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Inside The Sun
READ ONLINE NOW www.blenheimsun.co.nz
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Blenheim Marlborough
Wednesday February 1, 2012
raft race fun
Plan man John Smithies of TH Barnes Ltd is now into the next stage of planning Redwoodtown’s new Countdown Supermarket.
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Prevention the cure Local retail expert Brian Finlayson talks about beating in-store theft.
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Sunday’s annual More fM raft race kicked off with a splash as friends, families and work colleagues took to the taylor river with their unusual home built rafts. the costumes were colourful and crazy and spirits were high, while lining the banks were spectators who cheered on the participants who paddled, rowed and splashed their way to the finish line at the taylor river amphitheatre. More photos page 11.
Doctors scarce Ex-Christchurch residents find Blenheim doctors hard to come by
In line for nationals Inline skater and QCC student Sam McDonald will feature at this weekend’s national event in Blenheim.
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Sun Weather Today
15-25
Thursday 14-24 Friday
14-25
Saturday 10-21 Outlook for Today High cloud, but late rain and southeasterlies.
Everyone gets The Sun Total market coverage in Marlborough
By Annabelle Latz They call themselves ‘The Shaky Shifters’. Jenny Goss and Jim Fox were thrilled with the response they received after speaking to The Blenheim Sun newspaper last month (January 18, 2012 Issue), calling for more Christchurch Earthquake victims who have moved to Blenheim. “About once a day we get a phone call or an email from someone new,” said Jenny. There are nearly 30 people in the Shaky Shifters group. Finding a doctor in Blenheim is a common hurdle amongst the group of almost 30, as Blenheim doctors do not have the time or the space for them.
Group member Ann Moore, 71, had advice from her Christchurch doctor to find herself a doctor as soon as she got to Blenheim, so her blood pressure could continue being monitored. Ann had to visit two doctors when she and her husband Tom arrived last July, and it was only because of her blood pressure condition that the second doctor took her on. Some group members have waited months. “I did think it was a bit of a hassle for us. People need access to a doctor, regardless of whether it’s for tomorrow or for a three monthly check up.” Her husband Tom, 72, also needs regular prescription updates.
“It’s amazing how many knock backs we had,” he said. The Marlborough Primary Health Organisation has a note on its website advising people moving to the area that there is a wait for doctors, as all the GP Practices in Marlborough are currently full. It states that patients may need continued support from their current GP for three to six months. Chief Executive Officer of Marlborough PHO Christine Smith said the organisation is working hard with local doctors to find a solution to shorten the waiting list.
Open Week at ABC centres Monday 13th to Friday 17th February 9:00am to 12:00pm ✔ Now offering shorter morning and afternoon sessions for more flexibility ✔ Meet our passionate, pass caring and qualified teachers ✔ Purpose-built Purpose-builts or converted villas – we have a centre to suit you! ABC Wairau: 7 Old R Renwick Road, Blenheim, Phone: 578 8680, Email: abcnzwrp@childcare.co.nz Herbert Street, Blenheim, Phone: 578 8225, Email: abcnzkwc@childcare.co.nz ABC Mayfiled: 17 He Central:129 High Street, Blenheim, Phone: 578 4214, Email: abcnzanu@childcare.co.nz ABC Blenhiem Cent 11 Colemans Road, Blenheim, Phone: 579 6060, Email: abcnzsnj@childcare.co.nz ABC Springlands: 1