in 2014 to one hectare this year.
Healthy seagrass should be “like your lawn” – long, lush and green, Mr Wade said. Instead it was brown and dying.
Motuweka Estuary is a large, 800 hectare estuary surrounded by indigenous forest with the lower catchment mainly exotic forestry and pasture. There are two main freshwater inputs – the Te Hoiere/ Pelorus and Kaituna rivers.
At the head of both Te Hoiere and Kaituna are extensive salt marshes with a condition rating of very good, although mud elevated sediments were high throughout.
Meanwhile Nydia Bay’s estuary has been found to be in good to very good condition with the main threat to seagrass being vehicle use.
Council began state of the environment monitoring in the estuary in 2014 and contracted Salt Ecology this year to undertake broadscale mapping of Marlborough estuaries.
For more information go to: www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/estuaries
Watch out - magpie swooping season is here
‘The best parents –I wouldn’t have anybody else’ one on one with the Sun
Les and Viv Broughton have done a lot of behind the scenes volunteer work for the Marlborough community over the years from fundraising for Alzheimers Marlborough to the efforts behind an indoor swimming pool in the 1980s. Chris Valli caught up with Les recently to talk about a life well lived.
One gets a sense when they meet Blenheim’s Lesley Broughton, he’s seen a thing or two over his 76 years.
Les Broughton arrived in Blenheim via Wakefield, Nelson around 1951 he thinks. At 15 years-young Les met his companion and ‘good mate’ Viv (Newman) who went to the convent school while Les attended Marlborough College.
What’s the saying, behind every good woman, there’s a good man?
“There was a line up the middle of the rugby paddock and you didn’t cross it because one side was the girls and one side was the boys,” he quips.
When this writer met with Les last week at his Howick Street home, purchased in 1980, there was a sense of nostalgia in a house and home that has provided a lifetime of memories.
“It was the third dearest house in Blenheim at that stage on the market – they wanted $50,000 and we paid $48,000 for it,” he says. “When we got married I think I was on $27 a week and Viv used to bring home about $18.”
When asked how long he had been married or when he first started work, the dates are as familiar as what lies on and beyond the ‘museum’ in the back of the house. A museum which started as a hobby, but has turned into gems, artefacts and stories associated with a collection that is all too impressive and provokes a conversation or two.
Les says they’ve probably been buying things at second hand shops since the early 1970s. Viv’s father was ‘an antique-dealer type guy’, he says, and there was always stuff around.
“Maybe I got the bug from there? I don’t know? I was one of eight and we didn’t have a lot. We were never hungry but we didn’t have a lot. Things were pretty tough,” says Les, a twin to
Gillian, who died two years ago.
“When she was born there was a lack of oxygen and she was an IHC (intellectually handicapped) girl. She wasn’t supposed to live for more than 18 months but she lived until she was 72. I’ve also lost one brother – there are still six of us floating around,” he laughs.
So what was the first antique he collected?
“I collected Viv I suppose was the first thing,” he laughs.
“I can’t remember, I suppose I collected model cars in the early days as I had an interest in vintage cars. I built a 26 foot boat here in 1989.”
“We get pleasure out of what we do because we like to be able to share it with people who come and have a look.”
“I can pick up stuff in here and think, I got that from so and so. There are probably four of five thousand model cars,” he reckons. “I suppose I’ve added to it.”
The ‘museum’s origins’ Les says was a registered office for a Blenheim firm called Zacarisen Low, civil engineers and bridge builders. The bar was already in the museum. Handy.
The museum started to be ‘a thing’ when the kids left, adds oldest daughter Lyree. “There used to be a pool table in it. It was our room to play
For Locals by Locals.
One of the more unique items Les acquired is a Maori anchor which came from Viv’s father’s family. “I think he got that down in Port Underwood,” he says. “It’s historic.”
pool after we went to town on a Friday night. We’d come home, there was a juke box in there and a bar, we had a swimming pool and nice deck and BBQ space.”
“It frees up the money a bit when the kids go doesn’t it? he chuckles.
Before the Europeans arrived in Te Whanganui/Port Underwood in 1830, large populations of Maori occupied the area for more than 600 years cultivating kumara, yam, taro and other vegetables. One of the more unique items Les acquired from Viv’s father’s family is a Maori anchor with a hole in it. “I think he got
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that down in Port Underwood,” he says. “It’s historic.”
An old ‘man’s bike’ is wedged (somehow) to the roof upon entry which Les liked the look of and purchased for $5, which still has the original lamp light.
A career as a self-employed carpet layer, Les started out with a ‘brilliant boss’ on January 13, 1964, one Jack Fletcher who he says, was an upholsterer, and had a furniture shop in town where Harvey Norman used to be.
“I spent six years working for them and started contracting as a carpet layer. I ended up working for myself for 48 years,” he says
(there goes that mathematic recall). “I retired on 11, 11, 2011 - the three elevens.
“We get pleasure out of what we do because we like to be able to share it with people who come and have a look. We’ll open the house as well,” adds Viv. “We’ve got old cameras, blow lamps, number plates (acquired through Les’ old job visiting farms where every July there was a new registration plate).”
“He’s wonderful and supports me in everything I have done,” says Viv. “I think that’s why we have got on so well with shared interests.”
Improving resilience on SH63
By Chris Valli
New resilience work is about to get underway on State Highway 63 on the Blenheim side of The Wash Bridge.
Contractors will be on-site from Monday, October 7 with work expected to continue until early December.
They will raise the height of the road by 1.5 meters to minimise future flooding and carry out culvert improvements as well.
Mark Owen, Regional Manager Wellington/Top of the South, says this section of state highway between Blenheim and St Arnaud is prone to flooding.
“Making these improvements and increasing the highway’s resilience will help keep the road open in bad weather, and ensure people, products, and places remain connected.
“It means the transport network will be stronger and better prepared for any future disruption,” Mark says.
During the work, one lane of the highway will remain open under stop/go temporary traffic management.
A 30km/h temporary speed limit will also be in place.
Road users can expect delays of up to 10 minutes.
Mark says the work is funded by the Transport Resilience Fund.
“The fund is about covering the cost of resilience improvements on the state highway network and minimising damage from future weather events.
“Marlborough residents know only too well how big an impact floods can have.
“Investments like this can make a big difference,” Mark says.
Other resilience works are planned for Marlborough and include SH6 Canvastown at Racecourse Bridge, SH6 Rai Saddle and SH1 at Dashwood
Meanwhile, contractors will resume essential maintenance work on SH1 Weld Pass, this month as the summer maintenance season continues in Marlborough.
The work is part of the $147 million 2024/27 National Land Transport Programme investment in state highways across the top of the South Island.
Night works are planned for Weld Pass from 20 to 23 October (Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday nights) between 8pm and 6am.
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SH63 The Wash, August 2022 flooding.
Sienna – an emerging talent
By Chris Valli
Marlborough Girls’ College
Year 12 student Sienna Wheeler has been awarded the Distinctive Emerging Talent Award nationally by Theatre New Zealand.
Sienna was recognised for her performance as Deidre Dearheart in The Dilemma of Deidre Dearheart by Tony Barnes in TheatreFest 2004.
Theatre New Zealand (TNZ) formally known as the New Zealand Theatre Federation (NZTF) is an umbrella organisation to support
and advocate for their membership of community theatre, amateur societies and schools.
In 2022, Sienna was cast as Young Epinone in the children’s ensemble of Blenheim Musical Theatre’s production of Les Miserables.
Theatre New Zealand has been running since 1970. They provide services in education, training and research. They organise TheatreFest, the annual one act play competition with regional and national events and create a regular newsletter called Backchat.
MGC Year 12 student Sienna Wheeler has been awarded the Distinctive Emerging Talent Award nationally by Theatre New Zealand.
Making sure your home is fire safe
By Chris Valli
With daylight savings, Fire and Emergency New Zealand is reminding Marlburians to clean and check their smoke alarms and ensure they have a threestep escape plan in place.
Tom Ronaldson, Community Education and Behaviour Change Manager, says, just push the button on each of your smoke alarms. If you hear the beep, you know they are ready to protect you and your household.
“A fire can be fatal within three minutes and when you are sleeping you can’t smell smoke. Working smoke alarms are the most important way to prepare for the possibility of a fire,” he says.
“Having working smoke alarms in every bedroom, living area and hallway to alert all members of the household as early as possible, is the critical first step in escaping a house on fire.
“Fire and Emergency recommends long-life interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms where possible. If a fire is detected in one room of the house, interconnected alarms will trigger all the alarms in your home, so everyone will be alerted to a fire sooner,” he says. “Now is the perfect time to give your smoke alarms a spring clean. You can do this by giving them a quick vacuum or dust.”
Fire and Emergency is encouraging locals to take a few minutes to make sure they have a three-step escape plan in place.
“Your escape plan should include at least two clear paths out of each area and a safe meeting place away from the house for your household to meet,” says Tom.
To find out more about choosing, installing, and checking your smoke alarms, visit https://www. escapemyhouse.co.nz/ sorted
Thanks to the community
By Chris Valli
Marlborough’s Cancer Society is delighted with the community response for Daffodil Day and with money still to come it looks like they are going to exceed their budget
General Manager Greg Stretch says the month saw every definition of community coming together for the Cancer Society’s main fundraiser on Friday, August 30.
“There were a lot of volunteers once again getting involved with schools, the Marlborough Vintage Car Club, many community groups, Luke Roberts getting his dreads cut for the fundraiser, and the Daffodil growers, and pickers” he says. “There was also a BBQ at Lansdowne Park for Marlborough rugby and netball as we looked at different avenues to try and raise some money.”
Greg says the Blenheim community sees the Marlborough Cancer Society and Daffodil Day go hand in hand.
“The number of volunteers who rattled buckets, sold cake raffles throughout the month and our amazing staff and Centre Volunteers which made the month go so well. It’s a great appreciation to all those people to say thanks for making this such a successful Daffodil Day.”
to all those
thanks for making this year so successful.
Meanwhile, a ground-breaking clinical trial that’s made a life-saving difference for cancer sufferers is being widened to treat more patients with growing hopes of the therapy becoming a standard care.
The Enable trial run by Wellington’s Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, represents first-of-its-kind technology for New Zealand and a potential game-changer for certain cancers.
It involves Car-T cell therapy, in which a patient’s immune cells are collected, genetically modified to recognise and kill their cancer,
and then given back to them as treatment. Used overseas for types of blood cancers including relapsed lymphoma, leukaemia and myeloma, Car-T therapy isn’t yet available as a funded treatment here.
Greg says with more research, more outcomes can help people before it gets too late.
“It’s about cancer prevention and promoting who we are and what support we can give people as well,” he says.
The next major fundraiser is in March 2025 with Marlborough’s Relay for Life at Lansdowne Park.
Cancer Society Marlborough General Manager Greg Stretch says it’s an appreciation
people who helped with Daffodil Day and to say
Marlborough
By Chris Valli
Marlborough’s farmers will be welcoming the news of a new free trade agreement with the United Arab Emirates.
“This is great news for farmers who have been doing it pretty tough lately with high costs and squeezed profit margins,” Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford says. “As a country we earn a living producing high quality food and fibre and selling it to the rest of the world, but we’re currently operating in a tough international environment.
“Farmers will gladly welcome any moves to reduce our costs, grow our incomes, or increase our competitiveness in the global marketplace.”
The United Arab Emirates is a top 20 export market for New Zealand, and one of our largest markets in the Middle East.
“The Middle East presents an exciting opportunity for Kiwi exporters as a wealthy and growing market with huge potential,” Langford says.
UAE trade deal good news for farmers
“This agreement will take millions of dollars that would have been charged in tariffs and pump them directly into our rural communities.
“It’s great to see the Government delivering on their commitment to open up new markets, reduce tariffs, and give our exporters options.”
Trade Minister Todd McClay and UAE Trade Minister Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, who arrived in Wellington last Wednesday, announced the successful conclusion of free trade negotiations last Thursday morning at a press conference held in the Beehive.
The outcome occurred relatively suddenly, after both trade ministers resolved the remaining sticking points at a meeting on Wednesday evening. McClay celebrated it as the “fastest-ever trade agreement” that was the most liberalising of any such trade deal UAE had signed.
New Zealand dairy exports to the UAE amounted to $718 million, industrial products $237 million, red meat $46 million, horticulture $44 million, and tourism $31 million.
Todd McClay, Minister for Trade and Agriculture, centre-left, and His Excellency Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, United Arab Emirates, centre-right, with both countries’ lead negotiators for a trade deal. Photo: ROBERT KITCHIN / THE POST
The Association for people 50+
Advocating for people 50 +
From the President’s Desk
I have just returned from a conference hosted by Alzheimer’s New Zealand entitled Repositioning Dementia: What’s next? Delegates attending were from organisations that had an interest in this area, people living with dementia and their families/whanau. About 200 people attended in person with over 130 people globally on-line.
The Honourable Associate Minister of Health, Casey Costello, spoke passionately about people living with dementia and their need to have full lives. From a clinical perspective Andy Inder, Health NZ/Te Whatu Ora’s Director of Ageing Well stated that 50 percent of dementia cases in
New Zealand can be prevented by having good hearing, good eyesight and good physical health.
These two speakers were very interesting but what pulled at my heart strings were the real stories from people living with dementia every day, whether they be the cognitive impaired person or their family/whanau.
Several people spoke about their journeys with dementia and below is what they needed to live their best possible lives:
• To enable them to be part of decisions that affect their day-to-day lives.
• To have someone that can navigate
arranging the consistent care and entitlements they need.
• Being able to socialize with others who have dementia and know the daily struggles they face every day.
• Acceptance from families/whanau/ friends/acquaintances regarding their disability.
• Being supported to continue doing the things they enjoy; maybe going for a walk or playing tennis.
• Equitable and sufficient resources to allow them to stay at home.
• Still be a person in their own right.
I will end by saying “when you know one person with dementia, you know one person with dementia” - no two
people will have the same issues on their dementia journey. Love them for who they are now, not who they used to be.
Gayle Chambers, President
Aged Care Commissioner Report
Since the publication of the Aged Care Commissioner report earlier this year, I, and members of my team, have continued monitoring issues with older people’s health and disability care, as part of my role to drive quality improvements in those services. This is a quick update on some of the activities the team and I have being working on over the past quarter.
Monitoring our recommendations Since the release of the report, we have developed an approach to help monitor progress on the report’s recommendations. Metrics for monitoring are grouped into three areas of focus. The first group of metrics apply to long term and strategic recommendations, which
will require systemic changes over time. The second group of metrics apply to influencing health and disability reforms. The third group relate to short- to medium-term recommendations, including a focus on public health measures to delay the onset of dementia and improving hospital discharge planning. We will publish an update on progress on our recommendations, aligned to these metrics, in 2025.
Subsidies for hearing aids
A big thank you to Matthew Coulson, who spent several months with the team as a policy intern funded by the Aging Fellowship at Columbia University. Matthew’s work and his paper on hearing aid subsidies will provide us with an
evidence-base to track our recommendation to increase hearing aid subsidies. Insights from Matthew’s research will be shared at upcoming events with sector colleagues.
Aged Care Commissioner submissions
We have made several submissions over the past few months on reviews relevant to the health and disability needs of older people.
• Social Services Select Committee. At the end of May, I presented to the Select Committee and answered questions about workforce issues and elder abuse, among other topics.
• Law Commission | Te Aka Matua o te Ture. The team has provided a
submission on the review of adult decision-making capacity law to ensure an age-friendly lens.
• Health Committee inquiry into the aged care sector’s current and future capacity to provide support services for people experiencing neurological cognitive disorders.
• Review of the Retirement Villages Act. I have engaged with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, and other relevant sector stakeholders, on the review of the Act, to highlight the health and disability needs of older people living in retirement villages. Carolyn Cooper, Aged Care Commissioner, September 2024.
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Health Notes
Diabetes Funding Update
Diabetes New Zealand has welcomed the news that Pharmac will fund continuous glucose monitors (CGM), insulin pumps and insulin consumables for people living with Type 1 diabetes from 1 October. “Free access to these devices will not only be life changing for thousands of New Zealanders living with Type I diabetes, it will also be lifesaving,” says Heather Verry, CEO of Diabetes New Zealand. “We know that for our Type 1 community, this is more than just vital technology - it’s a lifeline for better health and greater freedom. Quite simply, it’s a game-changer.” For more information; www.diabetes.org.nz.
Avoid Listeriosis
Listeria is an ever-present environmental bacterium. It thrives in growing conditions where food is produced and stored, and therefore becomes foodborne. Listeria is one of just two bacteria causing foodborne illness that can grow on refrigerated food, and listeriosis is the only reported disease that is fully attributed to consumption of contaminated food. Higher risk foods include deli meats, soft cheeses, and cold smoked seafood.
If contracted, listeriosis can be very serious, causing a high rate of
hospitalisation especially among older people. Symptoms usually take 2-3 weeks to appear and can include fever, muscle pain, fatigue, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance and seizures.
Listeriosis can be prevented, and there are some simple steps you can take at home to avoid contracting listeriosis:
• cook food thoroughly
• only eat fruit and vegetables that have been washed and dried thoroughly
• only eat food that was recently prepared
• refrigerate leftovers quickly
• preheat food to steaming hot (more than 70°C) before eating
• avoid leftovers that won’t be reheated
• wash and dry your hands thoroughly and follow good food hygiene practices.
To read more about Listeriosis and for more advice from the from New Zealand Food Safety go to www. mpi.govt.nz/listeria.
Shingles
What is it? From Health New Zealand: Shingles is a painful rash that usually develops on one side of the face, body or head. The rash is usually in a stripe on the left or the right side of the body. Sometimes people with weakened immune systems have a rash that spreads across more areas of the body. Before the rash develops, people often have pain, itching or tingling in the area where the rash will be.
What causes it? Anyone who had chickenpox is at risk of developing shingles. Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus - the same virus that causes chickenpox. After
DROP-IN DAY
you’ve had chickenpox, the vir us stays in your body for the rest of your life. Years later, the virus may reactivate as shingles. Shingles isn’t life-threatening, but it can be an extremely painful and stressful experience with some nasty side-effects. Also, as our natural immunisation declines with age, seniors are particularly vulnerable. What does it feel like? Says Steve, one of our members in his seventies after a recent bout; “It all started one evening with what seemed a simple rash across my stomach and back and thought it was probably something I had picked up whilst gardening - just an irritation. Next morning however blisters appeared, and things were happening quickly. Only one side of my stomach and back were affected and I thought - oh no, shingles. A quick Google seemed to verify the symptoms, and a doctor visit confirmed it.
“Now aided with a prescription, I thought within a couple of days of mild discomfort it would be done, and I’d be back to normal. Not to be though, and it was then that something the doctor had mentioned returned to my mind that one of the side effects of shingles is associated nerve issues, in my case neuralgia. So now, after several months my neuralgia pain varies immensely but it is always there, whether just mild irritation or full-on stabbing pain. So, mindful that we can all learn something new, please take my advice and get vaccinated.”
Says Health New Zealand - The best protection against shingles is immunisation, so contact your Health provider for details.
will hold this year’s AGM in the Hall. This will include a discussion on our Group’s future. Come along for the Drop-in, the AGM, or both.
Office Snippets
Work is starting on Discount Book 2025. We are always looking for extra businesses to join, and particularly welcome businesses outside Blenheim for our non-Blenheim based members to use. Picton, for example, has several hundred members. Please get in touch with the office for more information: office@ greypowermarlborough.co.nz or 03 578 4950.
We have been following up some members for overdue subscriptions. Please let us know if you decide not to renew your membership. With so many of our members taking advantage of Grey Power Electricity’s discounted rates, and emails sometimes going to Spam folders or email addresses changing, we are unable to assume that non-payment means non-renewal.
Please remember to let the office know if any of your contact details have changed.
A reminder that we have hearing aid batteries, sizes A10, A13 and A312 for sale in the office, $6 per card of 6 batteries.
Events:
CPR with Hato Hone St John, Monday 7 October, 10.30am at Blenheim Library
CPR with Hato Hone St John, Tuesday 8 October, 1.30pm at Picton Library
Several members have been enquiring about driving tests for older drivers. A fact sheet is available at www.nzta. govt.nz/assets/resources/ factsheets/57/docs/57-older-drivers.pdf and copies are available in the office, along with some brochures on Senior Drivers from NZTA.
Grey Power Electricity have new discounts available for their customers for car and pet insurance. Ask at the office, or view online at www.greypowerelectricity.co.nz/insurance.
We encourage you to look through your Discount Book, there are some great savings to be had! Each month we would like to acknowledge the support shown to our members by some of the businesses: Harcourts Marlborough Real Estate, Health 2000 Blenheim, Laser Plumbing Blenheim, Lynfords Furniture, Marlborough MS & Parkinsons Society, Marlborough Plumbing & Heating, Mayfield Motorworld, McKendry Mazda Motors, McRaes Fashion, Debbie at Mike Pero Real Estate, Noel Templeton Optometrists, Not Tech Savvy.
Care Marlborough present The Art of Wellbeing Exhibition, 8-20 October, at the Marlborough Art Society, 204 High Street, Blenheim
“A Night at the Races” Dragon Boat fundraiser, Saturday 19 October. Tickets available from Mitchell Sports
Be quick!
Get down to the Marlborough Art Society the latest exhibition is not to be missed. The Harris family girls have so much talent.
Picton Aquarium/ Theatre Site
Grass cut by Port Marlborough Friday 20th. Two
using domestic mowers ! Hardly cost efficient.
Re Grounds for housing
Aside from the well documented fiasco at Woodbourne which I understand is NOT wanted for housing, what other areas for housing are you referring to. And leaching from posts has been shown to be absolutely minimal , even after 20 years, and this method is slowly being changed. With regard your OTT judgements, I am still laughing.
Humor At Ten Paces
I must say I really enjoyed the “Banter Of The Texters“ Re : Let down, although, regarding the reply to the original text I had to ask a friend who has an A+ in English to decipher it for me, that aside, keep up the banter, fun Wednesday reading.
Re Vape Shops
Two vape shops in Picton. There are also two in the Blenheim CBD.
I agree ‘why have these outlets’. Vapes have now been proven containing many harmful ingredients and are addictive. The better choice cigarettes, vaping (neither)? Are youngsters vaping, that wouldn’t have smoked cigarettes ? Do outlets like vape outlets need to go through the council to trade ? Just wondering!
Mental Health
A topic that can never be underestimated or we can never hear enough advice about. Look after each other, we never know what someone may be going through.
Thank You
I’d like to thank the lady who helped me as I was leaving The Stadium on Thursday in the gusty wind.
She very kindly took me to where I wanted to go which was the council, and it happened to be where she worked.
I’m sorry I didn’t get your name. Your kindness is greatly appreciated.
Strong winds
Very strong winds last Thursday yet vineyard near Summerset out spraying.
The odour didn’t stop at the boundary.
Government funded school lunches
Does anyone realise how many school lunches are paid for, each school day, by us - the taxpayers. The answer, 220,000. At a minimum of $3 a meal, cost is $660,000 a day, $3.3 million a week, $171.6 million a year.
Pity these funds couldn’t go to our new Cook Strait ferries, new Marlborough schools, Dunedin hospital, just to name a few? Labour Government, what were you thinking!
Re Vape Shops
I agree - we don’t need them.
This is just another harmful thing we have let slip through. We are so gullible! Remember Synthetic Cannabis? We let that through too with disastrous consequences.
Vaping should have been prescription only for smoking cessation. As it is we have kids wandering around sucking USB drives and disappearing in to a bubble gum flavoured cloud.
Have you ever seen anything more ridiculous?
Tuck shop
Good to read last week of the new Tuck shop in our community. All the best to these entrepreneurs, be great for Springlands.
Hospice shop
Great bunch of people who volunteer there and many bargains to be found definitely worth a visit.
Old library
Hey council what’s happening with the old library it’s been a while since it closed how about doing something with it seems a waste of a building it’s adding to the rest of the empty shops in what now looks like a ghost town.
Financial hardship
Well received my new rates for the year. It says if it will cause me financial hardship, call to discuss a solution. I have one, just stop the world so I can get off. Mmm I’ve just finished crying about it and then our power sub stops, I give up I think.
Rates increase
I would like to know why our rates in Havelock have increased by 25%, not 13% like the council said. Everyone we have spoken to has said the same. It seems to be that the council is wasting our money just like the Prime Minister said. I feel sorry for pensioners who have no other income. It is hard enough with the increases in food, fuel and power etc without this increase in our rates. It is just not right! It is time the MDC had some new blood not more of the same. Concerned Pensioner.
Re Watching Parliament
I watch Parliament, or should I say, snippets of their Q&A sessions that are posted on a certain YouTube account.
I’ve seen Winston Peters tearing the ‘new elite’ new backsides on many occasions. It’s thoroughly entertaining.
I also watched as one new representative called all the other politicians a bunch of liars, then denied he said any such thing, kind of proving his own point. He’s up before the privileges committee now.
Barking dogs
Why do people get dogs and then seem to lose interest. They are a lifetime commitment just like a child and should be well cared for and treated as part of the family.
Talk of the week
Wonderful
Thank you to all the people who put on the beach hop down at Kaikoura. It was a wonderful day seeing all those beautiful cars on show.
A gift from stranger
Thank you so much to the lovely young man with the 2 young daughters. Popped into Bamboo Garden to get a takeaway on 25/9 and he paid for it! What a wonderful thing to do for a total stranger. One of the Fairweathers team.
Colourful
The person who is painting those drab green electrical cabinets with lovely colourful designs deserves a medal. They brighten the streetscape considerably. Thank you.
We welcome your texts on 027 242 5266.
Limit to 70 words please. We reserve the right to publish at our discretion. Please note the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Sun management.
Model Expo
I went to the Model Expo in Redwoodtown on the weekend.
Was amazing!
Brought back memories of my dear old dad who used to make model helicopters and planes.
He was an Aircraft Reconditioning Engineer in the Air Force back then.
But hats off to all who displayed their collections.
If you didn’t make it this year, make sure you go next year!
If you’re looking for retirement living options in a supportive and friendly environment for over 65s, our community at Arvida Ashwood Park could be the perfect solution. Located within nearly five acres of garden estate, Ashwood Park makes the most of Blenheim’s wonderful climate with homes that capture the sunshine and views of nature. To find out more, call Toni on 027 555 6139
MPACS
the Marlborough Performing Arts Competitions were held at the ASb theatre at the weekend. A variety concert was held at the theatre, 7pm on Sunday night.
SciTec Fair
t he Marlborough Science and technology (Scitec) Fair was at blenheim’s Stadium 2000 last week. Winners were announced at a prizegiving held at the Stadium on Wednesday night.
Photos: Chris Valli
Seddon School students Pippa Muir and Jordyn Waikawa with their investigation on the water cycle which looked at evaporation, condensation and precipitation.
MGC Year 12 students Georgette Herkt and Molly Wilkes investigation was on Te Wheke – a –Muturangi and came under the technology section. In Māori mythology, Te Wheke-a-Muturangi is a monstrous octopus destroyed in Whekenui Bay, Tory Channel or at Patea by Kupe the navigator.
Springlands students Emily Barsanti and Maddison Merwood and their investigation.
Jessie Sawers with Scarlett Clemmet-Jones. Scarlett was awarded first place in Lullaby and Own Selection Under 10 years. Scarlett also won a special award for Most promising vocalist for her age group.
Skye Sargisson 2nd place in Modern Piano Solo 12 and Under 14 years.
Mekka Boyce (left) and Melody Mooiman, first place in Vocal Duet Over 14 Years singing For Good from Wicked.
Jessie Sawers with Madelyn Macown. Madelyn was awarded 1st place in Novice Solo, Light Popular song, Folk song, Sacred song Under 10 years.
Let’s chat with…
Sohee Bae
Head of Korean Association of Marlborough NZ
Are you a dog or cat person?
I equally love both cats and dogs. I have 3 cats in NZ, but I always had a dog in Korea.
Favourite global cuisine?
All Asian countries slow-cooked soups and meat are my favourite.
What would you buy if money was no object?
A mountain with springs and a lake to build the school for free science education for kids.
Celebrity-wise who would be at your dream dinner party?
Helena Bonham Carter, Red Queen from Alice and Wonderland.
Veggies or fruit? Veggies.
The shop you can’t walk past is...? Op shop! It’s like a live museum where the essence of Kiwi’s favourites is all there.
If you didn’t live in Marlborough where would you choose? Christchurch.
Favourite programme or series currently watching?
Happy Stories like Strong Girl Bong-soon.
What do you do for your own mental health?
Drawing, singing and stretching for 5 mins when I have any concerns.
What’s your favourite colour? Blue and green.
If you had to choose another job what would it be? Tour Guide.
What truly matters to you?
5 Elements.
The best advice I ever received was?
‘Let it Go’ from Frozen Movie.
My friends would say I am… Inspiring to all single mums, women, migrants and those who have gone through severe depression.
gardening this week
Some gardening tips: By Wally Richards
This week I thought it would be a good idea to pass on a number of gardening tips which are useful at this time of the year.
Growing potatoes - firstly it depends on the soil you are growing in. Generally you should deep cultivate and incorporate a good amount of compost into the soil making a friable loam.
Make a trench about 20cm deep to plant your seed potatoes in.
Place about half a dozen sheep manure pellets, a tablespoon of gypsum, and a level teaspoon of BioPhos and some Neem Tree Powder, cover lightly with a little soil and sit the potato on it with the eyes pointing upwards.
Cover with soil/compost mix about 3cm over seed and water in with Magic Botanic Liquid.
As the shoots come through the soil, lightly cover with more mix. Keep doing this until you have a mound about 12cm tall then allow the tops to grow.
Spray the tops two-weekly with Magic Botanic Liquid and Mycorrcin. Sprinkle a few Neem Granules on the mound, by the shoots, in case of soil insects eating into the tubers.
The soil should be kept moist at all times but not wet.
If you know that the potato psyllid is a problem in your garden then you should have already planted your seed potatoes.
Later plantings should always be protected with Wallys Cell Strengthening products which make the plant’s cell so tough the psyllid can’t pierce to feed and thus they die. Great for tomatoes and tree tomato (tamarillos) if you have psyllid problems.
Here is a tip a gardener told me to reduce codlin moth damage in apples - he reckoned he was able to greatly reduce damage by sprinkling Neem Tree Granules under the apple trees at this time of the year and watering it in.
Later set up a pheromone trap, or you can use treacle in a jar lid inside a onion bag hanging in the tree. First sign of the male moths, start spraying the apples (not the tree) with Neem Oil with Raingard added. Repeat about every 14 days till no more moths are trapped.
Same with guava moth keep a coating of Wallys Super Neem Tree Oil on the fruit and the grubs are stopped from getting in and ruining the fruit.
Oxalis is a problem for many and the easy way to knock it back is with baking soda.
Mix a heaped table spoon of baking soda into 1L of warm water, stir to dissolve and add 1ml of Raingard.
Spray the foliage of the oxalis on a sunny day when the ground is a bit on the dry side.
It dehydrates the oxalis foliage without harming any other plants. New foliage will appear and this should be also treated in the same manner as soon as it shows.
If you stop the bulbs from having leaves they will run out of energy and die. DO
NOT work the soil as this only brings fresh bulbs to the surface and extends the problem. Instead cover the soil with fresh compost and plant into this.
Another method is using ammonium sulphamate called Wallys Compost Accelerator 600gm dissolve in 3L of water, and water that over the foliage and down into the soil where it will compost the bulbs.
I am told spraying baking soda at about 3 tablespoons per litre of water is a good control for wandering willie or wandering jew. If you have that problem try it and it should not affect other plants.
I presume the plant is sensitive to alkaline sprays.
The same solution of baking soda (one tablespoon only) and Raingard is the best spray to prevent and control powdery mildew and black spot on any plants affected with these diseases.
If you have powdery mildew on plants especially in Autumn you can return them to green quickly by spraying Wallys Super Neem Tree Oil at 5ml per litre late in the day.
The Raingard spreads and sticks the baking soda and prevents it from washing off in the rain for up to 14 days. This also applies to all contact type sprays such as copper.
If you add Raingard to any chemical weed killers your effective kill rate will be increased by 50 percent according to trials I have read.
About this time every year I have gardeners complaining about their broad beans flowering but no fruit setting.
The reason for no beans forming, after the flowers fall is due to no pollination, which is due to there not being any bumble bees around early in the season to do the job.
Bumble bees have to emerge as queens out of their winter hibernation and start forming a colony, till this happens and numbers increase not many beans set.
Later on the plants produce well.
Another thing that you can do to encourage any native bees or bumble bees to pollinate the broad beans is to spray them with sugar and water.
Dissolve a couple of table spoons of raw sugar into a litre of warm water and spray the plants. The same can be applied to any fruiting plant or tree that requires pollination.
Why raw sugar? Because it is natural and more appealing to the insects, it is also far better for you to take than white, refined sugar.
A lot of us will be germinating and growing seedlings for pots and gardens and every time we transplant, the young plants suffer.
This can be simply overcome by spraying the plants a couple of days beforehand with Vaporgard which greatly reduces transplant shock and is ideal to spray onto foliage you are going to cut for cuttings.
For cuttings dip the end in a bit of honey or spit on them, either helps.
If planting out in a windy area or near the sea you can give the plants a far better start by spraying them with the Vaporgard. Increase the yield, size of the fruit and flavour, of strawberries by spraying them every 2 weeks with Mycorrcin. Trials showed an increase of up to 400 percent, and that is a fact.
For extra big strawberries you may like to try my ‘Wally’s Secret Strawberry Food’. Strawberries bigger than apricots are possible.
For best overall results in the garden apply sheep manure pellets or Bio Boost (both are good) instead of any chemical fertilisers.
Spray the preferred plants (roses etc) and vegetables with Magic Botanic Liquid (MBL) every two weeks. Spray the soil around the plants at the same time.
Gardeners that have been using this natural spray have reported that they have never had such great gardens and crops before.
MBL makes a really big difference to the health of the plants and soil and you will be impressed.
Many gardeners will be spraying with copper sprays at this time and here is a big one, DO NOT mix any spraying oils with the copper. Sure you have been told in the past to mix the two together and many do so through force of habit.
The fact is the oil greatly reduces the effectiveness of the copper and helps wash the copper particles off faster in rain when compared to not having the oil.
Liquid Coppers are more user friendly than powdered ones as they do not block your jets like the powders do.
Soon aphids will appear on the new shoots of roses and other plants; if you have any of those old yellow cakes of Sunlight soap, simply lather some up in warm water and spray the aphids.
Best done when the sun is off the plants, later in the day. The fatty acids from the soap break down the aphid’s bodies.
If you do not have any of those yellow cakes then use Wallys Super Neem Tree Oil with Wallys Super Pyrethrum added.
Come check out
Wednesday 02 October
Riverside Railway, Brayshaw Park Station: School Holiday Programme running today, Vintage Diesel engine operating on the Beaver Line at 1.45pm along the Taylor River and the Omaka Line at 1.15pm. Check Details at www.riversiderailway.nz & Facebook for other information.
Stretch & Breathe Class for Seniors:
10-11am, St Christopher’s Church Hall. $3. 92 Weld St, Ph 0273852333 donna@stchristophers.co.nz. Lions’ Club of Blenheim:
Like to know more about the Lion’s Club? Meet on the1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month. For more details Contact Delphine Lee 029 942 5004. Picton Mahjong: Marina Cove Club Room, 53 Waikawa Road, Picton at 1pm. Phone Adrianne 02102591639 or Kaye 0211312331 for more information.
Whitehead Park Bowling Club, Redwoodtown: 9.30am to 12noon. Mixed roll – ups, all welcome, contact Bob 577 9436. Summer timetable starts October.
Heart Help Support Group:
A community group dedicated to the well-being of those who live with a heart condition and experienced a heart attack also offering support to whanau/family. Meet every 3rd Wednesday of the month, 10.30am12pm at Biddy Kates, 2 Market St. Phone Jenny Goss 0211629102. Blenheim Rock N Roll Club Nights:
7.30-9.30pm: Top of the South Rock n Roll Club, club nights at the Blenheim Bowling Club, bring comfy shoes and water. Great music, have fun and exercise at the same time. Phone Erin 0272341709.
Thursday 03 October 2024
Picton Poets:
4th Thursday of the month, 10.30-11.30am, Picton Library, all welcome. Phone Lyn 021 129 4342. Keep U Moving:
Gentle Walking Exercise for Seniors. 11.30am12.30pm St Christopher’s Church Hall. $3. 92 Weld St. Ph 0273852333 or donna@stchristophers. co.nz
Older Persons Seminar:
Every 4th Thursday of each month. Contact Donna 027 385 2333 or donna@stchristophers.co.nz
Table Tennis Summer Season: Blenheim Indoor Sports Centre run a table tennis session every Thursday, 6.30pm - 8.30pm, $6 per person to be paid at front desk.
Social Badminton Club: 9am-noon: Thursday mornings. Simcox Stadium, Battys Road. $6. All adults welcome. For more details phone Cathy 021 503 348.
Ulysses Retreads Group:
11am: Meet Brayshaw Park Thursdays. Ride to various destinations for lunch. Bring your laughing gear, a thermal to wear and a story to share. Library Book Club:
6.30pm-8pm: Marlborough District Library. We meet on the last Thursday of the month. Simply bring a book to recommend to other members, and enjoy listening to other member’s (including librarians) book picks.
Picton Library Book Club:
6.30pm-8pm: Picton Library and Service Centre. Join us in meeting new people and chatting about books. We meet on the first Thursday of
meets the first Thursday of each month.
each month. To register please email pictonlibrary@marlborough.govt.nz.
Community Choir:
Thursdays 7-9pm, during school terms. St Ninian’s Hall, 1 Riley Crescent, Redwoodtown (opp church). Come and join the community choir Creative Voice. All musical abilities and new members welcome. liz@creativekids.org.nz
Friday 04 October
Blenheim Family History Group in PICTON: Today 1.30-3.30pm. Need help with your family history research, come to the Picton Library and meet members of the Blenheim Family History Group. Contact Helen 0210390106.
Vintage Farm Machinery: Open daily, 10am to 3pm, Brayshaw Vintage Farm. Phone John 577 7442. Play and Learn, Blenheim Library: 9am-12pm. Care-giver led play-based learning for children under 5 years old based around a variety of fun themes. Books, toys, games, puzzles and activities available for use in the library. Term time only. Free and no need to register. Come along and connect with other families!
Saturday 05 October
Marlborough Quilters meeting: Every 2nd Saturday of the month at Marlborough Vintage and Farm Machinery, Brayshaw Park. 10am - 4pm. Join us to learn quilting or bring your own projects. Sewing Machines available. Newcomers welcome. Liz 0212067382
Blenheim Chess Club: Meets at Delicia Café, Scott Street, every Saturday 10am – 1pm. All welcome.
Ulysses Club: Every Saturday, Coffee at The Runway Café, 10am. Handover of Ambulance Ride Funds to Nelson/ Marlborough Helicopter in Nelson. Depart The Runway at 10.30am.
Sunday 06 October
Marlborough Farmers’ Market: 9am-noon. Marlborough A&P Showgrounds. Fresh produce from your local farmers. Tasty line
up of fresh and seasonal, gourmet and artisan produce and products that this region has to offer.
Picton Rail and Sail:
On the Foreshore - mini train rides and mini yacht hire to sail on our pond every Sunday 11am-3pm, operating every day during school holidays. Only 20 cents per ride/yacht hire!
Blenheim Bonsai Group:
Islington Gardens, Rowberry Road on the 2nd Sunday of the month 1pm-3.30pm.
Marlborough Tennis Club: 3pm to 5pm, Parker Street. Every Sunday - Social Tennis. Non Members $2. All welcome. Contact number is 027 578 6436.
Ulysses Social Ride:
Depart Railway Carpark at 11am to Rai Valley. All rides are weather dependent.
Riverside Railway, Brayshaw Park Station: School Holiday Programme running today, Steam Train Donald operating on the Beaver Line at 1.45pm along the Taylor River and the Omaka Line at 1.15 & 3.15pm. Check Details at www.riversiderailway.nz & Facebook for other information. Next open day Wednesday 09 October.
Monday 07 October
Table Tennis Summer Season:
Tua Marina Table Tennis, every Monday at the Tua Marina Hall, Tua Marina 6.00pm - 8.00pm $5 per person. Contact Janice 027 422 9095 Marlborough Stamp Collectors Club: 34 Arthur Baker Pace. Phone 021 157 3496 for more information.
Rotary Clubs in Blenheim: Monday & Tuesday evenings at 5.30pm. Rotary is a world-wide service club for men and women –doing great things in your community. For further phone Kevin on 0211 738 784.
Blenheim Scottish Country Dance Club: Every Monday at 7.30pm at Whitney Street School Hall, Whitney Street. Come and try it! You don’t need a partner. For information ring Miriam 928 4479.
Blenheim Badminton Club: Every Monday: Juniors 5.30-7pm, seniors 7-9pm, St Mary’s Hall, corner Francis and Hudson Streets. Anna or Mike, email blenheimshuttlers@gmail. com.
Whitehead Park Bowling Club, Redwoodtown:
Every Monday afternoon from 12.30pm to 3pm. All welcome. Contact Mike 572 4013 or John 577 5295. Summer timetable starts October.
Tuesday 08 October
STEADY AS YOU GO (SAYGO) Gentle Exercise/ Balance Class for Seniors: 11.30am-12.30pm,St Christopher’s Church Hall. $3. At 92 Weld St. Ph 0273852333 donna@ stchristophers.co.nz.
Toastmasters Club: In Blenheim meets 6.30pm every second Tuesday. Friendly group encourage shy people how to give a speech, how to tell stories, how to make business presentations etc. Ideal for young people entering the workforce. Older adults are welcome to share their experiences. No charge for guests. Contact: Brian Morris 0211922936. Persistent Pain Group: Meet every Tuesday at Biddy Kates, 2 Market Street, 5pm-6pm. For people with persistent and chronic pain and their supporters. All welcome.
Picton Line Dancing: Anglican Church Hall, Wairau Road, Picton from 10.00 to 11.30am. Entry $7, beginners welcome. Enquiries to Carol 021 2125252 / Raewyn 021 715484.
Marlborough Tennis Club: Parker Street. Every Tuesday 0830 to 12 Noon, Social Tennis. Morning Tea at 10am. Non Members $5. All Welcome. Contact number is 0275786436.
Lions Club of Havelock : Providing community service in the Pelorus area. Meeting every 3rd Tuesday at Havelock Hotel. Next meeting 15 October. Inquiries to Ian Cameron phone 574 2558
Coming Up:
Working Bee Dates for Te Whanau Hou Grovetown Lagoon: Working bees for tree planting, propagation and maintenance). Every second Sunday of the Month (excluding Easter and December). Meet at the Wairau Rowing Club at 9.30am. Dates: 13 October, 10 November. Korean Association of Marlborough: First Connect meeting on Sunday 13 October, 4-6pm at Riversdale Community House. For more information on upcoming events or how to get involved, please contact to Sohee Bae. Email: korean.marborough@gmail.com Kakaotalk app: 뉴질랜드 말보로 한인방 (Korean group talk channel) Phone: 0226091954 (AH) or 02102827887 (WH).
Picton Library Book Club
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Garden Visits
19 October 2024 9:30-4:00
GENERAL MEETING
MARLBOROUGH COMMUNITY LAW CENTRE INCORPORATED will hold its AGM at 12.15pm on Thursday 17th October 2024. The meeting will be held at Marlborough Community Law 14 Market Street | Blenheim Attendance via Zoom will be available Presentation of Annual Reports and Election of Office Holders.
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.
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.
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.
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
Wanted to Buy
St Andrews Church Self-guided Event
St Andrews Church Self-guided Event
The AGM report and constitution will be available to be sent out ahead of time if required.
MEMBERS, STAKEHOLDERS AND THE PUBLIC ALL WELCOME.
To confirm attendance please contact; Community Law Marlborough Phone: (03) 577 9919 or Email: reception@commlawmarlb.org.nz.
Four great gardens, one of which one has featured in Garden Marlborough.
Four great gardens, one of which one has featured in Garden Marlborough.
Come along and get some ideas on how to become more self sufÞcient in growing your own food. growing
Come along and get some ideas on how to become more self sufficient in growing your own food.
TICKETS $10
Raffle, Refreshments, Crafts, and Plants for sale. Bring cash and a bag and your entry brochure.
Entry/Brochure from Selmes Trust, Devon Garden Centre, Cresswell’s Shoes and St Andrews Church Office, 5 Henry Street. On line purchase from Church office 9am-1pm week days ph. 578 7119
TICKETS
Refreshments Crafts Raffle and Plants for sale. Bring cash and a bag and your entry brochure
$10
Entry/Brochure from Selmes Trust, Devon Garden Centre, Cresswell’s Shoes and St Andrews Church Office, 5 Henry Street.
Online purchase from Church office 9am-1pm week days - ph 578 7119
BAYS, Mervyn Allen:
Passed away on Saturday September 21, 2024 at his home at Springlands Lifestyle Village, Blenheim, after a long illness. In his 90th year. Dearly loved husband of Gina, loved father of Murray and daughter-inlaw Sarah, Steve and daughter-in-law Kels, Geoff and daughter-in-law Liz, Michele and son-in-law Mark (Australia). Loved stepfather to Debbie and husband Andrew, Veronica and husband Pete. Grandad to Sophie, Mimi, Harley, Cazzie, Bibbi, Jorgia, Laila, Sonnie, and Ethan. Step-Grandad to Max and November, Great-Grandfather to Kohan, Lincoln and Ayla, Llaria and Tiana. To honour Merv’s wishes, he was cremated on Tuesday September 24.
T: 03 578 4719
E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz
W: www.sowmans.co.nz
GULLERY: David Ronald: Slipped away peacefully on Sunday 22 September 2024, surrounded by family and friends, aged 80 years. Beloved husband of 52 years to the late Alethea, father and fatherin-law to Rachael and Stephen, Malcolm and Yasmine, Scott and Rachael. Doting grandad to Luke, Cherie and Jeremy James; Connor, Liam, Rose and Zach Gullery; Brett and Campbell Gullery. Eldest son of Ronald and May Gullery, brother to Graeme, Lyn, Stephen and Helen. Brother-in-law to Patricia, Jo, Neil, Chriss, Gary and the late Ray. Loving friend to his extended family of Jill, Sharon, Alanah and Toni. Messages c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz A private service to celebrate David’s life has been held. David’s service can be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.
Cloudy Bay Funerals
HODGE, Allen Wayne (Hodgie): Passed away peacefully on Saturday September 28, 2024 at Aberleigh Village, Blenheim. Aged 72 years. Dad of Trina, Leah, Tasha, and Rachael. Grandad of many and great-granddad of one. Messages may be sent to the Hodge Family, 68 Lucas Street, Blenheim 7201. At Wayne’s request, a private cremation has been held.
T: 03 578 4719
E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz
W: www.sowmans.co.nz
JUNGERSEN: Pamela (née Hislop): 05/01/1923 - 25/09/2024 On Wednesday 25th September 2024, after a short illness and with her daughters at her side, Pam flew away to join her husband Jorgen on their next adventure. At nearly 102 years old, Pam had an amazing life and brought to all she did a wonderful vitality, sense of humour and a genuine love of people. She was an extraordinary wife to Jorgen, mother to Kaja and Susanne, mother-in-law to Cynthia, grandmother to Justine and Jade, her partner, and James, great grandmother to Rudy and Salma, and friend to countless people across the globe. A huge thank you to the staff at Ashwood Park who were gentle, loving and caring which enabled her to have as good a death as possible. Messages can be sent to www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz A celebration of Pam’s life has been held. Me haere koe ki te whitinga o te Rā Go to the rising sun
Bay Funerals
Death notices
HUTCHESON, Alison Ann:
Passed away Friday September 27, 2024 at Bethsaida Retirement Village, Blenheim. Aged 82 years. Devoted wife of the late Robert, loved mother and mother-in-law of Bronwyn and Paul, Rachel Stanford and Renier, Nigel and Jenny. She took great delight in her grandchildren Holly, Jessie, Kelly, Jason, Ale, Luis, Bella and Robert, and her great grandchildren Elena, Carter, Valentina and Fletcher. Sister of Liz, John and Heuchan. Mum had a number of health challenges but they never stopped her generous nature, no one could visit and leave empty-handed – vegies, fruit (especially pears), or chocolates from her lolly jar in more recent times. We wish to express our heartfelt thanks to all of the incredible people who supported Mum and our family over the years and particularly since Dad’s passing. Although we will miss you immensely, you can now finally rest in peace with Dad. Messages may be sent to 12 Bank Street, Springlands, Blenheim 7201. In accordance with Alison’s wishes, a private cremation has been held.
T:
E:
JOHNSON: (Aby) John:
Passed away Saturday 28th September 2024, aged 84. Dearly loved husband of Janet. Much loved father and father-in-law of Rachel and Joe (London), Robyn and Chris (Hamilton) and Grant and Sara (Nashville) and loved Pop of Finn, Max and Oscar. Loved brother of Clare (Christchurch) At John’s request a private cremation has been held. An informal gathering will be held at the Marlborough Vintage Farm Machinery Club, Brayshaw Park on Saturday October 5th October at 2.30 pm. In lieu of flowers a donation to Marlborough Hospice Trust (Acc. No. 03 1369 0365207 00 ref. Johnson) or St John’s (Acc. No. 12 3167 0165142 00 ref. Johnson) would be greatly appreciated. Messages to 6 Easthaven Place, Blenheim 7201 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz
MOREL, Arthur Desmond (Des):
Passed away on Wednesday September 25, 2024, at Aberleigh Village. Aged 78 years. Loved husband of Katherine, father of five, Grandad to many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Loved brother and uncle. Special thanks to staff at Aberleigh for their care of Des in his last few months. In accordance with Des’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place.
T: 03 578 4719
E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz
W: www.sowmans.co.nz
PATCHETT, Ian Graham: Passed away, peacefully, at Ashwood Park Retirement Village on Thursday September 19, 2024. Aged 95 years. A dearly loved husband, and treasured Dad of Grant Patchett, and Glenda and Colin Simpson, and ‘Old Pop’ of Heath, Jen and Mark, Leanne and Mike, Caitlin, Sarah and Dara, and Caleb. Messages may be sent to 14 Fell Street, Grovetown, Blenheim 7202. At Ian’s request, a private cremation has been held.
T: 03 578 4719
E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz
W: www.sowmans.co.nz
PELVIN: Bruce Edward James:
Passed away peacefully after a short illness, on Tuesday, 24 September 2024, at his home, aged 82 years. Loved husband of Madgeline and father and father-in-law of Wayne, Les and Anne, Grant(dec) and Angel(dec) and grandfather to seven. Son of James Alexander and Gladys May Pelvin, brother of Betty(dec), Murray(dec), Rob(dec), Trevor, Don and Graham. Thanks to the hospice and all carers involved in helping Bruce stay comfortably in his home until the end. All condolences and messages may be sent to 36 Cleghorn Street, Blenheim 7201 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz A celebration of Bruce’s life has been held.
STEGGLE, Janet Margaret (née Perkins): Aged 75 years. Janet died on Monday, September 23, 2024, at Wairau Hospital with her loving husband Pete, and her friend Sarah Dudley, at her bedside. Special thanks to the members of Vines Knitting Group, and Jan and Stu, all of whom were friends over and above what could be expected. Thank you is inadequate, but it’s all I have. W. H. Auden summed it up: Stop all the clocks, cut off the telephone, prevent the dog from barking with a juicy bone. Silence the pianos and with muffled drum, bring out the coffin, let the mourners come. Let aeroplanes circle, moaning overhead.
Scribbling on the sky the message ‘She is Dead’. Put crepe bows round the white necks of the public doves. Let the traffic policemen wear black cotton gloves. She was my North, my South, my East and West. My working week and my Sunday rest, My noon, my midnight, my talk, my song. I thought that love would last forever; I was wrong.
The stars are not wanted now, put out every one. Pack up the moon and dismantle the sun. Pour away the ocean and sweep up the wood. For nothing now can ever come to any good.
T: 03 578 4719
E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz
W: www.sowmans.co.nz
WILSON, Lynette Ann (Lyn):
MACLACHLAN, David Alexander:
David passed away peacefully and with dignity, surrounded by his family, on Friday, September 27, 2024, aged 93 years. Husband to his beloved wife Elinor. Treasured father and father-in-law of Stephen and Mary, Nanette and Michael, Kay and Rudi, and Michael; stepfather to Victoria, Nicola, Jordie, Samantha, and their partners; Grandad Mac to his 14 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren, former husband of Lorna; brother and uncle to Marion and her family. David was a cherished friend and respected colleague in the aviation industry, known for his sharp wit and generous spirit. He lived a full and vibrant life, spanning Christchurch, Wellington, Marlborough Sounds, and Blenheim. A true gentleman in every sense. A celebration of David’s life will take place at 2 pm on Saturday, October 19, at the Slip Inn, Havelock, followed by the scattering of his ashes in Moenui Bay. Messages can be sent C/O Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, www.cloudybayfunerals. co.nz, or PO Box 9, Blenheim 7240. David will be remembered with love and admiration by all who knew him.
SMITH, Mervyn John: 14.5.1954 - 21.9.2024. Aged 70 years. Loving husband of Helen Lyon (deceased), loving father of Symon and Hayden (both Australia). Brother and brother-in-law of Yvonne and Clive Dasler (both deceased), and Graham and Sharyn Smith (Temuka). A family farewell has been held.
T: 03 578 4719
E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz
W: www.sowmans.co.nz
WILKINSON, Annette Dawn (née Teague): Passed away on Monday September 30, 2024, at Hospice Marlborough. Aged 72 years. Much-loved partner of Reid Boynton. Treasured mother of Kerry, Janna and Scott and mother-in-law of Fiona, Brett and Alex. Adored grandmother of Ella, Tom, Xanthe, Hamish, Beauden and Fraser. Cherished sister of Cheryl, Julie and Wendy. Former wife of Alan. Special thanks to the amazing team at Hospice Marlborough. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to Hospice Marlborough to a/c 03-1369-0365207-00 Ref. WILKINSON. In accordance with Annette’s wishes, a private family farewell has been held.
T: 03 578 4719
E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz
W: www.sowmans.co.nz
Passed away peacefully on Saturday September 28, 2024, after a short illness. Dearly loved wife and soulmate of Neil. Much loved and treasured Mum of Nicky and Joseph, and Christine; adored Nana of Damian. Forever in our hearts and memories. Heartfelt thanks to the teams at Wairau Hospital and Hospice Marlborough for their care and support of Lyn and our family through this difficult Journey. Messages may be sent to the Wilson Family, c/- 42A Brooklyn Drive, Blenheim 7201. In accordance with Lyn’s wishes a private cremation has taken place.
T: 03 578 4719
E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz
W: www.sowmans.co.nz
SHANNON, Arndrea Marie. 13.06.1968 - 01.10.2021 In loving memory of Arndrea. Another year has slipped by Arndrea but nothing changes our love for you. Forever in our hearts. Love Victoria, Georgia, Mum (dec) and Dad.
performance:
Blenheim Rowing wins big
Members of the Blenheim Rowing Club attended the New Zealand Masters Rowing Championships at Lake Karapiro in Cambridge over the weekend of 21st and 22nd of September.
This was the biggest Masters Nationals with over 400 competitors from Christchurch up to the top of the North Island, as well as a large contingent from Australian rowing clubs including Melbourne, Mossman, Richmond, Dragons, and Glebe.
Conditions were good for the whole weekend with a total of 143 being raced over the two day event. Competition was very tough with some events having
very close finishes. Blenheim Club had 12 members competing including the oldest competitor at the Regatta, 92 year-old Brian Hutchison. Brian picked up a gold medal in the J-M Men’s Single Scull, and also competed in a Double Scull and Quad with his son, Ross.
The club competed very well and came away with very good results and medals - gold, silver, and bronze. Coach Mouse Taylor was very proud of his rowers and their performances and achievements, even with late crew changes and substitutions leading up to and at the Regatta.
Some of the stand-out perfor-
mances were Will Karena who picked up gold in the Men’s A Single, Gold in the Men’s A Double, and Seb Bacchus who picked up silver in the Men’s D Quad with Mark Nelson, Will Karena, and Rex Pope. This crew also picked up a bronze medal in the Men’s C Quad.
The Woman’s Pair of Sarah Lissaman and Cynthia de Joux winning gold in the D Pair, continuing the domination of Women’s Pair. Picton’s sole competitor Anne McNicholl picked up a silver medal in the Women’s H Single Scull. She combined with Blenheim’s Willie Parker and gained a fourth placing in the Mixed GM Double
Scull.
Overall the club won gold in 4 events, silver in 1 event, and bronze in 8.
Results 2024 New Zealand Masters championships 1st Gold - Men’s A Single: Will Karena 1st Gold - Women’s D Pair: Sarah Lissaman
1st Gold - Men’s J-M Single: Brian Hutchison
1st Gold - Men’s Double: Will Karena, Seb Bacchus
2nd Silver - Men’s D Quad: Mark Nielsen, Seb Bacchus, Will Karena, Rex Pope
3rd Bronze - Men’s C Quad: Mark Nelson, Seb Bacchus, Will
Karena, Rex Pope
3rd Bronze - Men’s G-M Four: Keith Nelson, Barry Sayer, Shane Rohlof, Willie Parker
3rd Bronze - Women’s E Single:
Cynthia de Joux
3rd Bronze - Women’s E Four: Trudy Mercer, Sharon Bray, Sarah Lissaman, Cynthia de Joux
3rd Bronze - Mixed Four: Keith Nelson, Shane Rohlof, Sarah Lissaman, Sharon Bray
3rd Bronze - Men’s E Pair: Keith Nelson, Barry Sayer
3rd Bronze - Men’s I Single: Willie Parker
3rd Bronze - Women’s E Composite 8 with union RC: Sarah Lissaman, Cynthia de Joux
Stand-out
Rex Pope, Will Karena, Seb Bacchus and Mark Nelson picked up silver in the Men’s D Quad event.
Blenheim Rowing Club managed an impressive medal haul at the recent Masters Rowing Championships in Cambridge. ABOVE: A crew of legends - Willie Parker (77 years old), Shane Rohlof and Ross Hutchison (both 60-something), and Ross’ father Brian Hutchison who was the oldest competitor at the regatta at an amazing 92 years old.
