Golden Bay Weekly - 2 October 2020

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www.gbweekly.co.nz

Friday 2 October 2020

Pump track primed for action

Covid-19 testing

JO RICHARDS

In order to allow early detection of any possible Covid-19 infections in Top of the South communities, and to provide ongoing reassurance of the region’s coronavirus-free status, Nelson Marlborough Health is urging people working in the hospitality, tourism and service sectors to get tested, even if they don’t have symptoms. Asymptomatic testing is now being offered to restaurant and bar staff, cleaning staff, as well as taxi and bus drivers, airport workers and others who come into contact with people traveling from outside the South Island. Nelson Marlborough Health’s Chief Medical Officer Dr Nick Baker says, as warmer weather inspires more domestic travel and tourism, now is a good time for these workers to take a test. “The more we test, the more confidently we can say that we don’t have Covid-19 in our community. Getting a large number of workers tested sends a strong message of confidence to people who are looking to spend some time in our beautiful region. “Our local residents will also be assured to know that we’re staying on top of testing and that they can confidently book their local holidays and entertainments.” Getting a Covid-19 asymptomatic test • Testing is free – regardless of citizenship or visa status • You do not need to be enrolled with a general practice • You do not need to self-isolate after a test • Results are usually available within 48 hours. Anyone in Golden Bay who wants to be tested should book an appointment at Golden Bay Community Health by phoning 03 525 0060. Test clinics operate between 11am-1pm, Monday to Friday. Alternatively, tests can be carried out any of the after-hours medical centres, listed on the Nelson Marlborough Health website: www.nmdhb.govt.nz/covid-19

Trackmakers Velosolutions work alongside volunteers to construct the all-weather pump track. Photo: Jeanine Taylor. JEANINE TAYLOR

With the construction of the Community Pump Track nearing completion, the last week of Takaka Primary School’s (TPS) recent term was a hive of activity. This was the final stage of the three-year project on the school grounds. Pump track representative Lisa Savage explained: “We wanted a safe place for our kids to develop skills and confidence - a place of active play... and it’s a place where people come to learn skills and [it can] be used during the weekends and in the holidays.” She was thrilled with how the work was progressing and “blown away” with the support and many voluntary hours people have contributed to make the track a reality. Craig Pattle and his team from Velosolutions

heaphy track flights & shuttles

in Rotorua were instrumental in the planning and construction of the pump track. Craig is an ex-Red Bull rider who has raced for New Zealand and has managed NZ mountain bike and BMX teams. His expertise in building pump tracks means Golden Bay will have an outstanding community all-weather track. Craig travelled from Rotorua to begin construction with the help of local Steve Baker. Steve’s hours were donated by AD Harwood, along with truck and digger time. Tristan Graham from TG Contracting dumped 100 truckloads of clay in readiness for Craig and Steve to begin the groundwork. The trio formed the rudimentary track, put in the drains, then three more of Craig’s team joined them for the sculpting and finishing work. Parents from TPS provided the crew with

meals each day, and the contractors’ only complaint was “There was too much food.”This has been a community fundraising effort, with much of the funding coming from last year’s Golden Bay Sports Awards event. Many local businesses have donated or discounted their services to bring this project to fruition. The track is now complete but requires around two weeks for the asphalt to harden. There are only seven such pump tracks throughout New Zealand, and it is expected to become a destination for bike enthusiasts. Although located on the TPS grounds, the track will be available to all Golden Bay’s children and community. With the official opening imminent, the Bay’s bikers will soon be able to enjoy the challenging rollers and berms of the new track. Takaka Drama Society proudly presents a Pantomime

Snow White

book now!

Thinking about taking your business online?

& The Seven Dwarfs

We can help.

Written By Ben Crocker

October 8th, 9th, 10th, 15th, 16th, 17th - Show starts 7.30pm Sunday, October 11th Matinee Show starts 2pm

Golden Bay Air goldenbayair.co.nz 0800 588 885

“Fun for the whole family”

S c h e d u l e d • S c e n i c • C h a rt e r

Inside:

Pantomime

THE GB WEEKLY, FRIDAY 2 OCTOBER 2020

Cannabis talk

Movie review WordFest

Football

021 035 6233 www.xplusy.co.nz +

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Creations

ISSN (PRINT) 2538-0923 ISSN (ONLINE) 2538-0931

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