Marlborough Weekly 19 September 2023

Close shave

Psychological evaluation needed after attack

PAULA HULBURT

A man facing a raft of charges after an alleged hammer attack needs psychological assessment before he can plead.

Joshua Middleton, 52, appeared via Audio Visual Link at Blenheim District Court yesterday. He entered no pleas and sat silently throughout the hearing, a walking stick at his side.

His lawyer Rob Harrison told the judge he believed his client needed to be assessed further by a psychologist before any pleas could be made. Although Mental Health services had been involved when his client was first arrested two days after the alleged assault, Harrison says there is need for further evaluation.

Middleton has been charged with injuring with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, possession of cannabis and using a firearm against a law enforcement officer.

The charges relate to an alleged attack at Marlborough’s Marfells Beach on 17 July 2023.

Middleton has been remanded in custody and his next appearance is scheduled for 20 November at 1.45pm.

The New World team sporting newly shaved heads courtesy of Style Studio NZ for the Child Cancer Foundation fundraiser. Photo: Supplied.

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It’s a shave new world

PAULA HULBURT

Staff at Blenheim’s New World supermarket are sporting fresh new looks after having their heads shaved for charity.

Thirteen staff had their locks lopped off in just half an hour as Style Studio NZ’s Maxwell Saint and owner Tiffany Williams donated their time and got speedy with their shavers.

Now the newly shorn team are in the running to take the top place for the most money raised in a workplace for the Child Cancer Foundation.

Jenner Halcrow, Amy Fraser, Tanya Poa, Jacqui Botman, Bryce Walding, Jason Walker, Christine Farrer, Jess Gleeson, Alex Rangi, Kyle Flood, Chris Cole, Sue Gardiner and Gill Singh all

volunteered.

Together the team have raised $176 towards the foundation’s $210,000 nationwide target. Overall, $131,998 has been raised across the country so far – and there’s still time to donate.

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and staff are raising funds and awareness for tamariki with cancer all month long.

New World co-owner Tineke Powell says it would be wonderful for the team to raise even more money for such a great cause.

Every week in New Zealand, more than three kids are diagnosed with cancer.

The treatment these children undergo often means they need to

brave the world with no hair. Every dollar raised goes directly towards supporting Kiwi kids with cancer and their families

through the toughest time in their lives.

https://wigwednesday.org.nz/o/ new-world-blenheim

Model citizens prepare for showcase

Vehicle model collectors are scaling up the amount and variety of models on show at this year’s Nelson-Marlborough Modellers Club Scale Model Show.

While the club started having competitions in the 1980’s, the popular show has been running since 2009.

Paula Hulburt paula@topsouthmedia.co.nz

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Kirsty

Long-time member Warren Piesse is eager to present what he has been working on over September 23 and 24 at Blenheim’s Redwoodtown Hall. A joiner for 43 years at T.H Barnes & Co Ltd, the self-confessed model addict started building models in 1976. New Zealand transport company truck models are his favourite, he says.

“I spend time down Grove Road taking photos and these 1:50’s are what I’ve been doing since lockdown.

“I’ve always been a massive fan of Mack and Kenworth trucks like them, but my collection also extends to full scale memorabilia from trucks too.”

Warren’s model collection also features models of famous race cars, early vehicles and construction equipment ranging from a 1:15 James Hunt F1 model down to a thorough collection of

Matchbox cars.

Warren has photographed each one of the trucks he will showcase at the weekend having captured them on film first.

Each has been painstakingly recreated over the last few years using paint, water print decals and photo printing.

“These 1:50 models start as a plain white truck and I take them apart turn them into copies adding wheels and bull bars, mixing and matching bodies”.

“There’s a few little additions I need to make to some recent

ones like mudflaps, and the paint drying times haven’t been too kind recently but I’m looking forward to showing.”

From trucks, cars, race cars, construction equipment military tanks, fighter planes, and the odd boats, the show will have plenty on display, William says.

“It’s the first weekend of the school holidays too so it’s a great activity for the whole family, and we’re always happy to help new modellers to get addicted themselves!”

Warren’s scale model passion

started with 1:75 Matchbox car models as a kid and developed from there, with his father also having a passion for balsa wood control line airplanes.

“He always crashed his models –I much prefer mine sitting on a shelf”, Warren laughs.

The Nelson-Marlborough Truck Modellers Club Scale Model Show is open on September 23 from 10am to 4pm, and September 24 from 10am to 3pm with admission for $5 and under 12’s enter for free and $2 raffle tickets for fun scale model prizes.

Warren Piesse has been building models for 47 years and is looking forward to showcasing some of his work. Photo: William Woodworth.

New World staff member Christine Farrar gets used to her new look. Photo: Supplied.

End to weighbridge woes in sight

A fix to help frustrated drivers facing long waits at the waste centre has been found.

People wanting to drop off rubbish and green waste last weekend found their patience being tested, with some waiting up to half an hour.

A second weighbridge is being installed at the Blenheim centre on Taylor Pass Road and should be ready ahead of schedule for Labour weekend.

And in the meantime, council have revealed they will revert to a prior system to speed up the process.

Marlborough District Council Operations and Maintenance

Engineer Stephen Rooney says council bosses have been rethinking plans.

“When the new weigh bridge system was being evaluated advice based on experience at other sites which Council received, was that single in and out weighbridges would cope with the volume of traffic through this site.

“This has proven incorrect.  Part of the issue is the remerging of two streams of traffic, the general waste and greenwaste queues.

“I’m sure we’d all prefer that there is no waiting, but I would expect 5 to 10 minutes might be tolerable to most.”

Customers waiting in the queue over the weekend expressed their disappointment on social media.

A second weighbridge is being installed at the Blenheim centre on Taylor Pass Road and should be ready ahead of schedule for Labour weekend. Photo: RNZ/Supplied.

One wrote they had been queuing for 25 minutes to pay for $2.50 of greenwaste. Stephen says switching the system back until the new weighbridge opens will mean less delay.

“We are confident the new weigh bridge will provide a good flow of traffic through the site and reduce the wait time to acceptable levels.

“For the next five weekends we are going to revert to charging

greenwaste by volume rather than weight,” he says.

“This will provide the ability to split the two streams of traffic.  The general waste drop off’s will be using the weigh bridges while greenwaste customers will be diverted around the weigh bridges and pay at the greenwaste drop off area.”

Installation of the second weighbridge is underway, with Findlater Construction working on site. The new addition is set to open on 21 October as people start heading back out to their gardens in force.

“With the warmer drier weather this year this is happening earlier than anticipated,” Stephen explains.

Senior doctors strike amid burn out fears

Senior doctors have been picketing outside Wairau Hospital as part of nationwide strikes. Waving placards, staff gathered in protest of pay increases offered at a level lower than inflation for the third year in a row – pushing senior doctors to strike for the first time in New Zealand

Doctors are worried over staffing levels, patient safety and burn out.

A breakdown in pay negotiations between Te Whatu Ora and the ASMS means a third strike is likely on 21 September.

For the full story, see the Marl

PAULA

Vintage cars boost cancer support

WILLIAM WOODWORTH

Marlborough’s Vintage Car Club has put their horsepower together to support locals affected by cancer, raising $10,000.

Club chairman Rob Galloway is proud of the effort from everyone involved in their Daffodil Day fundraiser on the 20 August at Blenheim’s Brayshaw Park. Funds were raised from vehicle rally entry fees, gold coin donations and food purchases.

“The 36 Vintage Car Clubs from across New Zealand support Daffodil Day every year with each club picking their own event,” Rob explains.

“We’ve been able to raise $10,000 for the Cancer Society here each of the last six years, and it’s such a great cause to get behind and support our community.”

One hundred and thirty vehicles took part in the rally, showcasing a variety of vehicles from across Marlborough.

Marlborough Cancer Society’s Felicity Spencer says she is incredibly blessed and grateful to have the backing of the Vintage Car Club.

“Our club has far and away the best per capita fundraisers across the country and having their support is just incredible”.

“Everyone has been touched by cancer in some way, and this funding means Marlburians will be able to access treatment across the country.”

News In Brief

ART TOUR

Art fans are being given a unique opportunity to take a behind-the scenes look at some of the region’s arts, crafts and collections. The Alzheimers Art Trail takes place on 23 and 24 September between 10am and 4pm. Refreshments and a raffle will also be on offer. Tickets are $25 and are available from the Blenheim I-Site, the Marlborough Art Gallery in the new library building, or from the Marlborough Alzheimers Centre at 8 Wither Road.

BACK IN BUSINESS

After weeks of works on Wynen Street, the Blenheim CBD road is now open to the public. The street had been closed to complete work on the Library/Gallery and its surroundings, blocking vehicle access from Market Street.

BOX APPEAL

Organisers of this year’s Foodbank Street Appeal in November are appealing for donations of banana boxes. About 800 banana boxes are needed prior to the appeal. Anyone who can help can drop boxes off at MySpace youth centre on 18 Kinross Street behind Stadium 2000.

PADDLE IN PINK

Simply the Breast Dragon Boating team is hosting a give it a go day on Sunday 24 September from 10am – 12pm at Wairau Rowing Club, and invite people from all walks of life to join them in the boat. The team mainly recruits breast cancer survivors and is proven to hugely assist in breast cancer recovery but is open to all people who wish to grow strength and confidence through the sport of Dragon Boating. Simply the Breast are also after a sports science coach and new sweeps, responsible for steering and calls on the water, for the 2023/24 season and beyond.

Marlborough Vintage Car Club chairman Rob Galloway hands Cancer Society’s Felicity Spencer their annual fundraising check.

Photo: William Woodworth.

Schools’ game of zones

WILLIAM WOODWORTH

Two Marlborough schools are set to be zoned as growing roll numbers run the risk of overcrowding. Blenheim Primary School and Picton’s Queen Charlotte College (QCC) are working with the Ministry of Education to devise enrolment zones.

The move will not affect any students currently enrolled at the schools and is geared towards managing future rolls across the region.

Ministry of Education South Leader Nancy Bell says both schools have been experiencing roll growth.

“The schools in the area requested the Ministry help create viable catchment areas for each that we have been working with them on for several years.

“The new zones only apply to future enrolments at the schools, so only new out of zone students who are not grand-parented or gain a place through ballot will be potentially affected.”

Queen Charlotte College in Picton currently has 60 to 70 students attending from outside the proposed zone. Any changes will only apply to new students, explains principal

Betty Whyte and are in line with the future of the college.

“We currently have two busses, maybe 60 or 70 kids, that come from outside of the proposed zone from Blenheim or Havelock but their enrolment won’t be affected, and any siblings they have are highest priority for out-ofzone enrolments”.

The college is close to capacity at about 400 pupils and Betty says this reflects local students already having space secured.

“The Ministry of Education says we are equipped to handle around 400 kids without adding any new buildings which we’re already close too, so this zone implementation means that local kids have spaces here secured”.

Blenheim School has also seen their roll explode, with the first zone in the school’s history being put in place.

The school sits at 160 students currently, with seven classrooms across the school. Board of Trustees member Jack Feavers says students’ learning is paramount with the new enrolment scheme.

“While we’re incredibly proud of the reputation we have in the wider community that has led to a significant number of whanau selecting us as their school of

choice, ensuring we’re able to continue to provide the best possible learning environment for our Tamariki is front of mind.

“The proposed enrolment scheme will guarantee that we have adequate resources, staff and facilities to do that”.

Ministry of Education staff say some schools across Marlborough are at capacity and can’t take on any other students from outside their local area.

But there are still spaces available at other schools, she confirms. It is the ministry’s job to manage the allocation of students and to work with school boards to build

new classrooms if necessary. There are no new builds planned at the moment, Nancy says.

“The enrolment schemes for QCC and Blenheim School are new to both, with amended enrolment schemes for other Blenheim schools still out for consultation - so the final boundary areas are not yet confirmed, and we want your thoughts as locals”.

The proposed schemes and amended schemes are still out for consultation and are not yet finalised and are available to see and give your thoughts on at the Ministry of Education website.

Queen Charlotte College

Principal Betty Whyte says the new enrolment schemes means the future of Picton and Waikawa students is more secure. Photo: Supplied.

Spring squall

Forecasted gale force winds created minor damage across the Marlborough region on Friday and Sunday. Wind tipped more than 140km/h in exposed places on Sunday, while Blenheim Airport consistently had 80km/h winds, with gusts reaching up to 100km/h. Power outages continued to impact some isolated areas of Rapaura Road, Stump Creek Lane, Beacon Road and Lamberts Road on Monday, while Marlborough Lines was investigating outages at Elaine Bay, French Pass and D’Urville Island.

More wild weather hits later this week, with gale force nor-westerlies Thursday and rain predicted over the weekend.

Photo: Supplied.

Simply MAD success

crew titles.

Marlborough Academy of Dance’s (MAD) hip-hop dancers strutted from strength to strength finishing 2023 with shiny medals and a rising reputation.

The MAD intermediate crew

‘MAD NESS’ captured junior division gold beating 20 other crews at HipHop Unite’s national finals in Lower Hutt in June.

MAD entries also earned 2nd and 3rd places from Impact Nationals and Shakedown, both in Nelson, as well as winning Blenheim Dancing Society’s hip-hop

Having only had crews for three years, Fleur Hebberd is over the moon with the effort this year’s dancers have put in.

“It’s encouraging that our intermediate crew is already breaking through to national success”, she says.

“A national title confirms we’re good enough to compete with New Zealand’s best - ‘MAD NESS’ put everyone on notice.”

Tauranga’s SPACE Studio, who’s ‘Outkasts’ crew placed 3rd at the 2023 Hip-Hop World Championship, supplied choreography

to MAD crews – and MAD credit them with their step up in results across 2023.

“The last few years we’ve competed for the fun of dancing, enjoyed ourselves and not placed wellbut this year having MAD called out all the time was really exciting” expands Ruby Cook.

• Drainage certification

• Water tank installation

• Wastewater treatment systems

• Septic tank installation & maintenance

• Landscaping & land developments

• Foundation & site works

• Detailed earthworks & retaining walls

Proud to support Marlborough Academy of Dance Special shout out to my daughter Daliah Clarke for making her dad so proud and getting accepted into Ettingshausen’s Dance School in Sydney. What a legend!

Using routines put together by SPACE’s Summer Tyson, Ruby won the 12-13 year old Contemporary Solo National Championship and was awarded the most points overall at Impact Nationals alongside her crew successes. “SPACE brought fresh ideas from all of their success and that’s filtered down to all of our dancers because they’ve really taken us under their wing, and they’ve been incredible” Ruby says. “We’re all really close and the team has come along so much this year with performances and results, while also keeping it fun to go away”.

Senior dancer Daliah Clarke used a SPACE solo and a self-created routine, as well as one supplied by the admissions board, to win a spot at the Ettingshausen’s Dance School Diploma of Professional Arts in Sydney next year.

“Dance has always been fun, but the experience of working with the SPACE team massively improved my dancing and choreography”, says Dahlia.

“This year turned dance from a passion into a career path.”

Fleur stresses senior girls assisting with choreography is a huge part of her ethos, and knows Dahlia will feed ideas back to

MAD.

“Our girls know how and what they want to dance, so we embrace that”, says Fleur.

“There’s no pressure to go away and win – we just do our best because hip hop competition judging is subjective, you can’t bank on consistently winning”. With the competition season coming to an end Fleur says she is optimistic for the future.

“Next year’s planning is still underway, and we want to keep working with SPACE and keep creating opportunities for more solos, duos and crew entries.”

“The ultimate goal is cracking a World Championship competition, and if we’re lucky enough the talent’s definitely here!”

Hip-Hop Unite

MAD NESS – Junior Division National Champions. Impact Nationals

MAD NESS - 2nd in the Intermediate division, 2nd Overall, 3rd in Varsity division.

MAD ATTACK - 3rd in the Senior division.  Shakedown

MAD MEGA - 2nd in Mega Crew division. Blenheim Dancing Society MAD CULTURE - 1st in Junior age group. MAD MEGA - 1st in senior age group.

2023 CREW RESULTS

Members of MAD NESS with their National Championship medals. Back row: Charlie Bennett, Bonnie Larrington, Rylie Horncastle, Ajah Ivamy, Fade MacDonald. Front row: Ellie MacDonald, Icey Bradley-Kiwi, Dayna Bowler, and Ella Brown. Photo: Supplied.

WILLIAM WOODWORTH

Protecting Marlborough’s heritage for the future

Council’s Project Lead Arts, Culture and Heritage Nicola Neilson said the team at Marlborough Museum and Archives brought a wealth of experience and knowledge to their new roles. The team comprises Museum Manager Dr Liz Ward, Curator of Archives; Wendy Harnett, Collections Manager; Sally Papps and Museum Coordinator Sophie Wool.

“While the Marlborough Museum and Archives is temporarily closed, Council has concentrated on embedding the team, modernising systems to align with current best museum practice and performing an inventory of the collection,” Mrs Neilson said.

Mayor Nadine Taylor, who holds Council’s Arts and Heritage portfolio, said it was pleasing to see the museum and archives transition progressing so well.

“Marlborough’s rich history is important, not just locally but nationally and internationally. It’s great to now have the new structure in place and the people charged with preserving and protecting this heritage are highly skilled and experienced,” Mayor Taylor said.

“We look forward to strengthening the museum’s relationship with iwi, working together to look after the taonga placed in our care,” Dr Ward said. “Our good relationship with the Marlborough Historical Society is also very important - we are committed to this going forward.”

She has also been chatting with Marlborough schools about the future of heritage education in the region. “Any school is welcome to contact the museum to discuss how we can help,” Dr Ward said.

‘We have recently done programmes for both Springlands School and Bohally Intermediate. We worked with the teachers to find out what the learning objectives were and then made a programme to fit the objectives of teachers and needs of students.”

If anyone would like to check their donated items, they are very welcome to call Council to be put through to the museum or they can email marlboroughmuseum@ marlborough.govt.nz

The team charting a new course for the protection and preservation of Marlborough’s heritage gather at the Edwin Fox in Picton – clockwise from left, Wendy Harnett, Sally Papps, Sophie Wool, Dr Liz Ward, Karen McLeod, Mayor Nadine Taylor and Karen Knofflock

At the Edwin Fox in Picton existing staff, Maritime Museum Manager Karen McLeod and Visitor Host Karen Knofflock, continue caring for the iconic historic attraction. “The Edwin Fox has had an incredible year with more than 15,000 visitors and I am very excited at what the future holds under Council’s new management,” Mrs McLeod said.

The Marlborough Museum has some significant Māori taonga. New Museum Manager Dr Ward has been meeting and working with Te Papa and other museums with similar collections.

“We want to assure our community that Marlborough’s precious heritage collections and taonga are safe and being properly cared for,” Mrs Neilson said.

“Staff will soon be reaching out to volunteers for both the Marlborough Museum and Archives and the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum to implement a new and engaging volunteer program. If you would like to be notified about the volunteer meeting, please email the museum and you will be added to the list,” she said.

The Marlborough Museum can be opened by appointment for groups; the Archives are open by appointment only.

Mayor meets Simeon Brown

Data from the 1,742 completed surveys has been analysed as part of the business case review process.

The public were asked for their views on the ‘emerging preferred option’ and ‘hazard adaptation pathway’ for each of the five storm-damaged areas of the Sounds, for consideration in the business case.

Of those surveyed, 721 live in the Sounds, 647 live elsewhere in Marlborough and 107 live outside Marlborough. Respondents who provided area-specific feedback generally supported the proposed ‘emerging preferred option’, with more mixed results for the same area’s corresponding ‘hazard adaptation pathway’.

Over half of respondents said properties in the Sounds’ study areas should pay

a higher proportion of improvements. Almost half of respondents who live in the Sounds study area said they should not pay a higher proportion, whereas over three-quarters of those from outside the Sounds said that people living in the study area should pay more.

Marlborough Sounds survey results are in Bus

A proposed business case is expected to go to Council’s Assets and Services Committee on 3 October and then on to Waka Kotahi for their consideration. Council will consult all of Marlborough on the proposed solutions, probably via the Long Term Plan in April to June 2024.

More information can be found at www.marlborough.govt.nz/services/ roads-and-transport/marlboroughsounds-future-access-study

Te Kahu o Waipuna – Marlborough’s new library and art gallery - is on the bus route which stops right outside the library’s main entrance on High Street. Timetables, routes and fares are detailed on Council's website at

Mayor Nadine Taylor met with Simeon Brown MP, National Party spokesperson for transport (right), and Stuart Smith, local MP (left) last week. They discussed a number of issues including how to fund repairs to the damaged Sounds transport network and the importance of ensuring equity of funding for weather-impacted communities across the country. Mayor Taylor said she would continue to lobby the current and incoming governments to help fund the Marlborough Sounds’ recovery.

www.marlborough.govt.nz/services/busservices/bus-routes-in-marlborough

The service was temporarily unavailable after the shift from the old library to the new site but is now back up and running.

Marlborough’s heritage is in secure hands with a full team now on board to preserve and protect the region’s treasured history and taonga.

service to library up and running

The findings from the survey conducted during the second phase of public engagement on the Marlborough Sounds Future Access Study have been received.

GENERAL ELECTION 2023

Get to know your local candidates

As the 2023 election gets nearer, the Marlborough Weekly gives each of our local candidates the opportunity to highlight what they consider important. This week, reporter William Woodworth asks New Conservative’s David Greenslade and Green’s Richard McCubbin about some key issues.

David Greenslade, New Conservative

What are the key issues for Marlburians specifically in this election?

The cost of living. New Conservatives want the first $20,000 of wages tax free, this will allow people to buy better food, warmer clothing for the colder days, and household goods for enjoying warmer homes. All these items you pay GST so the govt tax intake will be lower but the GST intake will replace the tax losses.

What are the key issues for New Zealanders in this election?

Crime. New Conservative would address the causes of crime, being tough on youth first offenders to teach them crime does not pay, and boot camps for bigger crimes. For older criminals stricter time while in prison and strict programme to follow.

Richard McCubbin, Green

What are the key issues for Marlburians specifically in this election?

If you could implement one law change tomorrow, what are you choosing and why?

The first law we would change would be the school teaching young children of 5–6-year-olds to question their own sexuality and telling them they can change their sex. Sex education should be taught later in high schools along with body hygiene.

If someone you meet isn’t interested in voting at all, how would you convince them to vote for you?

If I met somebody who did not want to vote, I would encourage them by stating they have a right to vote, it is important to vote and if they do not vote they have no right to complain about any govt.

Key issues for Marlborough are the impacts that climate change is having and will continue to have on the environment (floods and landslips threatening our rural roads, sea level rise threatening the coast, increasing risk of fires and severe weather events, increasing temperatures impacting on viticulture, aquaculture and farming practices , and an ever increasing threat to our precious biodiversity ), the housing crisis, difficulty for people to access and afford medical services (if they can find a GP to register with in the first place) and lack of economic diversity leading to young people leaving the community.

What are the key issues for New Zealanders in this election?

The world is in a climate emergency now. Every day we see media reports of increasingly ferocious heat waves, storms, fires and floods from round the world, and this year the storms and hugely damaging and costly flooding in the North Island show how vital it is that we take urgent action as a country to join the world to reduce our carbon emissions and protect our planet. We must also take urgent steps to address the huge problems of poverty, inequality, and social injustice in Aotearoa. We are a wealthy country; all we need politically and personally is the will to take action to share our wealth more fairly.

If you could implement one law change tomorrow, what are you choosing and why?

I would introduce a law to make universal, free and accessible diagnosis, treatment and management for all illnesses and injuries — including fully-funded public and free provision of General Practice and Dental care paid for by a fair and progressive tax system. As a GP , I want to remove the financial barrier to patients coming to their doctor. This would help take the pressure off overstretched Emergency Departments and allow comprehensive management of illnesses before they become severe and much more costly to treat.

If someone you meet isn’t interested in voting at all, how would you convince them to vote for you?

I wouldn’t ask them to vote for me personally. I would urge them instead to give their Party Vote to the Greens. I would tell them that every single Party vote counts, that their vote can make a difference; and that each Party Vote for the Greens will add up to elect more Green MPs in government to fight for justice for environmental and social justice.

Opinion

MARLBOROUGH MUSEUM MOVE ON THE CARDS?

Shifting to town?? There’s no free car parking and have to pay a huge rent for any building they use. And if history repeats as it often does, it risks getting flooded out. Looking at the foot traffic a couple of days ago there were more people out at Pak and Save than in town. If people can drive to there, they can drive to Brayshaw Heritage Park and no one walks anywhere these days.

Kevin Andrews

Spend the money on an upgrade and attract more people on a regular basis. It’s called A Plan !

Rob Duff

Great idea moving into the old library or the Harvey Norman building. Tourists would love it and it would bring them into town.

Anthony Booker

Doesn’t need to move. Needs to be advertised more for visitors as to where it is.

Sara and Malcolm McSorley

Living opposite Brayshaw Park I see cars coming and going all the time, there is so much potential for this area if all the groups and the museum worked together

needs a revamp with new displays - send the wine elsewhere there are enough wineries telling the history of wine. Use the space for something else.

Michelle Herkt Simpson

The museum should stay at Brayshaw Park. The political scheming around this has been appalling.

Christine Hutchison

No way. I love visiting the old sheds with the vintage machinery and the old, cobbled brick walkways. Everything is lending to the older feel. This is the place we visited as children. Leave it be. Feels like the council just wants to free up land to sell off. The huge collection at Brayshaw Park would disappear and what was left would be housed in modern buildings with no feeling behind it. I love the park and walking around for hours. I don’t want to visit something that feels like a shop.

Michelle Robertson

This is probably what our sneaky Council has been planning all the time. What a ridiculous idea. The museum is fine where it is, it fits with the surroundings and has great parking. No doubt

Endeavour Homes

shaw Park set up and neglected it for years. Is this why it is closed for 11 weeks?? I thought the new whiz kids were going to have it transformed in a 2-week time frame. It’s what the Council said.

Sandra McNeilly

It’s just lovely where it is, all the history is right there with the parking and the buildings. Leave it alone! Just needs sprucing a wee bit but not too much or it will take that nostalgic appeal away… council need to stop the frivolous spending, they seem to do a lot of taking but don’t see much giving…

Sheryl Ruffell

Why? It fits perfectly where it is with our physical history where it’s being cared for and displayed so well. There’s plenty of parking too. Would you rather see our history in an ugly modern building? We don’t need to be trendy, or pushed around. Let’s keep our uniquely Marlborough museum and centre for heritage together.

Mary Butler

Is this why it hasn’t been open? The council are doing it by stealth?? Next minute we will be reading it has been done. LEAVE IT WHERE IT IS? Keep it all together.

Varley Broadbridge

COLLEGE JUBILEE A CHANCE TO CELEBRATE

That’s my form, 3P1, we were foundation pupils!

Helen Hannay

Maggie Lloyd, if I remember correctly, was our Dean and I felt she had a playful smirk underneath all of the seriousness - understanding completely that ‘girls just want to have fun’

Sophie Palmer

Is that Miss Kerse, the Principal?

Angela Johnston

END TO WEIGHBRIDGE WOES IN SIGHT

This has been a shambles for a long time. Changed from one thing to the other and back again.

Chris Abbott

Weighing by volume means you don’t pay more when it rains.

Jamarl Thomson

COMMUNITY DIGS DEEP AFTER VEGGIE GARDEN THEFTS

Well done to the Picton community and MITRE 10 for chipping in to get the gardens back up and going again. It’s spring now and your gardens will grow fast. Proud of you Bec xoxox.

Vicky Newport

That is annoying, but it shows you that people out there are struggling.

Kirsty Baldwin

COUNCILLOR REFUSES TO DECLARE CONFLICT OF INTEREST OVER RESEARCH ROLE

Seems legit. Great MDC is making sure outcomes are in line with the public interest. Research Center has achieved a lot in the past and it’s important that continues.

Grant Bowers

FREE RENTAL PROPERTY HEALTHY HOMES CHECK

For all new rental property clients, we will provide a free independent Healthy Homes check and the first month's management free

Hamish and Charlotte O’Donnell with dog Moose, beside one of the replanting projects of their Rai Valley farm. Photo: William Woodworth.

Freshwater project’s flow-on effects

Collaborating farmers, contractors, iwi and community groups are digging in to restore the Pelorus River’s health. Reporter William Woodworth spoke to those making it happen.

Rai Valley farming couple Hamish and Charlotte O’Donnell have been steadfast supporters of native planting and livestock fencing since before moving into the Pelorus catchment.

However, the progression of the Te Hoiere Project has helped them to develop on-farm conservation goals.

The Te Hoiere Project stretches from the headwaters of the Pe-

lorus, Wakamarina and Kaituna Rivers in Mount Richmond Forest Park, and their tributaries, including dozens of stakeholders and projects across the Pelorus catchment area.

Pelorus Catchment Care Co-Ordinator Aubrey Tai says that each contribution counts towards a thriving catchment and healthier rivers for everyone to enjoy.

“Most of the time, landowners are looking at their unproductive land adjacent to waterways and want to do something, but don’t have the time or resource to start - that’s where we step in”.

“We have carried out some form of mitigation work to improve freshwater with about 60 private landowners and eight public

iwi-owned land”.

Te Hoiere Project plants foundational wetland and riparian plants that are native to Marlborough, including carex, manuka, kanuka, cabbage trees and totara. The O’Donnell’s have included homegrown flax, kahikatea and beech saplings alongside the Project’s foundational species.

owned sites.

“Some landowners have multiple mitigations across different areas of one or many properties with a cross-section of land uses from farming and forestry to Council reserves, conservation land and

“Where possible, seeds are ecosourced from local seeds for local use as these plants are better suited to the climate and for the conditions”, Aubrey explains.

“Marlborough spans two ecological districts, with native plants are much different from Te Hoiere catchment to the Awatere catchment – there is a big difference sometimes to what nature thinks

“Most of the time, landowners are looking at their unproductive land adjacent to waterways and want to do something, but don’t have the time or resource to start and that’s where we step in help start or accelerate plans.”

Calves are kept away from minor culverts on the O’Donnell’s property.

Photo: William Woodworth.

is a boundary and humans think is a boundary”.

A planned collaborative plant nursery based in the Catchment hopes to provide native plants and horticultural jobs through a Council-NMIT-Ngati Kuia part-

Forgie.

“They help take pressure off fencing and planting mitigation measures, while providing improved pastoral productivity, improved soil health, aeration and biology, more surface soil con-

nership.

“We’re excited the Titiraukawa nursery could supply of native plants as restoration continues across the catchment.”

Hamish and Charlotte have also released dung beetles onto their property as part of the Project to assist with the ‘clean-up process’ of farming.

“Dung beetles provide an 80 per cent reduction in surface flow runoff contamination in floods and offer the cheapest and only on pasture self-sustainable preventative tool available of improving water quality”, says Dung Beetle Innovations director and project supplier Dr Shaun

servation, and increased carbon sequestration”.

However, Aubrey mentions that just like a native bush plantation takes time to grow, dung beetles are a long-term commitment which take a few years to see onfarm benefits.

Since funding was announced in 2019, Phase 1 of the Project has focused on limiting access for livestock to at-risk areas, planting native bush foundation species to protect streams from erosion and filter potentially harmful runoff near freshwater streams.

The Pelorus catchment waterways contain 14 native freshwater fish, with two ‘Threatened’ and seven

‘At Risk’ species, as well as native freshwater invertebrates. The fresh water then affects Marlborough Sounds water quality – including Green-lipped Mussel and king salmon harvesting sites. Dependent on funding, Phase 2 of the Project would begin to look at quality in the receiving waters of the estuaries and Sounds environments.

“The work we’re doing is for the long game, but you have to start

look at other farms for spots the project could approach or look at plantings we’ve done and wish I had planted more plants.

at some point, or nothing gets done”, says Hamish.

“It’s really become a hobby– I’ll

“However, the Project’s long-term benefits will last longer than we will and whether we’re here or not, we know we did our part in looking after the local environment and know the plants will continue to look after this land”.

We are dedicated to providing eradication programs targeting non-native plants and trees, helping ensure the preservation of our natural bush, forest and wildlife.

“The main ‘clean-up’ services dung beetles provide is an 80 per cent reduction in the surface flow of contaminants suspended in runoff in high rainfall events and offer the cheapest and only on pasture self-sustainable preventative tool available of improving water quality.”

“Where possible, seeds are ecosourced from local seeds for local use as these plants are better suited to the climate and for the conditions.” We are

about our land, our people and the sustainability of our future.

Dung beetle populations have shown to mitigate 80% of harmful contaminants from farms reaching waterways. Photo: Supplied.

Hamish and Charlotte have spent seven years at the 94 ha, 200 head dairy and cattle farm between Pelorus Bridge and Rai Valley township, with the Rai River running to join the Pelorus on one side, and pine plantations atop the hills on the other.

“The beetles had a wet start to life here but we’re hoping to see them flourish in the next year”, says Hamish.

“When we first moved here the farm was prone to flash floodssince we’ve been doing preventative planting, and pines have gone back in above, it’s much more manageable.”

“The culverts still need repairing from the storms earlier this year and the floodwaters got pretty close to the milking shed, but the plantings held up strong.”

Recent work on the O’Donnell’s property saw fencing and planting hillside gullies, as saplings were able to withstand the storms near permanent waterways and expect to do the same in tempo-

rary flash flood pathways.

Just as the Rai Valley community helped one another in the January storms, Hamish says that the Te Hoiere Project is just as important to back in the face of sim-

ilar future events.

“Everyone helped everyone during the floods, so everyone can help everyone mitigate future floods with better land management.”

“The work we’re doing is for the long game, but you have to start at some point, or nothing gets done.”

“It’s really become a hobby– I’ll look at other farms for spots the project could approach or look at plantings we’ve done and wish I had planted more plants.”

Unproductive wetlands across the O’Donnell’s property have been replanted with native saplings. Photos: William Woodworth.

With streams running directly into the Rai River, Hamish and Charlotte O’Donnell are conscious of their downstream impacts.

The Lipco GSG NV2 recycling over-row sprayer has cross-flow fans, designed for vineyards.

Birds of a feather find love together

PAULA HULBURT

Couple Ned and Nelly both have strong personalities and don’t hesitate to warn off others who venture a bit too close.

She likes long walks on the beach and foraging in the water while he enjoys sunbathing and likes to strut his stuff in the surf.

The pair of Variable Oystercatchers are one of around 10 breeding pairs within the 42km of coastline from Marfells beach to the Waima (Ure) river.

The loved-up duo is sponsored by Rick and Angela Stolwerk who hope other people will step in to sponsor other paired up birds as breeding season ramps up.

Every pair is unique in their own way, Rick explains.

“I find Ned and Nelly fascinating as they are strong personalities who are very protective of their nest.

“They take every opportunity to draw attention to themselves to drag you away from their eggs.

“If this distractive behaviour doesn’t work and you get too close, they dive bomb you squawking madly as if to say this is my patch - get lost.’”

Nelly sports white patches and stripes on her underside and has a slightly longer bill,” Rick says.

“Ned, who is often nearby, is pure black. Over the last two seasons, Nelly and Ned haven’t had any success with nesting, and none

of their eggs have survived long enough to hatch.”

The pair can sometimes be seen visiting the Flaxbourne river mouth to feed at low tide.

Sonya Roxburgh is employed by the East Coast Protection Group to help monitor the birds.

“As Nelly and Ned are not banded and we have only been monitoring for two years, unfortunately we don’t know a lot about them,” she says.

“Variable Oystercatcher live up to 30 years, and they could well have been nesting there up to 25 years.”

Sonya says without pest control, most eggs are predated be-

fore hatch. But over the last two years, the egg predation rate has dropped to about 45 to 50 percent, down from around 80 per cent.

“Most of this success is probably due to the large number of hedgehogs trapped.

“Last season all known predation on Variable Oystercatchers in our area was by feral cats. Some nests are also impacted by humans, we have had some nests abandoned due to constant disturbance by people and vehicles.

“They are all fiercely defensive of their nests and chicks.”

Sponsorship

Sponsorship would be $100 a month and sponsors would get acknowledgement of sponsorship on social media, invitation to events and field days, an update on their breeding pair during the breeding season and a visit accompanied by an ECPG group member to the breeding site of their sponsored pair.

Sponsors would also get the chance to name any breeding pairs not yet titled.

Variable Oystercatcher pair, Nelly and Ned, have strong personalities. Photo: Supplied.

Nelly pauses on the shore. Photo: Supplied.

The Complete Vineyard Servicing Business

Calvin Wilson, owner of Awatere Harvesting Ltd, likes nothing better than being in the wide-open spaces of Marlborough putting his various vineyard equipment through its paces.

Well known around the region for his expertise in agricultural machinery as owner of Smart Harvest, the contracting business happened almost by accident.

“About four years ago we had a harvester in the workshop that we were going to repair and sell on behalf of the owner and I got the idea in my head that I would buy it. I didn’t even tell my wife,” he laughs.

“Having worked for the biggest wine producers in the region as a diesel mechanic and being involved in a lot of training out in the field, I developed a passion for being outside in the vineyards.

“Putting the harvester through its paces when repaired, I quickly realised I enjoyed the challenge of

being a contractor.”

The company now has four harvesters in its fleet - along with tractors, trimmers, mowers, and leaf pluckers, enabling it to offer a wide range of mechanical vineyard services.

“The wine industry in New Zealand is very different from that in other parts of the world so we’ve had to adapt and modify how things are done,” says Calvin.

“For example, in some countries harvesters are only oper-

ational for six to eight hours a day whereas here they need to be functional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, switched off only for maintenance. We have had to adapt equipment to create the durability required and have also

developed specialised machines to work in more difficult conditions like hill country areas, enabling multiple activities to be done at once such as trimming and leaf plucking even on narrow rows and terraced hillsides where standard machines struggle.”

Thanks to the range of equipment and substantial expertise in Awatere Harvesting’s ranks, the whole year’s mechanical vineyard activities can be carried out by the company including ground cultivation and reposting, inter-row maintenance, pruning, leaf plucking, mowing, trimming, vine stripping, trash removal, grape harvesting and whatever else is required.

They are also the only company in Marlborough with a Gen 2 harvester-mounted Klima, a mechanised pruning machine that can cope with any areas not easily accessible by traditional equipment.

“Our philosophy is that if something needs doing, however tricky, we will find a way to do it,” says Calvin.

Calvin Wilson and the Smart Harvest team have developed a fleet of specialised equipment suited to the varying terrains of Marlborough vineyards. Photos: Supplied.

Contracting Marlborough wide for the love of Maci

Ethan Dewe, multi skilled equipment operator and owner of S.E Grading & Contracting has had over fifteen years of experience in earthworks and roading construction in the Marlborough region.

“I grew up around machinery and farms and have always loved the practical side of getting out and completing jobs for people,” he says.

“Throughout my career I’ve worked on a wide variety of tasks including vineyard developments, drainage projects and dam construction.

“I’ve also built forest roads and skid sites, tracks high up into the hills and have been involved in various civil works such as subdivisions, prepping of building sites and residential work such as landscaping and driveways.”

Over the years Ethan has built a solid reputation and name for himself within the industry due to his extensive skill set.

“The decision to establish my own company was inspired by my daughter Maci. She is so excited by what I do,” says the adoring Dad who offers grader, digger and dozer services.

“One hundred percent customer

focused I am loving the opportunity of undertaking a wide range of projects across the region.

“With the advantage of a tractor grader in my fleet that can deal with narrow roads some of my work involves building or main-

taining vineyard roads.

“I also work on headlands, establish new farm tracks and stock lanes, construct forestry roads and carry out site levelling. I am also able to construct parking areas for businesses along with res-

idential homes and driveways,” says Ethan.

“It always gives me a great sense of fulfilment to see that the job is done properly and in a timely and cost-effective fashion to every customer’s complete satisfaction.

“Honesty and integrity are extremely important to me and every task I undertake is completed to a high standard. I take a great deal of pride in my work, regardless of the size and scale of the job.

“I understand that clients have budgets to follow and I will sit down with them and work out the details of what they want to achieve and the best price available to do it.

“No matter what job is required to be done I am very happy to discuss the options available,” he says.

Ethan is highly regarded in the community by the quality of his work and ability to be flexible to get the job done efficiently, cost effectively and to a high standard every time.

Inspired by his daughter Maci, Ethan Dewe establish S.E Grading & Contracting after 15 years experience working in the earthworks and roading industry. Photo: Supplied.

The good folk at the US Climate Prediction Centre (part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) first issued their El Nino advisory back in May 2023 and currently are predicting strong EL Nino conditions (65% chance) to establish and persist through until early next year (95% chance).

Them’s pretty good odds.

Here in NZ, and more specifically Marlborough, EL Nino usually means more drier westerly quarter winds which will be a change from the Easterly conditions that have persisted over the last 3 growing seasons thanks to La Nina. Already, there seems to be change in the air and we haven’t seen the intense rainstorms that the last two Winters have brought. In fact, rainfall over June & July 2023 has only been 44 mm in Blenheim, well short of the 133 mm long term average. August 2023 is also on track to be a low rainfall month.

Before harvest though, we have got to get through the upcoming frost season. Dry soils and low humidity can increase the frost risk in Marlborough when a cold southerly blast comes whistling through late on a Spring afternoon. If wind machines haven’t been serviced by now, it’s time to get them sorted, along with ensuring a good supply of diesel is available when required for re-fuelling. When there is a frost event it’s also good practice to be on site when your machines are operating (but not too close to a working fan – they’ve been known to throw blades and suffer other mishaps), ensuring they are working as they should and shutting them off if wind speeds get too high. A bit of communication with your non-grapegrowing neighbours prior to frost events also goes a long way to ensuring good relations are maintained.

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Vintage 2019 was the last El Nino vintage that we’ve seen and while it was an absolute cracker for wine quality, it was a relatively weak El Nino event. The November 2014 – May 2016 event was considerably stronger but we have to go back to the 1997 - 98 El Nino to see one that kicked off as early as this current event seems to have. Given 26 years of additional climate change with increasing atmospheric and sea temperatures leading to increased atmospheric water vapour content, I’m not sure what to expect from a strong El Nino this time around. 1998 was a warm, dry, early season for grapes throughout the main East Coast growing regions and I’m sure that growers will have their fingers crossed for a repeat.

For growers without active frost protection measures such as wind machines, helicopters or frost sprinklers, passive measures such as close mowing should be employed. If you’re looking at sowing a Spring sown cover crop, waiting a bit to sow to ensure that your prepped and sown rows are still relatively bare through the early-Oct – midNov frost risk period is a good idea. Undervine weed control however achieved is also important. Bare soil absorbs more heat during any warm days leading up to a frost event.

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Arts, Craft and Collections Trail Fundraiser

ADRIENNE MATTHEWS

Dementia mate wareware means ‘to forget’. Alzheimer’s World Awareness Day this Thursday September 21st will throw light on the debilitating and distressing effects of the various dementia diseases experienced worldwide, including by hundreds of people in the Marlborough region.

The local branch of Alzheimers New Zealand carries out vital support for those living with the condition and those who care for them.

“Our purpose-built facility enables us to operate a five day a week day centre for those living with dementia mate wareware,” says manager Catherine Donnelly. “We run support groups for carers/family/whanau including early onset and ongoing education. We also have a weekly walking group for carers and people living with the disease, a monthly fun social evening and drop in cafes

in Picton and Blenheim.”

“Our Community Team is available five days a week to walk alongside people who are either starting out on this journey, or who have had a diagnosis for a long time,” says Catherine.

“They coordinate support from other agencies and share their wealth of information.”

Running the organisation takes a tremendous number of resources both monetary and in volunteer commitment.

Currently forty volunteers carry out a wide range of tasks including working in the day centre, assisting with events, driving vans that take club members where they need to go along with the maintenance required for the centre’s building.

“Alzheimer Awareness Day is a chance for us to join with organisations around the world to highlight the effects on those who are currently or will be affected by dementia mate wareware, to promote greater understanding

about it and address misconceptions that can surround it,” says Catherine.

The Alzheimers Marlborough Arts, Crafts and Collection Trail will take place this coming Saturday and Sunday 23rd and 24th of September as an important fundraiser for the organisation. Over forty artists, craftspeople and specialty collectors will be displaying their art in their own studios or in shared space in the Alzheimers Centre, the Marlborough Art Society Gallery and the Dudson Scott Gallery.

This is a self-drive event and tickets, valid for both days, can be purchased for $25 from the Blenheim I-site, the Marlborough Art Gallery and the Marlborough Alzheimers Centre, 8 Wither Road, Blenheim. Tickets are valid for both days of the Art Trail.

“This will be a terrific event and a chance for the community to really support those who live with dementia mate wareware,” says Catherine.

Molly Murphy Wittig’s work will feature on the Alzheimers Art Trail 2023. Photo: Supplied.

SPRING IS IN THE AIR

Fabric-A-Brac Hospice Fundraiser

1. Margaret Mills and Lyn Aubrey

2. Gwen and Pete Scammell with Jo Patchett

3. Ethan Mills, Suellen Beaman and Alice Mills

4. Erica Anker, Margaret Frisken, Norma First and Tracy Johnston

5. Diane Woolf and Leigh Somerville

6. Pat and Cat Buckingham

7. Good Bitches Baking Marlborough – Amy Maxwell, Bianca Zurchetto, Kate Birch, Lyndy Wright, Tamara Jansen and Susan Foster

8. Chrissy Rogers and Fran Gardner

New face on local cricket scene

Marlborough Cricket’s community voice will have a slight Aussie twang this season.

Eddie Swan, born-and-bred in Western Australia, is the province’s newly-appointed Community Cricket Development Manager.

The 25-year-old, who has a Bachelor of Education from UWA in Perth and a post graduate diploma in Sport Development from the University of Otago, started work last month.

He will provide coaching at different levels to the province’s young cricketers while offering basic skill sessions at the region’s primary schools with a view to building participation.

Eddie played cricket up to district level in Perth. He describes himself as a “decent” top order batsman and a “ropey” off-spinner and will turn out for Wairau Valley this year, although expecting to be “a bit rusty” after not playing for 18 months.

Having played the game since age four, Eddie gravitated towards

coaching immediately upon leaving school, starting with mentoring age group sides for five years in WA, then during a stint in the United Kingdom.

He said the Marlborough role was “a good fit right from the start”.

“[The job] had the right mix between the coaching and development sides of things.”

He had visited the province previously, on a couple of South Is-

land holiday trips with his family, and described Marlborough as “a bit of a highlight”.

“It was always an area that I wanted to come and spend time in, it’s pretty stunning really,” he added. Along with cricket, skiing is Eddie’s main sporting passion. He has also played Aussie Rules and hockey, describing himself as “a bit of a sports nut”. Having held sessions at eight pri-

mary schools so far, Eddie is impressed by the reception he has received.

“I have felt really welcomed,” he said. “The kids have been great at the schools I have been to so far.

“I can see there is a passion for cricket in the region.”

Eddie says his Aussie heritage is not usually a talking point among the kids he has met so far, “although I did have one kid re-

cently who said something about sandpaper, which was quite funny,” he added with a chuckle. “I did enjoy that … it’s all good chat.”

Changes

Leading into the 2023-24 season there have been some other administrative changes on the Marlborough scene.

At the recent AGM, life member Stan Lane was elected to the office of MCA Patron, replacing Alistair Sowman who stepped down after 17 years in the role. Brenna Nation was elected to the MCA Board with current director Vaughan Harris retiring, while Greg Stretch retired as Board chair after five years in the role, but continues as a director. Jonathan Davis was elected as the new Board chair.

Jarrod Englefield has stepped back from the head coaching role with the senior rep side, Andrew McCaa taking up a player/coach position this season. He will be assisted by Greg Logan, Matthew Stretch and Englefield in an oversight/mentor role. Mike Croad will manage the senior side.

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PETER JONES

Eddie Swan has joined the staff of Marlborough Cricket this season.

Howzat: Eddie Swan with a group of Renwick School pupils at a basic skills session. Photos: Peter Jones.

Tigers, Boars do battle up north

Tasman’s representative teams at the Ford National Hockey Championships in Hamilton last week both enjoyed something of a rollercoaster ride.

The women’s side started strongly, winning their first four games to top their pool, but came out on the wrong side of a couple of extremely close play-off matches to wind up fourth. The Tasman men also started well, notching wins in their first two clashes, but lost the remainder to finish eighth.

The women opened their tier two campaign on Sunday against Wairarapa, coming away with a 3-2 victory. Skipper Rebecca Kersten, Pip Lunn and Ruby Evans scored the Tigers’ goals, all in the third quarter, and although Wairarapa bagged a double in the final quarter Tasman held on to clinch a vital victory.

On Monday they took on Taranaki and prevailed 4-2. Sisters Stacey Lloyd and Pip Lunn, plus Veronica Hardman, scored in the opening quarter, with Mickayla Sweetman adding their fourth in the second stanza. Lunn scored from a PC, their first penalty corner goal so far. Taranaki picked up two goals later in the match but were unable to prevent the southern side making a perfect start.

The Tigers were back in action on Wednesday, against hosts Waikato, and came away with a 2-0 win. Lunn and Hardman scored the goals.

The following day the Tigers booked a semifinal spot with a 3-2 win over Southland. It was goal-for-goal until the 48th minute when Kersten scored her second goal to send Tasman into the top four play-offs.

In Friday’s semifinal the Tigers played the Canterbury Barracudas. Tasman scored first, through guest player Ella Scratchard, but Canterbury came back and managed to take it to 1-1. Unfortunately, the shootout went in Canterbury’s favour, leaving Tasman to battle it out with Wairarapa for third and fourth position. Again, a close match eventuated, Tasman going two goals behind in the first quarter before a penalty stroke converted by Kersten

helped them back into the contest. Unfortunately, that was the extent of their recovery, meaning the Tigers finished a creditable fourth.

Kersten, with four goals, was equal top scorer for the tournament while Lunn, who scored three goals, was close behind.

sive goal in the first quarter.

On Monday they took on Otago and came away with a 2-1 victory. Sam Fitzgerald scored their first from a penalty corner after just 11 minutes, then Eli Kepes added a field goal in the third quarter. Otago bagged a consolation from a PC but could

Netball fraternity honour their own

PETER JONES

The outstanding teams and individuals from the 2023 Marlborough netball season were honoured during a function at Lansdowne Park after the recent club finals.

Leading umpire Michelle Stagg was named Netballer of the Year. Michelle is now a regular on the national netball scene, umpiring eight ANZ premiership matches this season, involving the country’s top players. Voted most outstanding senior player of the season was Harlequins Indevin defender Wendy Trolove, while Brooke Harper, from the MGC senior A side, was named most improved senior player.

Awards:

Netballer of the Year: Michelle Stagg.

(merit). Most improved year 9/10 midcourt: Olivia Brown. Most improved year 9/10 defence: Shanaya McElhinney. Most improved year 9/10 player overall: Olivia Brown; Shanaya McElhinney (merit). Most outstanding year 9/10 attack: Sophia Nicholas. Most outstanding year 9/10 midcourt: Bree Flynn; Tyler O’Donnell (merit). Most outstanding year 9/10 defence: Tilly Tupouto’a. Most outstanding year 9/10 player overall: Sophia Nicholas. Most improved senior attack: Naomi Fowler; Zoe Jordaan (merit)

Senior

Overall, Tasman scored 14 goals, more than all the other sides.

Co-coach Denise Lloyd said, “the week was brilliant. It is so good for us to be there. We have been consistent in the top four almost every year. And it is really crucial for us to be represented there.

“The games came down to a couple of little moments which didn’t go our way. In the semifinal we were all over them at times and we just couldn’t put it in ... their goalie kept them in the game.

“I am really proud of the girls, all of them. Matt [Hair] and I felt we played better than last year and I think we are improving, although we finished fourth again, I think the competition was tougher this year.”

The Tasman men, also in tier two, notched an opening 1-0 win over South Canterbury on Sunday, Ollie King scoring the deci-

not stop Tasman making it twofrom-two.

The Boars played North Harbour on Tuesday following a quick turnaround and went down 7-3 against a well-drilled unit. Toby Bowden, Daniel Beveridge and Jared Buckley scored Tasman’s goals.

On Wednesday they came up against Tauranga and lost 5-1, despite Beveridge scoring an early goal.

The Boars took on Taranaki on Thursday, losing in a shoot-out. Dean Hawley scored Tasman’s goal in regulation time, which finished 1-1 before the shootout, which ended 3-2 to the North Islanders.

They went on to a play-off for 7th and 8th on Friday against Counties Manukau, who came out firing, leading 3-0 at halftime. The Boars replied with two of their own but ultimately had to settle for eight.

Person contributing most to netball: Sonya Masters.

Presidents Cup: MGC McKendry Ford.

Coach of the Year: Olivia Pinkerton and Jordan Peipi.

MNC MVP 2023: Kirsty Boase; Wendy Trolove and Brooke Harper (merit).

Most accurate premier shooter: Kate Gaudin.

Tokomaru Cup: Pelorus Havelock Service Station.

MNC official of the year: Sonya Masters

Umpiring

Junior umpire of the year: Gabriella Reidie; Sophia Nicholas (merit). Most improved umpire: Tracy Roughan and Laura Theyers; Georgina Raj (merit).

Most promising umpire: Natasha Cook; Jacob Collins (merit). Umpire of the year: Michelle Stagg

Year 9/10

Most improved year 9/10 attack: Hailey Crafar; Jess Curzon

Most improved senior midcourt: Delyth James-Sitters; Zara Jopson (merit). Most improved senior defence: Brooke Harper. Most improved senior player overall: Brooke Harper; Dakota Tepuia (merit). Most outstanding senior shooter: Paige Lovell; Hazel Glover (merit). Most outstanding senior midcourt: Sophie Robinson. Most outstanding senior defence: Wendy Trolove. Most outstanding senior player overall: Wendy Trolove

Age group

U16 most improved: Katie Poff and Jess Curzon. U16 most valuable: Brooke Harper. U18 most improved: Zoe Jordaan. U18 most valuable: Dakota Tepuia

Year 7/8

Most improved year 7/8 team: Rapaura School Ferns. Most improved year 7/8 player overall: Jade Hughes; Sylvia Bullen and Isla Wilson (merit). Best year 7/8 attack: Madeline Thomas and Izzy Taetuli. Best year 7/8 midcourt: Stephanie Kemp-Maua; Aurelia Daley (merit). Best year 7/8 defence Mereana Johnson; Georgie Fissenden (merit). Most outstanding year 7/8 player overall: Mereana Johnson.

Tasman Tigers’ forward Pip Lunn in action against Waikato.

Photo: Supplied.

Wendy Trolove was named player of the year. Photo: Peter Jones.

PETER JONES

Mako put the wind up Counties

Tasman breezed past Counties Manukau, scoring a 27-17 victory in their round seven NPC rugby clash at Blenheim’s Lansdowne Park on Sunday evening. The match was played out amid a gale-force wind that brought trees down around the region, fully tested the skills of all concerned.

Tasman played into the elements in the first spell and their game plan quickly became obvious. Utilising one-off runners, snipes around the ruck from superb halfback Noah Hotham and quick taps kicks, they attempted to starve their rivals of possession.

However, it was the Steelers who struck first, scoring the game’s first try after 12 minutes. As the Mako attempted to carry the ball clear of their goal line it was dropped, hooker Ian West-Stevens being left with a short gallop to touch down. Tevita Ofa’s conversion provided the visitors with a 7-0 advantage.

Tasman were battling to find their way into their opponent’s half, a Quinten Strange break giving them rare field position before handling errors conspired to allow Counties back into the Mako 22, from where Ofa landed a penalty to increase their lead. Four minutes later Tasman opened their account. A Counties kick travelled too far with the

wind’s help, allowing the home side a scrum on the Counties 22. Although the planned back move was botched, the ball ended up in the capable hands of local favourite Timoci Tavatavanawai who dashed over in the right corner. They backed it up 10 minutes later when, after charges by Mike Curry and Alex Nankivell, Taine Robinson crossed untouched for a vital score. Both of Robinson’s conversion attempts failed to reach the posts, testament to the tricky conditions.

On the stroke of halftime Tasman were held up over the line as the whistle blew on a satisfying first 40 for the home side.

Counties brought their own pos-

session-based game in the early stages of the second half, their dangerous runners proving a handful, but Tasman’s defence held firm. However. after 15 minutes Tasman got their hands on the ball and made no mistake, a scintillating Nankivell break sending winger Will Gaulter in at the corner. Again, the conversion was missed but Tasman were in the lead for the first time.

Their fourth and bonus point try came on the 23-minute mark, replacement hooker Quentin MacDonald scoring his 18th try for the Mako from a lineout drive.   Four minutes later they were in

again, impressive loosie Seta Baker unstoppable from close range. Finally, Robinson mastered the breeze to land his first conversion and stretch his side’s lead to 27-10 with 10 minutes to play. The brave Counties side, who beat Canterbury midweek, were not done however, flanker Sean Reidy scoring from close range after a lengthy TMO discussion, Ofa adding the conversion to reduce the gap to 10. But ultimately the day belonged to Tasman, who hung tough in the first half and clinched the deal in the second to maintain their position near the top of the NPC table.

Anton Segner was strong on both

sides of the ball, Hotham pulled all the right strings, Nankivell was his usual penetrative self while Baker had one of his best games, along with lock Mike Curry and flanker Max Hicks.

Mako co-head coach Gray Cornelius said his side was happy when they were able to play into the wind initially.

“The toss was important,” he said. “We were keen to play into the wind early, while the boys energy levels were high. Just keep the ball in hand and multi-phase. That was the plan, but sometimes when we got into scoring positions in the first half we just forced the ball a little bit.” Although happy with a 10-10 scoreline at the break it was stressed to the players that the breeze alone would not win the game.

“The message was, ‘let’s not stopped playing, the wind is there to help us when needed but we have to keep up the intensity’.” He doubted many of the team had played in such a strong wind. “That breeze was unreal and was a massive leveller.”

Next week Tasman take on Canterbury in Christchurch, an encounter Gray describes as “a massive challenge”.

Scores: Tasman 27 (Timoci Tavatavanawai, Will Gaulter, Quentin MacDonald, Seta Baker, Taine Robinson tries; Robinson con) Counties Manukau 17 (Ian West-Stevens, Sean Reidy tries; Tevita Ofa pen, 2 con). HT: 10-10

Mako lock Mike Curry takes the attack to the Steelers. Photo: Barry Whitnall/Shuttersport.

Hockey home and away

Marlborough’s young hockey rep sides have been in action at home and away recently, with mixed results.

On September 10, in the under-15 boys clash for the McDonalds Cup in Blenheim, Nelson won 2-0 while, at the same venue, the under-15 girls drew 2-2 with their Nelson rivals in the tussle for the McCallum Cup. The under-13 reps were also in action but no scores were taken.

In Nelson, on September 16, the under-15 boys won 3-0 over Nelson and 2-0 against Tasman, claiming the Supporters Cup. The U15 girls, also in Nelson, lost 1-0 to the home side then downed West Coast 4-1. Nelson won the J D Trophy Cup. The U15s will travel to Christchurch on September 24-28 for the South Island U15 Festival of Hockey.

Junior basketballers wrap it up

Enthusiasm and energy levels were high when Marlborough Basketball’s year 5 and 6 junior finals were contested at Stadium 2000 last week. Girls’ winners were Springlands Tall Ferns, from runners up Springlands Saints. The grade one boys’ winners were Witherlea Kings, with Fairhall Hoops finishing second. The grade two boys’ section was won by Rapaura Breakers, from St Mary’s Hustle while Whitney Lakers took out the grade three boys’ title from Seddon Sonics.

Photos: Peter Jones.

Action from the year 5 and 6 finals, left Sophie Barnes, centre Lucas Abbott and Roman Hoani Tau’alupe. Photos: Peter Jones.

Aiden Middleton in the under 13 rep match. Photos: Peter Jones.

Maia Watson on attack.

Billy Hurren takes on the Nelson defence.

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MARLBOROUGH’S COMMUNITY NOTICES

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MONDAY

RENWICK ARMS COUNTRY CLUB - CARD SECTION

2pm every week, we play EUCHRE. Springlands Tavern Restaurant. 16 Boyce St. $5. Ph 0272077631.

WITHERLEA INDOOR BOWLING CLUB 7pm Redwoodtown Community Hall. All welcome, no age limits. Only gear needed is soft sole shoes. Ph Moira 0274808272/ Heather 0273106675.

RUMMY-0 CLUB 12.30-4pm Bowls club rooms, Weld St. Ph Joy 5776191/Mary 5788747

BLENHEIM BEGINNER LINE DANCE CLASSES 2-3pm & 6-7pm. First lesson free, $6 per lesson after that. Senior Citizen’s Hall, 172 High St. Ph Judith 5787554 / 0212341095

BLENHEIM SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING 7.30pm Whitney St School Hall. Ph Heather 02102587325.

MARLBOROUGH GUILD OF WOODWORKERS Mon

9am-12pm, 7-9pm. Wed 9am-12pm. Sat 9am-12pm.

Wooden toys & projects. 1st Sun monthly 1-4pm. Brayshaw Park. Ph Philip 5705188.

CARE & SHARE A place for creatives to meet, encourage & share their skills. 9.30am fortnightly. Barnies, Nativity.

76 Alfred St. Ph 5783909.

ROTARY CLUBS BLENHEIM Meet Mon & Tues 5.30pm. World-wide service club for men & women doing great things in your community. For info on meeting venues. Ph Blenheim Club Secretary Andy Rowe 021842928. Blenheim South Club Secretary Dean Heiford 0212462642.

TUESDAY

MARLBOROUGH HERB SOCIETY Meets 4th Tues of month, 7pm. Various locations. To promote use, educate & identification of herbs. Email: mhsgarlicpress@gmail. com

RENWICK ARMS COUNTRY CLUB CARD SECTION 2pm every week, we play CRIBBAGE. Springlands Tavern Restaurant, 16 Boyce St. $5. Ph 0272077631.

STEADY AS YOU GO Gentle Exercise/Balance Class for Seniors. 11.30am-12.30pm St Christopher’s Church Hall.

$3. 92 Weld St. Ph 0213852333. Email donna@stchristophers.co.nz

SUNBELT TOASTMASTERS Learn public speaking. Improve your confidence. 6.20pm fortnightly. St Mary’s Community Centre. Ph 0276001788. E: sunbeltblenheim@gmail.com

RED HAT SOCIETY The Kiwi Damsels in De-Stress are part of a worldwide organization for women to enjoy fun, laughter & friendship. A specific dress code is part of the fun. This daytime group meets twice a month on the 1st & 3rd Tues mornings. Ph Tina 0211045945.

MARLBOROUGH TENNIS CLUB Parker St. 8.30am12pm. Social Tennis. MT 10am. Non-members $5. Ph 0275786436

SIT AND BE FIT Tues & Thurs 1.15pm Cost $2. Contact Riversdale Community House 5780469 / 0223007342.

BLENHEIM CHORAL 7pm. Wesley Centre, Henry St. www.marlboroughsingers.org.

BLENHEIM AIR TRAINING CORP 6.30-9pm RNZAF Base Woodbourne. Recruiting new cadets aged 13 & 15. E: 27sqn@cadetforces.org.nz

PICTON NEWCOMERS NETWORK 1st Tues of month

‘COFFEE & CHAT’ 10-11am, Seabreeze Café, London Quay. New to town? Need help to settle in? Interested in local activities? We can help! Ph Cathy - Coordinator 0210451799 picton@newcomers.co.nz

KNITTERS & SPINNERS Meet 10am, Picton library. Bring your knitting for this social catch-up.

PICTON TABLE TENNIS for adults 10am-12pm. Little Theatre, Picton. $4 per session. Meet people & get some exercise. Morning tea provided. New members welcome. Ph Ernest 0275888453.

RENWICK MENZ SHED 54 High St Renwick. Left side of church. Morning tea provided. Tues 8.30am-2pm. Fri 8.30am-12noon. Ph Dave 02102282592.

PICTON LINE DANCING 9.30-11.30am Anglican Church hall. $6 per class. Beginners welcome. Ph Carol 0212125252 or Raewyn 021715484.

MARLBOROUGH WOMEN’S CLUB MAHJONG

1-3.30pm $4. 12 Battys Rd. Ph Gail 0272214121.

WEDNESDAY

WAITOHI SOCIAL CLUB We meet 10am at the Picton Library, every 3rd Wed of the month for fun & friendship. Gold coin donation for morning tea. After meeting we go for lunch at one of the venues in Picton, should you wish to join us.

PICTON LIONS Join a worthwhile volunteer group, both female & male members wanted, good fellowship, all money raised goes back to Picton community. First Wed of the month. Ph Norman 0274336242

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL 7.30pm. Blenheim Bowling Club, 65 Weld St. Ph Erin 027 234 1709.

RAPAURA INDOOR BOWLS CLUB 7.30pm. Rapaura Hall. Ph Sue 021661717.

BLENHEIM PROBUS CLUB Retired/semi-retired? Meetings 1st Wed of the month. 10am. Wesley Centre. Ph Ann 5787046/Jan 0226353919.

PICTON - SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING 7.30pm. Picton Little Theatre. No partner needed. Beginner’s welcome. Ph Lynda 0212600860.

STRETCH & BREATHE Class for Seniors. 10-11am, St Christopher’s Church Hall. $3. 92 Weld St, Ph 0213852333. Email donna@stchristophers.co.nz

MARLBOROUGH MULTICULTURAL CENTRE hosts newcomers 10.30am-12noo., 21 Henry St. Opportunities for Newcomers & Marlburians to make friends, practice English & support each other. Ven y practica tu inglés. Te esperamos.

HEART HELP SUPPORT Community group dedicated to the well-being of those who live with a heart condition or experienced a heart attack. Offering support to whanau. Meet 3rd Wed of the month, 10am. Ph Jenny Goss 0211629102.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS casual parents/caregivers catch up. 10.30-12pm Town Plunket Clinic, 16 Henry St. MARLBOROUGH CHINESE FELLOWSHIP Chinese Christian group. Interested in the Bible or Christianity, desire to grow in the faith or would like to meet new friends, we welcome you. Wed 6-7.30pm, St Christopher’s Church. 92 Weld St. Ph Guan 0221642782/Mandy 022 4326886.

DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP 10-11.30am to support each other. Regular speakers, outings, share in a safe environment. Ph Alistair Crawford 0272883032.

MARLBOROUGH VINTAGE CAR CLUB MUSEUM Sun & Wed, 1.30 – 3.30pm, Brayshaw Park, Arthur Baker Pl, Blenheim. Donation appreciated. Other times by arrangement. Ph Bill 0275 784 322.

BLENHEIM PETANQUE CLUB Games held at courts, 65A Weld St, Wed 1-3pm & Sun 10am-12pm. Ph/Text John 021979323.

LIONS’ CLUB OF BLENHEIM Serving the community over sixty years. Would you like to know more about the Lion’s club or are interested in becoming a Lion. Tea meetings held 2nd & 4th Wed. Ph Delphine Lee 0299425004 or Helen Williams 0211458572.

THURSDAY

PICTON BRIDGE CLUB 6.50pm Port Marlborough Pavilion. Ph Judy 021685348.

KEEP U MOVING Gentle Walking Exercise for Seniors. 11.30am-12.30pm St Christopher’s Church Hall. $3. 92 Weld St. Ph 0213852333. Email donna@stchristophers. co.nz

COMPANIONS Ages 65+. 1st Thurs of the month. 1pm. Harvest Life Church, 22 Nelson St. Ph Avon 035792440, Lorraine 035781240, or Shirley 035783728.

OLDER PERSONS SEMINAR 4th Thurs of the month. St Christopher’s Church Hall. 10am-1pm. Speaker & Entertainment. MT & light lunch. $6. Ph 0213852333. Email donna@stchristophers.co.nz.

COPD SUPPORT & EXERCISE GROUP Tailored for people with breathlessness. Every 2nd & 4th Thurs 1.15pm. Redwoodtown Community Hall, Cnr Weld & Cleghorn St. Ph Diana 0272105780/Gillian 0274545102.

SOCIAL BADMINTON Thurs morning 9am-12noon Simcox Stadium Batty’s Rd. $6. All adults welcome. Ph Cathy 021503348

PICTON TABLE TENNIS Thurs 10am-12pm, Port Marlborough Pavilion, Waikawa Rd. All adults welcome. $4

incl. morning tea. Equipment supplied. Ph Ernest 0275 888 453.

MARLBOROUGH AMATEUR RADIO CLUB 2nd Thurs of month, 7.30pm, EOC, 4 Wither Rd. For all interested in Amateur Radio, Electronics & Emergency Communications.

KNIT & NATTER Blenheim Library every 2nd & 4th Thurs of the month. 10am-12noon. All welcome. Bring your yarn & have a yarn. For info ph Sue 5785317.

FRIDAY

NATIVITY TUNES FOR TOTS Music, food & fun for pre-schoolers & caregivers. Fri 9.30am. Wesley Centre, 3 Henry St. During term time. Ph 5783909 for info.

PICTON NEWCOMERS NETWORK ‘SUNDOWNERS’

5-6pm at Café Cortado on the waterfront. New to town? Need help to settle in? Interested in local activities? We can help! Ph Cathy - Coordinator 0210451799 or email picton@newcomers.co.nz

LINK Fun, board games & afternoon tea in the lounge at Nativity Centre, 76 Alfred St every Fri 1pm. Gold coin donation appreciated. Ph 5783909 for info.

UPBEAT ORCHESTRA All ages. Instruments. From beginner-grade 5. St Ninians Church Hall, Alabama Rd every Fri 5-6.30pm. Email upbeatorchestra@gmail.com for info.

MARLBOROUGH WOMEN’S CLUB AVO 2-4p.m. Guest speakers. $5. AT. 12 Battys Rd. Ph Dianne 0212147757.

SATURDAY / SUNDAY

PICTON DAWN CHORUS Checking volunteer trap lines, walking through native bush. Contact Esther - 03 928 4957 ext 1 email: volunteering@pictondawnchorus.nz.

MARLB HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY SPRING SHOW Sat 23rd Sept 10-3pm. $2 entry, children free. St Christopher’s Church Redwoodtown.

MARLBOROUGH QUILTERS meeting 2nd Sat of the month at Marlb Vintage & Farm Machinery, Brayshaw Park 10am-4 pm. Join us to learn quilting or bring your own projects. Sewing Machines available. Newcomer’s welcome. Liz 0212067382

RENWICK SOCIAL TENNIS Every Sat, 2-4pm weather permitting. Members $2 Visitors $5. 10 Uxbridge St (behind the Bowling Club) Ph Leigh Andrews 0211913034 or visit our Facebook Page for more details & other upcoming events.

BAHÁ’Í DEVOTIONS 1st & 3rd Sun, 10.30-11.15am, Marl Community Centre, 25 Alfred St, 12th Lane. Blenheim. Cnr Farmers carpark. www.bahai.org

THE ROADHOUSE BREAKFAST for car enthusiasts of all genres. 1st Sun of month, Riverlands Roadhouse, coffee cart on site, cafe has great food. 100+ cars at each of first two events.

BLENHEIM ROTARY BOOTSALE MARKET Railway Station carpark, Sat 8am-12pm. Blenheim Rotary Bootsale operating over 25 years, funds to local/international projects. New or used items, plants, food, coffee carts welcome. See bootsalemarket on Facebook.

MARLBOROUGH STROKE CLUB a voluntary organisation dedicated to the wellbeing of those who have experienced a stroke, and to the support of their caregivers. We offer support, friendship & education with various meetings held each month. Ph Vyvienne Dunlop 5783837 or 021929955.

MARLBOROUGH MOUNTAIN BIKE CLUB committed to seeing mountain biking flourish in Marlborough. We hold regular rides suitable for all levels of fitness & ability. Including back country expeditions, easy local rides, more serious mountain bike races. Marlboroughmountainbike@gmail.com.

BLENHEIM FAMILY HISTORY GROUP Interested in Family History Research & building your Family Tree? Contact us for advice & assistance. Informal gatherings held 3rd Sun of month, 1.30–3pm, Family History Rooms, Brayshaw Park. Ph Lauri 578 8385.

MARLBOROUGH FARMERS MARKET A&P showgrounds, 9am-12pm Sun, local fresh & seasonal produce & products.

REDWOOD MARKET Redwood Tavern car park, Cleghorn St. Sat, 8am-12pm. Plants, garden products, flowers, crafts including handmade soaps, cards & jewellery.

Raising money for your community.

PICTON RAIL & SAIL on the Foreshore. Mini train rides & yachts from 20 cents. Every Sun & the school holiday’s, subject to weather.

BLENHEIM RIVERSIDE RAILWAY Runs 1st & 3rd Sun of the month. We have Eftpos. Facebook / Riverside Railway.

MARLBOROUGH TENNIS CLUB Parker St. Every Sun 3-5pm. Social Tennis Non-Members $2 All welcome. Ph Joanna 0275786436

BARNABAS CHURCH BLENHEIM 4pm Sun service. St Ninians Church, corner Riley Cres & Alabama Rd. barnabas.org.nz.

MARLBOROUGH ASSOCIATED MODELLERS SOCIETY miniature train rides $2. 1st & 3rd Sun of month. Model yacht & boat sailing Sun, 1pm-4pm, Brayshaw Park. KETO SUPPORT GROUP meet Sat fortnightly (approx. beginning & mid-month) 10am. Revival Café, Springlands. Informal gathering of folk interested in this dietary practice. No charge, no obligation but the coffee’s great! For info Ph 0275057774.

REPAIR CAFÉ We’ll fix your small repair on site. Sewing, darning, bikes, small furniture, wooden items, toys, electronics & mobile phones. 9am-12noon. 23rd Sep (Monthly, every 4th Sat). John’s Kitchen, 2 Redwood St. Donations accepted.

GENERAL GROUPS

WORKING BEE – TE WHANAU HOU GROVETOWN LAGOON Plant, weed & mulch. Wed 9.30-11.30am. Thurs 1.30-3pm. Ph Rosanne 0210709267; and every 2nd Sun (10th Sep) meet at Wairau Rowing Club, Steam Wharf Rd, Grovetown. 9:30am-12pm, followed by a BBQ. E: Justine Johnsonmarlborough@gmail.com

ULYSSES CLUB Coffee 10am every Sat, at The Runway Café. For info on other rides, E: marlborough@ulysses. org.nz or visit marlborough.ulysses.org.nz.

NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS Thurs /Sat 7-8pm. Riversdale Community House, 131 Budge St.

WEEKLY STEADY AS YOU GO CLASSES Mon 10.3011.30am The Foundry, John St. Tues 1.30– 2.30pm, Union Parish, 40 Broadway, Picton. (2 doors down from Police Station). Tues 11.30am-12.30 St Christophers Hall, Redwoodtown. Wed 1.30-2.30pm, Marlborough Community Centre, 25 Alfred St, Blenheim. For more info ph Age Concern office 5793457. Cost Blenheim $2 per class. Picton $3 per class.

MARLBOROUGH COMMUNITY VEHICLE TRUST Have difficulty getting to medical appointments in NELSON? This trust was created to carry people to Nelson for medical appointments. Email soundsvehicle@gmail.com or Ph 5741311.

AA MEETINGS Marlborough area. Ring alcoholics anonymous for help to stop drinking. Ph 0800229 6757. www.aa.org.nz. Meetings: 7.30pm Mon, Plunket Rooms, 21 Bythell St / 7.30pm Wed Picton Model Railway, 1 Picton Wharf / 7.30pm Fri St Luke’s Church Hall, 20 Ferry Creek Rd, Spring Creek / 7.55am Sat Salvation Army Rm, 35 George St / 7.30pm Sun at Church, 54 High St, Renwick.

PICTON MEN’S COMMUNITY SHED 2 Market St. Wed 8.30am-2.30pm. Sat 8.30am-12pm Ph Bill Rogers 5735507 or Rex 021469191. A place of welcome for Picton’s menfolk.

BLENHEIM MENZ SHED 4 Dillons Point Rd, Bright Centre Complex. Where men of all ages meet to just chill out or do projects for themselves or the community. We provide equipment, tools & workspace for most woodwork & metalwork projects. Open Sat 9am-12noon. Mon & Thurs 1-4pm. Ph Dave 0212340057.

SENIORNET MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS Linkwater Hall, Queen Charlotte Drive. Our tutors are available for people 50+ who need assistance with their computer/ smart phone. Ph Secretary - Ian Cameron (03)5742558 to arrange.

BROOKLYN CROQUET CLUB Tues, Thurs, Sat, 1pm Golf Croquet, Whitehead Park grounds, Brooklyn Dr. Mallets supplied.

MARLBOROUGH TRAMPING CLUB A very active club. Mid-week, Sunday trips, overnight & extended trips. Info at www.marlboroughtrampingclub.co.nz or marlboroughtrampingclub@gmail.com

Teenage Mutant Ninja

Turtles: Mutant Mayhem

The Creator

Ruby Gillman: Teenage Kraken

Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie

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CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING: E: hellomarlborough@topsouthmedia.co.nz

RUGBY CLUB

Moutere Rugby Football Club is welcoming coaching and team management applications for the 2024 season for all senior teams.

Interested parties should apply by contacting either: Moutere Rugby, PO Box 486, Blenheim or moutererugby@xtra.co.nz.

Applications are due by the 16th of October 2023.

McKELLAR, Kay (née Fletcher)

Passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at Ashwood Park Retirement Village, Blenheim. Aged 82 years.

Dearly loved wife of the late Malcolm. Loved mother and mother-in-law of Kirsty McKellar and Derrick Moot, Rosie and Tony Lamain, Frances McKellar and Bob Anderson, Ross McKellar and Sarah Bull. Loved Granny to Sophie, Nick, William, Thomas, Angus, Lucy, Oscar, Hugo, Fergus, Sam, and proud Great Granny Kay to August.

Many thanks to the staff of The Oaks and Harmony Wings at Ashwood Park Retirement Village for their loving compassion and friendship towards Kay. Messages may be sent to the McKellar family c/- PO Box 110, Blenheim 7240.

We will all miss Kay, her cooking, curiosity and her joy of finding connections with people wherever she went.

A celebration of Kay’s life will be held at the Mayfield Chapel, cnr Hutcheson and Parker Streets, Blenheim at 1.00pm on Saturday, September 16, followed by cremation at Sowman Crematorium.

Respectfully cared for by GEOFFREY T SOWMAN FDANZ (03) 578 4719 www.sowmans.co.nz

JOIN OUR GROWING BUSINESS

NOTICE OF AGM

MOUTERE RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB

THURSDAY 26th

OCTOBER 2023, 7.00PM AWARUA PARK CLUBROOMS, SPRING CREEK

SERVICE CO-ORDINATOR

In this role you will be working as part of a team, coordinating our Technicians to fulfill the service and repair requirements of our customers.

The successful candidate will have:

• The ability to manage time and others well

• The ability to manage and enhance customer relationships

• Strong communication skills and computer literacy

• Demonstrated experience with agricultural and/or construction and forestry equipment

You

Apart from your technical know-how and nous, we are looking for an exceptional individual who is a strong team player that can adapt to any situation.

Players, Supporters and New Committees members warmly welcomed.

succession (2,3,4)

15 Somewhat (2,1,6)

16 Characteristic (7)

17 Ship’s master (7)

19 Flatter obsequiously (7)

20 Ornamental shrub-clipping (7)

22 Talk monotonously (5)

23 Deprived of (5)

• The ability to work well within a team and independently

We are seeking a Service Co-ordinator and experienced Service Technician to join our Blenheim team. To apply or learn more about these roles, please email careers@dne.co.nz