The Observer - October 2024 by oxfordobserver

the Obser ver

fromthe Publishers

Welcome to the October issue of the Observer.

We have been enjoying some beautiful spring days - hopefully we will be looking at a lovely summer ahead. Beka has been catching us up on the winter sports for Oxford, last month was football, and this month netball and rugby. The clubs have all had great seasonscongratulations to you all!

If you have ever been interested in a self defence classthere is one coming up in Oxford. The class is for women only, and you can find out more details on page 14.

The Oxford & Districts Lions Big Family Fun Day is coming up again - check out page 5 for more info. This is always a great day for the whole family.

It seems crazy that we are talking about Christmas already, but the Oxford Community Trust are in full swing organising their Christmas Wonderland. They have a new venue this year and it is set to be a magical event. All the details you need to get involved on page 19.

Thank you for your support of the Observer. Our advertisers make it possible to produce this, and we appreciate their committment to support The Observer which is the only locally owned publication. Thank you for supporting them as well.

Have a great month.

Bruce & Emily.

PUBLISHER

Schnurrbart Design and Publishing Limited

EDITOR Emily

ENQUIRIES

info@oxfordobserver.co.nz 0800 627 378 37

www.schnurrbartdesignandpublishing.co.nz

All efforts are made to verify the correctness of information contained within this publication.

However Schnurrbart Design and Publishing accept no liability for the correctness or accuracy of any information contained within these pages.

Any views, information or opinions expressed within this publication are not necessarily the opinions or views of Schnurrbart Design and Publishing or any of its providers.

Cover Photo

Rhubarb Friands by Louize Juniper

OXFORD AREA SCHOOL

Have you thought about hosting International students?

Oxford Area School is thrilled to welcome a fast-growing number of international students, and we are now looking to expand our community of local homestay families.

Hosting international students is an incredibly rewarding experience, and host families play a valuable role in providing the care and support that students need to succeed.

Becoming part of your family o ers students a unique chance to experience the Aotearoa lifestyle, and develop English competence in a caring family home where members are patient, open minded and active.

We are looking for suitable homestays for our International Students of 2025, in the township and on the school bus route, and families have the option of hosting students either short or long term (3 -10 weeks to 1 year).

We do our best to match students with families who share similar hobbies and interests.

ere is a weekly payment of $325 Police ve ing of hosts is mandatory.

If you are interested, have any questions or just want to have

Email: international@oxford.school.nz Ph: 027 2482177 and leave

OxfordRugbyClubWrapsUpSuccessfulSeason

by Beka Hunt photos supplied

The Oxford Rugby Football Club has wrapped up another successful season, which saw the return of a 30 year old cup match, free junior subs and a slew of wins (with plenty of growth opportunities sprinkled in).

With the introduction of free junior subs for the 2024 season, 15 new players between five and eighteen were able to discover the sport. Made possible through fundraising and sponsorships, the opportunity meant kids could try out rugby without the burden of financial commitment- reflected in the addition of a second year 1 team. Older students also celebrated success, with Liam O’Carroll representing Oxford in the Area Schools Top of the South competition, and Fynn Archbold being selected for the North Canterbury u16 representative team.

Last year, the Club debuted their first ever women's team, entering into the Women's Premier Reserve Grade. They fought through a lack of games, with multiple teams defaulting due to travel distance. This year, the 15 aside team faced a crueller opponent: injury. In one game, two ambulances had to be called and Mel Brooker, (an avid Oxford supporter and St John member) stepped in when a player suffered a shattered ankle. Despite the chaos, the women's team lost only one game the whole season. They also played a cracker of a final, winning both the Metro and North Canterbury Women’s Premier Reserve competition… for the second year in a row.

The Division 1 and 2 mens teams welcomed three players from Canada and Ireland, giving their guests a taste of the Kiwi experience. The top teams had multiple close games, and saw players selected for the North Canterbury Colts, stags and senior representative teams.

Said seniors also shook things up a bit this year, with the birth of the U85kg team, the ‘Oxford Bobby Calves’. Entering into the 42 team national knock out competition, the Bobby Calves featured talent from across North Canterbury. Perhaps unlucky in the draw, their first opponent was the 2023 champions, the HSOB Light Bears. It was a home game, and the team was cheered on by a large crowd. Oxford was able to score 7 points against the Light Bears’ 25, which was a resounding success for a new team.

The game proved that North Canterbury has what it takes to give the old hats a challenge, and Oxford RFC can’t wait to enter again next year.

Snow cancelled the Golden Oldies last game, meaning a mini tournament in Kaiapoi marked the end of their season. In rugby, old is classified as over 35, and the Golden Oldies games made for a fun family day out, with a classic lolly scramble and raffle.

After being unearthed in a back room, the Forestdale Cup made an appearance for the first time since 1993.

The Cup was donated by Colin Frahm in 1971, and was used this year to award a match between married and single players. According to the clubs Facebook page, the married team consisted of ‘old broken down men’ with over 1000 Div one appearances between them- and the singles team had an average age of 23 years old. With the odds seemingly even, the married team won in a show of determination and experience. For anyone interested in joining the club next year for social or competitive rugby, the Oxford RFC is active on Facebook and will respond to their email: rugby.oxfordrfc@gmail.com.

The women's team also runs an Instagram account, aptly named @oxfordwomensrugby. They’re happy to welcome new players and, with a 150 year anniversary right around the corner, it’s a good time to be wearing red and black.

Waimakariri Riding Club Advocates for Road Safety in West Eyreton Ride

The Waimakariri Riding Club recently took part in a ride through West Eyreton to support the road safety campaign "Pass Wide and Slow," which advocates for horses to be designated as vulnerable road users.

The initiative aims to raise awareness among drivers about how to safely share rural roads with equestrians.

A group of 15 horses, accompanied by two walkers and a photographer, participated in the ride. The primary message of the campaign is simple but crucial: when passing horses, drivers should maintain a distance of at least 2 meters and reduce their speed to around 30 km per hour.

Most local drivers seem to understand and respect this message. However, during the ride, there were two incidents where drivers failed to follow these safety guidelines. One incident involved a supermarket delivery truck.

The driver initially did not slow down, and it was only after one of the riders flagged her down that she eventually stopped. She admitted to being unaware of the rules surrounding horse safety on rural roads. In response, the club plans to visit the supermarket to emphasise the importance of driver education, particularly for those operating larger vehicles in rural areas.

The Waimakariri Riding Club strongly believes that horses, as part of New Zealand's cultural heritage, deserve the same respect and consideration as other road users, such as cyclists. The club hopes that by raising awareness through campaigns like "Pass Wide and Slow," they can encourage all drivers to be more mindful of equestrians on the road, ensuring safety for everyone.

Their message is clear: share the road with respect and support the rights of all users, including horses, to be on the roads safely.

Recipe of the month.

with Louize Juniper

RHUBARB AND GINGER FRIANDS

I think Friands are the best mini cakes you can make, they improve over a few days, freeze well and are perfect for the gluten free community! If you don’t have any egg whites there is a product in the chilled section of most supermarkets that is just pure egg white, and this is perfect for this recipe.

INGREDIENTS

6 (150g-180g) egg whites

1 ½ cups icing sugar

1 cup ground almonds

½ cup plain flour or gluten free flour

1 Tsp of lemon zest (1 lemon)

200g butter melted

2 cups gently stewed rhubarb

¼ cup crystalized ginger

Other toppings to use are berries, cherries, kiwi fruit, plums and peaches.Acidic sharp fruits are best. When stewing rhubarb do it with a touch of orange juice, a tbsp of brown sugar and a cinnamon stick, you don’t want it too sweet.

METHOD

• Pre heat oven at fan bake 180oC

• Oil spray a 12 muffin tray, I use a generic one from the Warehouse or a silicon one

• Add egg whites to a large bowl, with a hand ballon whisk just fluff up the egg white till sort of foamy (approx 3 mins)

• Melt the butter in a saucepan rather than the microwave as this helps separate the white scummy whey!

• With the ballon whisk mix in the icing sugar first then the flour, lemon zest and ground almonds. Mix well.

• Pour in the melted butter. Try to leave behind the whey as best you can. It’s not too much of a problem if you add the whey, however the end product is not as good.

• Pour mix evenly into the muffin tins, they will rise and the mix fits perfectly into 12.

• Top with well drained rhubarb and then thinly sliced ginger.

• Bake for 25 mins until golden brown at the edges and bounce to touch.

• Dust with icing sugar and serve with Greek yogurt or icecream,

• Best served slightly warm!

Get an instant estimated property report delivered to your inbox

Tell a Yarn Craft Group

Love knitting or crochet? Want to share your passion with fellow enthusiasts? We have a weekly drop-in group. Bring your existing projects or just come along for a natter. Beginners and other crafters welcome, no booking required.

Oxford Library • Every Thursday • 1.30pm

Find out more

waimakaririlibraries.com 03 311 8901 or visit any of our libraries

Join us on the journey…

We’ve refreshed our Regional Public Transport Plan, which includes an updated vision and a proposed policy for passengers travelling with pets.

Check out our plans ecan.govt.nz/pt4me Consultation closes Thursday 24 October

North Canterbury's only authorized Suzuki Dealer C’MON IN TO ARTHUR BURKE AMBERLEY AND ‘RIDE ON’ OUT WITH A NEW VICTA RIDE-ON MOWER. Rear catcher and side discharge models are available.

Arthur Burke Amberley for all your ride on mower requirements. Sales: John 027 7064856 | Service: Brendon 027 4465000

If you are thinking of updating, Arthur Burke Suzuki will trade any make or model. We also offer a full range of accessories.

Markham Street, Amberley | Karaka Road, Waikari www.arthurburke.co.nz Sales: John 03 314 0132 | Service: Anton 03 314 0134

What's on at the Oxford Club

The thing that makes the club 'different' is the sections that offer sport and recreation to members. The Oxford Club has 12 sections, and teams from each gathered recently for the 'Sections Quiz'.

Congratulations to the Dart Section who took out the trophy this year. Each round consisted of questions related to one group and provided a lot of fun. What is the largest fish in the ocean? How far is the Oche from the Dart board? How deep is the furrow in vintage plowing? If you know the answers to these questions, to quote a well known quiz presenter 'You might be clever enough'. Check out the sections available at the Club, there really is something for everyone.

Each Thursday at 7pm we hold the Qwizard quiz. This is free to enter with teams of 4-6 (or less). The takeaway is open for bar meals, so why not make an evening of it. Our Library is getting new books regularly and is being well used which is pleasing. If you haven't popped in yet to check it out, it is open at all times.

Do keep an eye on the Club page in the Observer as there is a lot happening and we would love to have you join us for these upcoming events.

MADE YOUR OWN WILL.

Used a will kit? or Online will service?

Yes, it’s probably legally valid... Check your (signed) will now— before it’s too late.

You upload a copy, pay just $39 online, and we email to tell you whether it’s signed, witnessed, and worded the way the law requires.

Cheryl Simes Kiwilaw lawyer/director

from the Presidents Desk with Oxford Club President

Kyle Scott

Hello There, and welcome to the October offering of From The President’s Desk.

Spring is in the air, and it has been pleasing to see more of our members visiting and using the Oxford Club on a regular basis. To assist you, our valued members to get safely to and home from the Club, we offer a Courtesy Van Service affectionally called Kermit. This service runs on a Friday & Saturday night, and at other times when required. A ride to and from the club between the hours of 5pm- 11pm approximately, is only a phone call away. Running this Courtesy Van Service aligns with The Oxford Club values of safety, community service and responsible alcohol consumption.

This service is a Volunteer Service however and at present we are looking for new volunteer drivers to drive Kermit on a Friday or Saturday night. The more drivers we have on our roster helps to share the load for this important service. So if you would like to share our commitment to our members and the broader community and be a part of an enthusiastic team we would love to hear from you. Please contact the Club by phone for more information.

Saturday the 19th October 7pm-9pm is the night for our Fabulous Casino Night run in conjunction with The Oxford Lions. Tickets are only $35 which includes 40k of casino Funny Money to gamble with, along with a complimentary drink and canapes. A limited number of V.I.P. Tickets are available with extra perks. On the night you can play amongst others, games such as Roulette, Black Jack, Horse racing with loads of fun and laughs. It will be a super night with a funny Money Auction, a cash Auction & raffles with some fabulous prizes.

We are still looking for extra prizes, so if you have that unopened Xmas Present sitting at home give us a call, it maybe someone’s else’s treasure!

Please check our weekly email blast or the Observer for more details. The casino night will be a wonderful night and probably the social event of the year ,so purchase your ticket now to avoid later disappointment. The event is a vital Club fundraiser for ongoing Club improvements such as the outdoor area on High Street, and a children’s playground.

Well that’s all for now, as always thank you for your support of the Oxford Club, your Community Hub.

Looking forward to seeing at our Club very soon.

Best regards

Kyle Scott

Oxford Club President

VOLUNTEER POSITIONS AVAILABLE

We are accepting applications for reception volunteers. This is a rewarding position for a few hours every week, assisting clients, and staﬀ with general administration duties, food parcels and other tasks.

Some computer competency is necessary, along with an ability to work with people of all ages. Confidentially is of the utmost importance.

If you are interested in applying, please email Oxford Community Trust Manager Jo Ealam at jo@oxfordtrust.co.nz or phone 03 312 3006.

AGM

6pm October 22nd @ the A&P Hall, Oxford Town Hall. All Welcome.

Thank you to our fab 4 funders

Rata Foundation

COGS

Lottery Foundation

Waimakariri District Council

Responsive to the physical, social, emotional,and ﬁnancial needs of individuals, families and groups of people within the community of Oxford and Districts.

Te Kura o Te Poho Rakahua Oxford Area School

Celebrating te wiki o te reo Māori!

Kia ora e te whāuau, greetings to families and friends,

Celebrating te wiki o te reo Māori! Kia ora e te whāuau, greetings to families and friends,

Last month as we went into te Wiki o Te Reo Māori, Māori Language Week, the following whakatauki or Māori proverb was shared: Mā te huruhuru

te manu ka rere

Adorn the bird with feathers so it can fly. When I think about this whakatauki, it makes me consider two possibilities of how it relates to our kura or school:

1. Maybe our akonga | students are the manu | bird and knowledge is the huruhuru | feathers allowing them to rere | fly or soar.

2. Or perhaps our school is like a manu | bird, and the people in it—students, teachers, and families—are the huruhuru | feathers that enable our school to rere |

2. Or perhaps our school is like a manu | bird, and the people in it—students, teachers, and families—are the huruhuru | feathers that enable our school to rere | soar.

We have embraced and celebrated te reo Māori, ensuring this beautiful language flourishes. Other highlights throughout the month included the SISS tournament and the ever-successful Book Fair, and our Year 13 Student Emma Shore being awarded a National Student Excellence Award

Congratulations to Emma Shore

At the recent Area School Conference our own Emma Shore was presented a National Student Excellence Award. These awards are a prestigious recognition given to only six students nationwide. Emma is a Year 13a and was honoured for her outstanding achievements in the brass band. She was commended for her remarkable dedication and talent, notably for her consecutive selection in the New Zealand Secondary Schools Brass Band for two years in a row. This recognition, along with her many other accolades, highlights Emma's exceptional commitment and skill in the field of performance and music, showcasing her hard work and passion.

At the recent Area School Conference our own Emma Shore was presented a National Student Excellence Award. These awards are a prestigious recognition given to only six students nationwide. Emma is a Year 13 and was honoured for her outstanding achievements in the brass band. She was commended for her remarkable dedication and talent, notably for her consecutive selection in the New Zealand Secondary Schools Brass Band for two years in a row. This recognition, along with her many other accolades, highlights Emma's exceptional commitment and skill in the field of performance and music, showcasing her hard work and passion.

Mike Hart

Tumuaki ~ Principal Oxford Area School

Te Kura o Te Poho Rakahua

South Island Secondary Schools Tournament

South Island Secondary Schools

Last month we had our Senior A Netball team, our Senior A Basketball boys, and our Equestrian team competing in the South Island Secondary Schools Tournaments. The Netball team and the Equestrian teams travelled to Christchurch for their Tournaments, while the Basketball team travelled to Timaru.

Last month we had our Senior A Netball team, our Senior A Basketball boys, and our Equestrian team competing in the South Island Secondary Schools Tournament. The Netball team and the Equestrian teams travelled to Christchurch for their Tournaments, while the Basketball team travelled to Timaru.

Equestrian

We had an amazing week at the SISS equestrian event at Mcleans Island. Our small team represented Oxford Area School with pride and achieved some magnificent results.

Katie Readings, Paige Wakelin-Noble, Tilly Hart, Ethan and Darcy Taylor competed in a range of events including CTR, Dressage, Showjumping and Showhunter throughout the week.

Results included:

Katie Readings, Paige Wakelin-Noble, Tilly Hart, Ethan and Darcy Taylor competed in a range of events including CTR, Dressage, Showjumping and Showhunter throughout the week.

Results included:

Tilly who got 2nd in the Arena Eventing, Paige 3rd, Katie 5th and Darcy 6th in their respective heights. Only Paige, Tilly, and Katies combined score could be counted towards teams as you need to be Year 9- 13. Oxford Area School came 3rd overall in this event. A huge accomplishment against some big schools that had five full teams in the class.

SISS Basketball

Oxford Area School were fortunate to send their Senior 'A' Boys basketball team to their first South Island Secondary School championships. The team competes in the 'A' competition for schools that are under a roll of 600 students. The team competed hard throughout the tournament playing a total of 7 games across the 4 days. There were some stand-out performances from the team and it was an awesome experience for all involved. The team ended up finishing 9th overall finishing the tournament off with a good win.

Senior Netball team.

After a big week of netball, we earned our spot in the final. We also had 2 girls named as talented players.

The girls played their hearts out every Game and improved their level of play throughout the week.

After a big week of netball, we earnt our spot in the final. We also had 2 girls named as talented players. The girls played their hearts out every game. They improved their level of play throughout the week which helped them earn their place in the final.

We had to dig deep to win the semi-final against Hurunui College as scores were locked 23-23 at 3/4 quarter time.

The girls came through and ended this game with a 5 goal advantage.

We had to dig deep to win the semi-final against Hurunui College as scores were locked 23-23 at 3 quarter time. The girls came through and ended this game with a 5 goal advantage.

After a few hours rest we met Golden Bay High School in the final. We had a slow start and were behind 19-27 at the 3 quarter break. The girls fought continuously to come within 2 goals, but credit to Golden Bay they stepped it up and took the win.

Our girls were courageous and played with grit and determination and can be proud of their final performance for SISS 2024. We are extremely proud of Alice McLauchlan and Scarlett Hart who were named as talented players in our grade. There were only 4 players named in this whole grade. Abby Taylor, Nikayla Beer and Scarlett Hart led the team superbly and were fantastic role models throughout.

International Update

We are excited to share that Oxford Area School is hosting students from Japan and Germany currently. The students are really enjoying the more relaxed school environment, the beautiful scenery around Oxford, the huge night sky and the opportunity to meet New Zealanders and stay in our homes.

Are you interested in hosting a student? Would you like to learn more?

Please contact Mary our International Homestay Coordinator homestay@oxford. school.nz

Mike Hart

An inspirational day out for the Design and Pushcart students

BOOK FAIR 2024

SISS Basketball

The Ship Has Set Sail!

In September our Year 9/10 DPC class were fortunate enough to visit the Rodin Sportscar facility in Mount Lyford. It was a hugely interesting day that supported and enriched the students’ learning in class over the last term.

In September our 9/10 DPC class were fortunate enough to visit the Rodin Sportscar facility in Mount Lyford. It was a hugely interesting day that supported and enriched the students’ learning in class over the last term.

The aim was to link the technological processes we have been pursuing in class to how this process looks in the real world and also give the students an insight into the kind of exciting technological pathways they could pursue when they leave school.

Having had experience of 3D CAD design software in class, students were able to see how this is used in industry at the very forefront of technological and scientific thinking to produce incredibly exciting physical outcomes - i.e. sportscars.

Having had a warm welcome from the Rodin staff who were amazing hosts, the design and manufacturing team took time out from their busy schedules to engage with the students and explain the manufacturing processes involved in producing cutting edge machinery.

Having had a warm welcome from the Rodin staff who were amazing hosts, the out from their busy schedules to engage with the students and explain the manufacturing processes involved in producing cutting edge machinery.

We were then treated to a mouthwatering array of stunning racing cars and sports cars that are used for development purposes at the facility and hopefully acted as inspiration for their own push carts and how they want their body shells to look, in order to have visual impact on race day next term. The range of vehicles was staggering, from Formula 3 racing cars, Ferraris, Lotuses and the latest McLarens, to the $4 million hypercar, the F Zero, being assembled before our very eyes!

We were then treated to a mouthwatering array of stunning racing cars and sports purposes at the facility and hopefully acted as inspiration for their own push carts and how they want their body shells to look, in order to have visual impact on race day next term. The range of vehicles was staggering, from Formula 3 racing cars, Ferraris, Lotuses and the latest McLarens, to the $4 million hypercar, the F Zero, being assembled before our very eyes!

A huge thanks and appreciation to the Rodin team for allowing us this unique access to their facility and for making us feel so welcome, giving us an insight into the vision of Mr David Dicker - the company founder who we could see riding his bike around the facility! What a place!

What an incredible week we had for our Annual Book Fair. Our Bookaneer Book Fair launched with a fantastic puppet show by Jason and Amy from the Waimakariri Public Libraries. Students from Years 1-6 were treated to an exciting performance filled with songs, book readings, and a lively puppet show. Throughout the week, students took part in an exciting challenge to guess how many M&M's were hidden in the pirate chest.

Annual Book Fair. Our Bookaneer Book Fair launched with a fantastic puppet show by Jason and Amy from the Waimakariri Public Libraries. Students from Years 1-6 were treated to an exciting performance filled with songs, book readings, and a lively puppet show. Throughout the week, an to guess how many M&M's were hidden in the pirate chest.

The total number of M&M's was 201, and we're thrilled to announce that Ronia Sinclair had the closest guess! On Thursday, we held our much-

The total number of M&M's was 201, and we're thrilled to announce that Ronia Sinclair had the closest guess!

On Thursday, we held our muchanticipated Dress-Up Parade. With this year's fair theme being 'Bookaneer,' our judges embarked on a quest to discover the best-dressed pirate in each class. Though it was a challenging task, they succeeded! Congratulations to the following students:

judges embarked on a quest to discover the best-dressed pirate in each class. Though it was a challenging task, they succeeded! Congratulations to the following students:

Each winner was invited to return to the Book Fair after the parade to select their prize. A huge THANK YOU to all the parents, grandparents, and teachers who contributed to making our parade a great success!

Each winner was invited to return to the Book Fair after the parade to select their prize. A huge THANK YOU to all the parents, contributed to making our parade a great success!

Senior Art Club

The Senior Art Club have been busy over the last few weeks designing their entries for the Oxford Big Family Fun Day Out poster competition.

Students could produce hand-made or computer-generated designs. The text had to be clear and easy to read and the design had to be bold, colourful and eye-catching.

Members from the Oxford Lions Club deliberated over the designs and chose the winner, Kaylee Saxton (year 9).

Members from the Oxford Lions Club deliberated over the designs and chose the winner, Kaylee Saxton (Year 9). Kaylees poster will now be used to advertise the “Big Family Fun Day Out” around Oxford and Rangiora so keep your eyes peeled for her winning design.

Kaylees poster will now be used to advertise the “Big Family Fun Day Out” around Oxford and Rangiora so keep your eyes peeled for her winning design.

Other finalists' designs are now on display in our Library. Well done Kaylee, and thank you to Oxfords Lions Club for providing our students with the opportunity to display their creative skills.

http://www.oxford.school.nz/

Oxford Landfill Proposal – The Fight Isn’t Over

While Woodstock Quarry’s RMA Application for a Landfill was declined, Darryl Shepherd, owner of Woodstock Quarry’s Ltd has appealed the decision and it is now before the Environment Court.

The Oxford Ohoka Community Board has become a party to the Court proceedings and will endeavour to represent the Oxford community’s voice.

In order to show our support of this, a petition is being organised by Maria Lowe, Cassandra Walker and Shirley Farrell. This is your chance to demonstrate your opposition to the landfill by showing the Court that we are still here, we do wantto be heard and we do still care.

“A large number of Oxford residents believe that we have won the battle, but we haven’t yet, says Shirley Farrell.

vouchers.

“The fight isn’t over and we need to mobilise ourselves again to stop the landfill happening.”“While some residents submitted against the proposal in late 2022, we need those and more to sign the petition. Information regarding where the petition can be signed will be advertised in the Bulletin and social media in the near future.

Oxford Netball Club Concludes Exciting Season: Celebrating Achievements and Looking Ahead

by Beka Hunt photos by BR Photos

If there’s anyone who appreciated one of the hottest winters ever, it’s the Oxford Netball club. Nothing makes a sport harder than a frosty Saturday morning on concrete courts, or running in the pelting rain. Luckily, the Mainpower Stadium hosted most of the games this season, including the younger year 3&4 players on Friday nights.

In total, the Oxford Netball club was able to enter 12 teams, each with a healthy amount of substitutes. Julie Evans, life member and coach, said it was a substantial turnout for the season. “We’ve got some really great players coming through the club,” she said, “and we’re in such a powerful position to nurture that talent.” She’s particularly proud of younger players who stepped up to umpire and earn their badges. Notably, Scarlett Hart was awarded her level 1 certificate, Elizabeth Cooper her level 2, and Jennifer Grubb achieved her Centre Badge.

The Oxford Premier team welcomed new players into their lineup and set out to win the competition for the third time. In round one, they were tied for points with the Amberley 1 team, their 2023 rival. In round two, the Oxford players headed into the semi finals with no losses and secured their place in a nailbiter of a final. Held on a Thursday night, the bleachers were packed with cheerleaders sporting both blue and black. Oxford had a slow start and trailed behind Amberley at the halftime buzzer. However, after the break, they managed to pull back. In the final minutes, the spectators were at the edge of their seats as the final score flashed up: 57-56. Oxford had won by one!

The trend of close wins continued on through the grades as Oxford 5 won by 2, and the FF2 team won by 1. Julie said it’s completely normal to see these kinds of results in a final, because of the gravity of the event. “So many of these young players have never experienced this kind of pressure before. With everyone watching and yelling at them, it can become incredibly overwhelming, even in the higher grades.” As co-coach of the Oxford 5 team, Julie says the team's strength came from the girls themselves. “Before the game I told them,” she said, “that as long as they support each other as a team and stay in the moment, there’s no reason they can’t win. And that’s what they did.”

Those involved in sport will know the importance of a strong, dedicated committee. As a smaller club, Oxford has often struggled to build that team. However, this year, they welcomed six new members, bringing the committee to a total of 11 to share the load over the season. They were then able to secure the club its own gear container behind the Scout Den. In addition, they addressed a new issue: a lack of dresses. With an influx of young skilled players, the club ran out of smaller sizes at the start of the season, leaving one team in the classic skirt and top.

Fundraising through Oxman and catering, the committee were able to keep subs at a minimum and purchase 20 new dresses. Next, they plan to supply the primary grades with new uniforms. As summer rolls around, players will begin looking to Rangiora for twilight netball opportunities.

Julie said she’d love to see a tournament hosted in Oxford again, but it would require someone in the community stepping up. Until then, it’s time to start thinking about next season, which should kick off mid February. Information about the trials will be posted on Facebook, and on the Oxford Netball Sporty page.

Local environmental funding

Apply for support for projects that help improve water management, enhance biodiversity, or engage the community on environmental issues.

The Waimakariri Water Zone Committee makes recommendations to Environment Canterbury about how to allocate $50,000 each year to help implement the committee’s Action Plan.

Find out more and apply: ecan.govt.nz/zonefunding

Waimakariri

The Waimakariri Zone Committee is made up of community members, Rūnanga and council.

Celebrating Oxford

Oxford Promotions Action Committee Inc.

The Oxford Promotions Action Committee Inc. (OPAC) is a group comprised of volunteers, passionate about showcasing Oxford as a place to live, work, visit, and relax. The mission statement of the group is to promote and celebrate the beauty, attractions and services of the Oxford Area. To encourage community and economic development and to enhance employment and business. To encourage the community, visitors and tourists to experience and enjoy the Oxford Area and to engage the public in community events.

OPAC organises several popular events throughout the year that have become beloved traditions in Oxford:

• Winter Lights Competition: This annual event invites residents and businesses to light up their properties. It also coincides with Matariki celebrations, turning Oxford into a magical wonderland during the winter season.

• Garage Sale Trail: A longstanding favourite, this event draws treasure hunters from near and far. Participants enjoy a day of shopping while experiencing the warm hospitality of the town.

• Carols in the Park: On Christmas Eve, the community gathers to enjoy the festive spirit with music.

• Colouring Competitions: OPAC also encourages creativity among the youngest residents through Mother’s and Father’s Day colouring competitions.

• OPAC also supports both the Christmas Parade and Christmas Wonderland and various other events.

In addition to these events, OPAC is embarking on an exciting new project aimed at enhancing Oxford's appeal to tourists: the Water Tank Trail. This initiative will see old water tanks throughout the area transformed into vibrant pieces of art, inviting visitors to explore and appreciate creativity in unexpected places. While this is a long-term project, OPAC plans to launch it in the upcoming warmer months.

OPAC are actively seeking new members from the community, either individuals, groups or local businesses. Membership comes with minimal costs but offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on the community’s development.

OPAC is also on the lookout for a new treasurer to help manage the organisation's finances. They are also looking for volunteers to assist with the community events.

There are 9 meetings a year held at the Oxford Club on the third Monday of each month at 7pm, along with mix and mingle events.

Mayoral Update with Dan Gordon

I had a very interesting couple of days attending the South Island Emergency Management Conference at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre. The conference is the first of its kind to be held in New Zealand since the COVID-19 pandemic and the theme ‘Working together – are we ready?’ made us think about how we must plan, prepare, and build relationships in the emergency management sector to face unpredictable hazards in the future.

The conference was a great opportunity to strengthen the sector, bringing practitioners and partner agencies together to share ideas, upskill, plan, and build networks. We heard from a number of exceptional guest speakers including Brendan Moon Coordinator General of the National Emergency Management Agency Australia and John Price - Director Civil Defence Emergency Management and Deputy Chief Executive of NEMA.

I also had the pleasure of officially opening the Coldstream Tennis Club at MainPower Stadium. I think this is a tremendous asset for our District, now and for the future. Council invested a sizeable $1 million dollars towards the cost of the construction, of this facility and the rest was funded by the clubs, from the sale of the Rangiora and Southbrook tennis clubs’ land.

The name for the whole complex or “sports hub” is Te Rakiora a name gifted by Ngāi Tūāhuriri. Te Rakiora, is a name which has great significance to this district, as it was a settlement and mahinga kai site for Ngāi Tūāhuriri. It’s a name, for the current precinct, but it also allows for planned future growth. Within Te Rakiora, we have the Mainpower Stadium, hockey turfs and of course tennis courts. But it also includes the surrounding areas - Main Power Oval, which will see significant upgrades in the coming years.

Across the road we have the home of Football, with Maria Andrews Park, and of course the A&P Showgrounds just a bit further down the road, which has already been hugely successful over the past couple of years at hosting NPC Rugby. This area is certainly a well-established home of sport in the Waimakariri District.

Finally, as term three of the school year draws to a close, I hope families enjoy some quality time together over the school holidays - enjoying spring time in the district.

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

Email me at dan.gordon@wmk.govt.nz or phone 021 906 437.

I’m here to help.

Dan.

If you are interested in getting involved, don’t hesitate to get in touch with OPAC Secretary Cass Reilly - admin@oxfordnewzealand.co.nz.

Oxford Alpine Taekwondo is holding women's only self-defense sessions through the month of October.

This is a great opportunity to learn some skills to help create awareness to help keep you out of harm's way and give you some skills for an emergency.

Sessions are on Wednesday night for 4 weeks starting on 9th October from 7:30-8:30pm.

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/OxfordTaekwondo

There is not setting a specific age limit, but it is aimed at over 18s.

However, younger people (16-18) will be considered, with their parents consent. There will be bad language used during the class to make it more realistic.

Oxford CommunityTrust Christmas Wonderland 2024

The Oxford Community Trust is thrilled to announce the return of the much-anticipated Christmas Wonderland, running from the 11th to the 24th of December. This magical event has become a Christmas highlight in Oxford, and we’re excited to welcome everyone back for another year of festive cheer and creativity. Last Year's Success: The support we received from local businesses, schools, and community groups in 2023 was amazing. Your participation helped make the event a massive success, and we received fantastic feedback from all our visitors.

The organising committee appreciates your involvement and generosity.

New Venue, New Experience: This year, we’re bringing the Christmas Wonderland to an exciting new venue at the A&P Sheds in the Showgrounds. While this venue is slightly smaller than last year's, we’re confident it will be equally—if not more— enchanting. Due to space limitations, we encourage you to book your display early as display sizes will also be limited.

Key Dates:

• Set-up: Begins on 18th November

• Break-down: Will take place in January (or by prior arrangement if you need an earlier date)

How to Participate:

The cost to reserve a space is simply a donation to the Oxford Trust, helping us maintain this event and support the community through the Trust’s work. If you wish to decorate a tree, you can either bring your own (real or artificial), or you may book a real tree through us for $30. Real trees will be available for decorating on the 9th and 10th of December.

Volunteers Needed: We are also looking for volunteers to assist with the set-up, break-down, and daily running of the display once it’s open. Your help makes all the difference in creating a successful and joyous event.

Get Involved: If you’re interested in being part of this community event, or would like to book a space or a tree, please contact us before 1st November. Reach out to us at the Oxford Community Trust by phone at 312 3006 or via email at hello@oxfordtrust.co.nz.

We can’t wait to see your amazing displays and look forward to another unforgettable Christmas season!

Emergency Services update

Oxford St John

with Mel Brooker

It has been a rather quiet month for us, with the total job numbers for the year at 188.

We do have a few big events coming up with the great plant sale at the Farmers Market and the “Big Day Out” both on Sunday 17th November. Both will involve members of our St John team.

This month I wanted to highlight strokes. Remember “Time is Tissue”. The faster we can get you to ED the better your chances of having a full recovery.

If there are any of these signs present please call 111 immediately.

FAST

FACE

Is their face drooping on one side? Can they smile?

ARMS

Is one arm weak? Can they raise both arms?

SPEECH

Is their speech jumbled or slurred? Can they speak at all?

TAKE ACTION

Call 111 immediately!

Even if you are unsure of the time it has happened, call as soon as possible. I would like to remind you of the importance of having your rapid number clearly displayed on your front entrance, we are still finding some places very difficult to locate. If we can’t find you we can’t help.

The Hurunui District council has been doing a huge drive to support ratepayers with purchasing clear accurate Rapid numbers. They are very clear, reflective and I am sure have saved lives already.

Take a look on their website for more information, it would be ideal if we could all have the same clear numbers displayed. Hurunui District Council https://www.hurunui.govt.nz › property-rates › rapid-n.

Oxford St John is still looking for new recruits to join our team. Being available to support our community on our ambulance as a volunteer is very rewarding. Please call the station on 033123516, leave your name and number and our recruiting officer will be in touch.

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

Oxford Fire Rescue

with Chief Fire Officer Trevor Ealam

Well another month has just flown by and August was a reasonably busy month for the Brigade with ten calls. One call was to assist the Cust Brigade at a vegetation fire. In our area we attended three vegetation fires, two were started by the re-ignition of rubbish fires in strong north west winds and we were assisted by the Cust and Rangiora Brigades to bring them under control. There were two commercial alarm activations, one caused by faulty equipment, and the other was maliciously set off. Two motor vehicle crashes. In one incident one person was extricated from the vehicle with serious injuries and other the person received moderate injuries. One to assist St John, and one structure fire where a garage, sleep-out, large wood pile and surrounding vegetation was destroyed. We were assisted by the Cust, Rangiora and Sefton Brigades to bring it under control. This brings our total calls for the year to sixty seven.

This months message is: We are experiencing strong north west winds in the area, and these winds are predicted. Please make sure all slash fires and rubbish fires are properly out. The Brigade spends a lot of time chasing fires that have started from previous burns that are thought to be out and that get into hedges, trees and threaten properties. BE RESPONSIBLE.

PLASTERER

ADVERTISING Terms and Conditions

•