Marlborough Weekly 10 November 2020 by Top South Media

Tuesday 10 November 2020

Fireworks

A cut above

Page 6

Page 24

Shop & Win

Cashed up It was a lucky day for Blenheim man Ben Burridge when his wife decided she needed new plants –it won him $5000 cash. Marlborough Weekly’s popular Shop & Win competition received thousands of entries from people keen to support local businesses. And it was Ben’s visit to Marlborough’s Mitre 10 mega store that scooped him the top cash prize. The delighted Wither Hills vineyard manager says he had looked after the couple’s son, Luca, 4, while wife Amelia went to look at the store’s huge outdoor plant centre.

SEE PAGE 7 Ben Burridge celebrates taking out first prize in Marlborough Weekly’s popular Shop & Win competition. Photo: Paula Hulburt.

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TUESDAY 10 November 2020

News

Disgraced teacher gets parole

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A former Marlborough Boys' College teacher jailed for having sex with underage students has been granted parole after 10 months in prison. A three member board met on Friday and decided in favour of releasing Blenheim mother Jaimee Cooney later this month. Cooney was sentenced to two years and six months in jail. A spokeswoman from the parole board says Cooney was eligible for parole after serving a third of her total sentence. It is not yet known if Cooney will return to Marlborough, the spokeswoman says. "She appeared before an independent statutory body today, and it may be that she will have special conditions attached to her release from the board. "It is too early to tell at this stage." Cooney plead guilty in the Blen-

Jaimee Cooney could be home in time for Christmas. File photo. heim District Court to seven charges of sexual connection with two 15-year-old boys in December 2019.

Former Marlborough Boys’ College teacher and head of the languages department, Cooney, 38, pled guilty at Blenheim District

Court to having sexual relations with two students under 16 years old. Several other students were also targeted by Cooney over the 12 years she was a teacher at the school but were old enough to consent. She was sentenced to two-and-a-half-years imprisonment and became eligible for parole on October 17. The Parole Board say it is not yet clear what, if any, special conditions are attached to her release. A spokeswoman indicated she could be released from jail later this month but was unable to confirm if she would be allowed to return to Marlborough. Following the news on Friday, some of the Marlborough community hit back, calling her release a “bloody joke” and questioing why she is being released so soon.

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TUESDAY 10 November 2020

Waterway speedsters Hope for Christmas warned to slow down

for children of all ages, Foster Hope Marlborboth boys and girls, are ough’s annual Christneeded to help make mas present drive is under way. Christmas special. This year’s collection Foster Hope believes has a “B-awesome” that every child in fostheme with presents ter care deserves to know that their combeginning with that letter needed. munity cares about Foster Hope coordinaThe Marlborough Weekthem. Throughout the ly is helping as a collec- tor Leonie McLachlan. year they demonstrate tion centre for donathis by proving chiltions. From books, blankets, bubbles dren in care with a backpack of esbody care, beach towels, balls and sential items, they are a symbol of board games, there are plenty of op- our love and support. tions for gifts. Donations can be dropped off at All donations should be new and Marlborough Weekly on 52 Scott unwrapped, so organisers know the Street or at 7 Philip Place by 30 Nobest person to get the gift. Presents vember.

Paula Hulburt A clamp-down on waterway risk takers in underway as Marlborough braces for one of its busiest summers on record. Marlborough’s Harbour Master Captain Luke Grogan and his team are targeting speeding hot spots. The number of speed breaches is substantial and the potential for a fatality is growing, he warns. Speeding hotspots in Havelock Channel and Waikawa will come under extra scrutiny as speed cameras are deployed. “There are a lot of blind corners and people go through there at 30 knots. “This will cause a fatality if there’s an accident,” Luke says. Activity on the water is expected to rise this summer as people holiday in New Zealand rather than overseas. “This year will be one of the busiest summers on record and there will be lot of activity on the water. “It will be awesome to see people coming to the Sounds and enjoying the Sounds. “We want to encourage people to be safer and not just think of themselves but also others on the water and have that cour-

Harbour Master Captain Luke Grogan is gearing up for what could be the busiest summer on record. Photo: Paula Hulburt. tesy,” Luke says. “People underestimate the risks. They just see a nice sunny day and head out into the blue. It’s easy to forget that they’re going off into the wilderness. “If you add alcohol into that mix, then things are only going to escalate.” Fully calibrated speed cameras put in place last year on the Wairau River have highlighted a growing problem with ski joy riders. “We had a hunch, but the actual numbers are higher than we thought. A lot of families use the Wairau and rowers. “It’s an accident waiting to happen,” Luke says.

With about 3000 square kilometres under his care, Luke is appealing for people not to take risks. “Speed is the biggest problem. We’re increasingly spending our time trying to manage speed risks we see arising. “Jet skis are more accessible, the barriers to entry you might get with a boat are not there and the temptation to hoon around is quite high. “We’ve had a number of near misses, and also some serious injuries.” For help and advice on how to safe on the water visit www. marlborough.govt.nz/environment/harbours/safer-boating

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TUESDAY 10 November 2020

News

Singer hits high note Paula Hulburt

A Marlborough singer who almost gave up her calling is set to end the year on a high note. Blenheim girl Eden Kavanagh, 26, wowed audiences with her blind audition on smash hit British show The Voice but judges were less impressed. Now the songstress is performing full time and has been booked as part of the New Year’s Eve line up at Picton’s popular New Year’s Eve party. Being able to perform again is a big relief, says Eden, who gave up singing for a while after appearing on the hit talent quest. “I was heartbroken. I’d put my heart and soul into it. “I just wanted my mum and to come home and here felt like home,” she says. “I didn’t even want to sing for a while afterwards. I couldn’t.” Eden will also be one of the supporting acts performing at the Summer Sounds Music festival with Bic Runga at the Queen Charlotte Tavern in Linkwater in December. Born in Rangiora, Eden has divided her time between Ireland and New Zealand. Back in Blenheim for the last 18 months, her confidence has returned and requests for bookings have been keeping her busy. She has been lucky enough to pursuit her singing dream full

Eden Kavanagh is looking forward to a brighter future. Photo: Sarah Brown. time after giving up day job in the hospitality industry last month, she says. “I’m rapt to be home and delighted to be doing New Year’s Eve in Picton. “ I remember being on the foreshore one year in the crowds; the vibe was great, and I knew I wanted to be the one singing one day. The self-confessed ‘super perfectionist’ reveals that after lockdown people started looking to enjoy themselves. “People are looking to have some

fun now. I knew that after level one people were going to want to go out, have a good time and be entertained,” she says. For the Whiteria graduate who has a BA in Performing Arts, it is the realisation of a lot of hard work. Without the support of her family and friends she knows it would have been much harder. “They have been amazing,” she says. “I was a little hustler from a young age and when I was a kid, I used to create whole per-

formances and, without telling my parents, gave tickets to the neighbours and charged 50 pence at the door. “I don’t get nervous performing, it’s kind of like I have an alter ego and can literally walk out in front of a 100,000 people no problem. “It’s crazy as I’m so comfortable. I find it calming and think that comes from being well rehearsed.” For bookings contact edenkavanagh@live.com or @edenkavanaghmusic on social.

NEWS Pot pioneers: Marlborough-based medical cannabis grower Puro was granted a licence on Friday enabling it to plant 10 hectares of medical cannabis. More than 80,000 seeds and seedlings will be planted at Kēkerengū on the Kaikoura Coast. As well as receiving their outdoor cultivation licence on 6 November, Puro also received a licence to grow CBD and THC medical cannabis varieties at their indoor research facility at Waihopai. Tim says Puro has nine letters of intent with potential buyers and is working with NZTE to secure additional buyers in Europe. Contract won: HEB Construction has been awarded the contract to build the new $5 million roundabout at Battys Road in Blenheim. Site establishment will start from 9 November and road users should expect some minor delays the following week as the contractor prepares the temporary traffic management for stage one of the works. Penguin passes: A young penguin that washed ashore with the tide last week succumbed to its illness at the weekend. Under-nourished and lacking energy, the tiny penguin’s chances of pulling through were about 50-50, rescuers said. Ecoworld Aquarium & Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre director and penguin protector John Reuhman says the unnamed tick and liceinfested penguin “rapidly deteriorated” despite their best efforts.

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TUESDAY 10 November 2020

Lost tramper found after three rough nights A Marlborough man who spent three nights lost on the rainy Richmond Ranges is safe after being spotted from the sky. The 30-year-old man, named only as Joseph by police, was reported missing on Thursday by his next of kin after he failed to return home. He was rescued by a helicopter crew earlier on Friday after he was last seen at Red Hill Huts on 31 October. His rescuers say Joseph is lucky not to have been seriously hurt. “Cold and soaked, Joseph was badly blistered with cut hands from attempting to navigate his way out, but mostly uninjured and extremely lucky,” says a statement released by police. A search operation was started at first light on Friday by Police and LandSAR volunteers.

Three police search and rescue constables and six Land Search and Rescue volunteers, as well a private helicopter, were tasked to search the alpine route from Red Hills area to Lake Chalice. An eagle-eyed helicopter staff member spotted Joseph six kilometres from his intended exit route in the Motueka River area - an area that is heavily gorged and bluffed. “The message here is to be prepared and don't rely on digital technology and screenshots of maps to guide you out. “Take a physical map with you and familiarise yourself with the area you are tramping. “We'd like to thank all the volunteers who helped in this search effort and trampers who provided information on his whereabouts,” say police.

30-year-old Joseph, lost in the bush, was spotted from the air by a rescue team. Photo: Supplied.

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The team from Astrolabe joined staff at The Burleigh to pick up the coveted winner’s trophy. Photo: Supplied.

‘A prize worth savouring’ The winning pies were out in force and glasses of Riesling clinked in celebration. Astrolabe’s Spätlese Riesling 2017 paired with The Burleigh’s Jamaican Lamb Pie is this year’s overall winner in the Great Burleigh Pie Pairing Challenge. And delighted winners got together to mark the win and accept the sought-after trophy. Astrolabe chief winemaker Simon Waghorn and the Astrolabe team turned out in force at The Burleigh to collect their winnings. “Not to mince words, but this

is a prize worth savouring”, he says. Jane Waghorn-Forrest says Astrolabe organised “extensive” testing of Burleigh pies with the Astrolabe range of wines. “We thought the sweetness of this wine would go well with spices.” She says she is delighted the Spätlese Riesling won as it’s from her family’s home vineyard. Judges Fiona Fenwick, Saulo Camillo, Summa Donald and Jesse Mulligan worked their way through 47 wine and pie pairings.

Marlborough Weekly owner Summa Donald says being picked as a judge was an honour. “It was a tough gig, but somehow we managed try some of the best pies and wine Marlborough has to offer. “Congratulations to the Astrolabe team and of course Burleigh for their fantastic selections.” This is the fourth time the annual competition has been held. All the entry fees go to charity, with this year’s recipient being Marlborough Foodbank.

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TUESDAY 10 November 2020

Fireworks show sparks memories Watching their children light up with excitement at the prospect of this weekend’s big fireworks show sparks memories for these parents. They are all former Whitney Street School pupils and their children now attend the school too. The fireworks event, Lights Over Marlborough 2020, is the school’s big annual fundraiser. It’s on this Saturday night, with food carts, on-stage entertainment and lots of fun activities from 6pm, before the fireworks light up the night sky as darkness falls. Organisers encourage people to come early and buy dinner on site, or bring a picnic, and enjoy the happy

vibe. Parent Andrea Craig says the school roll and the fireworks event had grown since her days as a pupil, but the community feeling of the gathering was just the same. “It’s still a very relaxed evening out, there’s so much for the kids to do beforehand and the fireworks at the end are still really exciting.” Back in the day, the event featured a massive bonfire in the school grounds. These past pupils recall their parents bringing in their garden cuttings and piling them on the bonfire in the days leading up to the event. Families would also make Guys at

Two generations of Whitney Street School pupils are looking forward to fireworks fun this Saturday night. Pictured from left are Naomi Barton and daughter Emilia, Deborah Barton, whose son Sidney is in the foreground, Huia Crosby with sons Maui and Tamiti, Andrea Craig with son Sam, and Jeff Valk with son George. Photo: Supplied. home and carry them down the street to the school. They recalled raiding their parent’s old clothes - ties, stockings and cardigans - and stuffing them full of scrunched up newspaper to create their “Guy”. They also remember with amusement that attitudes toward safety were quite different in 1980’s New Zealand. Huia Crosby says she can’t over emphasise just how big the bonfire was - one year the flames were enormous, creating a spectacle in the night sky that was as unnerving for some as it was exciting for others in the crowd.

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These days Lights Over Marlborough is at a bigger venue and attracts about 5000 people depending on the weather. KiwiPyro licences pyrotechnician Michelle Harris oversees the display. Michelle grew up in Blenheim and remembers fondly attending the early displays at Whitney Street School grounds as a child. Now she organizes the music play list to the rhythm of the fireworks display. The event is organised by the school’s Parent Support Group and this year money raised will go towards an astro turf. The postponement date in case

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News

TUESDAY 10 November 2020

Delighted winners Gail Woollacott and Monique McKechie both won money in the Marlborough Weekly competition.

Shopping local pays off FROM PAGE 1 “Luca loves the helicopter in the play area. I stayed with him. We had a coffee after that and then filled in the Shop & Win form, never really thinking we’d win.” After getting an email from Marlborough Weekly asking him to call, Ben says he didn’t dare hope he had won anything. “Amelia mentioned that maybe it was the Shop & Win and we joked about it, not really thinking we had.” Thirty-three businesses from across Marlborough signed-up to take part in this year’s draw. Receiving the good news on Friday, Ben revealed it had been a great day all round for him and some of his colleagues at the vineyard. “I’m not sure what we’ll spend it on

Ben Burridge with Marlborough Weekly owner Summa Donald. yet, I’m sure there’ll be a bit of a debate about that.” Second place winner Gail Woollacott from Linkwater won $750 after shopping at Fabric Creations in Blenheim. A regular customer at the store, she says she will use the money when she goes on holiday. “I’m going on a holiday soon so it will go towards that. I’d forgotten all about it; it was a lovely surprise.” Motor Kanix co-owner Monique McKechie scooped the third prize of $250 af-

ter Senior Community Constable Russ Smith pulled her name out of the pile of entries. She planned to use the cash at this weekend’s garden fete in Pollard Park. “It’ll be great to use the money to put towards some Christmas gifts. “I never win anything, so this is a wonderful surprise.” Now in its third year, the Shop & Win competition has gone from strength to strength. Marlborough Weekly owner Summa Donald says the response is heartening, especially as people are finding their feet after lockdown. “Locals supporting locals are what this is all about and it’s more important than ever before to support our community. “A huge thank you to all the businesses who backed the initiative, we couldn’t have done this without you.”

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TUESDAY 10 November 2020

News

Hemp heroine’s soil surprise Emily Marten A former nurse experimenting with hemp to boost vineyard soil quality has uncovered an unlikely bonus – skincare. Marlborough vineyard manager and former nurse Kirsty Harkness was looking at ways to breathe new life into overworked soil. She co-founded cosmetic brand Hark & Zander after first planting hemp three years ago in a bid to revitalise overworked soil. But what she didn’t expect was that it wouldn’t only be the soil that could reap the benefits of hemp: It was an exciting discovery, she says. “It wasn’t until I looked at hemp as not only a way of breathing life back into the soil but also as a potential secondary revenue source that I really got excited. “Once we were confident the hemp wouldn’t take nutrients or

moisture from the vines, we began looking at the potential benefits of hemp for the body as well,” she says. Together with business partner Gabrielle Zander, an essential oil blending specialist, the duo founded cosmetics brand Hark & Zander. The pair are combining hemp oil with a mix of their own essential oils. Produced and made in New Zealand with the help of a team in Wanganui, the skincare range is sourced from local ingredients. The fast-growing hemp industry could bring in a huge $2bn to New Zealand’s export economy. But first hemp needs to ditch its negative associations with recreational cannabis, says Kirsty. “Hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant species but it is grown for industrial uses and contains negligible amounts of the psychoactive compound

Vineyard manager Kirsty Harkness has been using hemp to improve soil quality. Photo: Supplied. THC. “For New Zealand to take advantage of the billion-dollar

export potential of hemp, we are going to need to grow mainstream acceptance of a product

which was first used for industrial purposes thousands of years ago,” she says.

Tempting fete Wet weather failed to dampen spirits at this year’s popular Rapaura Springs Garden Marlborough a fete as hundreds turned out in support. The annual market featuring an array of stall holders from across Marlborough and further afield was held at Blenheim’s Pollard Park on Sunday. Umbrellas and gum boots were the order of the day for many after a bout of wet weather overnight. Marie Large and Abbie Large from Large's Rose Nurs- Showers cleared as the day progressed, with people happy to be out and about. ery. Photo: Malinda Boniface.

Salsa festival finds its rhythm A local dance group has been making all the right moves, scooping a national nomination for their contribution to salsa. Latin dance group Salsa Groove Marlborough has been nominated in the Cultural Manager/Promoter category at this year’s New Zealand Latin Awards 2020. The announcement comes in the wake of their successful salsa festival, SBK Back to the Roots held in Blenheim last month. The very first of its kind in New Zealand, the festival showcased the essence of Afro, Latin and Caribbean rhythms and the dance styles that evolved. Events Coordinator Karen Knofflock says the group are delighted to be nominated. “Salsa Groove are thrilled and honoured to be nominated for our service and contribution to the Latin dance community. “With the huge success of the

About 140 people attended Salsa Groove Marlborough’s successful SBK Back to the Roots festival. Photo: Shelani De Jager. festival, we continue to improve and enhance the scene, focusing on current trends and ideas for future events,” she says. The New Zealand Latin Awards recognise and celebrate Latin Americans and their work here in Aotearoa. Launched three years ago in Christchurch, nominations are

voted by the public and cover five categories: Art and Culture, Sports, Entertainment, Business and Latin Attitude. Salsa Grove run weekly group classes and social dance nights, as well as hosting dance weekends. To vote for the team at Salsa Groove Marlborough visit www.nzla.co.nz/

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TUESDAY 10 November 2020

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TUESDAY 10 November 2020

Feature

Glorious gardens of Wairau Valley

Marlborough has some of the country’s most breath-taking scenery with many hidden garden gems gracing the verdant Wairau Valley. It is the perfect time of year to showcase these beautiful private family gardens and the Wairau Valley Anglican Parish Country Garden Tour makes it easy. Now in its 29th year, the popular tour will this year take visitors on a memorable tour of nine beautiful and unique gardens. Enjoy the natural allure of these charming gardens, with each offering visitors a chance to see for themselves what makes them so special. Garden tour co-organiser Nicki Stace says the commitment by the community to help raise funds for the church is heartening. “It’s very generous of people and the support we get every year is amazing. “People are so willing to share their gardens which is fantastic and we are really grateful.”

Nine beautiful gardens are on show for the 29th Wairau Valley Anglican Parish Garden Tour. Photo: Supplied. From old world charm and an abundance of colourful flowers to sweeping lawns, spectacular views and majestic trees the tour has something to offer all. Even if you’re not a gardener, you can’t help but be impressed by the thought and care that goes into each. The colour and variety of planting is impressive with plenty to see and admire.

Take pleasure in the older, established gardens, some decades in the making or feast your eyes on some of the newer creations, cleverly designed to make the most of wonderful outdoor spaces. Both are testament to the hard work and dedication that goes into these beautiful gardens. Nicki says gardeners had to deal with gale force winds and a late heavy frost. “These are country gardens and the majority of people work, tending their gardens in their spare time. “This is our 29th year and it’s wonderful that people are so happy to support us.” Refreshments are available at certain stops with food and drink available to buy. A sausage sizzle and cold drinks will also be on offer and Mr Whippy will also be at one of the gardens. A selection of plants, potted up by long standing tour enthusiast Frances Powell, will be available to buy at one of the gardens, so make sure to bring some cash with you too.

The tour will be held on 21 and 22 November. Admission is $20 per person for both days and under 12 years old are free. Tickets from Devon Nursery, Selmes Garden Centre, Islington Nursery, Renwick Dairy and Roseland Pets and Plants.

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

Feature

TUESDAY 10 November 2020

Hot auto tips for warmer weather 11x2 $185 +gst

You may think you have an excep- with the fundamentals like fluids, tionally reliable car, however ve- oil and water. High temperatures hicles don't stay that way on their can also be hard on your battery own. As with any piece of equip- – get it checked to ensure your car ment or machinery, maintain and will last the distance. The popular swap meet is on this weekend. File photo. care for your vehicle and it will gen- • Check the condition and air preserally return the favour. sure in all tyres, including the spare, to make sure they are roadworthy. Weather is heating up Remember, heat is a tyre’s biggest - so is your car! enemy. If you have a minor problem with • Replace ragged wiper blades, and your vehicle now, there’s a much make sure the wash reservoir tank is A special event is being held in “Annually we have to cover the higher probability that it will devel- full and you’ve added proper cleanMarlborough this weekend to 40% shortfall in funding, so it’s op into something more in warmer ing agents – not dishwashing liquid. raise funds for a vital organisation. about $1.5 million a year. We’ve temperatures. • Check lights are work“It’s the second year we have held got such all an your amazing community A car engine usually operates at ing. With longer daylight hours you the event on the same weekend,” and people step up when they can.” around 95°C, depending on the may not use your lights very much, says convenor Dave Packer. The swap meet will take place rain make and model. When that same so that blown bulb can go unno“The idea came about when a or shine because it’s taking place in Jacks Tyres staff,with from left,family, Mark Scott, Hatfield vehicle is loaded your ticed –Rhyss until you need and it. Wayne group of us were sitting around a multi-storey carpark. Pattie. and camping gear, and is • Make sure your sun visors are dofriends one night having a yarn and some- “We will also have a car display crawling its way up a steep hill in ing the job; glare from the sun, eione said, “why don’t we have a outside, hopefully a good mix of 30°C plus heat (if we're that lucky!), ther directly or from other vehicles, Swap Meet in Marlborough be- modern and old vehicles,” says then this will be the time that prob- can blind you temporarily. cause there’s nothing like that hap- Dave. “We’ve got the Renwick lems may occur, so let's tackle ve- • If you are towing, ensure your pening here?” Menshed doing the barbeque, Stehicle maintenance beforehand and towbar and braking capability is up Dave says it’s solely automotive ve’s Coffee Cart will be there, and prevent a breakdown. to John the load hauling. Because and doesn’t involve bric-a-brac. St willyou be are onsite in case anyof the strain towing can place on YOUR LOCAL REFERENCE “People hire a space and sell autoone has an accident. Marlborough Simple checks to keep your car, it’swould vital your cooling and motive-related items to raise monAutomotive like to give speyou the safe,only saving youoftime point contact cial between you aslubrication systems arethe in top coney As for a good cause. ” thanks to theand following: Marand money: dition. phalt, tyres play a crucial role in ensuring your car is When Marlborough Automotive Consider a pre-trip inspection by lborough District Council, Fulton safe to be driven, which thereforeDo means thatan they initially came up with idea, they The Room, youMortgage have a trained technician; repairs can be & Hogan, decided to donate all the proceeds Gary Ching Locksmiths, BB Signs, should be maintained conscientiously. more costly on the road. Ask them emergency kit? to first responders in the local reNew World, Meter’s Butchery, conditions, pressure, tyrewarmer tread depth some toOverall check things like the air condi- In weatherare many New gion. “Last year we gave it to the Renwick Menz Shed, Creswell of the points that need to be checked regularly. tioning, cooling system, drive belts, Zealanders take off into the back local St John’s cadets and thisalong year Electrical, A1 Drycleaners, Mediahoses and clamps, At Jacks Tyres brakes, they take tyreand safety seriously and beyond, to escape thethey hustle we chose the Nelson Marlborough Works and St Johns. are committed to keeping on the Rescue Helicopter Trust because Entryyou is gold coin road. donation, with they have obviously had a bad year all proceeds going to thecommitNelson Being fully experienced, reliable, to make a permanent with covid. ” Marlborough Rescue Helicopter local, with great values are the ment to the Marlborough region “It’s great that they chose us,” so Trust. Outdoor display, open to all mostreally important qualities for Jack invested in a property at 9 Main says Paula Muddle, General Manmakes & models. NB: cash-only Mclauchlan who opened is tyre Street and went from a one person ager, Rescue venue. Stall fee $20 double shop Nelson 20 yearsMarlborough ago in Nelson. “We operation to three now.per “Between Helicopter Trust. space. To reserve a space are a 100% owned family com- the 3 local staff they have 95 email years “When out onand thewife roadteam and in Wayne: waiaruhi@farmside.co.nz pany, Asyou’re a husband the tyre industry” he laughs. anything it’s St John or Experience or Bob: bobgm1946@gmail.com. our own happens, son and daughter work and quality service are the fire service or us that attends See you there! for us and consider our staff mem- definitely what makes Jacks Tyres the The best Marlborough Automotive bersaccident. are an extension of our fami- the choice. To meet customPaula says they lost about 5 months Swap Meet & Vehicle Display ly. We all have strong family values ers’ needs in the busy times, will the of due to had Blenheim take place team on Sunday, November andfunding that is what wecovid are alland about” is backed up by to a lot the 15thstaff. from“We 10.00am 2.00pm he cancel says. That is of theevents reasonthey whyhad the Nelson send to one more Getting your car checked before hitting the road this summer planned which they had spent a lot in the MDC Carpark Building on Richmond based business is proud or two guys frequently over means from you will see less of this... of timing organising. Alfred Street. to provide local staff, who uphold Nelson to assist them” explains

Swap meet to support Helicopter Trust

11x2 $185 +gst

JACKS TYRES & PERFORMANCE:

11x2 $185 +gst

local values, have local knowledge Mclauchlan. and are also NZQA trained and Catering to a range of drivers from qualified. throughout New Zealand, the Supplying any brand of tyre and team can handle everything from doing everything from tyres, the smallest to the biggest tyres. wheel alignments, mags and bat- “Continuously check your motor teries, Jacks Tyres has built a7x3vehicle is a key for keeping yourstrong reputation over the years. self safe so we welcome people to “After dealing with a lot of $185 peo- +gst come in to check tyres pressure ple from Blenheim in our Nel- and tyre conditions. We give them son store we decided the move to free advice and guidelines” says Blenheim was inevitable” explains Mclauchlan. So call Jacks Tyres Mclauchlan. today and find out what they can So four years ago, Jack and his wife do for you! opened there second store, and af- Jacks Tyres 9 Main Street Blenheter only a couple of years decided im. 03 578 1255

11x2 $185 +gst

TUESDAY 10 November 2020

Learn how to dive this summer Sunny Marlborough is the ideal place for water activities over summer and if you have always wanted to dive, free dive or snorkel, Blenheim Dive Centre is the place to come to help you start your new adventure. The business is in an easy location in the CBD near the Kinross Street

carpark, so why not pop in next time you are town and have a chat with the friendly owners Bryan and Jennifer Bailey. They are very experienced and knowledgeable regarding all aspects of diving and can help you make decisions around what gear, preparation and training you will need before you start diving in the big deep blue.

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“Our main services are retail for dive and surf, dive gear servicing, and free dive training,” says Bryan. “Over summer, our main goal is servicing locals that dive and provide them with quality diving equipment whether someone comes in for spearfishing gear to scuba gear, we have great brands instore.” Blenheim Dive Centre also offers dive training for beginners to advanced. Scuba, free diving & snorkelling gear “Our retail side covers scuba and free diving gear, spearfishing equipment, snorkelling gear and items related to water activities on and below the water. In the lead-up to Christmas and over the summer months, Blenheim Dive Centre increase their range and the amount of stock they hold. Servicing of diving equipment “We provide dive gear servicing and do all our own equipment servicing and repairs in our on-site workshop,” says Bryan. “When you bring your scuba equipment in, it’s good to know it is being serviced by someone who knows what they are doing.” Blenheim Dive Centre has

Diving is a popular past time in the summer. qualified servicing technicians for a range of different brands. “We service scuba diving equipment, cylinders, spearguns and more.” Recreational, free dive & advanced training Bryan says the training they provide is split into recreational, free dive training and first level commercial dive training which is called aquaculture training. “Come and have a chat and see what’s available, whether you want to be a scuba diver or a free diver or it is something that you’re wanting to progress further,” he says. “If you are completely new to the sport, we can make your transition a

Beuchat NZ Proud to be supporting local business throughout Blenheim and the Marlborough District

beuchat.co.nz

Bryan Bailey Owner Blenheim Dive Centre

whole lot easier.” A longstanding business Established in 1986, Blenheim Dive Centre is one of the oldest dive centres in New Zealand. It is also the South Islands’ only PADI freediving facility. “Our location in Blenheim makes us central for all activities happening in the Top of the South. Having this family-run business allowed the Baileys to become even more active in the community. They forged a close working relationship with Queen Charlotte College and the Underwater Hockey sporting code that have lasted to this day. Over the years, all four children have been involved in the family business and have

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iving Instructor/Trainer at Blenheim Dive Centre. He can train you in all levels of diving. Bryan has been diving in the Marlborough Sounds since he was 12 years old and delights in sharing his experience and knowledge with everyone he meets. Bryan’s love of travel has motivated him to offer annual overseas dive experiences that his father began many years before. The trips offer the ideal winter getaway for ardent divers and their partners. “We have a really good core of returning customers that we do overseas trips for as far away as Palau, Tahiti and Indonesia,” says Bryan. A fantastic sport to take up

There are many places in Marlborough where divers can explore and enjoy the undersea world. added to it in their own way. In 2008, Bryan stepped up and took over from his father, Kevin. Today Bryan and Jennifer continue to run the business together.

Highly experienced instructor Bryan Bailey is a PADI Master SCUBA Instructor and Freed-

Diving is a fantastic sport to get into and the Blenheim Dive Centre is the place to come for quality dive gear, training, advice, and servicing of equipment. If you have friends or family that are interested in diving as well, why not invite them to come with you when you visit the store? Blenheim Dive Centre is located at 9 Scott Street, Blenheim. Phone 03 578 0331 or email bdc@xtra.co.nz. Opening Hours are: Mon-Fri 9.00am – 5.00pm. Sat: 9.00am – 2.00pm. To find out more, visit www. blenheimdivecentre.co.nz.

TUESDAY 10 November 2020

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Stadium 2000 – our ‘centre of activity’ for two decades Peter Jones What began in 1996 as the seed of an idea, then became a reality in the year 2000, has now reached a significant milestone. This weekend Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000 cele-

brates 20 years of existence, having weathered early opposition then battled past a series of challenges over the past two decades to become an integral part of the local sport and recreational scene. To mark the auspicious oc-

casion, the Stadium Trust have decided to make their many facilities available to the public at no charge from 8.30am-5pm both Saturday and Sunday, November 14-15. Patrons will be able to take advantage of the Aquatic

Centre and gymnasium facilities, where staff will be available to help those less familiar with the equipment. On the main stadium floor, leading basketball coach Mike Fitchett will be on hand to hold workshops

with current players from 10am-12pm, then with other interested folk from 1pm-3pm. On Sunday a 3x3 open basketball event is planned. Futsal and volleyball equipment will be set up on the other courts, with help also

available for those keen to try their skills. The squash courts are also able to be used, based around current bookings. Outdoor pool heated Coinciding with the 20year celebrations is an upgrade of the Stadium’s

Some of the team behind the Stadium 2000 success story are, from left, Marlborough Lines chief executive Tim Cosgrove, Blenheim Toyota chief executive Scott McDermid, long-term trustee Peter Baker, Stadium Trust chairman Luke van Velthooven, Stadium general manager Bridget Taylor and Marlborough Mayor John Leggett. Photo: Peter Jones.

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aquatic experience. For the first time, since initial trials in 2019, the outdoor pool will be heated. The water is expected to be warmed to 24 degrees, a figure which will rise with solar heating, providing a refreshing dip. Along with free entry this weekend from 12-5pm, inflatables and the usual water features will be accessible. Stadium 2000 general manager Bridget Taylor said that, while there would be spot prizes and

giveaways on offer over the weekend, another incentive was the $199 pool and gym membership package available only during the 20th anniversary month. She underlined the on-going support of a series of sponsors, suggesting “it would be difficult to operate without their help”, among them Marlborough Lines, Blenheim Toyota, the Marlborough District Council, the Redwood and Pelorus Trusts and David

03 578 9988

James Landscaping for providing plants in the outdoor area. From a dream to reality The evolution of Stadium 2000 “from a dream to reality” was relatively short, but not without struggles and controversy. The seed for the Stadium’s construction was planted in 1996 when local identities Malcolm Aitken and Elizabeth Winter, both unhappy with facilities at the aged Centennial Hall, decided it was time for action.

www.lundonslaw.com

TUESDAY 10 November 2020

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TUESDAY 10 November 2020

They saw a glaring need for a new, purpose-built stadium and found an ally in Luke van Velthooven, who had recently returned to Blenheim with experience in the construction industry. In 1998 the Stadium Trust was formed with founding Trustees, chaired by Luke, and comprising Pete Baker, Graeme Taylor, David Winstanley, Jeff Pascoe, Margy Crosby and Elizabeth Winter - local people with a passion for sport, recreation and progress. Behind the mantra “a kid in sport stays out of court” a series of fundraising ventures ensued, including a launch dinner in August 1998 where world-class runners Sir Murray Halberg and Dick Tayler spoke, a choir sang the “stadium song” and local gymnasts performed. Getting the much-needed Marlborough District Council support for the venture proved more challenging, financial support initially being approved, then rescinded following a local body election, be-

RESTAURANT AND BAR

The gymnasium is always a popular destination. fore gaining favour once more. Although opponents of the concept were often vocal and persistent, the trustees forged ahead, forming founding memberships with local sporting bodies, including netball, basketball, squash and volleyball. Through a combination of council and community trust funding, lotteries grants, grassroots fundraising, plus the sale of Centennial Hall and the Mitre 10 building, they raised the necessary funds and saw work begin in 1999. Local firm Robinson Construction completed the job

under budget and on time, the Stadium being officially opened on October 28, 2000 with Paul Tredinnick as CEO. Since then the Stadium has become, as their logo suggests, Blenheim’s “centre of activity” and, in 2010, was judged the best public recreation centre in the country. The Trust have had to weather a couple of storms along the way including the 2016 Kaikoura earthquake, which saw strengthening work undertaken from 2016-19, and the 2020 COVID pandemic, but through careful management have maintained the Stadi-

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The stadium hosted top-class netball earlier this year when the Tactix played the Pulse. um’s position as the province’s sporting and recreation hub. There have been several upgrades along the way. The main improvement came in April, 2012 when the Aquatic Centre was opened, providing a highclass water-activity and gymnasium-based facility. The Stadium Trust also expanded their commercial operators and bought the downstairs gym, previously privately-tenanted. As part of the original Stadium agreement, the skating rink on Kinross St was rebuilt at College Park in 1999.

Luke, who has been chair of the Trust since inception, feels justifiably proud of the Stadium and the fact it has “delivered from the very first year and met community expectations”. He described the Stadium battlefield in the late 1990s as “intense … it was a very ugly time actually, until we got it through. It was certainly controversial”. Nowadays, the Stadium hosts around 10,000 visitors each week, leaving Luke impressed by “the number of people and the diversity of people that use [the Stadium] and now consid-

er it part of their home”. “At the opening I said that we would like the Stadium to become a place where people wanted to be and where they felt safe and comfortable … I think we have achieved that, which is the coolest thing about the whole project. “[The Stadium] caters for such a wide part of the community, almost every sector. I take my hat off to the loyal trustees and staff and the culture they have created … having the facility is one thing, but making it work is another, and they have certainly done that,” he added.

TUESDAY 10 November 2020

Sport

Canterbury turn season around at Lansdowne, Mako to regroup Peter Jones Reporter

peter@marlboroughmedia.co.nz

Tasman’s uninspiring Mitre 10 Cup premiership display against Canterbury on Saturday may not prove as costly to the Mako playoff hopes as initially thought. Going into the 29-0 defeat at Lansdowne Park, Tasman, fresh off an away win over Wellington, lay second on the premiership points table, justifiably eying a home semifinal. At the other end of the table languished Canterbury, an unfamiliar position for the perennial pace-setters, with the threat of relegation looming large. Teetering above the trapdoor, the Red and Blacks responded by producing the sort of performance that has underlined their previous dominance of the provincial scene. Their emphatic 29-0 victory at Lansdowne Park on Saturday evening appeared to have assured their participation in the top echelon next year and derailed Tasman’s chances of hosting a semi this season. However, a combination of upset results in what is quickly turning into the closest premiership battle for many seasons has seen Tasman remain in second position at the end of the round, with Canterbury still equal bottom of the table. Now, although they face a tricky away match against Otago on Saturday, the Mako at least have

their semifinal future in their own hands. Things were not looking so positive at the final whistle on Saturday though. Putting their patchy form this season behind them, Canterbury took their frustrations out on a Mako side who undoubtedly knew what was coming, but were unable to match the defensive intensity and clinical finishing that came their way. Their unrelenting work without the ball quickly created hesitation in the Tasman attack, forcing them to chase the game from early stages, rather than build into it. Given the familiarity of so many of the players through Crusaders connections, it was perhaps no wonder that, at times, it appeared as if Canterbury had read Tasman’s script. The influence of former All Blacks Luke Romano and Mitchell Drummond cannot be underestimated. Pivotal players when Tasman lost to Canterbury in the 2018 semifinal, they repeated the dose. Romano’s disruptive lineout presence, ability to slow Tasman’s ball down and general work rate proved constant thorns in the home side’s flesh. Drummond continues to haunt his former home town team, pulling all the right strings with coolness, slick passing and clever kicking options. The impact of the opening try, to Canterbury winger Ngatungane Punivai in the third minute, should not be underestimated.

Luke Romano wins another lineout at Lansdowne Park on Saturday night. Photo: Shuttersport. It not only gave Canterbury the belief that they have been struggling for, it also put the Mako firmly on the back foot from the outset, a situation compounded by early injury concerns. Mako lock Quinten Strange said while Canterbury, “with their backs to the wall”, played well, some of the damage was self-inflicted. “We were just one or two percent off tonight, in a few areas of the game we were our own worst enemy. At set piece we weren’t executing … we were throwing those 50-50s a bit much, trying to score off first phases and they had a good plan, a good strategy. “As we know, if you don’t turn up

against Canterbury they are going to punish you.” And that they did, Saturday’s defeat ending an 11-game winning run at Lansdowne Park, with Tasman’s last defeat in Blenheim coming against Auckland in September 2015. However, if Tasman’s supporters have discovered anything about their team over recent years, it is their ability to rebound quickly from adversity. In the age-old cliché, they “have plenty to work on” over the coming week. No-one could fault their intent and effort on Saturday, but there seemed to be more spring in Canterbury’s step, perhaps a result of

being pushed into a corner and facing a previously-unthinkable fate. The Mako will be looking for the same desperation when they travel to Dunedin. As Strange suggests, “it’s such a tight competition, whoever turns up on the day is going to win. “That’s the beauty of this competition … we have to make sure we get the right mindset heading into next weekend.” Mitre 10 Cup premiership table with one round remaining: Auckland 34, Tasman 29, Waikato 29, Bay of Plenty 26, North Harbour 25, Canterbury 24, Wellington 24.

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The 54rd Marlborough Sports Awards evening will be staged at the Marlborough Convention Centre on Monday, November 18. Thirty-three nominees will vie for the ultimate prize, the Marlborough Sportsperson of the Year Trophy. They will also contest five separate categories, the winners of which will progress to the final showdown. In this edition of the Marlborough Weekly, who along with Sport

TUESDAY 10 November 2020

Tasman and Blenheim Round Table are the main sponsors of the awards, we will profile nominees in the Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year categories. A limited amount of tickets are still available for the evening, go to marlboroughsportsawards.org.nz to secure a seat or two for the sporting highlight of the year.

MoreFM Sportswoman of the Year

Jan Gallop Lawn bowls Her nomination is supported by Bowls Marlborough.

Melissa Galloway Dressage Her nomination is supported by Syncroflex.

Ella Greenslade Rowing Her nomination is supported by Roseanne Marsden Travel Managers.

Sarah Higgins Shearing Her nomination is supported by Higgins Shearing.

Oriana Houra Netball Her nomination is supported by Revival Cafe.

Jo Jones Hockey Her nomination is supported by Mitchell Sports Power.

Jacqui Wood Table tennis Her nomination is supported by Sam’s Computer Clinic.

Marlborough Convention Centre Sportsman of the Year

Ethan Batt Road cycling His nomination is supported by Cuddon.

John MacKinnon Hockey His nomination is supported by Johnston Associates.

Malcolm Dodson Fullbore shooting His nomination is supported by the Kaituna Blenheim Rifle Club.

Robbie Manson Rowing His nomination is supported by McKendry Ford.

Nick Gardiner Offshore sailing His nomination is supported by Waikawa Boating Club.

Callum Saunders Track cycling His nomination is supported by Cycle World.

Alastair Gifford Yachting His nomination is supported by Queen Charlotte Yacht Club.

Nathan Watson Table tennis His nomination is supported by Sam’s Computer Clinic.

Alister Keay Water polo His nomination is supported by Agrivit.

Nick Weaver Cricket His nomination is supported by Mitre 10.

Ian Woolley Ploughing His nomination is supported by Marlborough Ploughing Association.

TUESDAY 10 November 2020

Sport

Lamb propels Celtic to one-day trophy win Peter Jones Celtic are the Marlborough 50over cricket champs after beating Wairau Valley by three wickets at Horton Park on Saturday. In a low-scoring encounter, on to a Horton Park No 1 wicket which contained plenty of moisture and made free-flowing shot-making hard to accomplish, Celtic made the most of winning the toss. Electing to bowl, they soon had Valley in trouble, removing opener Tom Leonard with just three on the board. Ben IvoryMcCullum and Luke Pannell played within themselves to push the score up to 22 before IvoryMcCullum perished. Pannell, who finished as top scorer with 18 from 36 balls, began to form another partnership with Matthew Stretch before the youngster was bowled by impressive medium pacer Matt McCormick with just 40 runs on the board. The key wicket of Stretch followed soon after, caught at

slip by man-of-the-match Jerrym Lamb from Jaden Adams’ bowling. From then on it became a steady procession out to the middle then back to the pavilion for the remainder of the Valley order as they limped to 129 in 45 overs. Celtic used seven bowlers who, backed up by some slick fielding, all bagged at least one wicket. Left arm spinner Josh Poole, who took 2-21 from his 10 overs, and medium pacer Adams, 2-23 from 10, picked up a brace apiece, while Lamb, with 1-12 from seven was the most miserly. Buoyed by their fielding effort, Celtic were immediately put under pressure when it came their turn to bat. Openers John Porter and Logan Robinson were both bowled by the lively Bailey Andrews-Kennedy, leaving their side 2-3 after seven overs. However the arrival of Josh Poole and Jack Holdaway steadied the ship, the pair taking the score through to 30 before Poole de-

Wairau Valley batsman Tim Abrahams is bowled by Celtic spinner Josh Poole during the one-day final at Horton Park on Saturday. Photo: Peter Jones. parted for 14. Holdaway then joined forces with Lamb and they began to turn the match around. When Holdaway was dismissed by Stretch for 24 from 72 balls they had lifted Celtic’s score to 70 and the platform for victory was set. Reuben Kepes became Andrews-

Kennedy’s third victim 15 runs later, Liam Young and McCormick came and went with the score at 111, but through it all Lamb remained calm and in control. When Celtic achieved victory the vastly-experienced allrounder was unbeaten on 69, scored off the same number of balls, with

six fours and two sixes. For Valley, Andrews-Kennedy and Sam Boyce bowled accurately and economically, the former recording figures of 3-18 from his 10 overs, while Boyce claimed 2-18 from his full complement. Next up for the club players is the first round of Tasman premier league play next Saturday.

Familiar face returns to Tasman rugby scene

Peter Jones

It has been a case of “back to the future” for Tasman Mako hooker Quentin MacDonald in 2020. The vagaries of this COVIDstricken year have seen the 31-year-old professional rugby player’s world turned upside down. In March he was plying his trade in Europe, battling away for French Pro D2 club Oyonnax, completely unaware that by September he would slot back into the Tasman Mako front row for their Mitre 10 Cup campaign. Quentin recalls the chain of events. “We played [in France] on Thursday and then had a couple of weeks off so I decided to come back [to NZ] for a small break as the family was already here. “I got back on the Saturday and by Monday France had announced a lockdown … then New Zealand went into lockdown about 10 days later.” With international travel ruled out, Quentin remained in New Zealand for several months as the country grappled with the pandemic, but returned to France at the start of June with the intention of resuming play for the club he had represented since 2016. “I was still contracted there for two more years so I was obliged

to go back, and I had all my possessions to sort out,” he explained. “I was back in France for just over a week when I decided to call it quits … just with how everything was going. “My family was enjoying being home again, my five-year-old would have had to go to a Frenchspeaking school over here, but there were several other factors as well. “The club understood … it was a trying time for everyone and they still didn’t know what was going on. That was the biggest thing, not knowing what was happening with the season and what would happen regarding travel for the family in future. “When I went back [to Europe] I just realised how much the world had changed.” While he was still enjoying the culture at the French club, he admits that the longer he stays at home the less chance there is of him going back. “Over the last couple of years I have found myself missing home … with weddings and other stuff that you are not going to get back. “It was a pretty big decision to come back and luckily an opportunity popped up back here.” He was talking about an opportune meeting which led to him re-joining the Mako, a side he had represented 78 times, always

Former MBC, Central and Marlborough hooker Quentin MacDonald with his children Charlie and Eva. Photo: Supplied. with maximum energy, skill and commitment. “When I was back for lockdown I ran into Goody [Mako co-head coach Andrew Goodman]. I knew that [Mako hooker] Ray Niuia had been injured so thought they may be after another hooker. That was just in the back of my mind, but a couple of days after I told Oyonnax that I was coming home I touched base with Goody to see if anything was there and he said there was a place for me. “I could have tried in other unions but I really wanted to come home, get a base and play for the Mako again. “And doing it at this age I know

that I can still play, I’m not here for retirement, I’m not even the oldest … I’m here to compete and give it a good crack, it’s a good fit.” He has been welcomed heartily back into the Mako fold, relishing the fact a few players he went around with previously, such as veterans Alex Ainley and Kieron Fonotia, are keeping him company. Three of the coaches - Goodman, Shane Christie and James Marshall - are also former teammates. He says that although there are obviously different faces around the camp nowadays, the culture and environment remain much the same.

“If not better … they are probably a bit more professional now – we were professional when I played previously but we had a team of lads. “There is so much talent in this side, especially in the backs, it’s just unreal.” Since leaving Marborough Boys’ College after the 2006 season, Quentin has made his living from rugby. He was immediately recruited by Tasman, played with them from 2007-2015, before heading to Europe and joining up with Oyonnax in the French Alps, a side he played his 100th game for just prior to the COVID outbreak. The mobile front-rower has enjoyed considerable success wherever he has played, taking out the ITM Cup championship title with the Mako in 2013 and gaining promotion to the elite French Top 14 league in 2018-19 with Oyonnax. He also played over 50 Super Rugby games for three franchises, the Crusaders, Blues and Chiefs, as well as representing NZ under-20 and the Maori All Blacks. Despite boasting a very impressive CV, Quentin has no future plans past his current involvement with the Mako. “Now it’s just time to catch a breath, it’s been a pretty crazy six or seven months,” he added.

Sport

TUESDAY 10 November 2020

The victorious MBC side. Photo: Supplied.

MBC volleyballers win tournament Marlborough Boys’ College Gold lived up to their name at the recent Roy Titheridge junior boys’ invitation volleyball tournament. In the final they beat closest rival Waimea College 25-11, 25-13 to take out the boys’ section of the annual event which brings the top junior sides in the top of the south together. It was the first time since 2010 that MBC have won the event. They were up against two Nelson College sides, two from Waimea and one from Nayland. Marlborough Girls’ College fielded four sides in the 10-team girls section, the A team finishing up third equal while the B side ended up seventh. MGC Gold and Blue got ninth and 10th MBC player Jared Moli passes to a teammate. Photo: Peter Jones. respectively.

The Marlborough Girls’ College A team celebrate winning a vital point. Photo: Peter Jones.

ROUND 10

Brendon Price - 41/63

Peter Jones - 39/63

Jamie Norton - 39/63

Amy Vercoe - 38/63

Bridget Gane - 37/63

Grant Craig - 37/63

Mike Mitchell - 36/63

Rod Thompson - 35/63

Billy Oleary - 33/63

Lauren Palatchie - 33/63

Simon Muir - 33/63

Weir Broadbridge - 31/63

Counties Manukau vs Southland

Northland vs Waikato

Otago vs Tasman

Wellington vs Manawatu

Bay of Plenty vs North Harbour

Taranaki vs Hawke’s Bay

Canterbury vs Auckland

Sport

TUESDAY 10 November 2020

Chips fly as axemen show their chops Peter Jones The Blenheim Axemen’s Club are an adaptable bunch. With the Marlborough A and P Show cancelled, they decided to relocate their annual wood cutting event from A and P Park to the Hocquard property in Riverlands. On Saturday, competitors came from far afield to take part in a series of events, all contested in a relaxed, rural atmosphere. The day’s premier event was the Geoff Hocquard Memorial Standing Championship contested by the top four back markers

on the highest handicaps. The event was won by Joe Cox from Timaru, from Andrew Cox, also from Timaru, with Ray Biggs of Nelson third and Christchurch’s John Aitken fourth. Championship races have all the competitors starting on a count of three seconds. The Open and Restricted races see all the competitors starting on their marks from the woodchopping handicap system. The four Open woodchopping events, consisting of small and large Underhand and Standing Chops, had two heats with placegetters meeting in the final.

Brothers Finn, left, and Billy Sloan slice through a block. Photo: Peter Jones.

Picton axeman Tim Abel won the 300mm standing chop title. Photo: Peter Jones.

The 300mm underhand was won by Kyle Hedley, with Chris Heath second, Steve Foster third and Marlborough chopper Finn Sloan fourth. Hedley and Foster tied for first in the 325mm underhand, with Ross Birchfield third and Sloan fourth. Foster won the 275mm standing from Hedley, with Picton’s Tim Abel third and Peter McEwen fourth. Abel claimed the 300mm standing title, Dave McEwen finishing second, Hedley third and Andrew Cox fourth. Nelson chopper Hedley, with 15.5 points, claimed the overall points trophy from Steve Foster (Grey-

mouth) on 12.5 pts. The single and double sawing events had reduced numbers this year, especially with local sawyers Geoffrey Hocquard and Willie Abel unavailable to compete. The single saw was won by John Aitken, with Andrew Cox second, local sawyer Robbie Brownlee third his grandson Finn Sloan fourth. The double saw title was claimed by Andrew and Joe Cox, from Brownlee and John Aitken, then Finn and Billy Sloan, followed by Charlie Morgan and Martin Mason. The three restricted underhand chops were contested by the newcomers, juniors and ladies also competing under the handicap

system. The No 1 restricted was won by Justin Carter, from Ashleigh Radford, Alex Gregg and Toby Godsiff. The No 2 restricted was taken out by Louie Gregg, with Emma Riddell second, Justin Carter third and Alex Gregg fourth. Carter claimed the No 3 restricted title, from Louie Gregg, Alex Gregg and Ashleigh Radford respectively. Carter scored the most points in the restricted chops, with Louie Gregg second. Local competitors were Tim Abel, Robbie Brownlee and his grandsons Finn Sloan, Billy Sloan, Alex Gregg and Louie Gregg.

Tennis leaders win another close encounter Peter Jones

Renwick CPR continue to show the way in the Wine Brokers NZ premier tennis competition, notching up another narrow win on Wednesday. The leaders managed a countback victory over Rapaura Wairau River Noir while Rapaura Wairau River Blanc also claimed a win on countback, beating Marlborough Forrest Wines. Renwick CPR lead after four rounds, sitting on 42 points, with Rapaura Blanc second on 38 and Marlborough tied with Rapaura Noir on 19. Despite their relative posi-

tions on the standings, the Renwick v Noir tie turned into a battle royal. The doubles were shared, Hamish McRae and Jared Bell giving Rapaura an early boost by recovering from a first set reversal to win the top double, 0-6, 6-2, 10-4 over brothers Oscar and Joseph SandfordJury. The Renwick duo of Daniel Riordan and Mieko Kimura levelled the scores with a 6-4, 6-1 win over Blair Harvey and Ella Sowman. The singles were also shared, both Sandford-Jury teens winning their matches, then Bell and Sowman replying for Rapaura. On countback

Renwick won seven sets to Rapaura’s six. The other match was also extremely tight. Hamish Morrow and Stephen Dempster best Ant Walkenhorst and Glen Cameron 7-6, 7-6 in the top double to allow Marlborough a strong start, but Hugh Robinson and Donna Clark’s 6-1, 6-1 win over Jay Geris and Amber Lyons levelled the tie. The key match in the singles was between Geris and Robinson. Although the former prevailed, the fact it went to three sets worked in Rapaura’s favour when the tie was decided on countback. Morrow also won his single,

beating Walkenhorst 6-4, 6-2, while Cameron and Clark replied with for Rapaura, leaving the tie locked up 3-3, Rapaura getting home 7-6 on set countback. In division two, the Marlborough Nga Hau Wha team continued on their winning way, beating Marlborough Next Gen 5-1, while Rapaura Wairau River Rose downed Renwick Rallycats by the same score. After four rounds Nga Hau Wha sit on top of the table with 46 points, from Next Gen (31), Rapaura (27) and Renwick (17).

Jared Bell moves to the net. Photo: Peter Jones.

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Ernest passed away peacefully at Wairau Hospital, Blenheim on the morning of November 6th, 2020. Ernest was the loving husband of the late Margaret, father and father-in-law of David and Corina (Kitimat, B.C., Canada) and Ruth and Kelland (Christchurch). Loved Grandpa (Bampa) of Sloane, Blake and Solomon. He was father of Anne (Calgary, Alberta, Canada) and Richard with fiancée Harmony (Kelowna and Salmon Arm, B.C., Canada). Ernest was a Baptist Minister in both New Zealand and Canada for over 50 years. He will be greatly missed by his family and the congregation of Blenheim Baptist Church where he served as Senior Pastor and then Assistant Pastor for many years. Ernest will also be greatly missed by the Baptist Union, where he served in leadership roles for many years on various committees and undertaking interim pastorships for churches around the South Island. Messages to 75A Alfred Street, Blenheim 7201 or www.cloudybayfunerals. co.nz As per Ernest’s wishes he will be cremated. A funeral for Ernest and Memorial for his wife Margaret will be held at the Blenheim Baptist Church, 194 High Street, Blenheim on Wednesday November 11, 2020 at 2pm. If you are unable to be there in person, the service can also be viewed online through the Blenheim Baptist Church Website. The location for the livestream and public link is www. facebook.com/BlenheimBaptistNZ/.

On November 4th, 2020 peacefully with family aged 84 years. Dearly loved wife of the late John and loved mother and mother-in-law of Warren and Jo; Mandy and Paul Morrison. Much loved Gran of Gracie and George; Laura and Rachel; Gabrielle and Paige. Great Gran of Bazil, Jack and Hazel. Loved sister and sister-in-law of Val, Eileen and Daphne and the late Dorothy, Mary and Charlie. Messages to 62 Cravens Road, RD3, Blenheim 7272 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz. A celebration of Myra’s life was held at the Church of the Nativity, Alfred Street, Blenheim on Monday 9 November at 11.00am followed by private cremation.

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3 2 6 7 4 5 9 8 1

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5 7 4 6 8 9 1 3 2

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