ABSTRACT FISH LUNGS SELECTED FOR ROCKQUEST NATIONAL FINALS

Raglan band Abstract Fish Lungs had a successful night at the Smokefree Rockquest Regional Finals in Hamilton in late June. The judges awarded them second place and while they might have preferred top spot, it’s the top two bands who are both eligible for the National final - although they still have to submit a video to impress another set of judges before confirming they’ve made it.

The judging process concludes in July and after that the the top 30 bands that have made it into the national finals will be announced. If the band successfully advances, they will proceed to the finals scheduled for September 23.

Fans of Abstract Fish Lungs will be able to see them play in Raglan soon too as they are one of eight acts signed up for the Whāingaroa Talent Factory which will be held on Saturday 8th July in the Town Hall. The acts have attended mentor sessions with professional musicians already and will have a week to prepare for the big night.

OnFriday, June 23, the Raglan Area School senior students had their “All That Glitters” School Ball and for the second year running it was held in our own school gym. The senior ball committee put together all of the amazing decorations, transforming the venue into something that was breathtaking. Our sound and lighting was next level, thanks to the dedicated and talented crew from Raglan Light and Sound Event Productionthank you Nick.

We had over 150 year 11-13 students, including their guests, who danced the night away in style. Our very own, super talented school band opened the ball for us - their energy was next level. What an amazing band they are. The sweet sounds of DJ Conor McCabe followed and the dance floor rocked the entire night.

Stunning photos were taken to mark the occasion by Whaea Margaret Dillon and Whaea Amy Hanna, while the photo booth from “Snap Click” was well used. All photos are available to view on the “RAS Senior Ball 2023” Facebook page.

Thanks to Sasha and her team from Kaiwaka Kitchen for the delicious food; your menu was a huge hit.

Astounding the crowd with magic card tricks and illusions was Mick Peak, our magician from Auckland. He had us totally flummoxed with his performances as he strolled the room working the crowd. We are still trying to figure out how he managed to get the cards we signed in front of him into a sealed envelope in his pocket. Thank you to Raglan Naturally for