Marlborough Weekly 17 May 2022

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Support workers: ‘We are not valued’ MAX FRETHEY AND SARA HOLLYMAN Support workers and union members have called the Government’s offer of a $0.70 pay increase over the next 18 months insulting while union representatives say the offer should concern all Marlburians.

The Care and Support Workers (Pay Equity) Settlement Act, passed in 2017, and delivered $2

billion in wage rises to care workers in residential aged care facilities, as well as those who care for elderly, disabled and injured people in their own homes.

The historic pay deal took years of activism and two years of negotiations but is due to expire in July, with no continued agreement in place. This has left the affected workers angry, disappointed and once again, undervalued.

Local support workers say it is

near-impossible to attract new staff into the industry as it is not seen as a viable career option due to its low pay and heavy workload.

“Everything that we achieved five years ago is getting kicked to the kerb – these guys are actually going backwards,” says PSA Top of the South organiser Kate Davis.

Starting rate is $21.68 – just $0.48 more than minimum wage.

“It means we are going to be con-

stantly trying to recruit people to this industry because they don’t see a career path, we are already 3000 workers short across the country.”

Kate says because we have such a high concentration of people with need and are an aging community, we need to be doing everything we can to support the workers.

“The residents of this region should be worried. If they want

to stay in their homes, have people supporting them to do that, you’re reliant on these people so every resident should be worried about this pay offer.”

Jo Upperton is a PSA union support worker in Blenheim and says she usually have eight or nine clients to do between 8am and 1pm.“I’m part time. I couldn’t do this full-time; it would be way too exhausting.”

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Ploughing champs come to Marlborough The New Zealand Ploughing Championship has graced Marlborough fields for potentially the last time.

Held over the weekend the championship is at risk of not returning due to lack of suitable land.

Competition organiser Ian Woolley says it was a good weekend of ploughing.

“It was absolutely excellent.”

More than 30 people participated in the competition and Ian’s feedback so far as been positive.

“Everyone was very happy with the soil,” he says. “There weren’t any complaints, so obviously it was a good fun event.”

Ian thinks they did the competition justice.

“I’d just like to thank the public and businesses in Marlborough for supporting us.”

For results visit the Marlborough Ploughing Facebook page.

First place winners of the Rural News Horse Plough Class, John and Sharon Chynoweth, with their Clydesdales Blue and Flash. Photo: Supplied.

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News

Tuesday 17 May 2022 YOUR WEEKLY

STREET TALK

Support workers: ‘We are not valued’ From Page 1 Each day, Jo receives a list of clients to visit and support in her day. But because there is a shortage of support workers, Jo and her colleagues are required to pick up any slack which results in being overworked.

“At the moment we are not even getting breaks.

We used to see resource breaks and things on our list,” Jo says. “All of that’s gone, they are just cramming them in.”

Many clients often require 45-minute or even hour-long sessions which, when factoring in commute times, puts support workers under considerable pressure.

“There is no time to go to the bathroom, there’s no time to have a coffee break for your ten-minute break,” Jo says. “We don’t have those little luxuries that most people get in their day-today work.”

She says that some fulltime support workers can have 23 clients a day and work two shifts, often from 8am to 3pm and 4pm to 10pm.

However, she says that the support companies don’t want to be forcing these hours onto their staff but are unfortunately often left with little choice to meet their obligations to their clients.

“They’re literally just trying to cover everyone.”

Despite the difficult working conditions, many support workers love their work and have put up with the stress what they do is important. Jo is no exception.

“I absolutely love dealing with the elderly, I think they’re really wonderful people, they’ve got so much to offer when you’ve got the time for them to.”

She says, at the end of their life, it should be the most comfortable time for them. “I can’t let the most vulnerable people in our society have to go through something like Blenheim support worker Jo Upperton has no time for breaks in her day and is forced to eat this.” in her car as she commutes between clients. Photo: Max Frethey.

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Tuesday 17 May 2022

Blenheim Medical general practice closes MAX FRETHEY The general practice at Blenheim Medical has closed.

Doctor Mehdi Maleki and his wife Elaiyne experienced significant close family bereavements over the past months which led them to re-evaluate their lives.

“The resulting personal grief and enormous loss has led us to take the decision to leave New Zealand and return to Europe to be closer to our families,” they say.

“It has been a great privilege to have served the population of Blenheim and Marlborough and we will carry many, many memories of the connections we have made with our patients, a great many of whom have a special place in our thoughts.”

“We have been overwhelmed and humbled by the sheer volume of messages received and so grateful for the kind notes of appreciation and well-wishes for our future.”

The practice was only established in August but was forced to close after a replacement general practitioner (GP) couldn’t be found.

“We tried to try and find

Marlborough Primary Health Organisation chief executive Beth Tester would have liked the practice to remain open but recruiting GPs is a nationwide struggle. Photo: Max Frethey. another doctor who would potentially take over the practice, but it’s very challenging,” says Marlborough Primary Health Organisation (PHO) chief executive Beth Tester.

The majority of Blenheim Medical’s clients are being transferred to Springland Health. A doctor is continuing to check the Blenheim Medical inbox and doing scripts for those who haven’t had their notes transferred.

The transferral process is

on-going and expected to completed within the next couple of weeks.

“Probably around 1500 of them have been transferred to Springland’s,” Beth says.

“We’re working with Springland’s to get more doctors, too.”

Despite their recruitment efforts, Beth admits that it may prove difficult to get a timely appointment with a GP in the near future.

“But we have put absolutely every effort to try actually

and recruit GPs to Marlborough,” Beth says. “Potentially, by early next year we should have another six in.

But of course, there are always doctors leaving, things happen.”

PHO has purchased Blenheim Medical’s assets and taken over the lease of the property until they’re able to establish another a practice when a new GP becomes available. But the recruitment of GPs to Marlborough is an ongoing issue.

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Driving to the conditions RUSS SMITH

Community Constable

Police have attended three crashes on Marlborough roads over the weekend, with a vehicle skidding and crashing into a bank on Brookby Road Hawkesbury on Saturday morning, a two-car crash in Nelson Street Blenheim on Saturday evening, and a pedestrian being injured by a car in Picton overnight Saturday.

While the only injury appears to have been suffered by the pedestrian in the Picton crash, these are a timely reminder of the need for care and paying full attention to the task of driving.

This time of the year it is getting dark earlier, it’s remaining darker for longer in the morning and it’s harder to see other vehicles and road users due to lower light conditions.

It’s concerning that some drivers continue to drive in very low light conditions with their vehicle lights turned off. Your headlights do help you to see in low light, but more importantly they help other road users notice your vehicle and they can make good decisions as a result. Whether you’re driving in town, or in rural areas, please travel at a speed that is within the speed limit for the area, or if necessary, lower your speed to drive to the conditions.

Don’t be distracted. The cell phone, the stereo, the food you dropped, the navigation system, the kids squabbling in the rear are all things that should be sorted out after you’ve found somewhere safe on the roadside to stop. A few seconds of distraction could change your life.

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Tuesday 17 May 2022

Marlborough housing market defies national trends MAX FRETHEY The Marlborough property market is defying national trends.

Quotable Value (QV) recorded that the average home decreased in value by 2.2 per cent nationwide over the past three-month period to the end of April.

However, over the same period, Marlborough recorded an increase house price value of 3.4 per cent.

The Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) found that Marlborough was the only region in April to reach a new record median price of $764,000 — up 13.7 per cent on the same time last year.

According to QV, national average house value is now $1,040,927 so, compared to other locations, values are still relatively low in Marlborough.

QV Nelson/Marlborough manager Craig Russell says the Marlborough property market is at a later stage of the property cycle and tends to lag what is happening in the main centres.

“With listings continuing to increase, interest rates increasing and tighter credit controls it is likely that Marlborough values will follow other regions and

experience a small reduction in values.”

Craig also says that supply and demand are a major factor in determining the price of houses.

“Given the relatively favourable topography of Blenheim and its surrounds, it is likely that supply will increase as new developments come to the market. This will invariably have an impact on property values.”

Changes to supply and demand were also noted by REINZ chief executive officer Jen Baird.

“All three regions [Marlborough, Nelson, and Tasman] are experiencing a market of supply outweighing demand and a decline in sales counts,” she says.

Marlborough saw a decline in house sales by over 50 per cent over the past year according to REINZ data. As Marlborough is soon expected to follow the national trends and see a decrease in house price, Craig says those who are selling properties should be realistic with their prices.

“Vendors will need to be mindful that they accurately price their property. As seen in other locations there is often a period where vendors expectations are above what the market is prepared to pay for a property.”

News

Campaign to support hospitality businesses returns MAX FRETHEY Make It Marlborough is returning to the region this week with a series of competitions to help support local businesses.

The campaign first launched off the back of the first lockdown.

“It was about reactivating town centres and supporting local businesses,” Marlborough Chamber of Commerce membership and events manager Zoé Gray says. Given the campaign’s initial success, it’s being brought back to encourage people out of their homes and to start spending again.

“We need to do something because people are not going out as much as they were, there’s that little bit of hesitancy,” says chamber general manager Pete Coldwell. “What we don’t want are the town centre businesses particularly suffering from people not being there.”

The first side of the campaign is a drive to get people to get out and spend.

Pete says the hospitality industry has been hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic and so any support they get from the public is vital to their ability to deliver

Back from left: Hamish Thomas, Georgia Watt, Rosa Tate, Leigh Sommerville. Front from left: Andrew Scott, Zoe Gray, Pete Coldwell, Summa Donald. Photo: Supplied. their services in the future.

“If you go and support your favourite café with your favourite barista who makes the best latte or chai latte or flat white, they’ll still be there doing that in six months’ time.”

The other side of the campaign will be a series of competitions run on social media.

“We’ll be running a competition for people to go online to the Facebook page and enter a competition to win vouchers,” Zoé says. “Just to encourage people to go back out.”

The vouchers will be for one of a number of businesses in Blenheim and Picton.

Figaro’s Cafe is one of the businesses being supported.

Owner Megan Bennet says that though there has been some recovery in the number of customers her cafe gets, it’s still pretty quiet so she’s supportive of the campaign.

“I think that it’s great. I’m sure a lot of the other businesses are feeling the same as me.” By giving away vouchers, local businesses have already been supported.

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Tuesday 17 May 2022

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More sexual abuse victims seeking support JENNY NICHOLSON A charity supporting victims of sexual abuse has seen its workload quadrupled over the past three years.

Sexual Abuse Support and Healing (SASH) offers 24-hour crisis response following sexual assault as well as on-going support, counselling and advocacy for victims and their whanau across the Top of the South.

SASH manager Emma Brazendale says in 2016/17 the service averaged 12 new clients a month and are now averaging 60.

In May 2021 there were 97 new clients.

Emma is unsure if this represents an increase in sexual harm but says it has become more acceptable to seek help.

There is a greater understanding that even if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, it doesn’t change the scenario. No still means no.

“People are more knowledgeable on what sexual harm is,” Emma says.

“There is now a clear culture that whatever goes on, you have a right to say no at any place, at any stage. That is a big culture shift.”

Emma says the increase in anxiety caused by Covid-19 may have

Emma Brazendale is pleased people have become more aware of what sexual harm is. Photo: Jenny Nicholson. encouraged people to look at what they could do to decrease it.

“They may have looked back and want to address things in their past,” she says. “It’s a brilliant thing that people are coming to us now.”

The SASH crisis team is available 24/7 and is contacted via police.

It supports clients through medical forensic examinations and

police interviews.

Emma says, in the past people didn’t think the police would believe them or treat them with fairness and kindness, but police are “quite phenomenal” in how they deal with sexual assault right from the moment it is reported.

After the initial support is given, case managers will contact the client and can work with them

for as long as necessary, providing support including through the justice system.

About 75 per cent of new referrals at SASH are historical cases.

With no limit on when people can be referred or self-refer, some of their new clients are making contact 30 years after an event.

There is also no limit on how long SASH works with clients.

“Some people may be in and out of our service for years,” Emma says. “The chance to speak, be believed and to be validated is important.”

Emma says they have also seen an increase of males and those from the rainbow community accessing their service.

If you would like to contact SASH please phone 03 548 2407.

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News

Tuesday 17 May 2022

Is Marlborough ready for PETA CAREY The Alpine Fault is the longest natural straight line on earth, over 800km of fault line running between the Australian and Pacific tectonic plates.

The science is unequivocal: over the last 8000 years, there has been a major earthquake on the Alpine Fault roughly every 300 years.

The last one? 1717.

No one predicted the intensity of the quake that devastated Christchurch in February 2011, or the scale of the one that shook Kaikōura in 2016. But as a result of research over the last two decades, we now know that there is a 75 per cent likelihood of an earthquake on the Alpine Fault in the next 50 years, and an 82 per cent chance it will be over eight on the Richter scale. This one — AF8, as it’s called — we can prepare for.

Take the intensity of standing above the epicentre of the Christchurch February 2011 quake, which lasted just 30 seconds. Now imagine even more intense shaking continuing for two to four minutes, travelling the length of the Southern Alps.

The Alpine Fault line runs from just north of Milford Sound all the way to Maruia near Lewis Pass. The scientists forecast that a rupture could be up to magnitude 8.2. But this is a measure of “seis-

mic energy released”, not damage or shaking. More relevant, perhaps, is the Mercalli Scale, a measure of the intensity of damage in any one place.

The most intense shaking will be on the West Coast, within 10km of the fault. But it will affect the whole South Island, including the Top of the South.

Marlborough lies within the highest earthquake risk zone in New Zealand. This is because the district is crossed by a series of fault lines associated with the relative movements of the tectonic plates beneath New Zealand. The Wairau, Awatere and Clarence faults are all an extension of the Alpine Fault.

While the region has experienced major earthquakes before, in 1893, Murchison in 1929 and Inangahua in 1968, there has not been a major earthquake in close proximity when the Top of the South’s cities have been so densely populated with people, buildings and vital infrastructure as it is now.

Marlborough District Council is preparing for an event that causes three times as many injuries as the Christchurch earthquake with the potential for the region to be cut off for some time. There will be vast liquefaction east of Blenheim and it is also preparing for “huge structural damage to

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The Alpine Fault runs several hundred kilometres from near Milford Sound through the West Coast, including at Gaunt Creek where you can see the fault above ground, and all the way to near the Lewis Pass. Photo: Jason Blair residences and businesses”. The Seddon earthquakes, it says, suggest wineries are particularly vulnerable with their storage tanks.

The St Arnaud region also lies across the Alpine Fault, which separates high greywacke mountains of the St Arnaud Range and Robert Ridge in the southeast from gentler mountains in the north and northwest comprising Beebys Knob and the Bull-

er-Rainy divide.

On the Alpine Fault, a rupture there would likely cause the ground on the southeast side to rise 1-2m relative to the other side, according to Nelson Tasman Emergency management.

There would also be horizontal displacement with the northwest side moving northeast by several metres. This would displace the waters of lakes Rotoiti and Ro-

toroa. If the southeast side of the fault is uplifted this would temporarily raise the head of Lake Rotoroa and much of Lake Rotoiti, causing serious flooding in the Gowan and upper Buller rivers amd severe disturbances of the lakes themselves.

This active fault trace enters the district in the Upper Wairau Valley, near Tophouse Saddle, and forms a discontinuous surface

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Biggs bought the store in December 2020 af- It is important to know that not every car seat ter being involved heavily in weddings for the fits every vehicle and it is so important to be last decade in Nelson able to physically try transporting people in it in your vehicle, or her London Black Taxi. seek the experience Marianne had jokof our knowledgeable ingly said she should team so you ensure buy the business when that you do not get she was first pregnant caught out. Also NZ over a decade ago – so statistics show that when the opportunity around 80% of car came up to purchase seats in NZ are not init, she did so and hasn’t The wonderful Baby on the Move team Mari- stalled properly. looked back. The store anne, Rachel, Meg and Leilani.

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Tuesday 17 May 2022

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an Alpine Fault rupture? fault trace virtually all the way to Renwick.

“Rocks and landslides will be coming down off the Alps, so if you’re anywhere near the mountains it’ll be very loud,” says Dr Caroline Orchiston. “We’re talking horizontal movement of up to eight metres.”

Orchiston is the science lead for the AF8 campaign — a collaboration between Civil Defence Emergency Management and Alpine Fault scientists to communicate the scientific evidence to the communities that need to hear about it.

The overwhelming message from scientists and Civil Defence is: get ready.

Engineers talk about something called ‘black start’. If every power station in the South Island goes down, it’ll be a very slow restart — like a series of cascading dominoes in reverse.

Andrew Renton, senior principal engineer at Transpower, believes a blackout across the entire country is possible, but unlikely. However, some regions would certain-

AF8 science lead, Dr Caroline Orchiston.

Photo: Sam McIlroy. ly be ‘islanded’ — the technical term for an area being isolated without power. The most obvious candidate: the West Coast.

The consequences of having no electricity for several hours, several weeks or more, are alarming. There’s the urgent need for power for medical equipment, food supplies and heating. But the most critical, according to Canterbury University’s Professor Thomas Wilson, is the loss of power for telecommunications.

“This is going to be the big-

gest challenge of all.”

Wilson predicts that it may well take over a year to restore power through to the West Coast.

No one expects that State Highway 73 would be open for several months after the Alpine Fault ruptures. It’s also highly unlikely much of the TranzAlpine railway line would remain intact.

“With ongoing aftershocks and more landslides, it’ll make it dangerous to restore road or rail for months, and potentially years,” Wilson says.

Each of the six South Island regions operates under a comprehensive Civil Defence emergency management plan known as SAFER — the South Island Alpine Fault Earthquake Response.

Claire Brown, at the West Coast Regional Council, is the director of emergency management and natural hazards on the coast.

“Household preparedness is the most important place to start,” says Brown. “For example, having an emergency water supply, enough for the

household to have drinking water for at least three days.

If every home on the coast did that one thing, we’d be hugely more prepared.”

The sustainability of West Coast communities is of huge concern to Dr Caroline Orchiston. “People are deeply connected to that landscape. They won’t want to leave, but I think there’s potentially a tipping point where the government will say, ‘we can’t restore services, we can’t get the power network back, you’re going to have to, temporarily let’s hope, move out.’” And if that happens, she asks: “Do people go back?”

The aftermath of the Christchurch earthquake shows how reluctant people are to move away, Orchiston observes. “No one wanted to leave their home and go into temporary housing. Even if their house was munted they’d prefer to camp in their garden than leave,” Orchiston says. “They have a really deep connection to that place. You constantly wonder about community

resilience — what’s the turning point? How do we prioritise recovery of infrastructure to enable people to stay in place?” *Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air *Faultlines is a partnership with North & South

magazine - the full interactive project can be viewed at www.faultlines. nz and the May issue of the magazine is on stands now. *For further information about AF8 visit Af8.org. nz and for how you can best prepare visit getready.govt.nz

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Out & About

Tuesday 17 May 2022

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Ploughing Champs – Awatere Valley

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Tuesday 17 May 2022

Youthline opening Marlborough centre MAX FRETHEY Youthline is setting up a centre in Marlborough.

Historically, Youthline operations in the region have been run out of Christchurch.

“The Christchurch centre was thriving enough that they could divert some of their resources,” Blenheim-based Youthline helpline counsellor Meg Martin says.

Youthline has subsequently branched out to both Marlborough and Nelson Tasman.

The widespread adoption of telecommunication and remote working by the country over the course of the Covid-19 pandemic has also made it easier for the Christchurch office to branch out.

“We’ve sort of adapted as an organisation to where we can support our councillors in a remote way,” Meg says. “We could

get the right people in the right places without having to worry about transporting them to Christchurch every couple of weeks.”

Meg says the team they’re putting together for the Marlborough centre will have had first-hand experience of the typical challenges facing local young people.

“When they went about recruiting, they went about looking for people who knew about the challenges of growing up in smaller rural towns.”

The Marlborough Youth Trust on Kinross St in Blenheim hosts Youthline Wairau’s training screen.

Youth Trust manager Jo Lane is happy to have Youthline in their building.

“It’s very new off the ground in Marlborough, it’s exciting to see it starting,” she says.

Youthline ambassadors and helpline counsellors Meg Martin and Nathan Hanson are excited to bring their organisation to Marlborough. Photo: Peter Jones.

Jo says that when she started at raise their profile in the region. the Youth Trust, many young Youthline Wairau’s services will people in the region hadn’t heard initially be limited to the 24/7 free about Youthline. helpline as well as school pro“They didn’t even know it was grammes and workshops, while available.” they put together a full team of So, Jo is happy to share their dedicated volunteers. building with them and help to Meg is also a mother to three

children aged between 17 and 20 so the importance of a local organisation promoting youth well-being isn’t lost upon her.

“It’s fantastic,” she says. “I really wish there had been more in place when my kids were coming up through school. They know they can access these services but it’s a matter of finding them.”

In 2020, more than 11,000 clients called the Youthline helpline while 4,200 young people were supported through Youthline’s develop programmes.

Youthline can be contacted by phone at 0800 37 66 33 or free text at 243. They can also be emailed at talk@youthline.co.nz.

If you would like Youthline to present to your group, school, staff team, or organisation, you can contact Meg by email at meg@ youthlinecsi.org.nz.

Homestay families important for students JENNY NICHOLSON With the return of international students at our local high schools, there is a need for new homestay families at some colleges. Marlbor-

ough Girls College principal, MaryJeanne Lynch, says the key thing in homestay is that students stay in a family environment and join in with family events and occasions. Giving them a taste of the awesome culture

of Kiwi homes is a large part of their time in New Zealand.

The college doesn’t currently have international students, but Mary-Jeanne says, looking forward, circumstances may have changed for some of their previous homestay hosts, and they will be looking for new families, too.

“We talk about diversity in education and international students build global connections

for our students.”

Marlborough Boys College principal, John Kenda, says the school doesn’t currently have international students but they have been well supported in the past. He wonders if the uncertainty with different variations in the pandemic may leave potential host parents with questions about what will happen in the future.

Sho Kurimoto is 18. He arrived

in New Zealand in December 2019 and has been living in his current homestay for two years. While some students find kiwi food a challenge, Sho says he likes trying our food.

“I never ate lamb before. I like it and want to eat it when I go back to Japan,” Sho says.

Initially he felt nervous because he couldn’t understand, but managed to communicate through gestures.

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Tuesday 17 May 2022

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Tuesday 17 May 2022

Sectors come together for Innovation Day MAX FRETHEY A think-tank of innovation has brought together key sector professionals to share ways technology is pushing local businesses forward.

Marlborough Innovation Day, the first event of its kind in the region, was held in Blenheim on Monday, bringing together engineers, business consultants, investors, entrepreneurs, and other relevant parties to foster inter-sector communication.

“This is the kick-off of our in-

novation programme for the region,” says Marlborough District Council’s economic development programmes manager, Dorien Vermass.

Dorien says the day was primarily geared towards those in agribusiness due to their importance to Marlborough’s economy and future, with a theme of ‘Innovation, Productivity, and Wellbeing’ as they go “hand-in-hand”.

“There’s just so many challenges for agribusinesses at the moment,” Dorien says. “The one that people know about is labour, but

‘Putrid’ odours plaguing residents Next up, Omaka landing residence complaining about the aerodrome.

Dylan Thorstensen A pity the salmon couldn’t have been used for fish fertiliser. All the company need is someone to set up a factory somewhere down the Sounds near their ponds and put their thinking cap on. After all, we can buy it in the large stores.

Sharyn Armon Seems like salmon would be a great waste stream

The

Dental Prosthetic SPECIALISTS IN THE MARLBOROUGH REGION

there’s all sorts of other things too: energy, transport, the Resource Management Act, the environment, climate change challenges.”

Dorien says council’s role is to bring people together and talk about how technology might help solve some of the challenges they are facing.

“We all need each other in the future to create the future that we want to see for Marlborough.”

Three speakers with experience in innovation presented to the attendees on Monday.

for someone to make some fish fertiliser, perhaps King Salmon could fund a community project?

Liberty Jo What do they expect when the council are land developers as well as run the tip? It’s money before people. The planning department are picky with everyone else but not with their own developments.

Murray Charlton I think the putrid odour comes from the green waste, more than the landfill. I have had the pleasure on certain days walking my dog that way along the river track.

Oxin software engineer John Grant spoke on smart machines and productivity, Sanford general manager Andrew Stanley spoke on innovation, while Catherine van der Meulen spoke on entrepreneurial women and the interconnectedness between environment and well-being.

After the presentations, attendees participated in a quick round of meet and greets with each other in a display reminiscent of speed dating.

“It’s about bringing everybody together and for people to create

Christine Hutchison Agree, shocking stench, if that’s what it smells like imagine what’s it is doing to people’s health and the land.

Rebecca May O’Sullivan Is there nowhere else King Salmon can dump all their dead fish?

Or make use of it somehow so it’s not such a waste?

Amber Bond Understand some odour will come from the landfill, but one morning a month or so back it could be smelt as far away as Alabama Rd. Not sure anyone could agree that was acceptable?

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the platforms to collaborate on future solutions,” Dorien says.

If all goes the plan, Marlborough Innovation Day will only be the first of many innovation-centred events, hui, and meetings to promote cooperation and problem-solving in the region.

Dorien thinks Marlborough has the potential to create some real innovative solutions to challenges facing both the region and the nation.

“We have super smart entrepreneurs here,” she says. “This is a very exciting start for us.”

Scott Baylis It’s more likely to be the methane escape pipes from the old dump that are a lot closer to the subdivision.

Jared Hall Hmm, let’s buy a house next to a tip then complain about it.

Carl Jackson If you have an issue with smells, log the report, the council do follow it up behind the scenes and have ways to pinpoint what had been going on at the time of the report.

Mel Jjs The dead salmon should not be going there. How about turning it into burley?

Dave Wickens Anyone would think the tip smells like roses.

Cameron Benner You chose the area, did you not think about the dump?

Faye Harris There has been dumps up there way before houses.

Damen Churches

43 Scott St, Blenheim Ph. (03) 577 9506

www.lynfords.co.nz

Rural News

Tuesday 17 May 2022

13

Duck hunting season off to flying start

Graeme Rodger and Labrador Pete. Photo: Supplied.

Duck hunting season officially opened last week with perfect weather and reports of success.

Kaituna resident Graeme Rodger and his sixmonth old Labrador Pete, managed to bag more than a dozen ducks during the opening weekend of game bird hunting season.

The warm wet summer had contributed to increased duck numbers in parts of the country, increasing the chances of success for hunters looking to harvest wild, free-range birds for the dinner table.

Fish & Game New Zealand says the weather in the region was perfect for opening weekend which allowed “a moderate number of ducks” to be harvested.

Around the county, Fish & Game Rangers were out in force checking licences and seeing how opening day had gone for hunters.

Compliance among hunters in Nelson Marlborough was high with only two hunting offenses detected.

The season for Nelson-Marlborough began on 7 May and will run through to 31 July.

Eight mallards and grey ducks are allowed to be bagged daily while ten paradise shelducks can be bagged across Nelson Marlborough, except for the Tasman/Golden Bay area in which 15 shelducks can be harvested.

Federated Farmers Vice-President and health and safety spokesperson Karen Williams says many farmers and other landowners are willing to have hunters on their properties but that access is a privilege.

“You should seek their prior permission and follow any instructions,” Karen said.

14

Rural News

Tuesday 17 May 2022

Beehive surveillance project supports biosecurity STAFF REPORTER The search is on for 100 volunteer beekeepers to join a new Biosecurity New Zealand surveillance project, looking out for future bee threat– the small hive beetle.

Biosecurity New Zealand deputy-director general Stuart Anderson says the project is the latest of 14 targeted biosecurity surveillance programmes run around New Zealand.

“These programmes are all designed to give the earliest possible detection of exotic pest and disease incursions, so we have the best chance of future eradication or effective management,” Stuart says.

The programmes include surveillance for high-risk pests, of high-risk locations, and vulnerable groups of plants and animals both on land and in water.

“Like the small hive beetle project, some programmes are targeted to specific species not known to be present in the country, like spongy moth and saltmarsh mosquitoes,” he says.

“Stuart says some programmes have enabled successful eradications.

The National Invasive Ant Surveillance programme (NIAS) for example is nearly 20 years old.

100 volunteer beekeepers are being sought for a biosecurity surveillance project. Photo: File.

The estimated impact of an ant invasion to New Zealand is $318 million per annum, early detection is key to supporting eradication. Last year, 32 NIAS traps

detected exotic ants leading to seven incursions being eradicated.

The new small hive beetle project is another example of a project

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based on biosecurity threat priorities. While small hive beetle isn’t known to be present in New Zealand, its proximity to our country means it’s a threat worth being

prepared for.

This new project is unique in that it calls on volunteer beekeepers from the community to maintain traps in one of their hives. The exotic beetle traps are primarily checked by the volunteer, with the Biosecurity New Zealand surveillance team offering support.

If they come across any suspect organisms during their routine checks, they will report these right away.

Beekeepers interested in joining the small hive beetle surveillance programme should visit Small hive beetle surveillance project.

Stuart says Biosecurity New Zealand’s routine surveillance programmes play a key role in a strong biosecurity system.

“As well as looking out for potential new invaders, the programmes can also tell us if a pest or disease that is established in Aotearoa is changing or moving.

“And the programmes also serve the vital function of enabling New Zealand to assure our trade partners that our exports are safe.

By using rigorous and reliable science, we can prove our primary sector goods will not carry pests or diseases to their shores.”

More information on our surveillance programmes can be found at www.mpi.govt.nz/biosecurity

Rural News

Tuesday 17 May 2022

15

Drones used to shift stock JENNY NICHOLSON

There is a growing interest in the use of drones in farming with more farms in the region choosing to use the technology, but it is currently expensive and comes with a long list of rules.

The use of unmanned aerial drones for agriculture is in its infancy in New Zealand, but has been used in countries like Japan to assist with crop production for some years.

With abilities ranging from automated planting to crop management and stock movement, real-time monitoring means drones have a vital role to play in the future of farming.

Nelson Federated Farmers dairy chairperson Steven Todd says he uses a drone to locate stock but it comes with both advantages and disadvantages including that it can’t fly out of your line-of-sight.

“It’s effective because it covers a reasonably big area of land in a short time and the camera shows the location of the cattle,” he says.

“The disadvantage is that if it goes over a ridge, it will probably lose coverage and return to you.”

He also finds it relatively effective in shifting stock on hills, saying it scares cattle enough to move

A barking drone can be used on farms for mustering. Photo: RNZ / Simon Rogers. them without having to send a person or dog up the hill. His neighbour has also used it to shift sheep.

The battery life of the drone can sometimes be a problem. If it runs low, the drone automatically returns directly back to base, and if that has it flying over the cattle,

they can end up scattering in the wrong direction.

Steven says drone use isn’t common but will become a thing of the future as the technology is further developed.

“You can’t fly blind. The machine won’t go outside your line of sight and the rules also say not to,” Ste-

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ven says. “A crash into a tree was quite expensive to fix.”

Otago South River Care group coordinator Rebecca Begg says many farmers are interested but aren’t ready to take the leap yet.

She says most of the technology is based in the North Island.

“Drones keep coming up as

something farmers want to try,” she says.

Along with locating stock, specialised drones can be used for pest management and spray drones can be used for spot and blanket spraying. Barking drones have speakers on them and are used for mustering. With RNZ

16

Rural News

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Rural News

Tuesday 17 May 2022

E-BIKES FOR ALL! With the biggest range of eBikes available in Marlborough, we have one to suit every rider!

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Rural News

Tuesday 17 May 2022

h g u o r o b l r a M

RURAL & LI FE STY LE 1204 Rapaura Road Spring Creek

2,8889ha 2

2

1

1

Hydroponics and Horticulture at Spring Creek For Sale By Negotiation (+ gst if any) View By Appointment marlborough.harcourts.co.nz/BL9990 & BL9956

WORDS BY MIKE INSLEY

Currently selling from their popular on-site outlet on 2.8889ha and supplying fresh and nutritious edibles throughout Marlborough, Golden Mile Produce provides seasonal crops that include salad greens, alliums, melon varieties, tomatoes, chillies, legumes plus hydroponic strawberry plants grown in twin-skinned plastic tunnel houses (annual harvest period of approx. seven months).

The modern four room packing and cooling facilities offer the potential to work in with other seasonal producers. Additional buildings include the shop, the fertigation shed (with improved fertigation systems), staff smoko room and ablution block; 1 x 3 bay and 1 x 2 bay tunnel houses ( 3300m² total,) and a renovated two-bedroom cottage with separate office. A comprehensive security system is in place. A man-made pond area is set-up for water catchment. A full chattel list is available on request. This is an exciting opportunity, let’s talk about your options.

Grape Days Ahead Here’s a shameless plug for the upcoming Grape Days Conference coming up in Blenheim on 15 June at the ASB Centre. Name a better way to spend a mid-winter’s day than catching up on the latest in vineyard research. This year’s programme has the overarching theme of “Winegrowing in a Changing Environment” and there’s plenty to talk about.

Two of the big topics for Marlborough growers are covered during the day – Grapevine Trunk Disease and Alternative Pruning Systems for Sauvignon Blanc. The sessions on these are nicely spaced to entice you to spend the entire day in the company of fellow growers. Oh, and there’s lunch.

Grapevine Trunk Disease (GTD) is coming to a Sauvignon Blanc vineyard near you soon(!) if it’s not there already. It’s just our luck that the mainstay of our entire industry is also one of the more susceptible varieties to this complex of fungi that will likely trigger our vineyard redevelopment programme. As an industry we’re still grappling with some of the big questions around this: •

When should I start a redevelopment programme on my vineyard (as opposed to just replacing the occasional dead vine here and there which should be part of your annual work schedule anyway)?

•

How should I redevelop my vineyard – rework the vines (“surgery”)? Or look at a full redevelopment with vine removal and replacement?

•

And if looking at vine removal, is it a matter of “vine out, vine in”, retaining the existing

vineyard infrastructure as much as possible, or a clean slate approach, allowing for changing row widths, installation of newer technologies (subsurface drip irrigation, steel trellising etc) or even just not replanting in the same vine row?

There’s a couple of presentations in the Morning session which will at least up-date us on the latest thinking, validated by research, on some of these questions or at least I hope they will.

Rhonda Stewart

M 021 736 922 P 03 578 0888

William Harris

M 027 756 7798 P 03 578 0888

When it comes to alternative pruning systems for Sauvignon Blanc, we’re all acutely aware of the increasing costs. Our current “standard” method of 2 – 4 cane pruning requires a combination of skill and efficiency / productivity that is becoming increasingly difficult to reliably secure.

The advent of KLIMA technology in 2008 changed the game for mechanisation of the stripping part of cane pruning and mechanisation generally means reduced costs. Can more of the Sav pruning process be mechanised? That’s a big part of the thinking behind the alternative pruning methods, especially long spur pruning.

225 Hawkesbury Road Hawksbury 3

6,300m² 1

1

2

Manageable Lifestyle on Hawkesbury Road Auction Thurs 9 June at 12:30 pm, Harcourts, 1 Scott St, Blenheim (Unless Sold Prior) View By Appointment marlborough.harcourts.co.nz/BL9982 & BL10022 Carved from the adjoining vineyard is this 0.63ha chunk of land (more or less, subject to clear title being issued) with a paddock for the pets and a mid-1980’s built, Oamaru stone exterior, single glazed home, selling as-is. North facing to catch the sun, with septic tank, bore and two brand new water tanks for domestic use, all the services are in place. Zoned rural, there is good cellphone coverage, rural mail delivery and school buses past the gate. This property is all about location! Selling by auction, the clock is ticking, and the vendors will look at offers prior to auction date so be quick to view and decide if this property in the popular Hawkesbury region is for you. For an exclusive viewing contact the listing agents today

I’ve got to say I’ve been a sceptic when it comes to spur pruning of Sauvignon Blanc, having seen overly dense and not-very-fruitful canopies of previous small scale company trials (not published). Also, seeing spur pruned vineyards in California lose spur positions when they have become too tall (“castleing”) and a machine harvester has gone through has biased my thinking. I’d like to think my mind will change when I see the evidence though and I’m looking forward to the afternoon session to do just that.

Rhonda Stewart

Got your ticket yet?

M 021 736 922 P 03 578 0888

William Harris

M 027 756 7798 P 03 578 0888

378 Jones Road Lower Wairau

5

2

2+

4.0803ha

For Sale By Negotiation (+ gst if any) View By Appointment marlborough.harcourts.co.nz/BL10002 & BL9996

Exceptional Lifestyle on 4.08ha Located in the Lower Wairau region, an existing resource consent for a firewood business on the property gives the option to set-up a self-sufficient small industry run from home. Up to 400 conventional bales of hay have been cut seasonally from the six paddocks where stock currently graze.

The modern, five-bedroom home is a substantial 364m2 and was specifically designed for the larger family with all rooms super-sized. An enclosed entertainment area contains its own closed woodfire and kitchenette.

Outbuildings: 6-bay shed featuring over height doors, an enclosed vehicle washdown (including drain), four additional lockable bays suitable for machinery, boats or large vehicles plus a self-contained office and ablution block. 3-bay Goldpine implement / hay shed. Separate shed with 3-phase power.

Book your exclusive appointment to view with the listing agents.

Rhonda Stewart

M 021 736 922 P 03 578 0888

r u o y

William Harris

M 027 756 7798 P 03 578 0888

local people local farmers local knowledge local rural specialists

William Harris

Mike Insley

Max Morris

Rural & Lifestyle Manager

Sales & Marketing Consultant

Sales & Marketing Consultant

Paul Jackson

Rhonda Stewart

Martin Summerscales

M 027 277 6686 P 03 578 0888 paul.jackson@harcourts.co.nz

M 021 736 922 P 03 578 0888 rhonda.stewart@harcourts.co.nz

M 021 030 4974 P 03 578 0888 martin.summerscales@harcourts.co.nz

M 027 756 7798 P 03 578 0888 william.harris@harcourts.co.nz Sales & Marketing Consultant

M 021 229 8157 P 03 578 0888 mike.insley@harcourts.co.nz Sales & Marketing Consultant

M 027 959 1812 P 03 578 0888 max.morris@harcourts.co.nz Sales & Marketing Consultant

Hannah Burns

David Searle

Vicki Harrison Jones

M 027 332 5050 P 03 578 0888 hannah.burns@harcourts.co.nz

M 021 565 950 P 03 578 0888 david.searle@harcourts.co.nz

vicki.harrisonjones@harcourts.co.nz

Sales & Marketing Consultant

Sales & Marketing Consultant

• • • • • •

Lifestyle Vineyards Grazing Forestry High Country Cropping

Rural Team Administration

www.marlborough.harcourts.co.nz

Marlborough Real Estate 2008 Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Rural News

Tuesday 17 May 2022

19

Young people future of the industry SARA HOLLYMAN

Newly qualified Lenny Payne, MITO training advisor Paul Booth and Filco’s Dave Filer. Photo: Sara Hollyman.

“These guys are the future of the industry, and the industry relies on young people getting qualifications to give service to our customers, and without service we are nothing,” Dave says.

As part of the Filco team Lenny covers a huge area as part of their off-site servicing. He travels anywhere between Springs Junction

STEM SY

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and Reefton through to Kaikoura.

Dave says going to farms in remote areas are what’s kept Filco running for 35 years.

“We’ve got some customers that I started with in 1987 that we are now into fourth generation of family which is incredible.”

Lenny was just five years old when he started tagging along to

N TAI

N

For Lenny Payne, the thing he enjoys most about his job is getting out of the workshop and heading to farms across the Top of the South to put his trade to use.

Lenny has just completed his Level 4 motorcycle engineer qualification, joining nine other qualified mechanics at Filco Farm and Sport.

For Lenny the journey wasn’t easy, two lockdowns and a switch from paper-based to electronic learning meant he was fielding curveballs from different angles as well as simply ‘being a young fellah’, but last month he crossed the line and completed his qualification.

“It feels really good to get it done, it was a bit of a struggle, as all things are as a young fellah, but got it done,” Lenny says.

Determination and a supportive work environment helped see him along the road to becoming qualified.

Filco Farm and Sport owner Dave Filer says seeing young guys coming through and completing a qualification in a hands-on trade is something that’s increasingly rare. He says they have always put a big focus on training.

the local A&P shows with his dad Rod, who has been a member of the Filco mechanic team for 21 years.

Hanging around the Filco trade displays, motorcycles were arguably in Lenny’s blood.

“He always said he was going to come and work here and so to see him qualify now, it’s a privilege

really,” Dave says.

MITO training advisor Paul Booth says Lenny’s achievement is something to be proud of.

“He’s done really well, he’s done a lot of work.”

Lenny wants to spend the immediate future getting some more knowledge under his belt before seeing where the trade takes him.

20

Rural News

Tuesday 17 May 2022

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Feature Feature

Tuesday 17 May 2022

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21

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Tuesday 17 May 2022

Feature

Feature

Tuesday 17 May 2022

‘22

y l i m a F OurCare

Your

The team at Harcourts Marlborough are proud to have had a long history supporting Hospice Marlborough.

www.marlborough.harcourts.co.nz | 1 Scott Street, Blenheim, 7201 | 03 578 0888 | Marlborough Real Estate 2008 Ltd. | Licensed Agent REAA 2008

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Feature Feature

Tuesday 17 May 2022

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Sport

Tuesday 17 May 2022

25

Renwick move to top of Tasman Trophy table PETER JONES Renwick hung tough to claim four vital Tasman Trophy points at Picton’s Endeavour Park at the weekend, although the home side made them work overtime for their 22-16 victory.

Waitohi have struggled for success this season, bringing a relatively new-look side together amid some strong competition, but went close to breaking their duck on Saturday.

The sides were locked together 7-7 at the halftime break, midfielder Ben Finau poaching an intercept to open the scoring for the Green Machine, before home side No 8 Taimi Fangatua squared the ledger 20 minutes later.

Two Corey Bovey penalties pushed Waitohi out to a 13-7 lead, then flanker Sky BoskettBarnes dived over in the corner to close the gap to one.

Michael Dillon missed the conversion but was successful with a penalty soon after to push the visitors ahead 15-13.

With Bovey in the sinbin, paying the price for his side’s repeated offside infringements, fullback Kyren Taumoefolau stepped up to land a 40m penalty which put the Tohis back in front. However, Renwick replacement lock Atu Taufa was on hand soon after to crash over and help his side regain the lead. Cameron Hansford nailed the sideline conversion, then the Green Machine raised their defensive game to keep the home side at bay until the final whistle.

Waitohi can be proud of their effort, their whole-hearted commitment spoiled by costly inaccuracies, especially in the final

points. Soon after they spurned a further chance to shoot for goal and the lead, opting for the lineout option, an area they struggled for consistency in for much of the match.

After a series of turnovers, St Bede’s hammed the final nail into MBC’s coffin, scoring from a lineout drive close to the home side’s line. The conversion meant MBC came away with no competition points, which was hard on a side who played with determination and skill for much of an entertaining encounter.

Best of the MBC forwards were loosies Will Flynn, Charles Tupouto’a, Wayden Smith-Page, while lock Watson Tahavalu and Sione Papani carried hard.

Robinson, Pacey and Cooper Roberts looked lively with ball in hand, while winger Koloa Fotu Moala and fullback Cohen Stewart were always dangerous.

Renwick centre Zac Harrison Jones speeds towards the Waitohi line. Photo: Peter Jones. quarter. Locks Dylan Burns and Sean Walsh led the way up front, with Fangatua carrying powerfully and skipper Taine CraggLove strong over the ball. Halfback Karlos Tatauri, plus wingers Talu Numia and Voka Satau, were prominent in the backline.

Renwick, who now sit atop the Tasman Trophy table, were well served up front by loosies Boskett-Barnes, Josh Holdaway and youngster Will Mackenzie, with prop George Tuineau working hard against his former club.

Halfback Hansford, midfielders Finau and Zac Harrison Jones, plus fullback Cody Weir were the pick of the backline.

Both sides have plenty to work on

if they are to be consistent in this competition, with lineout accuracy top of the list, along with discipline at the breakdown and the offside line.

Other Tasman Trophy scores: Marist 21 Stoke 19; Wanderers 43 Waimea Old Boys 15; Kahurangi v Nelson postponed.

MBC beaten The Marlborough Boys’ College First XV could sympathise with Waitohi.

They were also on their home ground on Saturday afternoon and turned in a committed effort, only to pay the price for mistakes

at the business end of the match.

MBC lost 19-10 to St Bede’s College in a willing clash which turned on some small margins.

The visitors produced a better kicking and chasing game than MBC, exerting pressure, then claiming field position from which they could launch their potent lineout drives, which formed the basis for two of their three tries.

After a scrappy first 30 minutes, Jake Pacey scored a sharp solo try for MBC, but by the break the visitors had levelled at 7-7. St Bede’s struck immediately after oranges to lead 12-7, before MBC playmaker Hugh Robinson landed a penalty to close the gap to two

Other Miles Toyota championship results: Christ’s College 42 Waimea Combined 7; Shirley 16 Timaru 15; Christchurch BHS 36 Roncalli 0; Selwyn 47 Rangiora 0; St Thomas 40 St Andrew’s 17.

Women win Meanwhile, the Moutere women’s team opened their account in the Tasman Trophy women’s competition on Saturday, notching a 34-27 win over Kahurangi in Riwaka. Waimea beat Marist 32-12 in the other match.

In Marlborough division two action, Waitohi beat Central 15-0 at Lansdowne Park, MBC Old Boys took care of Renwick 41-14 at Renwick, while Awatere downed Moutere 15-8 at Seddon.

26

Tuesday 17 May 2022

Sport

Quins, MGC score opening night wins PETER JONES Although there were no competition points at stake, there was no shortage of enthusiasm and crowd support when the Marlborough premier netball competition got underway at Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000 on Tuesday night.

With just four premier teams in contention this season, it was decided the first round, played over three weeks, would offer an opportunity for teams to find their feet before upping the ante over the following three rounds.

A raft of personnel changes across all four sides during the off-season meant plenty of fresh faces were on show, leaving teams striving to form new combinations and integrate different playing styles.

Quickest off the mark on opening day were Harlequins and Marlborough Girls’ College, who both registered victories.

Quins drew away in the second half to get the better of Pelorus 57-42, although the scoreline did not reflect of the closeness of this opening encounter between two sides who will no doubt have some torrid battles later in the season.

In the second match, MGC senior A claimed a narrow 38-36 win over Tokomaru, the result of this clash in doubt until the final whistle.

In the early game both Quins and Pelorus took the opportunity to use all 10 players at

MGC defender Mya Wiapo leaps high to block a shot from Tokomaru shooter Ricci Higgins at Stadium 2000 on Tuesday night. Photo: Peter Jones. their disposal. They both also experimented positionally and tried different combinations throughout. Although play often became messy with teams attempting to shake off early-season rust, the ball generally flowed well through court, a fact reflected by the high scoreline.

A key factor for the victorious Quins was the work of attacking circle duo Lauren Murray and Kelsee Hamilton.

The pair shot at a combined 82 percent, giving them a winning edge after the sides were relatively even in the possession stakes. Their tried and tested combination with

middies Bridget Gane and Simone Pedersen was another bonus.

Olivia Robinson stood out in defence as did newcomer Amanda Sheehan.

For Pelorus, defender Mara McCurdy looks a very handy addition to their ranks, while centres Charlene Wills and Brittney Lyons showed skills and imagination. Regular shooter Paige Lovell underlined her versatility and range of skills by spending a quarter in the defensive circle.

While Quins drew away during the final stages of their encounter, the second game remained tight throughout.

At halftime Toko led 19-18, their speed through midcourt allowing them to remain in touch with a taller College outfit.

However, the students, who relied on the accurate shooting of Fiaalii Solomona, bounced back in the third.

They pushed out to a five-goal lead, which allowed them enough of a buffer in the final 15 minutes as Toko narrowed the deficit to two.

The experienced defensive duo of Mya Wiapo and Holly Feltham were solid for MGC, along with Issy Tupouto’a and Liv Matthews.

Stormy Tupara and Hazel Glover both added energy to the equation when they came on.

The Wilson sisters, Hana and Kyla, were at the forefront of the Toko attack, along with newcomer Ramona Waikato.

Geneva Hoggard, Giovanna Burtenshaw, Hannah Dickson and Kayla Bishell impressed at the defensive end.

If the opening salvoes of the new season are anything to go by a tight, entertaining few months of premier netball are in store with all four teams relatively evenly matched.

Scores: Harlequins New World 57 (Lauren Murray 38/46; Kelsee Hamilton 19/23) Pelorus Edridge Contracting 42 (Paige Lovell 20/31; Liv Pinkerton 6/8; Karli Murphy 16/22). Quarter scores (winning team first): 13-13, 11-8, 15-12, 18-9.

Musseleers seek new recruits PETER JONES A well-known Marlborough rugby team is on the lookout for potential players.

The criteria is simple – you need to be aged 35+ and looking for “fun, friendship and fraternity”.

The Marlborough Vintage Musseleers Golden Oldies rugby team, based at Spring Creek, are seeking more members, with a view to participating at a couple of forthcoming events.

Firstly, they plan a tribute game to Moutere and Musseleers stalwart Arthur Pacey, who died last year. The 96-year-old had held every position at the Moutere club since joining in 1954 and continued to pull on the boots until aged 90.

Musseleers’ president Ray Haggland said they were committed to putting on a match to remember “Uncle Arthur’s” contribution but needed a few more players to make it happen.

“We were going to have a memorial game with the Moutere guys, but it fell through, so we are hoping to tee something up over the next couple of months along the same lines.

“We may even look at getting some of the Crippled Cray Golden Oldies up from Kaikoura as that was where Arthur originated from.

“We had a bit of a lean year with COVID last year so didn’t have many games … we have kicked off again but are keen to get some more people involved and maybe attract some fresher faces,” he says.

“We have a run from 6.30pm every Wednesday night, playing touch at Awarua [Park], so if people still have a bit of spark and are keen for some low-key exercise they are welcome to come along.”

Also on the agenda in September is a two-day Golden Oldies tournament at Christchurch’s Linwood club, a club the Musseleers usually have home and away fixtures with.

The Musseleers have around 20-30 members at the moment but, as Ray points out, they are not all active players and it is a struggle to field a full team.

There is plenty to be gained from the Golden Oldies experience, says Ray. “You get a bit of fitness but you also get a lot of camaraderie … our motto is fun, friendship and fraternity and that is part of how we live … we come together to have a bit of fun, not only in rugby, but also off the field, through picnics, BBQs, those sort of things as well.”

Humour is always a big part of the Golden Oldies experience. “If you like rugby, having a beer and telling a few lies, this is the place to come,” Ray says with a chuckle, adding, “you know the story … the older we get the better we were”.

Anyone interested becoming involved with the Musseleers can contact Ray at ray.haggland@wsp.com or call 0274452970.

Sport

Tuesday 17 May 2022

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Mixed results for Rangers teams PETER JONES There was disappointment for the Rangers AFC men’s footballers on Saturday as they slipped to their first defeat of the season, losing a high-scoring encounter against Nelson Suburbs under-23.

Rangers were beaten 5-4 at Nelson’s Saxton Fields by a skilful and polished outfit, in what player/coach Tore Waechter described as a “pretty tight” match throughout.

The visitors trailed 3-2 at halftime, goals to midfielder Harrison Pine and young gun Louie Poletti keeping them in touch at the break. Suburbs bagged two goals after oranges to lead 5-2, before two late goals to Carl Connor-McClean, one from a penalty won by replacement Keagan Mortimer, drew them within one at the final whistle.

Waechter was unhappy with his side’s defence. “It was pretty poor from us … when we had the ball we were really good but a lot of us weren’t taking responsibility on defence. Just picking up our man, that sort of thing … we were often a few metres off and against a team which we knew played good footy you are on the back foot.

“I think it was a wake-up call for a few, especially the newer guys, just to know how good you have to be. Nothing gets handed to you.”

After a halftime pep talk, Rangers came out with much more purpose and took control for much

Reuben Rofe, from the 12th grade Rangers Dragons side, was a standout during youth football at A&P Park on Saturday. Photo Peter Jones. of the second spell.

“If we were more clinical in front of goal we would have had six or seven [goals] … so it was a good response,” said Tore.

“But, of course, we let them score another two through not being tight enough with our defensive duties.”

Standouts for Rangers were Sam Hickmott, who battled hard despite some tight marking, and fellow midfielder Bjorn Waechter.

Next weekend, Rangers play FC

Nelson Karenni in Blenheim.

Meanwhile the Rangers AFC women’s side, after being defaulted to in their first match, made the most of their opening encounter.

They downed Golden Bay Shield Maidens 9-1 at Renwick on Saturday.

The home side scored first, a pinpoint pass from Lauren Sloan setting up Lucy Martin in just the fifth minute. From then it was one-way traffic in the first half,

with Sloan bagging four goals, Martin a second from the penalty spot and one from Ruby Wybourne to give the home side an unassailable 7-0 lead at the break.

Golden Bay put one on the board early in the second spell before Pugh bagged her second and Lea Poletti added her side’s ninth to complete a clinical first-up effort.

Maddy Rowe and Poletti made a significant contribution for Rangers in midfield, producing an impressive workrate.

Hard-working Rangers AFC midfielder Maddy Rowe brings the ball up field at Renwick on Saturday. Photo: Supplied.

Acting captain Leana Gargiulo said it was “a good way to start the season”.

“Our solid defence closed down all but one of their opportunities - and we set up our forwards well to make the most of our own chances.”

Next week Rangers take to the road to face Richmond Athletic at Jubilee Park.

In Mayfield Motorworld division one matches on Saturday, Call Care Trojans and Central Buccaneers remained unbeaten ahead of their title-deciding clash next weekend.

Trojans, with Nicolas De Stefano and Francisco Zimmerman scoring doubles, accounted for Central Wolves 5-1 while Buccaneers saw off Rangers Development 5-0, Ben Shallcrass scoring a hattrick and Jono Masters a brace.

In the third match, Call Care Hotspurs downed BV Masters 5-1, after leading 2-1 at halftime.

Matt Weaver scored a brace for Hotspurs.

In division two Rangers Masters moved one point clear at the top of the standings after beating Call Care Red 2-1. Close behind are Call Care Spartans who beat Call Care Youth 7-2, Steve McGinnity finding the back of the net five times.

Central Privateers downed Picton Young Guns 4-0 while Rangers Clubs of Marlborough overcame Picton Crow Tavern 5-0, Stewart Sloan and Matt Millar each scoring a brace.

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Sport

Tuesday 17 May 2022

PTS

CRUSADERS vs FIJIAN DRUA

QLD REDS vs MOANA PASIFICA

CHIEFS vs WESTERN FORCE

HURRICANES vs MELB REBELS

BRUMBIES vs BLUES

HIGHLANDERS vs NSW WARATAHS

58 Garry Boyd

Marlborough player Alex Kennedy in action at Simcox Stadium on Saturday.

Photo: Peter Jones .

57 57 56 56 55 54 54 54 54 53 53 53 53 53 53 53 Greg Somerville

52 52 50 50 Toni Robinson

48

Canterbury duo claim table tennis titles PETER JONES Canterbury’s Jaafar Moussa and Kris Alisch took out the singles titles at the Motorworld Marlborough Open table tennis champs at Simcox Stadium on Saturday.

The Lebanese man, seeded fourth, beat third-seeded Simon Fenwick in the final 13-11, 11-6, 11-8, 118. Moussa produced some brilliant backhand winners and some tremendous defence against the smashing ability of Fenwick.

In the semi-final, Moussa beat second seeded Jesse Wilson 114, 11-13, 17-15, 11-5, 12-10 in a very tactical battle. Fenwick had a straight-sets win over fellow Cantabrian and top seed Vladimir Ivanov in the other semi. Fenwick showed why he has won this title on several occasions, serving intelligently and following up with powerful topspins.

Local players Nathan Watson and Matthias Kronert qualified for post section play.

Alisch beat Southland’s Lisa Wang in the women’s final 11-6, 11-6, 119, 8-11, 11-5 to retain her title. She always looked in control, keeping the pressure on with consistent forehand and backhand topspins, while Wang claimed many points with some explosive drives.

In the semi-final, Alisch beat local player Jacqui Wood while Wang beat second seed, Anny Li from Canterbury, 6-11, 11-9, 10-12, 8-11, 11-6, 11-6, 11-9 in the other semi.

There were upsets in the men’s doubles with top seeds Ivanov and Wilson going out to Moussa and Gregg Davey in the semis while the local pair of Nathan Watson and Alex Kennedy beat the Fenwick/Jung combination in the other semi. In this match, Kennedy was in outstanding form, every shot hit with great pace and spin.

The Canterbury pair won the final 11-9, 5-11, 11-9, 11-6.

Alisch combined with Li for a 1210, 11-5, 11-4 win in the women’s doubles final over the mother/ daughter combination of Jacqui Wood and Vanessa Wood-Lin. Alisch remained unbeaten on the day when she combined with Fenwick for a win in the mixed doubles final over Kronert/Li by 11-8, 11-8, 12-10.

Marlborough players excelled in the Harcourts-sponsored second grade events.

Kronert beat the top seed, Daniel Jefferies of Canterbury, in the men’s singles final by 11-7, 5-11, 11-7, 11-7.

Jefferies combined with Kennedy for a win in the men’s doubles final over Davey and Fenwick by 11-9, 11-7, 11-6.

Wood played intelligently in the final of the women’s singles, serving well and controlling the ball with her backhand to beat Otago’s Liz Franz 7-11, 11-8, 11-6, 12-10, then added a second title when she paired with Kennedy for a win over Davey and Franz in the mixed doubles.

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