6 March 2024 The Blenheim Sun

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March 6, 2024

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‘Proud to play for them’

By Chris Valli

Eilish Wilson knows first-hand what sort of impact she can have on the next generation of local musicians.

As an aspiring saxophonist at Nelson College for Girls, she got to experience the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) Jazz Band up close when they visited her school – an encounter which inspired her current role with the Air Force.

“The first time I saw the RNZAF Jazz Band play was at my college during a visit, and I was so nervous to talk to saxophonist Sergeant Andre Paris after the show,” Eilish says.

Continued on page 2.

Leading Aircraftman Eilish Wilson says playing in front of friends and family was special, when she returned to Blenheim last Wednesday.

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2 Wednesday March 6, 2024

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'I grew up surrounded by music' Continued from page 1 “I went up to him and said something like ‘Hey, you play saxophone eh?”

“He was so kind and encouraging to me. It’s crazy to get to sit next to someone of his skill level in the band now, and I am always grateful for his ongoing mentorship.”

Under the guidance of her first saxophone teacher Tim Parker, Eilish was encouraged to join her high school’s jazz band. She also attended the Southern Jam Youth Jazz Festival for five years, where she crossed paths with the RNZAF Jazz Band who would often run workshops and mentor students.

After college, Eilish completed a Bachelor of Music degree with

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Honours at the New Zealand School of Music, and has since completed a Master of Fine Arts degree at the prestigious California Institute of the Arts.

She is one of the RNZAF Band’s newest members, and loves the new gig.

“It’s been a fun few months, with so many brilliant performances,” she says.

“A lot of musicians who I admire have been through the band, and some of them are still members to this day. People like Sergeant Alistair Isdale, who runs the jazz band and takes care of so much in the way of organising the band.

He’s a general all-round legend.”

Some of her highlights so far have

included watching the RNZAF Drumline perform during the Air Force in Concert shows last year, and playing lunchtime brass band sets on Wellington’s Cuba Street.

Just a few months in with the band, Eilish highly recommends aspiring musicians, and others, consider a career with the Defence Force.

“Go for it. It’s brilliant to be part of this community, and being able to spend time doing something you love with talented, passionate people is just the best.”

Now she has the chance to perform in front of South Island crowds for the first time with the band, as they began their four-stop programme from Blenheim to

Ashburton last week.

“I can’t wait to play for - and meet - the kids and communities during our time down south,” she says.

Playing in front of friends and family in particular was special, when she returned to Blenheim last Wednesday.

“It meant everything. I really grew up surrounded by music during those trips to Southern Jam, and I couldn’t be where I am today without the love and support of my family and friends.

“It makes me really proud to play for them, and it makes the music sound better when there’s so much love there.”

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The band played a concert at Blenheim’s ASB Theatre last week.

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Locals turned up to support Eilish and fellow band members.

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The Sun

Wednesday March 6, 2024

3

inbrief

The Sun

Closures needed SH1, Grassmere Brief closures of State Highway 1 are planned when Marlborough Lines replaces power poles and electricity lines at Lake Grassmere this week.

The lines company will carry out upgrades and improvements adjacent to State Highway 1 from Kaparu Road/ Grassmere Road to Marfells Beach Road on 5 and 7 March.

Because the power lines cross the state highway at three separate locations in the project area, a series of brief road closures will be necessary to ensure drivers are kept safe when the old power lines are removed and replaced.

These closures, which are expected to create 30-minute traffic delays, are scheduled to happen between 9am and 3pm on March 5 and 7.

The NZ Post Shop in Springlands is ‘not profitable’ and will close on April 1.

Springlands Post Shop to close

By Chris Valli

The NZ Post Shop in Springlands is to close April 1.

The shop, situated inside the Unichem Springlands Pharmacy, at 131 Middle Renwick Road, is owned by Auckland based Green Cross Health who represents more than 342 community pharmacies throughout the country.

G r e e n C r o s s M a r ke t i n g spokesperson Edwina Neilsen says the reason for the postal service closure was due to it ‘not being profitable’.

“The costs are too high for the return on the investment,” she

says. “We can use that space and have a more profitable business.

It’s a commercial reality.”

A caller to the Blenheim Sun says they have had a PO Box at Springlands for a business for ‘many years’.

The caller received a letter dated February 14 from John Flintoff, New Zealand Post Regional Manager for Top of the South to say the Springlands Box Lobby was closing on Tuesday, March 26. The letter said the PO boxes will be relocated to 1 Main Street.

“We get people coming in to use this post office from all over,

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The place has been integral to a lot of people. The two women that work there work really hard and are absolutely camp mothers to the district,” the caller said.

Another local said the closure was ‘sad news’ as an older person considering moving to the Springlands or Ashwood retirement villages. The close proximity of the post office was ‘ideal’, saying it ‘was a shame it had to close’.

Edwina says there are two current part time staff at the post shop and ‘what happens next’ will be a process.

Refrain from feeding seagulls People in the Blenheim town centre are being asked to refrain from feeding seagulls.

Council, alongside the Blenheim Business Association are asking people not to feed the gulls, and be careful not to leave food unattended in the CBD and surrounding areas.

Black-billed and red-billed seagulls are congregating in the town centre, and are both protected species under the Wildlife Act. Refraining from feeding them and leaving food around should go some way to helping the situation and reducing the attraction of the CBD to the birds in the long term.

A number of CBD building owners have systems in place to deter the birds - such as sprinklers, lasers and spikes.

“They are aware it wasn’t busy enough and there are no surprises. You can’t argue with the facts, it’s not a charity, it had to be viable and it is not. It’s just too expensive to run a NZ Post in that space. We have to be commercially sensible.”

The caller to the Sun says the closure is going to cause widespread upset in the community as it’s an asset.

“I don’t go into town because the tiles are so slippery, yet alone the lack of parking. The only other one in town is Paper Plus, often lining up and it’s busy. The shop has been great.”

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The Sun

4 Wednesday March 6, 2024

Leap year glitch hits fuel pumps

By Chris Valli

Blenheim fuel users were a tad confused last Thursday morning.

Pak’nSave was one fuel location in town that was ‘out of action’ with the EFTPOS at the pump out and no timeline for it coming back on. People spoken to say it was out since midnight.

Fuel stations reported nationwide outages at self-service pumps.

Allied Petroleum, Gull, Z and other fuel stops around New Zealand ground to a halt owing to a software glitch caused by systems not being programmed to deal with the date February 29.

A Gull spokesman says a software glitch meant some payment terminals were not able to be used to pay for fuel across the country. ”We understand there was a nationwide payments issue. We first started seeing some of the issues earlier this morning, and we have been liaising with our provider and understand they are working as quickly as possible to fix the issue.”

The spokesperson says the issue was due to February 29 being a leap day, and was “just one of those things, that caused the payment software to have a glitch”.

Weeds will wait

By Chris Valli

It’s a topic that never goes away - due to residents and taxpayers expecting the Taylor and Opaōa Rivers to look presentable in their home town.

However, they are going to have to wait two more months until the Marlborough District Council action the ‘disgusting mess’.

A text talk to the Blenheim Sun Newspaper last week from a ratepayer questioned the prioritising around river weeds by the Marlborough District Council saying the Taylor River looked like a ‘disgusting mess’.

The text said the weeds from the High Street Bridge to the Monroe Street entrance included ‘a tree in the river with weeds blocking it completely’.

Under rules in the Marlborough Environment Plan, certain river works are not allowed in the tidal parts of the Taylor and Opaōa rivers from February 1 to April 30 to avoid the fish spawning season, meaning removal of aquatic vegetation could not be carried out up to the Alfred St bridge during that three-month period.

Andy White, Marlborough District Council’s Rivers and Drainage Engineering Manager says after this period their maintenance programme resumes with a focus on cutting the weed

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MDC says sediment removal work is being planned (subject to LTP funding). This will assist with removing the one metre of bed that has aggradaed since 2013 between Alfred Street Bridge and Marshall Place.

back using a combination of weed-cutter boat and excavater mounted weedrake.

“Residents may recall the same work being conducted throughout May 2023,” says Andy.

“Sediment removal work is also being planned (subject to LTP funding), this will assist with removing the one metre of bed that has aggradated since 2013 between Alfred Street Bridge and Marshall Place.”

Andy says the weeds are im-

portant for the ecosystem and the survival of the rivers fish species. Those that have been recorded in the Taylor River have included the following; Inanga, Common Bully, Upland Bully, Longfin Eel, Shortfin Eel, Koaro, Lamprey, Banded Kokopu, Giant Kokopu, Kaharore Bully, Giant bully, Yellow Eyed Mullet, Grey Mullet. Brown Trout and Common Goldfish.

A new weed-cutter boat design was approved by Martime NZ

at the begining of the year and is now being fabricated by contractor Martin Hydraulics Ltd in Christchurch.

“The boat has been designed in collaboration with current weedboat operator, ensuring that his years of experience with the existing boat have been incorporated into the new design, so that it is fit for purpose. Delivery is on track for September 2024, in time for the Spring and Summer weed cuts.”

The Sun

Wednesday March 6, 2024

5

Access to scans boosted Thursday.

Health Minister Dr Shane Reti says people would now have the same access to PETCT scans no matter where they lived.

It was significant for those who might be impacted by cancer, he says.

“It’s a great step forward in making sure all New Zealanders have the same access to diagnostic technology to help clinicians determine the best treatment options.

By Chris Valli

Those with cancer in Marlborough will have a sense of equity with a funding boost set to improve access to PETCT scans for those in the South Island.

Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand had approved funding an updated national set of criteria that will allow for about 1000 more PET-CT scans a year to be publicly funded, the government announced last

“For example, before this nationally applied criteria was developed, men in the South Island had to pay for prostate PET-CT scans that men in most of the North Island didn’t pay for. This removes variation, like this, that previously existed.”

The changes to increased access to PET-CT scans were estimated to cost about $3million per year.

The updated criteria would be in place across the country by mid-March.

Te Whatu Ora has approved funding an updated national set of criteria that will allow for about 1000 more PET-CT scans a year to be publicly funded.

W h e n o n ly t h e b e s t W i l l d o !

Driver named in crash that killed Marlborough lawyer

By Chris Valli

The woman charged with causing a crash that killed a leading Marlborough lawyer has been named.

Brazilian national Evellyn Hitori Maeda Magahlaes, who has had interim name suppression since her first court appearance the day after the November 19 crash, appeared in the Queenstown District Court by audio visual link today.

The 28-year-old Auckland resident admitted a charge of careless driving causing the death of Philip Watson on State Highway 8 near Lindis Pass.

Mr Watson, 64, was a lead-

ing member of Blenheim’s criminal bar and a motorcycle enthusiast.

The police summary of facts said the defendant left the town of Cheviot in North Canterbury on the day of the crash to pick up her brother from Queenstown Airport.

About 8.45am as she approached Lindis Pass, she looked at a mapping app on her phone, which was mounted on the dashboard.

As she did so, she veered into the opposite lane and collided head-on with Mr Watson, who was riding a Triumph motorcycle towards Omarama.

He died at the scene.

As three members of the

victim’s family watched by audio -visual lin k, Maeda Magahlaes’ counsel, Bryony Shackell, asked Judge Russell Walker to continue interim name suppression.

The defendant had mental health issues arising from childhood trauma that had been “wildly exacerbated” by the crash and its aftermath.

She would suffer extreme hardship from having her name published by the media.

Prosecuting Sergeant Ian Collin said police opposed the application.

A letter from the defendant’s doctor contained no clinical assessment of the effects of her being named, and contained

comments attributed to the defendant that appeared to “shift blame” for the crash to New Zealand road conditions.

Given the number of fatal crashes in Central Otago over the past few months, the public had a “genuine interest in knowing who’s appearing on such matters before the court”, Sgt Collin says.

Judge Walker declined to continue name suppression on the basis the legal threshold had not been met.

He made orders for restorative justice to be explored and the preparation of pre-sentence and reparation reports.

He scheduled Maeda Magahlaes’ sentencing for May 7.

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The Sun

6 Wednesday March 6, 2024

Sun readers have their say... with the WORD on the Street.

Have you ever been uninvited to an event?

Annie Charles Blenheim I wanted to go to my school reunion but uninvited myself because there were many my year that weren’t going.

Bridget McLay Blenheim I’ve been uninvited to be a bridesmaid.

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news tips Send your tips to news@blenheimsun.co.nz

Carl Sanderson Blenheim When haven’t I?

Laura Casey Blenheim I have as a bridesmaid but still got to go to the wedding. Had a blast.

s r e t or Let dit E e h To t

Letters on issues of community interest are welcomed. A maximum of 150 words please.

They must be signed and a street address provided to show good faith, even when a nom de plume is provided for publication.

The editor reserves the right to abridge letters or withhold letters from publication.

Email them to news@blenheimsun.co.nz or drop in to our office at 72 High St. Please note that your name and street address MUST be provided with emails.

Letters/Opinions not necessarily those of the Sun management.

The Marlborough District Council has said there had not been enough rain in the Blenheim on Monday to allow them to reopen the Wither Hills Farm Park.

They said they need consistent rain and low temperatures over a period of days with no evapotranspiration.

A social media post says although we are heading into autumn, the next 10 days are forecast to be sunny and warm, with temperatures up to 27C. “The Farm Park will remain closed for the time being. People are encouraged to use our other parks such as the Taylor River Reserve, Pollard Park and Victoria Domain in Picton.”

Learn more:

027 481 3545 art.devine@harcourts.co.nz 175 Papanui Road, Merivale, Christchurch 03 355 6677 holmwood.co.nz Holmwood Real Estate

Susan Gerrard Nelson I uninvited myself to a work function due to the management.

Bikers Beware The letter from Grateful Scooter Rider on February 28 prompts me to write about my similar experience.

On January 8 I was knocked off my bike as I crossed the Seymour Square roundabout.

Traffic waited as people, including the contrite driver of the vehicle that knocked me over, helped me.

Injuries to my bike and me were minor because the vehicle was moving slowly and stopped as soon as the impact was felt.

If the driver had pulled at speed onto the roundabout, as some do, the vehicle would have pushed me and my bike across the road and would have been crushed under its wheels.

Rain not enough to reopen

YOUR LOCAL CONNECTION IN CANTERBURY.

Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Maria Cashwood Blenheim Yes – when Covid was under 100 for a wedding. We got a ‘Dear John’ letter.

It’s a reminder that bikers must give way to everything regardless of priority.

Coincidentally, the week after the accident, Blenheim Sun Jan 10 published an unconnected letter from me (Collective Courage) about road safety.

With the coming of the Whale Trail, there will be many more bikers around Blenheim.

I urge bikers to be aware: it matters not who is in the wrong, you will never win an argument with a car.

To bikers who ride without a helmet, I can tell you that when your head hits the road hard, you’ll know why helmets are a legal requirement.

Evan Robinson

The Sun

Wednesday March 6, 2024

7

Graffiti warriors in Picton

By Glenise Dreaver

Queen Charlotte College teacher Richard Mahoney says that a recent incident in Picton shows local young men in a good light.

“They care about our environment,” he says.

“For almost a month Picton has been blighted by ugly graffiti covering a whole white wall between the vets and the liquor shop.

“Locals were appalled by the mess and wondering why it had not been removed.”

So, he says, six students from Queen Charlotte College decided to be proactive.

“Armed with rollers, brushes, ladders and paint, they headed down last Friday and spent the morning repainting the whole wall.

“It took two coats to completely remove the graffiti but the boys were determined to do a good job, and were so proud of their work

when it was completed.”

He added that as they were painting a number of locals came over and a few initially thought the boys were the cause of the graffiti.

“They were so impressed when told that they just wanted to do their bit for Picton and the people who live here.”

The appreciative liquor store owner also gave them a can of coke each.

Richard said one of the students even managed to translate the childlike scrawl, which he said was in gang language.

“He said it translated as ‘I have no friends’.

If that’s true, it’s a cry for help from this troubled individual and let’s hope he gets the help he clearly needs,” says Richard, adding that the boys said they will continue to paint over any graffiti that may appear in the future.

Singing in the rain A local takes cover from long overdue rain in the Blenheim CBD on Monday morning. MetService says Marlborough was issued with a severe thunderstorm watch between 10am - 6pm.

DOING THEIR BIT FOR PICTON: Hartlan Bullen, Moss Hopkins, Ocean Baker, Alex Garland, King Whiteman, and Indio McNab in front of the newly-painted wall in Picton’s CBD.

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The Sun

one on one with the Sun

8 Wednesday March 6, 2024

‘My fight to get health care in Blenheim’ Argentinian Natalia Saavedra says she has had a ‘horrendous time’ with the health system with four different diagnoses and care received while living in Blenheim. She talks exclusively to Chris Valli.

Natalia Saavedra is angry, exhausted, and frustrated. She struggles to give a high five or wash her hair and says she is in constant pain.

The 30-year-old works as a cellar hand for a local winery. A move to Blenheim for the upcoming vintage and doing ‘a lot of physical work’ specifically tank cleaning reignited a ‘familiar pain. By Sunday, February 14, she couldn’t move.

Last November, Natalia was working as an early childhood teacher in Wanaka where she lifted a four-year-old, causing an injury in her upper left back. She was treated with physiotherapy and with acupuncture.

She says, the pain was still there when she sneezed, coughed, or breathed deeply. ‘Extreme pain’ took her to Marlborough Urgent Care, where she was examined.

Her doctor thought she had a ‘disc pinching her nerve’, in either her neck or trapezius area.

The doctor ordered X-rays of her neck and said “an X-ray coming back okay wouldn´t discard the theory, as she would need an MRI to pick that up”. Subsequently, Natalia was prescribed painkillers - Naproxen 750 - and was told to be off work for seven days.

On Monday, February 19, x-rays were taken on her arrival at Marlborough Imaging Centre. She then saw a second doctor at Urgent Care, who Natalia says ‘didn´t even look at the x-rays on his computer’ and glanced at a printed copy Natalia had requested to the receptionist to keep for herself.

In addition, at the x-rays, she says they had just included her neck and not the trapezius area, as requested

initially by her first consultation and doctor.

The second doctor said she ‘was fine’ and that he thought she had an injury in the joint that connected her spine to her rib cage.

Natalia says she was instructed to take painkillers, even though she expressed her own concerns about treating herself on ‘mere thoughts and assumptions’.

“The treatment I got was inhumane” “I went home, quite frustrated,” she says. By midday, on that same day, the symptoms of her injury including tingling towards her arm, sharp pain, nausea and tense muscles had aggravated.

After a long wait, she received a third diagnosis, by a third doctor.

“You have muscle strain,” she was told. She was informed she was not eligible for an MRI, as she needed to be in severe pain for ‘more than six weeks’ and ‘ACC wouldn’t cover it.’

She was also informed she wasn’t eligible for a specialist until she saw a physiotherapist, with a waiting list being over three months”.

“She assured me I didn´t meet the criteria for an MRI, unless I wanted to pay for it myself, saying it would cost me $1100”.

“It seemed that if I put that money on the table all of the initial criteria I wasn´t meeting would magically disappear”.

However, last Tuesday, she phoned

ACC and they stated she was eligible for an MRI, but the doctor should request it. Allegations about being in pain for weeks, made by previous doctors were ‘not accurate’.

ACC confirmed the three doctors who had seen her so far hadn’t lodged her claim and had not included the proper codes for her injury.

“ACC was kind enough to join all three in one and lodged my application. They also changed the code of my injury for it to be more likely to get approved for an MRI, or any further studies. I headed back with tears and so much pain to Urgent Care, for the fourth time on Tuesday around midday.”

She was told she had to pay $110, to see the same doctor and was in shock. “I tried to ask for her to see me without paying as I had the same issue. They declined and said no one would see me if I didn´t pay.”

“I ran to the Emergency Ward, another area of the hospital and cried and begged for another doctor. The ladies at reception were kind and I was then seen by a fourth doctor.”

Natalia was examined and after waiting for about 20 minutes, was informed she had a fourth, different, assumed diagnosis, Trapezius Myalgia.

“Your main nerves seem fine, and there is no nerve damage,” I was told. “All they could do for me was give me anesthesia, via injections, and give me “stronger painkillers”, meaning opioids. In excruciating pain, I accepted and got 10 painful injections in my back, which went fully numb. I left with my back numb, pain from horrible injections and a prescription for more Naprox-

Natalia Saavedra, a cellar hand, had four misdiagnoses from local health professionals. On her fifth, she was diagnosed with Cervical Radiculopathy (pinched nerve) – a severe injury that will take her six months to one year to fully recover.

en and Sevredol (opioid).

A physiotherapy appointment in town found a solution where she encountered a physio who ‘listened to her story’ with ‘great empathy’.

“She was the first person to show caring and really worried about it. After a thorough examination, for about one hour, she confirmed I had a fifth diagnosis. Cervical Radiculopathy (Pinched Nerve) – a severe injury that would take me from six months to one year to fully recover. “ Natalia says the physio said her first diagnose was the closest one of the four, Natalia had been given.

“She stated my symptoms clearly showed nerve damage and that any disc pressing on those nerves would not be picked up on a simple x-ray.”

“The treatment I got was inhumane. They filled my body up with painkillers and opioids to disguise their ignorance and poor practice.”

“I have been travelling the world for nine years now, and this is the worst health service I have ever received.”

“If I hadn’t seen the physio that day, I would still be treated for a completely different injury than what I have, which threatens my capabilities and mobility as a person.”

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The Sun

Wednesday March 6, 2024

Vince ‘Van-Go’ and the epic summer roadie The New Year has kicked off with a hiss and a roar for the Prostate Cancer Foundation NZ (PCFNZ), as they embarked on their highly anticipated national roadshow, taking important prostate health messages on the road in their trusty Education & Outreach Van. The van, affectionately known as Vince ‘Van-Go’, with Education & Outreach Assistant Isha Singh at the wheel, has been on a mission to provide vital information and education about prostate cancer and prostate health in general, as well as throwing the Foundation’s portfolio of free support services and programmes

into the spotlight.

Programmes like Prost-FIT, the bespoke exercise programme for men living with prostate cancer at any stage of diagnosis and treatment, which has garnered a big following in Blenheim, with two classes now running at the Marlborough Lines Stadium, thanks to local PCFNZ Support Group Coordinator Murray Eyles.

This year, more than 4,000 kiwis will be told they have prostate cancer, the country’s most diagnosed cancer and second leading cause of cancer-related death in New Zealand men.

“For many reasons, men avoid visiting their GP, missing a crucial

step in getting an early diagnosis of prostate cancer, so we decided that we needed to get there and let them know that a simple PSA blood test is all it takes, as well as have important conversations and provide information,” says PCFNZ Chief Executive Peter Dickens.

The van was made possible by a generous grant from Ryman Healthcare and if just catching a glimpse of its unmissable messages nudges guys, their friends or family, to prioritize those important and lifesaving health checks, then it has more than done its job,” says Peter.

“Early detection saves lives.”

Murray Eyles, standing at left, and the local Prost-FIT exercise class in front of the PCFNZ Education & Outreach van.

Marlborough Marlborough Prostate Prostate Cancer Cancer Support Support GroupGroup

PROSTATE PROSTATECANCER CANCER Public Public Information Information Evening Evening

If you If would you would like tolike know to more know about more about prostate prostate cancercancer or prostate or prostate healthhealth in general, in general, we invite we you invite toyou attend to attend our information our information evening, evening, featuring featuring variousvarious organizations organizations from within from within the Marlborough the Marlborough NelsonNelson medical medical fraternity. fraternity.

Hosted Hosted

by Grey byPower Grey Power Marlborough.

Marlborough.

7.15pm 7.15pm Tuesday Tuesday 19 March 19 March 2024 2024 Nativity Nativity Church Church (main (main hall) hall) AlfredAlfred Street,Street, Blenheim Blenheim opposite opposite the Scenic the Scenic Circle Circle Hotel Hotel Partners Partners welcome welcome

For more For more information information contact contact Murray Murray Eyles Eyles marlborough@prostate.org.nz marlborough@prostate.org.nz

Proudly supporting Proudly this supporting event this event

0800 477 0800678 477 678

prostate.org.nz prostate.org.nz

Serving Up Opportunities

By Chris Valli

NMIT Te Pūkenga culinary tutor, Chris Fortune, is organising this year’s Te Pūkenga Festival Chef competition at the Havelock Mussel and Seafood festival.

Chris wants to encourage not just chefs, but ‘absolutely anyone’ who is passionate about cooking to enter.

“We want to encourage amateurs, young chefs and professionals to put forward their best kai moana dish,” he says.

“The only expectation is the dish should highlight NZ King Salmon and/or NZ Green-Shell Mussels.”

The winner of each division, under 18 or over 18, will take out the 2024 Te Pūkenga Festival Chef title, be awarded the annual trophy and take home a selection of prizes.

All contestants will benefit from the guidance and encouragement of Chris and Master Chef NZ Chef of the Year, Zennon Wijlens, who are this year’s judges.

“The festival is such a great opportunity to learn from people like Zennon,” Chris says.

Chris Fortune is a renowned

All contestants will benefit from the guidance and encouragement of Master Chef NZ Chef of the Year, Zennon Wijlens.

New Zealand chef, author and educator who brings a wealth of industry knowledge and experience to NMIT’s Culinary Arts and Cookery programmes.

To take part in the 2024 Te Pūkenga Festival Chef Competition, please follow the application process found on the Havelock Mussel and Seafood Festival website. The festival is held in the Havelock Memorial Park, March 16.

9

The Sun

10 Wednesday March 6, 2024

‘We remain committed to collaborating’

By Chris Valli

Port Marlborough say it is working closely with KiwiRail and other project partners, on the wind-down of the iReX project, following the government funding announcement in December.

The port says they share the disappointment that the rest of the

region is feeling in terms of the project not going ahead.

An email to the Sun Newspaper recently said ‘our teams have worked with KiwiRail on the iReX project for many years now, and while the news to wind down the project was disappointing, we remain committed to collaborating with the government and KiwiRail

as we navigate the way forward to ensure this inter-island connection for New Zealand.’

The port’s commercial team had ‘worked hard to ensure that Port Marlborough has not suffered any financial loss as a result of the work done to date, and there are agreements in place with KiwiRail that require the completion of early/

enablement works, and the reinstatement of any affected assets.’

The maintenance programme of the Interislander wharf (which is Port Marlborough-owned marine infrastructure) was assumed by KiwiRail as part of the iReX programme, and the maintenance programme was reduced in recent times due to the impending demo-

lition and replacement of the asset.

Subject to the correct maintenance programme being applied, the wharf and infrastructure will last until beyond 2029, which following the comments made on Friday (in the select committee hearing), they understand will be some years beyond the life of the current Interislander fleet.

Obituary

Kathleen (Peg) Moorhouse 1917-2024

By Glenise Dreaver

VOTE CATHIE bEll

Cathie Bell for the Marlborough Electric Power Trust.

POWER TO THE COMMUNITY

On January 23, Peg Moorhouse died peacefully at the home of her daughter Gendy Fishburn, in her 107th year.

Peg, a master weaver was, in 2012, declared Marlborough’s first Living Cultural Treasure and in the Blenheim Sun in July 2021, was described as being “nationally revered”.

She was active in the arts scene all her very long life.

Gendy says her mother had lived with her for just a few months before she died.

Until then, Peg had cared for herself in her sun-drenched home in Sunshine Bay, with its glorious vista of Queen Charlotte Sound.

In her 2021 interview, Peg told Sun journalist Glenise Dreaver her ideas came as they always had - as she set up her loom or lying in bed, gazing at the stars and the moon through her un-curtained windows.

And Gendy says it was only three weeks before Peg died that they took her back to visit and she sat down at her treasured Swedish damask loom for half an hour, fixing up some of the loose threads.

Throughout her adult life, Peg had created treasures for sale and exhibition and though Covid had limited her exhibitions, she continued to sell from her website and to customers who come to her home.

In 1981, Peg’s already prominent national profile was further boosted when she entered the very first World

Marlborough’s first-ever Living Cultural Treasure, Master Weaver Peg Moorhouse was still in creative mode on her 104th birthday, working at her damask loom. Photo: Glenise Dreaver

of Wearable Arts competition with her Tribal Cloak, now in the Marlborough Museum.

Year after year she won WOW with her stylish garments and then, at 81, she was invited to model, with one review describing her appearance as one of “timeless elegance”.

Peg had said she had “no idea” of her

secret for her long, active and creative life, but did mention that she was a pioneer in yoga here.

Her death notice describes her as a “vibrant colourful, positive mentor to her four children, Mary, the late Tim, Reade and Gendy” and as “inspirational” to her many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

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The Sun

Wednesday March 6, 2024

11

InternatIonal

s ’ n e m Wo y Da

8 March 2024

The theme of the International Women’s Day 2024 campaign is ‘Inspire Inclusion’.

Celebrated on 8 March, the intention of this year’s day is to inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, so that together we forge a better world.

International Women’s Day (IWD) 2024 is celebrated annually on March 8 to commemorate the cultural, political and socio economic achievements of women.

The theme this year is ‘Inspire Inclusion’. When we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we forge a better world.

And when women themselves are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment.”

Purple is the symbolic colour of the day while the combination of green, purple and white represents equality.

When it comes to New Zealand, we are pioneers in leading the way whether through women’s rights, business or political bastions. Take Kate Sheppard who was the driving force behind women’s suffrage to give women a voice in local elections.

The Electoral Act 1883 was her legacy.

Dame Whina Cooper dedicated her life to fighting for Maori land rights and improving living conditions for Maori women. Dame Whina gained notoriety in 1975 for leading a hikoi (march) from the Northland com-

munity of Te Hapua to Parliament in Wellington.

In recent times Dame Lisa Carrington and Zoe Sadowski-Synnott come to mind in the sporting arena with their positive influences and the morals and values they bring to their professional and personal lifestyles.

Locally there are a number of Marlborough women who have stood tall over their male counterparts and have achieved in every definition of the word whether that is in the arts, business, viticulture or property.

As a Marlborough real estate agent passionate about people and property, Rachel Roberts embodies the spirit of empowerment and inclusivity.

A warm and welcoming nature creates a supportive environment where all women, regardless of age or background, are encouraged to thrive says Rachel “I want to inspire others by showing that success in my career and personal life, including being a mother, is achievable. On this day, let’s continue to champion gender equality and support the aspirations of women in all spheres of life, empowering them to reach their full potential.”

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Marlborough Real Estate agent Rachel Roberts is passionate about people and property, and embodies the spirit of empowerment and inclusivity.

Carey Huria is the Principal of Rapaura School, a role she feels privileged to be in.

Carey with term One “Being a staff member in a school is a huge student leaders Mia responsibility as I believe we are growing Newson-Young and Finn the citizens of the future. My dream is that Morrison. all children will be able to participate in a society that reflects their culture and supports them to grow, achieve, and contribute in meaningful and thoughtful ways.

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The Sun

12 Wednesday March 6, 2024

Marlborough Multicultural Festival 2024 Every year in March Marlborough puts on the Multicultural Festival to celebrate Race Relations Day. Across New Zealand, events in March are held around Race Relations Day providing the opportunity for all peoples to come together, learn from each other, share, celebrate and enjoy the richness of shared cultural experiences.

The Festival has gained strength every year. The inaugural festival held in 2006 attracted approximately 500 people. The last festival in 2023 attracted approximately 5000 throughout the day.

It also gains positive outcomes in terms of promoting unity in diversity, and helps promote the community spirit of Marlborough as an inclusive, connected, and welcoming community.

The Marlborough Multicultural Festival embraces cultural diversity and provides a platform for our communities to showcase their culture, as well as provide opportunities to share their cultures with their children, many of whom have been born in New Zealand and feel they have a visible and valued place here. Local Marlburians too can see the richness of the ethnic mix of people who call Marlborough home.

Margaret Western, MMC Acting Centre Manager says they couldn’t do the Festival without the support of the Marlborough District Council, community organisations and cultural groups, and they’re pleased to see how positive everyone has been.

MMC Cultural and Sports Events Manager Marcelo Gonzalez believes the annual Pollard Park festival to be a highlight of each year’s cultural calendar.

The 2024 Marlborough Multicultural Festival is on this Saturday 9th March at Churchill Glade in Pollard Park. This family event runs from 11.00am to 3.00pm.

This year’s event includes 30-plus ethnic food stalls, and more than 25 craft and information stalls. Children’s entertainment includes face painting, games area, interactive traditional arts, crafts and more.

Over 250 performers representing different countries and cultures, Marcelo encourages all to engage and learn about one another’s cultures at the Festival and translate

that to everyday life.

The Festival is an opportunity to raise awareness about caring for the environment. Working collaboratively with Envirohub Marlborough, who will provide zero-waste dishwashing trailer services to collect, wash, rinse, sterilize, dry and return tableware and utensils, will provide vendors with reusable tableware and uten-

Autumn Events

sils for food vendors, promoting environmental care without use of disposable waste.

Other services on site include: St Johns Ambulance, Police, Fire & Emergency, Marlborough Security, Maori wardens, multiple rubbish collection points, volunteers from Marlborough Girls’ College and Boys’ College, international students and MMC volunteers.

The Marlborough Multicultural Festival is a zero-waste and family event, everyone is welcome to be part of one the biggest Multicultural Festival in Aotearoa. It is on this Saturday 9th March from 11.00am - 3.00pm at Churchill Glade in Pollard Park, Blenheim.

There will be wheelchair access, accessible toilets, mobility parking.

This is a free event.

POWER TRUST ELECTIONS MARCH 2024 If you want transparency, accountability and to put the community first, then give us all three votes!

Simon Bishell Belinda Jackson Brendon Burns Pick up your copy from Marlborough District Council

More information at

www.voteforchangemept.nz

The Sun

Wednesday March 6, 2024

Long Term Plan proposal agreed

Wheelie bin rollout underway

People will soon have the opportunity to have their say on Council’s planned expenditure in its 10 year plan, which proposes an average rates increase of 12.65 per cent for the 2024/25 financial year.

Let’s get it sorted – Marlborough’s wheelie bin rollout is underway.

Wheelie bins are now being delivered, area by area, to households in Marlborough.

Delivery will continue until all areas have been covered and in time for the 1 July launch of Council’s new and expanded kerbside collection service.

Mayor Nadine Taylor said it costs about $180 million a year to run Marlborough and consultation was critical. “We need everyone’s input into shaping Marlborough’s future and how we get there together,” she said.

Councils around the country were facing double digit increases but Marlborough’s was at the lower end of the scale.

Please keep using your rubbish bags until the end of June – wheelie bins will not be emptied until the new service launches on 1 July.

“We’re not alone in facing increased costs due to factors outside our control, such as damaging storms, inflation, contract price increases and the lasting effects of the Covid pandemic,” Mayor Taylor said.

The first area to have wheelie bins delivered is Dry Hills and the area between Alabama Road and Wither Road and west to Howick Road.

“However, we’re not proposing to cut services and we’re continuing to invest in core infrastructure because we don’t want to see Marlborough going backwards.”

The Long Term Plan 2024/2034 budget sees new investment in the region’s infrastructure, repairs to Marlborough Sounds roads, provides increases in some levels of service and removes the Council’s Covid rates subsidy.

At last week’s budget meeting councillors approved a number of recommendations to go to public consultation.

Key infrastructure projects include continuing work on the water supply in Awatere, Seddon, Blenheim, Havelock, Picton, Renwick, Riverlands and Wairau Valley, including upgrading pipelines, pump stations and wells to ensure they meet current needs. Drinking water improvements will continue with chlorination to be introduced in Blenheim and a new water treatment plant in Havelock, to ensure water meets national standards.

A new reservoir is planned for Dashwood, new wells are proposed north of Blenheim to increase resilience and supply capacity, and work is ongoing with Picton’s water supply, dams and reservoirs.

Mayor Nadine Taylor says Council needs everyone’s input into shaping Marlborough’s future through the upcoming Long Term Plan consultation There will also be investment in sewage treatment plants and pump stations in Blenheim, Riverlands, Picton and Renwick, plus new a sewage treatment plant for Havelock and a major upgrade for Seddon’s plant.

Roading is the biggest item of Council expenditure at around 20 per cent, including maintenance, renewals and improvements to roads, footpaths, bridges and drainage.

The plan proposes increasing this funding by $27.5m over the next three years.

For more detailed information on all the key projects included in Council’s 10 year Long Term Plan proposal go to: https://links. marlborough.govt.nz/LTP-Key-Projects

Wheelie bins will be delivered to the kerbside where residents should place them for collection when the new service rolls out.

Council’s Solid Waste Manager Mark Lucas said there are approximately 36,000 bins being delivered so people should not worry if they think they’ve been missed. If you have not received your bin by the beginning of June please contact Council.

Rubbish bags will not be collected after 1 July and while Council has a limited supply left, most supermarkets in the region have stopped selling them.

“People can use up their supply of rubbish bags but from 1 July

13

these will not be collected from the kerbside. Council will continue to accept them at transfer stations, the Waste Sorting Centre, or the Resource Recovery Centre, but that option will be removed as demand diminishes,” Mark said.

You can redeem your rubbish bag voucher at Council’s Blenheim or Picton Service Centres or get a rebate until 30 June this year.

While stocks last, rubbish bags are available to buy from Council’s Blenheim or Picton Service Centre either individually ($1.85), in packs of 10 ($18.50) or packs of 52 ($96.00).

The kerbside collection service covers Blenheim, Grovetown, Havelock, Picton, Rarangi, Rai Valley, Renwick, Seddon, Spring Creek and Tua Marina with household waste collected one week and recycling the next. Two wheelie bins will be delivered to each household - one for household waste and one for recycling, except glass, which will go into the maroon crate currently used for recycling.

For more information on collection areas and days go to Council’s Smart Maps page: https://links. marlborough.govt.nz/kerbside If you have questions about the new system go to: links. marlborough.govt.nz/KerbsideFAQs or phone Council on 03 520 7400 or email mdc@marlborough. govt.nz

You can have your say and make a submission from 4 April to 6 May. There will be public meetings and hearings - further information will be made available.

Last day to pay rates This is a friendly reminder to rate payers that the final day for payment of instalment 3 is Monday, 11 March 2024. Late payments will incur a 10% penalty.

Always pay your rates on time!

Repairs to Marlborough Sounds roads are a key part of Council’s Long Term Plan 2024/2034

Why not sign up for a direct debit.

Ratepayers who pay their rates by direct debit never have to worry about missing a rates payment

and never incur penalties. It is the easiest and flexible way to pay. You choose how often you pay – you can even choose what day of the week the payment comes out of your account.

If you would like to know more about paying rates by direct debit, call our Customer Support Officers at Council on Ph: 03 520 7400.

14 Wednesday March 6, 2024

Summerset Blenheim homes now available* Situated in the heart of Marlborough, surrounded by vineyards and mountain views, Summerset Blenheim is close to everything Blenheim and the Marlborough Sounds have to offer.

Once complete, residents will be able to enjoy a range of facilities in our village centre. Plus, we will have a wide range of care options, all safe and secure within a fully gated village community.

We have brand-new homes selling now, ready to move in and make your own.* To find out more, join us at one of our upcoming Open Days every Thursday in March, or get in touch to book your private appointment today.

Love the life you choose

The Sun

The Sun

Wednesday March 6, 2024

Artist impression

Indicative villa

Brand-new homes selling now at Summerset Blenheim* At Summerset, our retirement villages are designed to make sure you get the best out of your retirement. Summerset Blenheim is no exception, with a range of brand-new two and three-bedroom homes available now, ready to move in and make your own*.

Our villas are warm, modern, and designed with everything you need for the perfect retirement lifestyle. They feature open-plan living, a modern contemporary kitchen, large bathroom and laundry, spacious outdoor living area, single garage with internal access and much more.

Enjoy a secure and low-maintenance lifestyle in a small but vibrant community, there are no worries about maintenance or upkeep as we do it all for you, and pets are also welcome.

To see plans and pricing, get in touch with our Sales Manager, Jessica Bagge today or join us at one of our upcoming Open Days and see for yourself why our residents love the Summerset life.

Love the life you choose

Open Days, 10am - 2pm

Every Thursday in March

Summerset Blenheim 183 Old Renwick Road, Springlands 03 520 6042 | summerset.co.nz/blenheim *All Summerset homes are sold under a licence to occupy and are subject to availability.

Indicative villa

15

The Sun

16 Wednesday March 6, 2024

Grey Power Marlborough

MARLBOROUGH

The Association for people 50+

Advocating for people 50 +

Wishing all our members a special merry Christmas and a happy new year

From the President’s Desk Phone 03 578 4950 or visit our website on www.greypowermarlborough.co.nz

March is upon us and Grey Power has a lot to offer you for the month. Starting the ball rolling was the Seniors Expo on the 5th of March, which was run by the Marlborough District Council. We were one of many organisations present. This is an annual event which offers information to our 50+ cohort in Marlborough.

Following the Expo Grey Power are inviting you to attend two seminars which will be held on the 12th & 19th of March at 2pm at the Nativity Church Hall. There will be several topics of information including moving into a rest home, how to keep your home warmer in the winter months, Rates Rebates, Enduring Powers of Attorney (why you need them), and lots more.

Attending these seminars will allow you the opportunity to ask questions on the topics that interest you. To get more information on the seminars you can pick up a flyer from our office.

Grey Power Marlborough will be holding their AGM on the 18th of March at 2pm at the Nativity Church Hall and we encourage our members to come along.

Finally, we will be hosting a Prostate Cancer awareness evening on the 19th of March at 7.15pm at the Nativity Church Hall. This is open to men and women and we hope many of you will take the opportunity to come and hear knowledgeable speakers in the medical profession.

Grey Power Marlborough are always looking for ways to support our over 50’s and we hope many of you will benefit from ‘Senior’s Month’ in March.

Ga yle Chambe rs, President.

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Annual General Meeting

All members and friends are invited to the Grey Power AGM at 2pm on Monday 18 March at the Nativity Centre, 76 Alfred Street, Blenheim. Come and find out what we have been doing and have your say. Our guest speaker is Helen Grennall, who will talk on her experience as a paediatric nurse in Saudi Arabia. Afternoon tea will follow.

Subscriptions

Subscription renewal invoices are on their way out now. If we have your email details, your invoice should arrive soon.

Please check your SPAM folder if you cannot find the invoice in your Inbox.

Posted invoices may take a few days to arrive. Our postal address is 25 Alfred Street, Blenheim 7201. The Grey Power Office is in the Community Centre building at that address.

Witherlea Indoor Bowling Club

Since most members of this bowling club are seniors, we feature this winter sports club meeting from 4th March until September. Soft soled shoes are the only requirement.

Meet Mondays at 6.50pm for 7pm start.

Redwoodtown Community Hall, cnr Cleghorn & Weld St. Contact: Chris 027-272-2739 or Heather 027-310-6675.

Hosted by Grey Power Marlborough at 7.15pm on Tuesday 19 March 2024 at the Nativity Church Centre in Alfred Street opposite the Scenic Circle Hotel. Men and women all welcome.

For more information on this evening contact Murray Eyles marlborough@prostate.org.nz or for general information phone the Prostate Cancer Foundation New Zealand on 0800 477 678 or visit prostate.org.nz

More stable, more able

Nelson Bays Primary Health are inviting you to attend two more Falls Prevention sessions at the Stadium 2000, Kinross Street on Thursday 28 March and Friday 31 May 1pm-3pm.

This is a free 2 hour session for anyone at risk of or who has had a fall and wants to improve their strength and balance.

Topics include maintaining independence, causes of falls, stents and balance exercises, bone strength, making your home safer, eating well.

Book-in or contact the Falls Prevention Coordinator, Angela Baker, on 021-790-415, email angela. baker@nbph.org.nz

The Federation Magazine

This quarterly magazine is now available online.

The rising cost of postage and printing makes more expensive the distribution of the Federation’s quarterly magazines to members.

Postage consumes over 60% of membership capitation fees, leaving far less for Grey Power’s core business of advocating for older people.

If you are internet savvy, we encourage you to switch to receiving this magazine online.

Check how easy it is to see and use online here https:// greypowermag.co.nz/.

Go to https://greypowermag. co.nz/subscribe/ to receive the online version.

Federation President Jan Pentecost says hard copies will always be available to members who do not want a digital copy.

The Federation magazine comes out to you in early March, June and September, and mid November.

Amazed I was at the Springlands Pharmacy the other day, feeling quite sorry for myself. When I came out, I saw a gentleman with one leg and a crutch putting his shopping in his car. Then he turned around and pushed his trolley

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Marlborough Prostate Cancer Awareness group

back into the shopping bay.

I was overwhelmed by the character of this man who had every excuse to just leave his trolley where it was and silently applauded his determination.

Two things came to me:

Stop feeling sorry for yourself.

Think of that man every time you put your trolley away and think about how difficult it must have been for him.

Just a thought.

Gayle Chambers

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monthly newsletter.

Wednesday Marlborough’s largest circulating newspaper

The Sun

Wednesday March 6, 2024

Grey Power Marlborough

17

MARLBOROUGH

The Association for people 50+

Advocating for people 50 +

Wishing all our members a special merry Christmas and a happy new year

Marlborough Electric Power Trust Phone 03 578 4950 or visit our website on www.greypowermarlborough.co.nz

The Trust is holding its biennial election this month for three of its six trustees. Grey Power encourages you strongly to vote now. It is important.

War wick Lampp, the MEPT deputy returning officer, advises in an email to consumers that voting closes at 12 noon on Monday 25 March 2024. If you have any queries regarding the voting process, please call the election helpline between 8.30am and 5pm weekdays on 0800 666 033 or email iro@ electionz.com Question for the MEPT candidates This year the Grey Power committee decided to ask a question of the eight candidates.

We asked: “What will you do to ensure that expenses for grid upgrades are not passed on to consumers but are met by temporarily reducing profits, by servicing bank loans or some other mechanism that you may nominate?”

Following are their answers, limited to fifty words, drawn in random order.

Brendon Burns

“Current trustees approved/support the Yealands investment with the failed promise of a month’s free power – important to seniors. Marlborough Lines retains the winery’s $90m debt, pressuring its ability to fund upgrades and keep lines charges down. My co-candidates and I will ensure ML directors deliver what our community demands.”

Cathie Bell

“Trustees work hard, ensuring Marlborough Lines is in good shape, able to raise significant debt if needed to upgrade for extra demand and new technological requirements. I am focused on Marlborough power users’ needs, particularly those on fixed and/or low incomes. Contact me if you have any queries.”

Brian niCholas

“Network upgrades are essential for supply security, whilst expansion is vital to Marlborough’s development.

Uneconomical low-use high maintenance lines are a burden on the network, resulting in increased line charges for

all. Replacement of non-economic high maintenance lines with modern self-generating networks will relieve future line charge increases to consumers.”

david dew

“The real issue is that consumers in urban areas on fixed incomes are subsidising others on grid upgrades currently.

MLL are slowly changing this in remote areas but it needs to be looked at further.

There is no need to increase prices if this is done across the network.”

Belinda JaCkson

“I and my two co-candidates will put the community first. The role of the MEPT is to act in the best interests of the shareholders (the community). We will apply robust, transparent governance principles to reduce financial pressure on Marlborough Lines and prioritise supplying power for the lowest possible line charges.”

PhiliP taylor

“When grid upgrades are necessary they are best dealt with now and not delayed.

It is best to borrow money and spread the cost over future generations who will benefit.

I believe we should also increase usage of renewables like solar and wind power that offer more efficiency and lower transmission costs.”

simon Bishell

“Current Trustees have mismanaged funds. There are no profits to offset network upgrades; debt is already being used. Marlborough Lines have used cash reserves to fund Yealands, which does not provide a return. My co-candidates and I will hold Directors to account, in an attempt to protect consumers from increased charges.”

niCki stretCh

“Regular investment in our local network is vital. Reducing profits may affect quality and discounts, which are important to consumers. While debt spreads costs over time, considering debt servicing is essential. I advocate using future investment profits to enhance the network and increase discounts or distributions – as both benefit consumers.”

March Events: • • • • •

Saturday 9 March, 10am to 3pm, Multicultural Festival at Pollard Park.

Tuesday 12 March, 2pm to 3.30pm Seminar 1 at the Nativity Centre.

Monday 18 March, 2pm AGM at the Nativity Centre.

Tuesday 19 March, 2pm to 3.30pm Seminar 2 at the Nativity Centre.

Tuesday 19 March, 7.15pm, Prostate Cancer Information Evening at the Nativity Centre.

• Thursday 28 March, 10am to 1pm Older Persons Forum at St Christopher’s Church.

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The Sun

18 Wednesday March 6, 2024

Farming news

George takes out Tasman FMG Young Farmer

By Chris Valli

They breed ‘em tough in the mainland.

Just ask Darfield Young Farmer, George Dodson, who is one step closer to winning one of New Zealand’s most prestigious farming awards after being crowned

the Tasman FMG Young Farmer of the Year.

George, 22, was announced as the Tasman FMG Young Farmer of the Year on Saturday evening, following two days of fierce competition in Christchurch.

Now, he gears up to take on six other regional finalists in the

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ultimate showdown at the FMG Young Farmer of the Year Grand Final, being held in Hamilton in July.

The weekend’s event was one of seven Regional Finals happening across Aotearoa between February and April. Details of what challenges would be thrown at them at the Tasman event were kept under wraps from the 22 determined contestants.

The win came as a shock to George, who was humbled by the achievement.

“To be honest it hasn’t sunk in yet, it was such a shock, I can’t really believe it to be honest,” says George.

Originally from Southland, George is second in charge on a 430-cow dairy farm between Darfield and Dunsandel. This is his third time competing in the prestigious contest, and the first time he’s earned a place at the Grand Final.

The whole weekend, organised by

a local Young Farmer committee led

by Lincoln Young Farmer Georgia Moody, was a real spectacle and a testament to all their hard work and preparation.

“The weekend was intense, there was definitely some stuff in there that was beneficial to me, and it was great that Saturday was practical based,” explains George.

“The head-to-heads were a great challenge; I didn’t expect to be loading AI straws so it was cool to be doing something different.”

Seeing his name at the top of the leaderboard going into Saturday night’s buzzer quiz, George said the pressure came on.

“When I saw that I was leading before the quiz, my family said I went pale white!” he laughed. “The pressure was on, but luckily I smashed the quick-fire round so could settle into it a bit more after that.”

The FMG Young Farmer of the Year competition is dedicated to showcasing the very best talent in New Zealand’s food and fibre sector.

Now in its 56th year, the title of “FMG Young Farmer of the Year” is held up as one of the most prestigious farming awards in the country.

George is looking forward to competing at the Grand Final and is excited about testing himself against the best of the best.

“I found the exam and some of the technical aspects of the weekend a bit of a challenge, so that’ll definitely be a focus for me in the lead-up to July.”

The FMG Young Farmer of the Year Contest is proudly supported

by FMG, Ravensdown, WorkSafe, Ministry for Primary Industries, Milwaukee, Woolworths, Honda, Lincoln University, Massey University, PTS Logistics, New Holland and Bushbuck.

TO THE WINNER THE SPOILS: George Dodson (centre). To the left is George Letham, 26, a member of the Waihora Banks Peninsula Young Farmers, made his debut in the competition and clinched second place. Meanwhile, Eddie Millichamp, 20, representing Lincoln Young Farmers, secured the last spot on the podium.

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The Sun

Wednesday March 6, 2024

19

Farming news

‘Growing interest in sustainable forest industry’

By Chris Valli

Lowest rainfall in 94 years January marked the eighth consecutive month to record below average rainfall in Blenheim, with 6.6mm recorded for the month.

Total rainfall from June 2023 to the end of January 2024 is 194mm, 45% of the long-term average of 436mm.

This is the lowest rainfall total for any June to January period over 94 years of record (1930-2024).

Rainfall was below average throughout the region, with Picton recording 26mm of rainfall in January, about half of the average January rainfall.

Awatere at Awapiri recorded 9mm of rain for the month, compared to an average of 52mm. River flows were below average across the board in January, with a number of water restrictions now in place. In the Awatere River Class C water restrictions were in place at the beginning of the year, and Class B water takes were rationed from the 20th before full Class B restrictions began in the last week of January. In the Wairau River, Class C restrictions were in place from the 9th of January onwards.

Rain in the upper catchment helped to maintain river flows in the second half of the month preventing further restrictions.

With minimal rainfall average shallow soil moisture at the Grovetown Park site in Blenheim remained low throughout January, with an average of 15.1%. This is well below the long-term average of 20.8%.

Textbook El Niño weather is expected in February with enhanced westerlies and

persistent high pressure across northern New Zealand, and regular fronts moving through south of the high.

Temperatures are very likely to be above average in Marlborough although varying throughout the month, while rainfall may be below average especially further to the east. The tropics remain active throughout February, but the current outlook sees tropical cyclones keeping well north of New Zealand.

As of February 5, the New Zealand Drought Index (NZDI) showed both northern and southern Marlborough as ‘extremely dry’ with values of 1.3 and 1.4 respectively.

An NZDI value of 1.5 or greater indicates climatic drought conditions. It would be fair to say that localised meteorological drought is occurring in pockets of the region and may intensify throughout February.

The NIWA drought forecast map shows there is a risk in the drier scenario of more widespread drought occurring in parts of the Wairau Plains, Awatere, and East Coast over the next 35 days. Stay up to date with the latest predictions at Data from the Marlborough District Council’s Environmental Monitoring network was primarily used in preparing this report and supplemented with data from the Marlborough Research Centre, MetService, NIWA, and FENZ. Report prepared by Charlotte Tomlinson, February 7, 2024.

The NZDFI (New Zealand Dryland Forests Innovation) hosted a successful workshop and field day recently drawing in 48 attendees from across New Zealand, including corporate forest managers, farm foresters, forestry consultants, and representatives from MPI and TUR/NZ Forest Service.

The event showcased the outcomes of a two-year SLMACC project focused on establishing a durable eucalypt forestry and biomass industry for Marlborough.

Contributors to the regional case study, including the University of Canterbury School of Forestry and the NZ Bioenergy Association, explored the potential for a new forestry and wood processing supply chain.

“Our research is providing a market and science-based pathway for developing this novel land use and supply chain. A new forestry and wood processing supply chain could improve long-term sustainability and resilience for Marlborough’s wine industry and generate new investment and employment. Investment in naturally durable hardwood forests could also

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reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Marlborough’s wine industry,” says Paul Millen, NZDFI manager.

“Our presentations were well received followed by many interesting questions that were sometimes difficult to answer,” says Paul Millen, NZDFI manager. “These were questions on optimising growing eucalypts, particularly for the short rotations that we propose for growing vineyard posts. This is the focus of the next phase of our research work so further trials need funding to learn this.”

A smaller group got to see how well durable eucalypts can cope with the drylands of south Marlborough during field day following on from the workshop.

The positive feedback confirms the growing interest in the development of a sustainable and resilient forestry industry in Marlborough.

The Marlborough Research Centre Trust took a leadership role in establishing the NZDFI in 2008 and has provided continual support for the potential use of naturally durable hardwood posts. MRC continues to manage and administer NZDFI’s diverse research projects, in collaboration with many supporters in other regions.

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The Sun

20 Wednesday March 6, 2024

Picton RSA up Kia ora/Welcome to Cancer Society for sale Marlborough Cancer Society Marlborough – Updated Office Hours Office open 9am to 3pm Monday to Friday.

To ensure we are here to meet you, please call or send us an email to arrange a time to come in.

We look forward to seeing you soon.

Art Therapy Taster 27th March 1pm to 3pm

We will be holding a taster session for Art Therapy prior to regular sessions starting in Term Two. The intention is to have this be an inclusive space for all people affected by cancer.

Come along and experience the use of art making to support your wellbeing, in a safe and relaxed space.

Local artistic therapist and art facilitator Emma Toy will guide you through some simple, beautiful art exercises that encourage relaxation and connection.

You don’t need any art experience to enjoy these sessions.

By Chris Valli

The home of Picton’s RSA since the 1940s, 66 Wellington Street, Picton is being sold or leased by deadline.

Marketing Agent Craig Edwards of NAI Harcourts says he is excited about the opportunity this property will provide for a new owner or tenant to make it their own.

“It is a very well positioned

property and is well known to locals and visitors,” says Craig.

Opposite Mariners Mall on Wellington Street the 1,825 square metre site is just a few hundred metres from Picton’s iconic foreshore, town wharf and marina. Craig says loads of potential exists for redevelopment, refurbishment or alteration of the existing building for alternative uses.

“We are expecting interest

from a wide range of possible activities from hospitality, motel or accommodation, unit development, offices, community activities, retail, campervans and more,” says Craig.

“It really is a site that is expected to get people thinking about what Picton needs most and what will be a thriving success on this site. We are looking forward to working with people and discussing their business and

development ideas,” he says.

RSA sold the site on a short term lease back in 2016 and this lease has now expired. The current owner has provided the RSA with extensions to their lease to assist them in their transition to alternative premises.

Buyers and tenants are required to present their best offer for consideration by the vendors by 5pm on Thursday 21 March 2024.

RSA Picton sold the site on a short term lease back in 2016 and this lease has now expired. The current owner has provided the RSA with extensions to their lease to assist them in their transition to alternative premises.

‘Alleviating a bit of pressure’

By Chris Valli

Cancer Contacts

Cancer Society Marlborough, 76a Maxwell Rd, PO Box 233, Blenheim. Phone 03 579 4379 Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9.00am-4:00pm

Email address: marlborough@cancersoc.org.nz Cancer helpline: 0800 CANCER (226 237) Cancer Society website: www.cancer.org.nz for reliable and up to date information, links and chat forums.

The Cancer Society is funded entirely by charitable donations and thanks the Marlborough community for its continued support.

Marlborough home owners have got some light respite with major banks ASB and ANZ cutting some home lending rates on Monday morning.

Last week’s Official Cash Rate (OCR) decision and market responses have influenced the move.

ASB says the one-year lending rate has dropped 10 basis points from 7.39 per cent to 7.29 per cent, effective from Monday, March 4. It’s two-year lending rate also dropped, from 6.89 per cent to 6.85 per cent.

The bank’s six month term deposit is going up by five basis points to 6.05 per cent.

Adam Boyd, ASB personal banking general manager, says the reduction to some mortgage terms partly reflected how swap rates responded to the Reserve Bank keeping the OCR at 5.50 per cent.

After the cash rate announcement last Wednesday,

the two-year swap rate, which can influence home mortgage rates, dropped to 5.05 per cent from 5.21 per cent.

Inflation was also a factor in ASB’s home loan rates decision, Boyd says.

“We know that the rising cost of living is affecting our customers, and alleviating a bit of pressure will be welcome news for homeowners in the current environment.”

ASB already cut some of its home loan rates last week, just ahead of the OCR announcement.

The bank’s 18-month mortgage adjustment dropped 26 basis points to 6.89 per cent last Tuesday.

ANZ also made changes to some of its fixed home loan and term deposit rates.

It said this was to reflect the recent decrease in wholesale swap rates.

The 18-month lending rate had the biggest drop among ANZ offerings, down 26 basis points to 7.49 per cent.

The one-year fixed lending

ASB says the one-year lending rate has dropped 10 basis points from 7.39 per cent to 7.29 per cent, effective from Monday, March 4. Its two-year lending rate also dropped, from 6.89 per cent to 6.85 per cent.

rate at ANZ dropped 15 basis points from 7.99 per cent to 7.84 per cent.

Home loan rates for two years and three years were both reduced by 10 basis points.

There was no change to rates for ANZ’s six month, four year and five year terms.

One year term deposit rates have fallen at ANZ from 6.10 per cent to 6.00 per cent.

Rates for 18 month, two year and three year terms are also down by 0.10 per cent.

Those rates apply for term deposits with a minimum $10,000, and applicable to the first $5 million.

The Sun

Wednesday March 6, 2024

txt talk with The Sun Re: Snail mail

Post Boxes

I don’t believe Wairau Hospital use NZ Post for their mail service, you are blaming the wrong company for your late mail.

When will NZ Post take responsibility for cleaning the constant cover of bird poos on the top of the outdoor post boxes in town? At a time when you are struggling for your financial lives, have you thought this just may deter your own (snail mail) customers?

Opportunity?

Voting

A lovely young German man stopped me, asked me in town on Sunday ‘Where is the Ice Cream Shop?’.

Sadly I couldn’t answer him. Picton has one.

Wouldn’t it be great especially over summer and so many people in town . Opportunity someone?

Just received my voting paper for the MEPT. What is this? A candidates sale? Three for the price of one? Individuals please, no party politics.

Re : Humorless What a nasty lot you seem to be, taking great pleasure in informing him you’d had a good laugh at his expense. Oh the small-mindedness.

Drones In regard to the Christchurch fire fighters being hampered by people using Drones and causing helicopters to be grounded.

Why weren’t SWAT team members employed to shoot them down. After all they would do that if it was a person threatening the safety of others.

Today’s offer I’m quite partial to a couple of beers after a days work, I enjoy bars with good atmospheres and meeting different people, being a regular at one bar has never been my thing.

Some bars offer incentives to encourage drinkers regular custom, similar to Supermarkets.

I prefer to waive any incentives to avoid being drawn in to the same old, same old, my incentive comes from change.

Stands for Whether he’s entitled to claim 52 thousand dollars from the taxpayers of NZ for living in his own house in Wellington because NZ House is not up to his standard, or not.

How can Luxon morally stand before the people of NZ when his Govt is actively reducing the under privileged in our country to a state of poverty.

It shows the caliber of the man and what he stands for.

I’m alright Jack and stuff the rest of you ! ! !

Supermarket’s prices Gee whizz do they think us “Olds” can’t remember what we did an hour ago, let alone price of goods a week before. We buy what we want, I know, but how come there can be a $4 difference (cheaper) on an Item a week later.

This new “Orange card” yeah it works, but just a laugh. 1kg Cheese used to be $13, and 500gm was $9. Today put $4 on each if you don’t have the “Card”. Many items the same deal.

Whose job?

Marlborough Roads, whose job is it to maintain the iSite signs, SH1 Grovetown and SH1 Rverlands. They are a bloody disgrace to the entrances of Blenheim. Did a ‘roadie’ around, and iSite would be the drabbist entry of all the towns visited.

Re: Totally reprehensible I’m unsure about the ‘sacrosanct-ness’ of bereavement leave, but your text seems to indicate a paucity of genuine, warm and loving friendships in your life. I honestly hope you get to experience this fullness, it’s amazing. We are not all units of work feeding the machine.

Council Amid the talk of substantial rate rises I see the council are still hiring more people for dubious positions, dosen’t help the cause eh.

Re: Self checkouts Glad to see others pointing that out. Reminds me of a lad recently who seemed bothered that I went to him instead of the self checkout.

“More work for me I guess” he said to the lady who he was standing around talking to. Yes, young man. That is what they are paying you for. Technology is cool, until it takes your job away from you.

No contact What is wrong with people these days. Who would let a 12 year old boy stay at their place without even contacting the parents when the parents are spending all night looking for him and worrying about him. What is wrong with you people you could say it’s the parents but it was cops that told him he could do what he likes.

Yeah right Trousering 51k of public money to live in your own mortgage-free house is tackling wasteful spending of public money head-on.

Yeah right.

Re: Sounds roads So 20 years to fix Sounds Roads. It didn’t take 20 years to establish the roads in the first place!

And are Marlborough Roads not expecting any more rain events in the next 20 years.

Manhole dodgems So true. Driving from the bridge up Redwood around to Witherlea there are 61 steel covers to dodge. I have found that straddling the centre line you can miss most of them without the curve/swerve, but you still have collapsing bitumen. I recommend entire Blenheim residential area be reduced to 30 km, saving repairs to owners. We already pass school buses at 20km, DONT WE folks!

Re: Snail mail The fault may not be with NZ Post. A few years ago, I was told by my midwife that lots of her clients had been missing appointments at the hospital. It was to do with the hospitals system. She found out the reason. The letter gets written, put in the “outbox”, waits to be collected with the rest of the hospital mail, gets bundled up and sent to Christchurch to get stamped. Gets bundled up again and sent back to Blenheim and then gets posted. No doubt some highly paid person sitting in a big chair somewhere came up with that highly efficient system!

Got an important issue to share with Marlborough?

Text your thoughts to 027 242 5266

Italian linen & homewares boutique Open Thu, Fri and Sat or by appointment. 10am till 5pm 27 Francis Street | 0275 314151

21

Talk of the week Thank you A big thank you to Nurse Hayley at ED she’s amazing and so nice, you can tell she genuinely loves her job and caring for people in their time of need.

Killed it It has to be said, that Chris Valli, absolutely killed his part in the Otago Man, no question about it. Great script, only pity that a bigger part was written for Heidi, his detached alto ego. Thank you Chris.

Springlands Post Shop Such a shock to hear we are to lose such a wonderful PostOffice here in Springlands.

Such an asset. Lovely helpful ladies and always busy.

This is such sad news.

We welcome your texts on 027 242 5266.

Limit to 70 words please.

We reserve the right to publish at our discretion. Please note the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Sun management.

The Sun

22 Wednesday March 6, 2024

5 minutes with..

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gardening this week Serious stuff: By Wally Richards On Saturday mornings I normally write my gardening article for emailing out on Sunday, after proof reading it.

Being doing this for so long now and every week one has to think what is happening in gardens now, what can I write about that will be of interest to most readers?

Sometimes when stuck for a subject I look back over the last 20 plus years of articles and see what could be of interest that I have written in the past and use that as the bases of a new article.

Sometimes a reader will have recently contacted me by phone and we have had a chat which has then been used to write that weeks article.

This morning (Saturday) a reader had placed an order for some products and I phoned; as I always do with every order to talk about the products and sort out freight and payment.

People ask me why don’t I have online payment facility on the mail order website like most websites.

If I did that I would lose contact with my customers and any help or advice which I am able to give would not be available.

Also I would not learn how the gardens are going in ‘their neck of the woods’, what problems they are having and what advice I can give.

It is called service and like common sense it is another thing that has disappeared in our times.

The phone conversation today was with a lady by the name of Katherine whose family have a 10 acre lifestyle block out from Rangiora in Canterbury.

The information Katherine gave me is of grave concern to all of us as it directly affects everyone.

It was all about food production in her area and what has happened this season on their land and other food producers in the area.

Katherine said that the winter into spring was very good with ample rain before it started to dry out in more recent times.

So crops, fruit and grass should have been fairly good as they had a good start before it started to go into more drought-like conditions.

Besides, Canterburians are accustomed to dry summers and still produce ample crops.

I was told; the hay taken off two paddocks was well down on the previous year, in fact less than half the bales when compared to previous.

Also the quality or the carbohydrate content was low which means that there’s not a lot of energy for the stock when they consume it.

I know that last year around Marton area farmers were complaining about the poor quality of their grass which is a result of lack of direct sunlight.

I have not heard locally if the same has applied this season.

Katherine also said a noticeable reduction in insect populations, few Ladybirds, Honey Bees and White Butterflies, but reasonable amount of Bumble Bees.

A few other people I have spoken to from other areas of New Zealand have also commented on not so many insects around, both beneficial and pest ones.

Katherine told me that fruit including berry producers in the area are well down on what they normally produce, in fact several do not have sufficient produce to have their normal gate sales and only enough to fill some orders.

When out bike riding recently Katherine said she had to stop to catch her breath as the air had a sulphur like smell to it and it made her feel out of sorts.

She noted that it was only while cycling she noticed it and put it down to the exercise which meant breathing more air in.

She also told me of lack of blue skies with ample direct sunshine, instead, hazy shies or overcast with noticeable trails in the sky which people call Chem Trails as they contain a range of chemicals which are released from planes.

The following from Internet: These trails, unlike condensation trails, do not dissipate quickly into the atmosphere.

In addition, there is proof which confirms the presence of there being harmful chemical elements in the trails.

Some researchers have studied the composition and effects of this phenomenon, which may to us seem harmless and commonplace.

According to these experts, chemical trails are the result of experimental operations which have manifold purposes.

The main objectives, albeit unproven, range from the meteorological (Weather Control), Dimming Skies (Global Warming), to the military.

The analyses carried out have verified the presence of the following elements in the chem trails: barium, aluminum, radioactive thorium and cesium, copper, titanium, silicon, lithium, cobalt, lead, ethylene dibromide and several pathogenic agents.

I saw a few months back a Hills Lab report on rain water caught in the North Island that confirmed that those chemicals were in the water.

What effect on the health of all life forms including ourselves and plants is yet to be known.

(And we worry about the dangerous chemicals chlorine and fluoride deliberately added to our water supplies.)

Considered a taboo subject in the 1970s, solar geoengineering has emerged into mainstream conversations of climate change adaptation within the past decade.

As of 2023, there are over ten major research groups pursuing stratospheric aerosol injection.

Dimming skies: Sulfur dioxide forms highly reflective sulfates, which are considered the

main cause of global dimming.

Global dimming had been widely attributed to the increased presence of aerosol particles in Earth’s atmosphere, predominantly those of sulfates. (remember... Katherine’s air with sulphur like smell/taste) Also as I said in my recent book, Gardening with Wally Richards, that CO2 levels are getting dangerously low which is affecting plant growth as plants need good levels of CO2 to grow and thrive.

Then there is a lot of radiation that planet earth is been subjected to and affecting all life forms which is another aspect which has not acknowledged the dangers thereof. See https:// radiationemergency.org/ This could help to explain the reduction in insect populations and other phenomena such as recently..

Last Wednesday, ABC News in Australia reported about hundreds of rainbow-colored parrots falling dead out of the sky along a swath of the east coast of that country centered on Brisbane, the capital of Queensland. In 2010, around the time the first 4G cell towers were being built, ornithologists described the first cases of a mysterious disease that paralyzed and killed these stunning creatures.

During the summer of 2019-2020, when the first 5G towers went into service, 1,500 rainbow lorikeets rained out of the skies.

And last week, when more than 200 dead lorikeets were collected in just a few days, it made headlines again.

Knowing about things may be frightening for some but at the same time it allows for you to prepare for events that may or may not happen.

One aspect that we must be concerned with is food security and keeping our gardens full of health giving vegetables and fruit.

Preserving surplus like our grand parents did for a ‘Rainy Day’.

We see panic buying when a supermarket is going to close for one day which means that too many people are not food secure for even a few days.

I am very interested to hear from readers that have also noticed problems in their gardens, lack of insects etc as I can pass the information on though my articles and the recorded gardening programs with Rodney Hide on Reality Check Radio such as at https://realitycheck.radio/gardening-withwally-on-maintaining-garden-health-in-dryconditions-and-problems-facing-gardenersaround-nz/ plus many other discussions with yours truly.

Autumn is in the air!

SAVE 20% ON ALL DECIDUOUS FRUIT TREES NOW! VISIT SELMES GARDEN CENTRE - 141 BATTYS RD, BLENHEIM • PHONE 03 578 1511

The Sun

Wednesday March 6, 2024

EVENT: Matchless Motorcycle Club

the NZ AJS and Matchless Motorcycle Club held their 36th Annual Rally at the Moutere Rugby Club Rooms at the weekend. 44 Members registered and enjoyed a day ride to Okiwa bay. On the return trip members stopped at the Pelorus tavern, Canvastown for lunch and the AGM. Prize giving was on the Saturday evening.

George Whiting (Tasman) and Peter Borthwick (Auckland) admire an AJS twin.

23

Out & AbOut ...with The Sun your local paper

Have an event ?

Contact 03 5777 868

Grant Jury (Nelson) makes some adjustments to his 1930 AJS R2 watched by Ross Hutchison from Blenheim.

MBC old boys Jake Pacey, Cooper Roberts and Bray Taumoefolau played for the Crusaders U20 vs Hurricanes U20 recently.

The Crusaders edged the Hurricanes in a tightly fought contest.

Club President Peter Kingsnorth (PK) leaves the venue on his G85 on his way to Okiwa Bay.

Racheal Kenyon (Heidi) and Chris Valli (Tryfen) in Central Otago Man. The comedic play at the Anderson Theatre (ASB) culminated on Saturday night to rave reviews including a sold out show on Friday night.

MGC student Maddy Sinclair raced in the Cycling NZ National Mountain Bike Championships at Coronet Peak in Queenstown recently. Maddy raced in the XC (Cross Country) race on Saturday and the DH (Downhill) on Sunday and took out the National Women's Sport Downhill Champion for 2024.

CENTRAL OTAGO MAN CAST: Back row; Philip Rayner, Shalom Del’ Monte-Aberhart, Vincent Van Kuyk, Philippa Hyndman, Geoff Anderson (Director).

Front row; Justin Eade (writer), Linda van Kuyk, Rachael Kenyon, Chris Valli, Megan Ponder and Billy Rayner.

Miss Piggy greets passengers on the Saturday Pelorus Mail Boat.

The Sun

24 Wednesday March 6, 2024

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OpiniOn

Wednesday March 6, 2024

25

Public Notices

News is money lower advertising in recent times.

Transmission costs have increased while transitioning to digital platforms – almost caught in a perfect storm, with falling advertising and rising costs. It’s a worldwide story to be fair.

Yet, here’s the question(s).

Why did Warner Bros. buy Newshub in the first place if they weren’t making a profit?

They were losing money when they bought in. Inevitably when you get the wrong ownership, you don’t get the support, the strategic vision, love. How do you succeed?

The New Zealand arm of Warner Bros Discovery posted a $35 million post-tax loss in 2022. At the time of the 2022 financial results being signed off on May 31 last year, the company gave a minimum 12-month commitment to continue to finance the New Zealand operation.

It seems there was no transi-

By Chris Valli

The New Zealand television news landscape certainly had a bomb drop on it last Wednesday with the news that Warner Bros Discovery (mass media conglomerate in New York City) announcing TV3’s Newshub is set to close at the end of June.

As a result, those that watch the news at 6pm will now have the singular choice, owned by the State.

The story is an economic one and one that is a linear television story. In 2024 people aren’t sitting down, rightly or wrongly, watching the 6pm news anymore. Call it evolution.

What is clear is that media and more specifically, free to air television is struggling in the current climate to generate revenue and ultimately, profit.

TVNZ has admitted they have been ‘severely impacted’ by

tion from Warner Bros into a digital platform and a healthy competitor for TVNZ. Surely there is a role here for the Government for the media market, such as helping with the costs of transmission costs.

I’d suggest this is going to be unlikely.

This writer grew up with TV 3 from its inception in 1989 with the likes of the Joanna Paul, Eric Young and Belinda Todd the faces of the brand. It was new, fresh, different and a choice. Democracy needs that, a voice, a platform. A different lens.

I met Newshub presenter Samantha Hayes when I worked as a Channel 9 journalist in Dunedin (Allied Press) in 2003.

Samantha was empathetic with her own reaction to the news, saying she will keep presenting the news “until the lights go out”. “It’s a newsroom brimming with talent and enthusiasm, and I just feel so incredibly sad for everyone

Clothing Alterations:

by Lynette Atkinson-Parker For your sewing requirements

today,” says Samantha.

Samantha says she f irst walked through the doors of the Auckland office 22 years ago as a 17-year-old on work experience.

“I’ve been here for the past 18 years, many of my colleagues a lot longer than that - a handful since day one 35 years ago.”

It’s a sad end to the TV landscape in this country yet a reality of the times with how news is delivered or attained in a world where a click and the digital approach is now established as part of the routine.

I can only hope such journalism talent is retained and there are options for all personnel involved.

Indeed, it’s a grim time for New Zealand journalism. It makes one appreciate and be truly grateful for the independent (print) news companies.

Long may stories be told and shared locally, about people in Marlborough and those that are affiliated with them.

Phone 03 578 1010 or 027 578 1010 Quality Service Guaranteed

txt talk

Text your thoughts to: 027 242 5266

FLAXBOURNE A & P SHOW

Sunday 24 March FREE TRADE & CRAFT SITES available on application Bernadette Gilmore flaxbourneshow@gmail.com

Phone 577 7174

GOLD BUYERS Scrap gold Gold coins Gold medals Gold pocket watches Gold wrist watches Gold jewellery Broken or damaged gold Any Sterling Silver items

ph 0800 00 24 25 Eric Jackson Antique Buyers, PO Box 665, Picton

Kenepuru Road residents shocked by funding change Fi x i ng t he Ke ne pu r u Sounds roading system is vital for Sounds businesses, communities and visitors, the Kenepuru and Central Sounds Residents’ Association says.

The Marlborough District Council has published draft proposals for funding the road repairs throughout the Marlborough Sounds, and Association President Andrew Caddie says it is good to see the work take another step in what has been a long and complex process.

He encouraged people to take part in the public consultation process.

Andrew says the Kenepuru area in particular has been left isolated for more than two and half years after two severe storms damaged the roads in 2021 and 2022. Since the August 2022 storm, Kenepuru

road has been closed to the public, with residents able to use it only in a limited way at some risk and uncertainty as to insurance cover.

He says the proposals to make Sounds residents pay more for the road repairs goes against the traditional council policy that saw all ratepayers pay the same amount for all roading costs throughout Marlborough. Under the Councils preferred option a Kenepuru ratepayer with a land value of $350,000 would, quite quickly, be faced with a special rate bill of a thousand dollars and rising.

“This proposed policy change has big implications for the future, particularly for Marlborough’s many rural communities. Today, it’s the Sounds, but next time, it could be the Awatere Valley, and then the time after that,

maka

the Waihopai Valley. People need to think carefully about this, and the reasons for this dramatic shift to a more divisive policy need to be better explained by the council.”

Andrew Caddie also questioned the council’s earmarking of more than $40 million of the Council funding for “marine improvements” in the Sounds. “This hugely inflates the costs, and quite frankly, the council needs to do more to justify this vast expense on marine facilities few want to actually use, let alone pay for.

“The reality is that people want to drive on the existing road network, 90% of which is undamaged. They need to have trucks and other vehicles access the roads for many activities, such as taking livestock out, or bringing in building supplies or tradesmen to

maintain services. Going by water is just too expensive.”

Repairs for the first storm damage had barely got underway on the Kenepuru roads when the second storm swept through, he said.

“There was more than $10 million of allocated Government funding for repairs on the Kenepuru roads that was then reallocated for road repairs elsewhere in Marlborough by council. This does not seem to have been factored in. Our community is feeling let down and isolated.

“The Kenepuru community has not been well-served during this difficult time. The road needs to be efficiently and competently repaired, soon, and at a fair shared cost.

After all, the Sounds are put front and centre when Council promotes Marlborough as a tourist destination.”

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The Sun

26 Wednesday March 6, 2024

urGeNT services Urgent Care Centre: Wairau Hospital Grounds. Entry off Hospital Rd, Blenheim, 8am-8pm daily. Phone (03) 520 6377.

Ambulance: Urgent 111. Non urgent 578 0797.

After Hours Chemists: Springlands Pharmacy: Monday - Friday 8.30am 6pm. Saturday 9m - 5pm. Sunday 10am - 4pm.Closed Good Friday. Open Easter Saturday 30th March 9-5pm. Open Easter Sunday 31st March 10-4pm. Closed Easter Monday.

Community Care Pharmacy: Within the Blenheim Warehouse, open 7 days 9am8pm. Only closed Christmas Day. Lifeline Marlborough: 0800 543354, 24hr helpline.

Women’s Refuge and Sexual Violence Support Centre Marlborough: Crisis line number phone 0800 refuge or 03 5779939.

Victim Support: 0800 VICTIM (0800 842 846) Alcoholics Anonymous: 0800 AA WORKS - 0800 229 6757.

Citizens Advice Bureau: Free, friendly, confidential advice. Mon - Fri 9.30am 4pm. Phone 578 4272.

Wairau Hospital: Hospital Visiting Hours: Daily 2.30pm - 8pm, children under 12 may visit parents only.

Maternity Ward: 10am-noon, 4pm-7pm.

Children's Ward: Daily 10am-8pm. Visiting at all times is subject to the discretion of the nurse in charge of the ward.

Picton: Ambulance: Urgent 111. Non-urgent 579 4870.

Chemist: Picton Healthcare Pharmacy. Ph 573 6420 Mon -Fri 8.30-5.30pm, Sat 9-2pm.

Medical Centre Pharmacy, Ph 928 4265, Mon-Fri 8am-5.30pm

Death notices BRIDGMAN, Margaret (née Evans): Passed away on Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Maxwell Lifecare. Aged 79 years. Dearly loved wife of Brian for 57 years, loved daughter of the late Tom and Alma Evans.

Loving mother and mother-in-law of Leanne and Didier Sockeel (Australia), Paul, Shona and Bernie (Christchurch), and Julie.

Dearly loved by her granddaughters Courtney and Latesha, Samara and Danielle, Isabelle and Audrey. Loved sister and sisterin-law of Alison and Clarrie Light, Diane and Peter Adams. Loved aunty of all her nieces and nephews. Loved by her animal companions Codie (dog) and Flip (bunny).

Special friend, best scone maker and special neighbour to many. Grateful thanks to all the staff at Maxwell Lifecare. Messages may be sent to the Bridgman family, 13 Park View Lane, Blenheim 7201. In lieu of flowers a donation to Riversdale Community House (Riversdale Promotions Inc) would be appreciated and may be made at the service or to a/c 03-0599-028524-000 Ref. BRIDGMAN. A service for Margaret will be held at St Andrews Presbyterian Church, Henry Street at 1.00pm on Wednesday, March 6 followed by interment at Fairhall Cemetery.

The service will be livestreamed and details may be accessed via our website www.sowmans.co.nz/upcoming-funerals T: 03 578 4719 E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz W: www.sowmans.co.nz

CHAPMAN, Esme Olive: Passed away peacefully surrounded by family and her dearest friend Diana, on Sunday March 3, 2024 at Bethsaida Retirement Village, Blenheim. Aged 73 years. Much-loved wife of Chappie (deceased), loved Mum and mother-in-law of Ritchie and Naryssa, Daniel (deceased), and Anita and Matt. Adored Nana to Cally and Caleb, Shaun and Alyssa. A service to celebrate Esme’s life will be held at Sowman’s Mayfield Chapel, cnr Hutcheson and Parker Street, Blenheim at 2pm on Saturday March 9. Esme, Chappie and Daniel together again.

In Memoriam Remember your lost loved one on their anniversary.

The deadline is Monday 5.00pm. Please contact the Sun for further details. 72 High Street, Blenheim, email office@blenheimsun.co.nz or phone 577 7868.

T: 03 578 4719 E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz W: www.sowmans.co.nz

Visit us online at

blenheimsun.co.nz

CROSSWORD

RENNICK, James Edwin (Jimmy) passed away suddenly on February 20th 2024 aged 82 years. Brother of Rona and Max (deceased). Adored and most precious husband of Kay. Sadly missed by his children Bert, Adam, and Kate, grandchildren, extended family and friends. Forever in our hearts. As per Jimmy’s wishes a private ceremony celebrating his life has been held.

Found Tr ailer tail gate. Near New Renwick Road and Alabama Road roundabout. Ph 0277744741.

Wanted to Buy STamp collections, coin collections, old toys, post cards etc. Cash paid. Ph 021 138 8949.

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STEWARD: Eileen Patricia. on 20 February 2024, in loving memory of a dear friend.

Catherine Bishop.

ADCOCK: Allan William CAMERON: Roberta Marion FRAZER: Paul Stewart TENNENT: Wilma Mary (Billie)

CubiTT St, Saturday 9 March, 8am-3pm. Vinyl records, dog ornaments, some garden and shed tools and much more.

Please visit our website www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz for further information if available.

Book your space now in our next (by 3pm Tuesday)

Cloudy Bay Funerals

Garage Sale Column!

03 578 2004 F.D.A.N.Z.

$28K better off

Phone 5777 868 Countdown Springlands sold a winning Second Division ticket in Saturday’s Lotto draw.

Eleven lucky Lotto players had luck on their side after each winning $28,113.

Golf Results Ladies Pennants, Kaikoura

Monday 4 March: 1st round: Marlborough 10, Awatere 8, Kaikoura 7, Picton 5, Blenheim 4, Rarangi2

Blenheim Golf Club Feb 26 9 Hole Stableford Shirley Godsiff 19 Elaine Brown 19 Jacqui Hurcomb 18 Gudrun Fischer 18 Yvonne Hore 18 Jill Hurcomb 17 Jenny Adams 17 Dianne Betts 16 Bernice Arnold 16 Jane Abbott 16 Ann Walker 16 Levi Mano 21 Leo McKendry 21 Ray Herd 20 Arnold Newman 20 David Dyer 20 David Horrell 18 Anthony Toa 17 Tony Armstrong 17 Don Lamond 17 Ian Hatcher 17 David Waters 16 Eric Bridgen 16Leo Hawkins 16 Mike McConnell 16 Roy Lilley 15 Feb 28 Medal Net 0-29 Vickie Lane 79 30+ Odette Roper 73 Jenny Evans 74 Feb 29 American Stableford Doug Shaw 57 Ray Herd 56 David Horrell

55 Don March 55 John Cootes 55 Chris Abbott 55 Phil Starkey 54 Stuart Parker 53 Bob Tapp 53 March 1 Twilight Stableford 9 holes Dawn Walker 25 Shane Murray 24 Bob Tapp 22 Ian Hatcher 21 Kobe Hart 20 Maragret Hamilton 20 Jesse Miller 18 Don Lamond 18 Judith Batty 18 March 2 Gross Medal Graeme Daines 72 Net Medal Mark Hoare 62 Rau Herd 66 Graeme Daines 67 Terry duff 67 Alex Herd 68 Tom Bainbridge 69 Desz Campobell 69 Ross Agnew 69 Ryan Windleburn 69 NTP Fairweathers 9/18 Alex Herd Sowmans 3/12 Alex Herd Eagle Mike McDonald on 15 Ladies Judith Batty Net 78

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Solution SOLUTION SOLUTION

Last 28 February 2024 ForWeek December 15,2004 2004 For December 15,

The Sun

sport

Wednesday March 6, 2024

27

‘Never give up on hope’ Polly Taylor reckons her mental fortitude or as she says, ‘the top two inches’ comes from her DNA. She spoke exclusively to Chris Valli to reflect on her own mental health journey.

Polly Taylor’s face tells a story of resilience, perseverance and attitude.

The 65-year-old athlete works as a guide for Marlborough Sounds Adventure Company and is also a coach at City Fitness Gym. “You can’t teach it to someone; they really have to have it, that gut of never giving up. If I had listened to everybody, especially when I broke my pelvis (July 2009), well I’d hate to think where I would’ve ended up.”

She should know.

Training for the Taupo Ironman and crossing the Craig Lockhart bridge up the Waihopai Valley, Polly accelerated when two young riders in the bunch took off and she got hit from behind and crashed.

She spent three weeks in hospital, three months in a wheelchair and three months on crutches, as she slowly but surely recovered through a strong rehabilitation process, which took a lot of determination and effort to go through.

Her own mental health has been tested, especially over the last four years – and then some. Four years ago in February 2019 Polly was hit by a car after training on the Routeburn, Milford and Kepler Tracks in preparation for UTMB in France later in the year. The hit was on a pedestrian crossing near Biddy Kates Café (Market Street) where she ‘flew 20 metres’.

An opportunity to grab a coffee that day is all she can remember, apart from thinking ‘don’t run over my head’.

“I do remember going through the black hole and the tunnel, with the big lights” she says. “That bit scared the shit out of me for years.

I still get quite nervous over pedes-

Polly says she has a natural affinity for the land and says resilience comes from within.

Polly Taylor (left) won her age group at the Tarawera Ultra 100-miler in February, after a horrific accident in 2019. Photo: Sportograf/Tarawera Ultra-Trail

trian crossings and really eye-ball the driver now.”

The accident resulted in Polly breaking eight ribs in three/four places, a collapsed lung, neck injury and a brain injury.

The 65-year-old was born at Lake Heron and was brought up in the South Island high country, where she worked as a musterer in Omarama, and then in Marlborough and as a wool classer.

Polly says growing up on the land provided a ‘can do attitude’ where things got done.

“It makes you stronger and more resilient to everything, the space

allowed creativity and the ability to play in the snow with my sister(s).

“We had a wonderful upbringing.

I use to train, running before autumn musters with my dogs, and my hobnail boots and always in shorts,” she recalls.

Sport and competing is in the Taylor lineage. Polly’s sister show jumped (equestrian) for New Zealand, her grandmother played hockey while Dad played ice hockey.

Polly herself has completed the iconic multisport event Coast to Coast five times including a win and a second place, and ‘snapping her kayak in half’. She says she had

to ‘get better at it’.

She reflects when her life got a little tough, it was running which gave her the hook as it was great for the endorphins.

“I learnt to be a Forrest Gump,” she laughs. “It was a matter of running another hill; it’s always the top two inches. If you want to be good at it, you have to have the head game.”

In 2018 Polly won Northburn 100 miler, the toughest race in the Southern Hemisphere. Then in 2019 before the accident and long rehab she got an entry to the prestigious race in France, the UTMB

National Croquet Final to be held in Blenheim

By Chris Valli

Croquet Marlborough has been selected to host the 45th edition of a prestigious national croquet tournament.

The Arthur Ross tournament more formally, the CNZ Arthur Ross Memorial Event Handicap Singles Final - is one of Croquet NZ’s premier events and is held in March every year. Up to a few years ago the tournament was based in Wellington, but more recently has been held in regional centres.

Arthur Ross, for whom the trophy is named, was the New Zealand Croquet open champion 11 times (and runner-up eight times), NZ Mens Champion 6

times, and British Open Champion in 1954. He was inducted to the World Croquet Federation Hall of Fame in 2006. The rose bowl trophy awarded to the winner of the tournament was presented to Croquet New Zealand by his family after his death in 1975.

The event, a singles handicap tournament with every Association Croquet player in New Zealand has the opportunity to perform well against top players. To qualify for the final, players must first win their club competition, then win at a regional final. The winners of the regional finals play in the national final.

Croquet New Zealand’s Sport

Development Officer, Greg Bryant, who won the tournament in 2022 described it as the hardest croquet trophy to win in New Zealand. Only one player from Marlborough, Graham Roberts in 2008, has ever won the trophy.

The final of the Arthur Ross tournament 2024 will take place at the Blenheim Croquet Club in Pollard Park from Friday 22 to Sunday 24 March.

Tournament manager Sam Robinson says that planning is well advanced, and the croquet lawns are in excellent condition for the tournament, made possible in part through support from the Marlborough District Council’s Community Grants Scheme.

Croquet New Zealand’s Sport Development Officer, Greg Bryant, who won the tournament in 2022 described the Arthur Ross tournament as the hardest croquet trophy to win in New Zealand.

100 miler where you run through three different countries.

Then there was the long rehab.

Last week Polly lined up at the UTMB Tarawera 100 miler where she won her age by an hour; Top 25 woman overall and an overall placing of 125. A world ranking of 128.

“Now bring on France next year,” she says. “Never ever give up hope or your dream; however none of this can be done without a good support crew, coaches, and nutrionists. It has also helped to have the support of a great sponsor, La Sportiva NZ.”

The Sun

28 Wednesday March 6, 2024

Golf Results Wairau Valley Golf Club Results for Wairau Valley Golf Club: Anderson Cup 27/2/24: Best Nett Overall: Elaine Brown 64. Division 1: Nett: Mel Hampton 65, Stableford: Judith Batty 37,Gross: Sue Murray 83. Division 2: Nett: Helen McIsaac 68, Stableford: Yvonne Wallace 36, Gross: Anne Newman 92.

Division 3: Nett: Judy Jones 66, Stableford: Colleen McLeod 38, Gross: Linda Stone 95. Saturday 2/3/24: 4BBB: Bill Linklater & Bevan Roughan 45, Dave McFarlane & Brian Roughan 42, Dene Cross & Bevan Boon 41, Bill Law & Mel Hampton 40, Maureen McKenzie & Rex McGarry 38, Sharon Giles & Lee Johnston 36

Picton Golf Club Friday Feb 16- 9H Irish S/F- Joyce McClelland 44; ( with a hole in one on hole 2) well done. Margaret Frisken 43;Jenny Hart 38, Lyn Pawson 38; Philippa Lemon 37.

Saturday 17 Feb- Hollaway Cup- MenRichard Avery 42, Tim McCaffrey 42; Iain Beery 40; Jock Mannington 37; John Saxon 36, Hirman Taylor36. Holloway-Plate Ladies- Ellie Gillies 38; Anita McCaffrey 37. Tuesday 20 Feb- Women’s O/D S/FOverall winner Hazel Wilkes 53; Div1 Helen McIsaac 40; Maria McConway 38; Sharon Giles 37; Div 2 Barbara Speedy 40; Maureen McKenzie 38, Jenny Hart 38;Ellie Gillies 36. Div 3 Denise Finch 44; Joyce Allen 39; Lynnette Pearce 32. Sat 24 Feb Nett-Bill Catrell 61; Andrew Sunley 65; Jeff Pascoe 69, Brian Carver 69; Harry Schat 71.

Thurs 29 Feb S/F-Alan Butland 41; Hirman Taylor 40; Andrew Sunley 39; Jeff Pascoe 38; Ron Peters 37, Trevor Gullery 37, Jock Mannington 37. Fri 1 March S/F- Mary Butler 23: Judy Jones 22, Margaret Frisken 22; Denise Finch 20; Anita McCaffrey 19.

Champagne sailing for wine race

By Chris Valli

The WineWorks Marlborough Wine Race held recently stirred up ‘plenty of excitement’.

The race provides bragging rights for boats and wineries alike and attracts a race fleet from around the country. The race is one of the well-established features of the Waikawa racing calendar.

A new layout for the 2024 version meant there were two races being held simultaneously.

The in-shore race had a clean start in Picton harbour only to fall into some light winds. With the sun on their faces, they were able to read the wind and water, and off they went.

Starborough Wines onboard Kayimai was in hot pursuit of the leader and after a nice spinnaker run, they were still in second place. A warm, sunny beat towards Resolution Bay near the northern entrance of the Queen Charlotte Sounds put a smile on everyone’s face.

Meanwhile the offshore division had also started in light winds in the outer Queen Charlotte Sounds, but it quickly built to a stunning 15 knot norwester and the battle was on. By the time the yachts had gone through Cape Jackson and around Walker Rock it was time to put up a spinnaker and the separation was becoming clear.

The day heated up and so did the race between the two Beneteau yachts, Liberty carrying Spy Valley Wines and Voila

Julie Abbott, WineRace Chairperson along with ‘Freedom’ owner, Chris McCallum.

carrying Eradus across the top of Motuara Island and down to Resolution Bay. After the four to five hours racing all yachts moored up at the head of Resolution Bay where the wines were out, swimming togs on and laughter was heard across the bay.

Resolution Bay Cabins hosted delegates for a meal to compliment the wine tasting of all the wines raced that day.

The fastest wine for the inshore race (line honours) was awarded to the Grove Mill Wines, onboard Tour De Force, skippered

by Jason Munro who also won on handicap.

The offshore division showed that the Ned, on board Flying Fox, skippered by Chris

Williams won line honours followed closely behind Villa Maria and Vavasour onboard Oldsmobile, skippered by Aaron Blackmore who scored first on handicap.

Damien Gillman, WineWorks Marlborough General Manager says it was a brilliant day had by all.

“The Queen Charlotte Sounds turned on terrific weather and our hosts on the magnificent vessel ‘Freedom’ made the whole experience all the more enjoyable. We are proud to support the Waikawa Boating Club and such a superb event celebrating the fine wine that is made in our region and across the country,” says Damien.

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