The Observer _ December 2022

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Artisan Market

Oxford Gallery is excited to present our first Artisan Market! Come along on Sunday 18 December, meet our artists and experience the incredible talent our district has to offer.

Oxford Artisan Market will be a great opportunity to support local artisans’ livelihoods and to find gifts or something unique for yourself. This is a debut market event for several of our stallholders, so you’re sure to find something new. Expect to see ceramics, textiles, homeware, original art, limited edition prints, cards and more.

Whilst the market is a celebration of local talent, it’s also a celebration of change. By way of new street signage and the recently installed Llew Summers sculpture, Guardian Angel (2007), on the forecourt, we are letting you know that we’re here and that you’re invited to come and see the changes we’ve made to the gallery over the past two years. As a not-for-profit run by volunteers - including our board of trustees - and two part-time staff, our workshop and exhibition programme is here for you to engage with, explore your creativity and make connections with people. Make yourself at home; there’s a welcoming space you can use to meet friends or do some work and a hot drinks trolley for making a cuppa, whenever the gallery is open. We welcome young and old to get involved with the gallery and we’re keen to attract new volunteers who can make it their own.

Oxford is recognised for its creatives and artists and we want to build on this reputation with you, our community and partners.

Support local; come and see us at Oxford Artisan Market, Sunday 18 December, 10am - 2pm, alongside the Oxford Christmas Parade.

Well we have almost made it to the end of what has been another challenging year. For the last few years we have been thinking we could get back to normal the next year, but who knows what each one will bring. What we do know, is we live in a great part of the world. North Canterbury communities are very supportive, and there is a lot of support out there for when challenging times get a bit much.

It is so wonderful to see all the Christmas activities coming up this month. We have the Twilight Shopping evening, Lions Christmas Parade, Artisan Market at the Oxford Gallery, Oxford Community Trust Christmas Wonderland, and the OPAC Christmas Carols.

Last year so much had to be cancelled due to Covid restrictions. There will be something for everyone amongst these events. We have some amazing businesses in the town, so if you can, shop locally this Christmas season. It really does make a difference to them all.

As we come to the end of the year, we would like to say a huge thank you to you all. Thank you to everyone who reads and shares their copies of the Observer. Also to all of our advertisers who make the Observer possible. We also want to thank those of you who have got in touch throughout the year with encouragement.

Businesses are doing it tough out there, and a few words can really make the difference to someone's day.

We wish you all a Merry Christmas, and hope you have a peaceful end to the year.

Bruce & Emily.

P 0800 627 378 37 e info@oxfordobserver.co.nz www.schnurrbartdesignandpublishing.co.nz

COVER PHOTO CREDIT Tammy Pfahlert

Car kindly supplied by Andrew Farrow EYREWELL FOREST MOTOR COMPANY

theGiveGift of BOOKS..

A LOAD OF BULL by Amanda

King

A stunning photographic book recording the extraordinary beauty of farm animals - cattle to be precise!

Amanda King grew up in Brisbane, Australia, and like so many young Australasians before her, she eventually headed off on her OE. On her travels, she met a Kiwi farmer, and ended up living on a farm in Canterbury, New Zealand, and falling head-over-heels in love with country life as well as the farmer!

Photography started off as a favourite hobby - a way to capture unique split-second scenes and make them last a lifetime. Her business really began when she decided to create a large wall print for her own living room.

An opportunity arose to photograph a stunning highland cow. The resulting animal print became the focal point of the room and friends started requesting similar pieces.

This inspired her to head out and take photos of other rural animals. That led to a 'hobby' Facebook page. Unexpectedly, and very quickly, people started to respond to the images. Before too long, and much to her delight, Amanda found herself with a full-time business on her hands.

In this book she has collected her favourite prints and arranged them by breed: Angus; Belted Galloway; Bison; Brahman; Charolais; Friesian; Hereford; Highland; Jersey; Limousin; Murray Grey; Red Devon; Shorthorn; Speckle Park; Texas Longhorn; Wagyu; White Galloway; and Zebu.

also tells brief stories of some of these animals, their personalities, and how the shoot day went.

this Christmas

Emma's at Oxford has something for everyone !

ROAR SQUEAK PURR

Edited by Paula Green Illustrated by Jenny Cooper

A marvellous menagerie of animal poems for children by New Zealand's best writers - some of them children - selected by star New Zealand poet Paula Green and adorably illustrated by Jenny Cooper.

A marvellous menagerie of more than 200 animal poems by Aotearoa's best writers, ROAR SQUEAK PURR shows just how fun poetry can be, and is sure to inspire a new generation of poets. In between the covers of this book you will meet creatures large and small. They might pad, or skitter, swoosh or soar. They could be fuzzy, feathery, suckery, scaly or spiky. These animals might ROAR or squeak or Purrrrrrrrrr. Just like the animals they are about, these poems come in all shapes and sizes! They tell stories, pose questions, make us feel things - and they all make glorious music.

If your kids think poetry isn’t for them, Roar Squeak Purr will cure that thought forever! This exuberant treasury brings together over 200 animal poems by New Zealand's best writers, many of them written by children. The poems were selected and edited by champion poet Paula Green, winner of the Prime Minister's Award for Poetry and creator of the popular Poetry Box blog, and teamed with Jenny Cooper’s cheeky, whimsical and adorable illustrations.

Roar Squeak Purr is destined to be a family treasure – and to inspire a new generation of poets.

The highly anticipated new historical adventure by the bestselling author of The Spy's Wife. Orphan Fleur Appleby is adopted by a loving undertaker and his wife and she quickly develops a special gift for helping bereaved families. Her ambition to be the first female mortician in the country is fuelled by her plan to bring more women into the male dominated funeral industry.

Raised in the outback of South Australia’s Flinders Ranges, Tom Catchlove is faced with a life-changing tragedy as a young boy. He works hard but dreams big, striving for a future as a wool classer. A chance encounter between the two children will change the course of their lives.

By adulthood Fleur finds herself fighting for the survival of the family’s business, while her widowed father drinks away generations of prosperity and a new, conniving stepmother wants Fleur gone. When Tom emerges from the isolation of the desert to find new work at the port woolstores, his path crosses with Fleur’s again – only to be caught up in a murder investigation, in which they can only trust each other.At once tragic and triumphant, The Orphans is an unforgettable story about a unique bond between two children that will echo down the years, and teach them both about the real meaning of life, of loss, and of love.

The latest all-action thriller in the Gray Man series - soon to be a major netflix film.Before he was the Gray Man, Court Gentry was Sierra Six, the junior member of a CIA action team. In their first mission they took out a terrorist leader, but at a terrible price - the life of a woman Court cared for. Years have passed and now The Gray Man is on a simple mission when he sees a ghost: the long-dead terrorist, but he's remarkably energetic for a dead man. A decade may have gone by but the Gray Man hasn't changed. He isn't one to leave a job unfinished or a blood debt unpaid.

THE ORPHANS by Fiona McIntosh

SIERRA SIX by Mark Greany

Summer style.

with Stylist - Kerri Booth

Summer is approaching (hopefully)!. As long as Mother Nature knows it’s summer time, then we should be good. She is not known for her laid back ‘nature’ unfortunately.

As the weather does get warmer, grabbing shorts and tees can be more difficult than it sounds.

Many of us don’t feel our best in a pair of shorts which can leave us in a bit of a conundrum of what to wear when it gets hot. It can be difficult to swap out jeans for a pair of denim shorts that are uncomfortable and don’t fit in all the right places.

Also denim shorts are not always appropriate for every occasion so what other options are left to use that are comfortable, cool and work for the occasion? Well, never fear my dear friend, as I spend my nights dreaming of different outfits for such occasions as these.

Don’t forget that as well as jeans and denim shorts, you can use a denim skirt as an alternative. This way you can get a length that you feel comfortable with. It can be dressed up or down and is the most perfect staple to go with any top. I just feel that denim can be used in any form and is a winner. A jumpsuit, dress, pants, shorts , etc. So this means you can pick your item of choice and wear it in denim!

Ok moving away from denim. Don’t forget the good old midi skirt. The perfect all-rounder that can move from poolside to evening very easily. Swap out the jandals for a pair of heels and you have a completely different look. Still ticking the box of being comfortable enough to mooch around the pool, but dressy enough to look like you care about yourself when you head out for dinner. Plus you can get a midi skirt in 1000 different patterns and colour which can match your personality style. Win win!

Another trend that has returned, that I am very excited about, is tailored shorts. I’m a sucker for a bit of structure that can also slot quite easily into a casual situation. The old body can give up on it’s own structure at times so having an item of clothing that has structure itself can be so helpful.

This summer you will see these everywhere and I can tell you that I’m not mad about it. Structured shorts often tend to be high waisted along with culottes (I hate that word!). This helps to show off that waist and shape that you definitely have. Culottes can look so stylish and polished without much effort. They also come at different lengths, colour and patterns. Very helpful when creating a summer wardrobe to reflect you. These are all options that can substitute for a pair of shorts which can sometimes make us feel like we aren’t showcasing our best assets.

My biggest style tip for the summer is get maximum wear out of your items. Don’t pigeon hole any item to only be worn with certain things.

Get creative and mix n match as much as you can. Oh and Merry Merry Christmas. Soak up all the summer and Christmas goodness. See you next year.

Kerri

New location for re.Clotheme

Oxford’s Main Street has a new and exciting shop. re.Clotheme has moved from their location in German Road to 40a Main Street (next to the Pharmacy).

As the name suggests re.Clotheme is a pre-loved clothing store, and is a beautiful space with a carefully curated selection of clothing.

Owner Michelle Anderton says “ I couldn't pass up the opportunity to move into the premises at 40a Main Street. With so many lovely items coming into re.Clotheme I really needed more people to see the fabulous range of clothing, footwear and accessories and have the opportunity to find that special something waiting to be re-loved, at a fraction of the new price.

I wanted to create a friendly, pretty, inviting space for women to spend time and feel comfortable and the positive feedback has been so amazing!”

I'm hoping re.clotheme will help bring more people into Oxford Township where they can also experience the other businesses and everything Oxford has to offer.

With the "New Arrivals" rack I encourage the ladies to pop in on a regular basis to see what has just arrived - the rack to go to when on their lunch-break or when pressed for time.

I'm really enjoying meeting all the new faces and helping people find just what they're looking for! The thrill of the find!”

A Year in Review The Best of Oxford's 2022

by Amy Riach

December has finally begun, Christmas is just around the corner, and New Year will be soon to follow. 2022 is almost over, and some days it feels as though the whole year passed in the blink of an eye. Other days, 2021 feels like a lifetime ago, and the Oxford community has managed to fill these last 11 months with a year's worth of events and then some. From the return of Oxford’s Big Day Out, or the latest instalment of the Great Oxford Garage Sale Trail, 2022 has kept the Main Street full of cars and the cafes full of people. Singling out the Top 5 events from Oxford’s 2022 calendar is a task akin to Sisyphus writing a list, but nonetheless, in a spread from January to December, this is Oxford’s Year in Review.

In the days between Christmas dinners and New Years resolutions, we all approach the annual shift from one year to the next in vastly different ways. There are those who watch Love Actually, wine in hand, those who are already packing away the tinsel; and a few who hit the ground running, in gumboots to boot. The leap into January 2022, and the beginning of the new year, also marked the beginning of the latest nesting season for our rare and endangered native birds; and in our own backyard, the Ashley River became home to many colonies of braided-river birds for the first time. The hard working volunteers of the Ashley-Rakahuri RiverCare Group, the local ARRG, headed out in the dawn of 2022 to wade in the river and do the math; and they were thrilled with the survey, which revealed well established populations of the endangered birds that can only be found in the braided rivers of Aoteroa, arriving as a belated Christmas gift for Community Ranger Sarah Ensor. This year, the Ashley River finally became home to a few small colonies of black-fronted terns, or tarapirohe, and to many breeding pairs of banded dotterels, pied stilts, and pied oystercatchers.

Such endangered braided-river birds won’t typically nest in the Ashley, but the unusual weather of the year before opened new nesting sites, and just like that, the Waimak gained a few new feathered residents. After 20 years working in preservation and protection, for the ARRG, 2022 began with the realisation of one decades old New Years resolution.

For local volunteers, such remarkable conservation efforts would prove to be one success among many, and in May, the Waimakariri Community Service Awards formally recognized the efforts of local unsung heroes. Mayor Dan Gordon presented the awards, and said, “We are blessed to have a District full of passionate people who dedicate themselves and their time to the betterment of Waimakariri. While I know many do so because of their passion for the community, it is important that we thank and celebrate them and their significant contributions”. Waimakariri District Councillor Kevin Falstead was the recipient of the Mayor’s award, and his considerable involvement in the Oxford community includes 16 years on the Oxford Area School...

board, 6 of them spent as Chair, as well as three decades of service with Civil Defence and Oxford Fire. Equally dedicated, the recipients of the Community Service Awards were Jan and Dave Shelton, for their extensive local volunteering, and their role on the Ashley Gorge Reserve advisory group; and Scott and Tracey Bowman, for their service in wildlife rehabilitation, and their establishment of the Oxford Birds Rescue Trust.

This year we also saw the welcomed return of the West Oxford Hotel, and the corner Pub had its grand opening on July 23rd, renamed by owner operator Jodi Ramsey and her father Barrie Ramsey. The historic landmark spent a few years as Rustic Country, before the name was returned to the West Oxford Hotel this year, and in 1878 when it was first built, the pub was originally christened the Commercial Hotel. Though that very first name failed to stand the test of time, the Pub had no such trouble, and the West Oxford Hotel was first built in just one month, still not in need of any renovation. The layout however was certainly revamped, and the Ramseys’ first action was to shift the bar back to its original spot, before making some cosmetic changes to turn the Pub into the one that we all know now.

As far as historic buildings go, the West Oxford Hotel is pretty high up on the list for most locals, but the Beehive deserves its own honorary mention; and this year Oxford’s own headed up to Parliament.

Hillary Cooper, Oxford student and Waimakariri Youth MP represented rural youth in Wellington, and presented to Youth Parliament her work on making young drivers safe drivers. Hillary sat down with the Prime Minister in Wellington to discuss the driving safety of rural youth, and later in August, the Rt Hon Jacinda Ardern came down to Christchurch, where she addressed Canterbury's youth, and answered the questions of Oxford's Head Students. Oxford teens have had their taste of Parliament this year, and Hillary’s Drive Safe campaign has.....

certainly been a highlight for community youth, as she supports local students in gaining their licences.

2022 also marked a huge milestone for Oxford Area School, and in October, school and community alike celebrated the 150th Oxford Schools Jubilee.

The anniversary took place on the Friday and Saturday of Labour Weekend, and while past and present pupils swapped stories, Oxford’s current staff were joined by teachers and principals of many years and decades past. Oxford’s doors were officially open to alumni and to the Oxford public, and the Jubilee was well and truly in full swing, long before the plaque was unveiled and the cake was cut.

The day was a celebration of the school's past, and also of the school's future, which is looking to take off very soon; a brand new build already underway on the grounds. The Jubilee this year was put together by the 2022 committee, led by Mary Chisnal as event coordinator, and by her daughter Amanda Abel, who both made a wonderful team. It was a wonderful highlight and a very special anniversary, and the next one won’t be rolling around until 2047!

2022 has been a celebration for many, and we’re so privileged to say that a year spent in Oxford brings so many highlights.

The year is drawing to a close and 2021 seems both decades ago, and like just yesterday. 2023 is bringing big changes for lots of us, and even the school has a few New Year’s resolutions, hoping to look a little bit different next year as the construction begins. Oxford’s seniors are on their way out of High School, and many of them on their way out of town, and in spite of Covid, and all the other non-pandemic challenges of the year; 2022 has been a pretty great year to be in Oxford. As we all look to the New Year, it can be nice to remember what this one brought us. And with only a month to go, the Christmas season can finally begin, one more highlight to add to the pro-column on 2022’s list!

If you have ever woken up with the urge to swim 1.9km, bike 92km and tackle a cruisy 21km run, the full Oxman may be for you.

An annual race, the Oxman begins on local farmer Geoff Sparks' property and continues on the nearby roads. There’s multiple race categories, including the Mini Oxman and OxRun (half marathon).

Although the courses are quite long, there’s something for everyone as athletes are able to race in a team or solo.

This year, on the 27th of November, it was pouring. Participants were informed that the race would go ahead and to come prepared for some wet weather, bearing in mind that many races include an open water swim. Despite this, the mood was positive and soon results came flooding in.

by Beka Hunt

They also mentioned that the day was so cold that athletes were struggling to undo bike helmets and shoelaces, a key transition skill in both Triathlons and Duathlons. In addition to these categories, the new Oxman ‘Multisport’ also required a transition period.

In the Full Oxman- a half Ironman- there were 50 entries, including 3 teams. Athletes raced within their genders and age groups, with each group covering a decade.

Tom Somerville won overall with an incredible time of 4:06:36, beating his 2021 second place time by ten minutes. He was then followed by Peter Fitzweijers in second and Chris Keoghin in third.

Anthea Oliver won the women's category, with Emma Smith finishing as runner up and Holly Weston taking third place on the podium. Many children also braved the weather, some as young as 5 years old.

Jed Cameron was the overall winner in the ages 5-7 Oxkids run. Several parents took to Facebook after the event finished, expressing that the weather didn’t stop them from enjoying themselves and that they were extremely proud of all who raced on such a cold dayespecially their children.

The race saw 25 athletes finish their duathlon with 10 kayak laps of the clean irrigation pond- no easy feat after running and biking for 2 hours beforehand. Jesse Whitehead won overall with a fast time of 3:35:43 and Fiona Dowling followed soon after.

Over the whole day, around 200 people competed in the rain, in approximately 25 different categories.

All the times and places can be found at Oxman.co.nz under the 2022 results tab. The man behind the Oxman is passionate Triathlon coach and athlete, John Newsom. He made the Oxman a reality after a similar event was cancelled in Pegasus due to the dubious quality of lake water. It’s one of the only half Ironmans in New Zealand, so many athletes travelled from outside Canterbury to compete. Swannanoa local Neil Trimboy has lived in North Canterbury for 16 years, and competed in the Oxrun twice.

His 12 year old son has tried each of the three junior events and says his favourite part is all of the friends he has made, while being able to have some fun. His dad also feels the same, saying; “It's a very friendly bunch of people, most of who are just competing against themselves so it's easy to go along as a beginner.”

As Neil sees it, it’s not all about winning. “It’s great that you can stand on the same start line as the best in the country, but in the end it’s just about finishing and doing your best.”

For the athletes who competed in the rain, it’s a remarkable achievement that should be celebrated to the fullest.

LOTS ON AT THE CLUB IN DECEMBER

MONDAY’S

REGISTER FROM 5PM – FREE TO ENTER FOR ALL FINANCIAL MEMBERS

SPIN TO WIN First draw 6pm for a Ham. FINAL NIGHT MONDAY 19TH DECEMBER - all prizes must go!

TUESDAY’S

Pool Tables open for FREE Pool Section Practice. New members welcome, $10 to join contact Nan 312-3388

WEDNESDAY’S

- HAPPY HOUR

THURSDAY’S - QUIZ NIGHT

from 5.30pm to 6.30pm

Weekly quiz 1st, 8th, 15th and a special Christmas Quiz on Thursday 22nd December. Extra Prizes for Best Dressed/Christmas Themed Team! This will be our last one for 2022 returning on 12th Jan 2023.

FREE pool All tables open for FREE & $20 Pizza’s available

FRIDAY NIGHTS >> LOUNGE BAR COCKTAIL HOUR

6.30PM-8.30PM $12

FREE JUKE BOX – ALL NIGHT. Pizza’s & a Pint (or House Wine) for just $22

RAFFLES FROM 6PM TIL GONE- $2 PER TICKET

Wednesday & Saturday 50 Tickets

1st Prize 4.5kg COB Ham, 2nd 250gm Whitebait, 3rd $10 Gift Voucher

FRIDAY – RAFFLES

Support our Sections 2nd & 9th Racing Section, 16th & 23rd Travel Section

EVENTS

– OPEN TO ALL OXFORD CLUB FINANCIAL MEMBERS

FISHING SECTION MEETING – WEDNESDAY 7TH DECEMBER 7PM

First meeting of the newly revised Fishing section – enquiries contact Michael 0274360709 POOL CHAMPS

Sunday 11th December from midday – Open Singles (Morgan Trophy) Enquiries ph Nick 0226995375

CHRISTMAS CARDS

Wed 14th December 7.30pm An evening of Euchre, raffles and sweepstakes $5pp + $1 for sweepstake (optional)

RESTAURANT

Check out the Black board for our additional A-la-carte Christmas Dining Options Sunday Buffet – Jimmi’s Fabulous Sunday night Buffet $35 per adult, $15 Kids 6-13 years and 5 & under eat FREE.

HOLIDAY TRADING HOURS

Christmas Eve closing 8pm

The Club is closed on Christmas Day

FROM BOXING DAY ONWARDS

Bar, Bottlestore, Gaming & TAB open from 11am Daily & closing time dependent on demand. Takeaways will be open throughout the Holidays

THE RESTAURANT WILL BE CLOSED FROM SATURDAY 24TH DECEMBER

Pork, sage & bread sauce Christmas pudding

EQUIPMENT

1ltr Pyrex pudding bowl or oven proof bowl Deep roasting tin to use as a water bath.

BREAD SAUCE

100g white breadcrumbs (2 day old bread in best)

1 medium onion

15 whole cloves

1 teasp Nutmeg

2 Bay leaves

8 whole pepper corns

500mls milk

2 tbs cream

1 tbs butter (melted)

Salt to taste

Cut onion in half put in saucepan with cloves, nutmeg, bay leaves, pepper corns cover with the milk and bring to a boil.

Remove from heat and leave to infuse.

After about 15 mins, strain out the onion and spices. Stir in the bread, add cream, melted butter and breadcrumbs. Refrigerate whilst making the pork mix.

METHOD

Oven on 180oC

by Louize Juniper

PORK & SAGE CHRISTMAS PUDDING

500g Pork Mince

500g Sausage Meat

1 Tbs chopped sage

1 Diced Onion

Zest of one Lemon

2 eggs

1 tsp Nutmeg

¼ Cup Cream

2 Tbs butter

3 Tbs Brandy (Spiced Rum can be an option!)

1 tsp Salt

Milled black pepper.

10 thin slices of Prosciutto or streaky bacon.

Jar of Cranberry sauce. For the topping when serving.

Oil your oven proof pudding bowl and line it with the Prosciutto or thinly sliced streaky bacon. Place the Prosciutto in the centre of the bowl to edge. Feel free to overlap on the bottom of the bowl.

Sauté off the finely diced onion for about 5 mins until they have that golden look.

Place all the ingredients into a large mixing bowl, using your hands or a mixer/food processor. Mix well and mix in the sautéed onions too.

Once well mixed, check the seasoning by frying off a small patty sample and then adjust as like. Press 2/3 of the pork mix round the edges of the pudding bowl.

Spoon the thick bread sauce into the centre, then top with the remaining pork mix. Then bring the excess ends of the prosciutto to the top of the pork mix.

Cut a circle of baking paper to cover the top then cover well with tin foil. Make sure the foil covers well, if you have some butchers twine tie down the foil but not essential, it will just help hold the foil in place.

Cook the pork pudding in a water bath, fill a deep roasting tray with boiling water that comes halfway up the pudding bowl.

Cook for 1hr Use a temperature probe to check it should read 75oC

Remove from oven and the water bath.

This is best left to cool and refrigerated. Reheat the next day or for up to 3 day. To reheat, turn out of pudding bowl on to a baking paper lined roasting tray Reheat in a 160oC oven so the pork pudding crisps up on the outside and adds colour. Cook for about 1hour or until you temperature probe reaches 60oC. Once all heated, garnish the top of the pork pudding with cranberry sauce. Serve with Salad or vegetable of your choice.

Delicious eaten cold too!

Mike Hart

Tumuaki|Principal update

Kia ora koutou katoa

Last month we celebrated our 2022 Senior Students' Prizegiving. It was great to have an audience and special guests along for the evening including Matt Doocey Member of Parliament, Dan Gordon, Mayor of the Waimakariri District Council, Councillors Tim Fulton and Niki Mealing, Thomas Robson from our Community Board, and Rhiannon Moore past Head Student who spoke of her 'experience leaving school.'

Prizegiving is a time for reflection which can be encapsulated with the whakatauki:

Kia whakatōmuri te haere whakamua.

I walk backwards into the future with my eyes fixed on my past. The past is central to and shapes both present and future identity. From this perspective, we carry our past into the future. The COVID pandemic does feature in our reflection with our Year 13's working their way through the three levels of NCEA (our National Qualification) whilst our world was dealing with COVID-19.

I walk backwards into the future with my eyes fixed on my past.

What we have learnt through all of this is that by nature human beings are very adaptable - our students are very resilient and creative as we had to think of "outside the box" solutions to problems. What made getting through the past three years possible was that we were all here for each other and supported each other even when things weren’t great, even when we saw things differently.

To the class of 2022, you are a resilient, adaptable and creative group of young adults. Through events of the past, you have developed your character into what we see today - someone who is ready to take on the world and make a difference.

Kia kaha, kia toa, ake, ake.

To our leaving students - we wish you all the best for your future endeavours. We would like to acknowledge a very special select group of students - Amy Riach, Zara Frahm, Kody Stubbs, Erin Sayer, Jordan Galway, Casey Anderson, and Francesca Curtis. You have all been at Oxford Area School for 13 years and have now joined the elite to have achieved this awesome milestone. Well done.

During the evening we announced our 2023 student leadership team. Selecting these positions continues to be highly competitive. Firstly I would like to thank and congratulate this year's student leadership team consisting of Amy Riach, Cailey Hollard, Ashleigh Lawler, and Zara Frahm. Thank you for your leadership this year, you have all developed into strong young leaders, you work incredibly well as a team and are fine ambassadors for Oxford Area School embracing our school values. On behalf of Oxford Area School, we wish you the best for the bright futures that await you.

The 2023 Student Leadership Team

Head Students for 2023 - Earl Cacho and Hillary Cooper

Deputy Head Students for 2023 - Micah Stagg and Wilani Joubert

Other special award recipients include:

Dux - Amy Riach

Proxime Accessit - Cailley Hollard

Prime Minister's Vocational Excellence Award - Aaliyah Lovatt Oxford Lions Emerging Achievers Award: Earl Cacho & Jystarnia Millward

Sportsperson of the year - Earl Cacho

Runner up to the sportsperson of the year - Ashleigh Lawler

Finally, thanks to all of our school's supporters and congratulations to all of our senior students for reaching their goals as they now turn their attention to the end-of-year examinations.

THANK YOU from The Gateway Programme!

By Lynne Kerr

The Tertiary Education Commission funded Gateway Programme here at Oxford Area School creates a pathway from school to the world of work by placing senior students in a workplace of an industry that they are interested in, one day per week, for an agreed number of weeks. This gives students a wonderful opportunity to gain practical, hands-on work skills in real workplaces, try out potential careers and build relationships with employers.

Students also complete a Workplace First Aid Certificate, a Workplace Health and Safety Certificate and work on industry-based unit standards which earn them credits towards NCEA, and may help them with future employment/training.

The Oxford Community has been very supportive of the Gateway Programme and our students have gained work experience along with valuable skills in a variety of industries.

This year I would like to thank the following employers for their time, patience and willingness to impart knowledge - and also the employers who offered a placement this year.

Their support has been vital to the ongoing success of the Gateway Programme here at Oxford Area School.

• Oxford Ag

• Cafe 51

• Wai Eyre Stud Farm

• Chris King (Equine)

• School Jubilee Committee

Ka pai everyone!

Staffing updates

It is that time of the year that we are organising the comings and goings of our staff for 2023.

We have a number of changes going into 2023.

At the end of this year, we will recognise the careers of a number of staff who have served our school and community over decades. We will be farewelling Julie Evans, Colleen Williamson, and Heather McLachlan. Other changes we will see include Joseph Burston (Head of Sciences) being awarded a sabbatical for Term 1, 2023. While Joseph is away Katie Legg will act in the Head of Sciences role and Alan Stephenson will join the Science department.

Claudia Faulkner (Team Leader of Year 7/8) will take her maternity leave during terms 1-3 next year.

Rachel Campbell is moving from the Year 1-3 Discover team and will act in the Y7/8 Team Lead and Dean position in Claudia's absence. Also, Rachael Elliott who has been teaching in the Year 4-6 Explore team is moving to join the Year 7/8 team.

This week we farewelled Mike Mullis who has been working in our learning support team over the past 5 years. We wish him all the best, acknowledging his service to our school. And next week we farewell Louisa Robinson our International Student's Homestay Coordinator. We would like to thank Louisa and wish her all the best for the future.

Artist impressions of our new build

Celebrate Culture Africa To Aotearoa! Live in Oxford

Last month the Year 1-8 students were treated to the performance from the Kadodo West African Drum and Dance group.

It was such an interactive performance with all of the students having the opportunity to participate in a drum performance. Even the teachers had a go!

We learnt some facts about the specific drum instruments. It was amazing to see all of the students participate with enthusiasm and high energy.

At the end, all of the year 1-8 students got involved in a performance together which involved singing and some dance moves.

Homestays required for OAS International Students

As New Zealand's borders open up to International students, we are looking for suitable host families in the Oxford township or on the school bus route.We are currently seek homestays with horses for next year and beyond.

· We require caring, kind and inclusive host families who can provide a safe, warm home.

Horse stays provide students with an interest in horses to ride, work with and generally be around horses/ponies.

· Options to host students short term (1 week to a month) or long term (one term to a year or more)

· Students must have their own room and a place to study

· There is a generous weekly payment (reflecting the additional equine aspect)

· Hosts should be active and willing, on occasion, to take students out for local sight-seeing or other activities

· We do our best to match the students’ hobbies, interests and riding ability to the host family and horse

· Police vetting is mandatory for anyone in the home over 18 and other conditions may apply .

If you are interested or have any questions please contact: International Homestay Coordinator international@oxford.school.nz

www.facebook.com/oxfordarea http://www.oxford.school.nz/

The Malvern Farmers Vet Club Charitable Trust (MFVCCT) would like to invite individuals, community groups and organisations to apply for grants from our organisation.

The MFVCCT purpose is to advance the welfare of our rural community and the individuals connected to the community.

This involves distributing grants that meet the following criteria:

• The strengthening of charitable community and voluntary organisations involved in the relief of poverty.

• The advancement of education.

• The provision of financial support for specific community projects that advance charitable purposes.

• The strengthening of charitable community and voluntary organisations.

• The provision of financial and other support in anticipation of or in response to emergencies or adverse events.

• The enhancement and retention of essential services that advance charitable purposes.

To apply for grants please visit: mfvc.org.nz for more information on the application process.

All applications to be received by the 31st March 2023.

What a year it has been!

While it is wonderful that the world seems to have opened up, and once again families and friends from near and far are able to gather and celebrate, it is also a time for reflection and to remember those who won’t be joining us this year.

Christmas is the season for kindness and sharing. Remember to check in on your neighbours. Show some charity and help spread Christmas cheer to others less fortunate. We have some wonderful groups in our community who work tirelessly helping families in need at this time of year.

For me, Christmas is about spending time with those closest to me. I enjoy seeing so many people connect and share joy. Thank you to our emergency services, medical teams and all those working and keeping us safe over this holiday period.

Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas and a happy and relaxing New Year holiday period.

Wheels with Wings Returns in 2023

Oxford’s Wheels with Wings is returning on the 22nd of January 2023 after having to take a year off due to Covid restrictions. Organisers say it will be bigger and better this year, and features the finishing of the Oxford Scooter Tour.

This is a small version of the fundraising scooter tour that goes from Christchurch to Hokitika.

The Oxford Scooter Tour will run from Rangiora to Oxford via Loburn and Ashley Gorge, and will be raising funds for Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s Disease. They will finish at the Wheels with Wings event with the opportunity for the riders to face the small obstacle course that the event organisers are building. This should be fun for spectators as well as the participants. The first scooters are expected to arrive around 11 o’clock. Organisers are expecting a lot more cars than the last event, and are hoping that they will have motorbikes as well this time. The aircraft will be back, weather permitting. There will lots of food, stalls and music, and plenty of shade under the willow trees.

This a fund raiser for the Oxford Community Trust and the Oxford and District Lions Club with all the funds being put back into the local community.

More details to come in our January issue.

Any enquiries contact Dave McPherson on 027 223 1870.

Seasons Greetings

waimakariri.govt.nz

Thomas, Sarah, Mark, Ray, Pete, Michelle, Tim and Niki of the Oxford-Ohoka Community Board

Mayor Dan Gordon and Rupert

Thankyou from Womersleys

A huge thank you to all our wonderful customers who turned out to celebrate our 2nd Anniversary Birthday/bbq and Garage Sale. It’s been an interesting time to take on a new business with all of the crazy global issues but the fantastic Oxford community have been nothing but welcoming and supportive. We are truly grateful and hope that we can continue to support Oxford and the surrounding district with hardware/gardening supplies and engineering services for a long time yet. Special thanks to Richard from Hydraulink for sponsoring the awesome bbq and for his cooking skills!

World Famous Sheffield Pies for the delicious birthday cakes; Sophie & Janelle for helping take care of you all on the day and especially to you, our customers!!

Gerry and Ali would like to wish you all a safe and relaxing Christmas.

WE ARE CLOSED FROM 22 DECEMBER 22 UNTIL 4 JAN 23

Looking forward to seeing you all in the New Year. Here’s hoping it is a brighter year for everyone

Oxford FC Senior Men's Victory

by Beka Hunt

In competitive sport it is fair to say that the goal is to win your grade. This year, the Oxford Senior Men's football team has truly gone above and beyond by winning not one, but two divisions. They were initially entered into the tenth division, where the opposing teams included a mixture of ages.

Oxford was able to come out on top of the table, only losing one match and winning their first round.

Mid season then saw a reshuffle of the teams and Oxford was moved up 2 divisions into the eighth.

Teams in the eighth mostly consisted of fit and young University students. Neil Hodgson, the Oxford Men's team manager/player believes their competition was ‘probably thankful’ to see the Oxford team arrive, as they do have some older players (older than University students, that is). However, their experience paid off when Oxford once again became top of the table, even beating the team they had lost to in the lower division.

Due to multiple cancellations, the final game of the season was never officially a ‘final’.

The Oxford team was pitted against the bottom of the table for their final match, and noticed that the opposing team had brought in higher skilled players in an attempt to win.

At half time, the score stood at 1 all.

After the first intense 45 minute half, Oxford was able to score one last goal and the rest is history.

Neil and coach/player John Brett then attended the Mainland Football Prizegiving on the 4th of November alongside their player of the year, Jeroen Dunnink, to collect their trophies.

The prizegiving took place at the ‘Chateau in the park’ and saw multiple other clubs collecting their awards. Needless to say, the three were incredibly proud to represent our small town in such a large competition.

For the Senior Men's team, the Oxford Club managed to gather a mix of at least 7 different nationalities; some players came from Mexico, Brazil, Holland or Thailand (to name a few).

Whilst the sheer diversity can make continuity hard each year, the entire team was incredibly passionate about their sport and Neil acknowledges this, saying, “I really love the camaraderie, love the culture.

Oxford is such a great country township, and it’s really interesting playing with diverse nationalities.”

John, who coached at Wednesday evening trainings and during games, echoes the same sentiment. “At the end of the day, it’s not about me. I’m only as good as the players I have around me, and I will always try to put the best team on.”

After each home game, Neil and John would invite the opposing team to the Oxford Working Men's club for a meal, which the Club generously provided. The players are incredibly grateful for the support, and always appreciate any sponsors they can find.

Now, the 2022 season has come to an end, and it’s time to look ahead to next year.

If the Oxford Football Club could find more members, they would be able to enter two teams in the senior competition. John would love to begin a women's team too, so if you’re interested, maybe this is for you.

You can contact Neil at 02108223341, or visit the Oxford Football Club website.

New Mural for Main Street Toilets

The toilets on the Main Street of Oxford are looking more colourful with a new mural painted by local artist Mark Adams. The Oxford Promotions and and Keep Oxford Beautiful Committees worked together to carry out this project.

The previous mural was done by the Keep Oxford Beautiful committee and volunteers many years ago, and the toilets were voted the Best Small Town toilets in a New Zealand wide competition. The Oxford Promotions Committee will be asking the Waimakariri Council in its' next Annual Plan to refurbish the interior of the toilets as they could be improved.

“Its been a long time coming, there were many hoops to jump through as it is a Council owned public building” said Co-ordinator Shirley Farrell “but we hope we have made it easy for an artist or a group to extend the mural around the rest of the building”.

The Committees are very grateful for the community input, especially to Luke from Waghorn Builders who supplied the paint and painter to give the artist, Mark Adams, a clean blank canvas to work on.

Also to the Waimakariri Creative Community Committee for a grant and a generous donation from Beryl Hewson who was brought up in Oxford.

Mayoral update

On behalf of my family, I would like to thank you for the kind condolences that we received after the recent and sudden passing of my mother Liz. Although it has been a very difficult time, my family and I have found comfort in your kind words, calls, messages, and cards. I sincerely appreciate your support. Thank you.

In November, Council officially kicked off the new term with our first regular meeting where we discussed the chlorination of our district water supplies.

Taumata Arowai took over responsibility for regulating drinking water from the Ministry of Health in November 2021, via the Water Services Act. The Act requires all registered water supplies to introduce a residual disinfectant, such as chlorine, unless awarded an exemption.

The chlorine requirement came into effect on 15 November 2022. Waimakariri District Council has submitted six applications to Taumata Arowai, seeking exemptions from having to use chlorine in urban water supplies of Rangiora, Kaiapoi, Woodend-Pegasus, Oxford, Cust and Waikuku Beach.

Earlier this month, we hosted Taumata Arowai Chief Executive and Principal Advisor Drinking Water to discuss the implications of the 15 November date and express the community’s strong preference for unchlorinated water and a pathway towards achieving exemptions.

The report to Council followed this meeting and detailed the options that Council has to continue operating urban water supplies either chlorinated or unchlorinated The Councillors and I welcomed the “pragmatic approach” Taumata Arowai are taking regarding enforcement of mandatory chlorination. Council staff will work with Taumata Arowai to agree a timetable for the assessment of our chlorine exemption applications. We expect the first decision in the coming months.

Council has decided to continue to operate our unchlorinated supplies as we bring forward work already planned such as UV disinfection, a rigorous testing regime, and retaining the option of emergency chlorination at short notice if required.

Council has invested over $100m in water infrastructure and has budgeted for 30 years ahead for planned upgrades.

Because of this, water in Waimakariri is of a very high standard. Finally, I would like to wish you and your families a very safe and Merry Christmas and a happy New Year holiday period.

I welcome contact from anyone who needs assistance or has an issue that you may want to discuss.

Email me at dan.gordon@wmk.govt.nz or phone 021906437. I’m here to help.

with Dan Gordon

each week. There are few other changes proposed within our team which we believe will add depth to our service provision and ensure that our patients are seen in a timely way; we will flag these in January once we have firmed up the detail. Over the course of this year, we have received some wonderful support and words of kindness from our patients – please know that we always share your feedback with the team, and it can make the difference from a good day to a great day – so thank you. OUR CHRISTMAS HOURS

Meri Kirihimete

network of experienced, local real estate agents who have been connecting people with property across the country, for generations. We’re your neighbours, the regulars, and the ones you say ‘hi’ to when passing on the street, we’re part of your community and we love every minute of it. We know the ins and outs of the property market for New Zealand and within your community too, and we can use our extensive network to help you achieve your property goals.

When you’re thinking of listing or taking that first step to making it a reality, we’re here to support you until you’re happy with your new view.

Linda McCarthy has joined us and is specialising in residential and lifestyle property in the Oxford and surrounding areas. She has been part of the community for many years and has recently teamed up with the West Oxford Hotel selling raffle tickets on a Friday night with the proceeds going to the Oxford Community Trust. To achieve success for you when you are selling or buying a property, Linda draws on strong skills in negotiating, marketing, and her ability to rapidly build rapport. For Linda, it’s about working to meet the goals of her clients by providing support and information while building lasting relationships through her honesty, integrity, and professionalism.

Season’s greetings from all of us at Compass FM, North Canterbury’s community radio station.

It has been a pleasure to be associated with Bruce and Emily and the team at the Oxford Observer during the year and we are very keen to continue our relationship through 2023.

May your holiday season be full of fun and cheer and please make sure you tune into Compass FM, the best radio station during the summer break on 104.9FM or 103.7FM as we look forward to another successful and prosperous year, here in the best part of New Zealand, North Canterbury.

Kerry Treymane.

POLICE update

with Mitch Alatalo

Road policing is high on the topic of conversation, especially with the party season fast approaching. There will be many an end of year work event to attend, so if you are driving, please don't drink. If you are drinking, organise a ride home.

I will mention it again. Speed. Our roads are not a race track, so do not treat them as such. I would much rather see you get there alive, than have something terrible happen.

One real downer for me is all of the damage around the area. Rubbish being dumped, broken property and graffiti. It really impacts on the community, and is one of the first thing people say to me, and the negative impact t it has. There are a lot of people who are fed up with it, so please if you see something or someone report it. It's all of our responsibility to keep our little piece of the world looking and feeling great.

Last but not least, have a great break, and a Merry Christmas and safe New Year.

Once again thanks for taking the time.

Be safe. Feel safe. That's what I say.

ST JOHN

update

with Mel Brooker

Well another year is flying by very fast. We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone in the district who has supported our station in any way through donations, the supporters scheme, or mending something.

It all helps to keep the ambulance on the road to be available for you.

We have had an extremely busy year, with the team responding to over 370 jobs so far. This will be the busiest year to date, and this has been with a core team of just six regular volunteers.

If you are a caring member of the public that could spare some time to help others in our community, we would love to hear from you. With summer here, it is time to be aware of environmental conditions. Slip, slop, slap and wrap. Protect yourself from the sun as much as you can.

Also be aware when at barbeques of people that could be choking on their food. They will often remove themselves from the crowd and go around the side of a building, as they are embarrassed.

We have a great team of volunteers that could always do with new members. Please call the station on 03 312 3516, leave your name and number, and our recruiting officer will be in touch.

Finally spend some time with the people you love this Christmas and enjoy what you have.

The ambulance station at Oxford is not manned 24 hours a day. If you require emergency assistance please call 111.

Stay well and safe.

with Trevor Ealam

October was a lot busier than the previous month with the brigade being called ten times. Two calls were to motor vehicle crashes. In one the occupant received moderate injuries and in the other four received moderate to very serious injuries and hydraulic cutting equipment was used to extricate two of them.

The other calls were to two private smoke alarm activations which were false alarms and the cause was undetermined, one to free a person that was crushed between two logs and received very serious leg injuries, one to a car fire that was badly damaged in the engine area which was caused by a birds nest, one to assist St John, one to flames seen at the Oxford Area School which turned out to be the preparation for a Hangi, one to an unattended slash fire blowing around in the wind and one to wash the road down after a chemical spill.

This brings our total calls for the year to seventy one.

This month's message is;

With the festive season just around the corner and you are planning on having a few drinks, don’t get the frypan out, get takeaways or use the microwave instead. Alcohol is involved in 50% of all fatal house fires.

Have a merry and safe Christmas

ALL EMERGENCIES DIAL 111

Rubbish Collection Services 2016 LTD phone or email for a quote Graham & Kim T : 03 312 4788 E : 4trash@xtra.co.nz www.4trash.co.nz 4 Trash Large 240 litre wheelie bins Multiple Collection options Weekly - Fortnightly - 4 weekly 6 weekly - 8 weekly - Casual General household rubbish collection servicing Oxford ,Rangiora, Kaiapoi and surrounding rural areas We are a local business who appreciate local support

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