GNews 16.03.2023

Hayden Paddon to mentor Geraldine’s next generation racer Jacob Cunniffe

Formula Ford racer Jacob Cunniffe said that it was a shock to receive the “email of my dreams” from professional rally driver and former Geraldine local Hayden Paddon, naming him as one of only six Winmax Junior drivers for 2023. Jacob (15) says, “I couldn’t believe it. I read the email in class. It’s hard to believe it’s real, but it’s slowly sinking in.”

Founded in 2021, the Winmax Junior Driver Program is a collaboration between Winmax Brake Pads and Paddon Racing Group to provide young New Zealand driving talent with braking products alongside tuition from Hayden Paddon.

Applying for the programme, Jacob wrote that he is from Geraldine on the first line of his application in the hope he would get Hayden’s attention.

GNews approached Hayden for his response. “[Jacob] is doing awesome stuff on a shoestring budget, and that stands out, with a big element coming down to him and talent … although it didn’t hurt that he’s a local Geraldine lad, so there may have been a bit of bias.”

Reminiscing about his racing career to date, Hayden says, “My first race car was a Mini. I was 13 and needed sponsorship, so I asked most of the businesses up the main street for $100 each, and in return, they would have a sticker on my car. Fifteen businesses came on board; the Geraldine community really gets behind you.

“It was very daunting at 13 to do that, to approach businesses, so I have a real appreciation for loving an expensive sport and what it takes

to sustain it. … I am fortunate and thankful to have a successful career in motorsport. … I still get the buzz; that’s why we do it.”

Jacob’s favourite school subject is business studies “and DVC [design and visual communication] - I really like that too.” Does he do well in these studies? “I do; I’ll need these subjects for my dream job.” He hopes to continue racing and, in time, “have my own car brand and design and make cars …” To help finance his sport, Jacob works after school at the Geraldine Cheese Company. He also receives assistance from his family and sponsors, for whom he is grateful.

So far, the programme has been online meetings and email tips. Jacob says, “We aim to work as a group and help promote Hayden and Winmax by being more experienced drivers.” Asked what he expects from Hayden and the programme, Jacob says, “A guide; any help I can get I’m grateful for; working with him is a privilege.”

Hayden says he hopes to “groom [Jacob] to stand out on the track and to equip him with additional skills for on and off the track.” He describes the Winmax programme as a “support programme for talented young drivers with the main value being shared experience from seasoned drivers.”

During the weekend of 21-23 April, Jacob is racing in the sprint series final at the Festival of Speed at Highlands Motorsport Park in Cromwell. Jacob says, “I’d really like to meet Hayden [there].”

DEANNE MARSDEN

FROM TOP: Jacob Cunniffe, re-reading his acceptance email, still finds it “hard to believe”. PHOTO: Deanne Marsden Hayden Paddon says he hopes to “groom Jacob to stand out on the track ...”; last October, Hayden (right) with co-driver Jared Hudson, became the Tour European Rally champions after winning the Rally Terra Sarda in Sardinia. PHOTOS: Facebook/Hayden Paddon

Friday night’s Rocky Horror Picture Show screening was a great chance to get glammed up and enjoy a night out at the movies. We were lucky enough to be there with Mrs-Best-Dressed Claire Millichamp; we had loads of fun celebrating with horror sel fies.

Congratulations to Jacob Cunniffe on his selection to the Winmax Junior Driver Program. We first met Jacob in 2019 when he was still racing quarter-midgets, and have followed his career with interest. Once named Speedway New Zealand’s competitor of the year in the quarter-midget class, we are sure that Jacob will gain skills to take him confidently into his adult career under Hayden Paddon’s tutelage.

Speaking of skills, Hayden became the first Hyundai driver to win an FIA European Rally Championship round on Sunday after winning the Rally Serras de Fafe. Wouldn’t it be great to entice him home for a ticker-tape parade one of these days?

This week’s pages contain reports on our students’ sports activities. Unfortunately, last week’s article on the Geraldine High School Athletics competition featured a number of errors. To clarify:

- Ethan Hole won the U15 Boy’s 100-metre race, not the U5, as stated in the caption.

- Ethan, as we can quite clearly see in the accompanying photo (GNews 09.03.23), is smeared with red paint (for Acland house), not blue for Tripp.

- Ethan’s friend Harry’s surname is spelt Fitzsimons, not Fitzsimmons, as appears twice in the article.

- The previous U16 Girl’s 200-metre record holder was S Timblick, with a k.

- A copy-and-paste error stated that Ethan had beaten the U15 Boy’s 200-metre record.

An editor’s job is to check and confirm even the simplest facts. Clearly, one of us was not as focused as they could have been last week - we apologise for the confusion.

While it is tempting to beat ourselves up, the great thing about mistakes is that everyone makes them, and the best advice tells us to take a good look at how the mistake was made, learn the lesson, and move on.

So in that spirit, and begging your humble forgiveness for not always getting it right, please enjoy this 12-page edition of the Geraldine News, which we hope is as perfect as humanly possible. FI

Errare humanum est, sed perseverare diabolicum

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Students walk to support cancer survivors

On Saturday, Geraldine High School (GHS) Student Executive members and several teachers participated in the 12-hour South Canterbury Relay for Life at Caroline Bay, Timaru.

Team leader Georgina Rowley says, “We decided to participate this year as many of us have been affected by cancer, one way or another. Cancer has been a part of many of our lives, and giving back by creating a team is the least we can do to support our friends, family, school and community.”

Fellow team member Kristin Schoneveld says, “When you are younger, you seem a bit naïve, thinking it only happens to older people, but we have grown to understand that it affects young children and teenagers just as much.”

The Relay for Life website says, “Relay For Life is all about celebrating cancer survivors in our communities from diagnosis to treatment to remission - no matter where they are in their cancer journey.

“Carers are those who support survivors from the smallest kind gestures to the biggest sacrifices; these kind-hearted people deserve to be celebrated.”

The GHS team held a fundraising raffle last week, which continued at the event. They are grateful for the sponsorship of Barker’s of Geraldine for the raffle prizes, and FreshChoice Geraldine who provided a sausage sizzle.

Georgina says, “Our [the student executive’s] aim this year is to get out into the community and show our support. Relay for Life has given us a wonderful

opportunity to do just that. Some of us have experienced the emotion of Relay for Life before, but for others in our team, this was the first time participating. “Overall, the event was amazing. We raised just under $2,300. Koefi Brown walked the most laps, 117, and the track was 400 metres. Reon Lundie and Grady Hopkirk walked with us for many hours; they didn’t need to do that, but that’s the spirit and involvement we were trying to create with the event.

“The legs were definitely sore and achy by the end of it, but it just showed us the amount of work we had done. The support from teachers, family and the community was overwhelming; [participating in] the event could not have been possible without them.”

DEBBIE OLIVER

Close finishes add to triathlon excitement

A sunny afternoon greeted the tamariki and their supporters at the annual Woodbury School triathlon on Friday, 3 March. With 12 races overall, comprised of various lengths of biking, swimming and running, the event was a festival of athleticism and enthusiasm, with every child giving their all and crossing the finish line with a big smile.

As always, the Year 6 races were the major draw cards, going down to the wire with close finishes. Olive McCullough took the lead early in the Year 6 Girls’ event, holding off a late charge from Emma Weaver. Henry Wynn took out the Year 6 Boys’ race after a close battle with friend Hunter McKenzie.

Emma Harley says, “It was a fantastic

afternoon; we [parents] were all commenting on how great the set-up was and how supportive the kids are of each other.”

Year 5 Boys’ race winner Archie Saywell says, “The whole thing was fun. I especially loved the running at the end.” Fellow competitor Louen Lithgow says, “I felt a burst of excitement when I crossed the finish line.” BECKY TALBOT VAN-BEERS

err is human, but to persist is diabloical

FROM LEFT: Emma Weaver (10), Elsie Kirk (9), Amy Peacock (10), Kate McDonald (10), Olive McCullough (10), Amelia Taylor (10), Hannah Hurley (9), and Bree Goodfellow (10) compete in the Woodbury School triathalon Year 6 Girls’ race. PHOTO: Becky Talbot-Van Beers

Members of the GHS Student Executive celebrate their efforts in the South Canterbury Relay for Life. PHOTO: Supplied

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Woodbury Flower Show fills hall with colour

The Woodbury Hall was full of colour and creativity on Wednesday, 8 March, as students from Woodbury School lined the tables with exhibits for the school’s annual flower show. After the cancellation of last year’s event due to Covid restrictions, the children were excited to have it back on the school calendar.

James Earl (8) says, “It’s really cool to be doing the flower show again; I got second prize for my sand saucer.”

Students had been busy over the past few weeks creating displays ranging from traditional flower arrangements and vegetables to Lego models and decorated eggs as well as growing produce for the event.

As always, sand saucers were a show-

stopping category, with each student creating a saucer for the compulsory display. On Tuesday morning, Annette Waller, of the Geraldine Floral Art Group, visited the junior school to demonstrate how to create an eye-catching arrangement.

Bronwyn Patrick, who organised Annette’s visit, says, “Annette is a past pupil herself and whose children, and now grandchildren attend Woodbury School. She remembers making her own sand saucer as a child and loves that the tradition is being kept alive. Annette gave tips on how to cut flowers and create borders and arrange patterns.”

Teacher Jud Baynes was grateful for the parent support. “It’s no mean feat collecting flowers and making and carrying

IN BRIEF

100-odd sand saucers to the tables. We are fortunate to be supported by parents coming along and lending a hand.”

Another category that always draws big numbers is the decorated iced cake. From farm scenes to robots, hedgehogs to Cookie Monsters, there was a cake for all occasions. Bree Bromwich (5) summed it up nicely: “I like all the iced cakes.”

Principal Mike deJoux said the popularity of the show increases every year. “We have decided to extend the day next year. Leaving the displays up for longer will allow a larger number of the public to view the displays, and we will be inviting other groups, such as the retirement villages.”

North End Market

9AM-1.30PM | SATURDAY 25 MARCH

Geraldine raldin raldin NORTH END FORECOURT | 5 PINE STREET

A fun music session for parents, carers and young children

9.30am Tuesdays in term-time St Andrew’s Hall

Let’s do the time warp again

Around 50 people, some dressed as characters from Rocky Horror Picture Show, some in drag, and some in costumes of their own design, attended Friday night’s showing of the film at Geraldine Cinema.

While most of the theatre-goers were experienced in the ways of Transylvania, local Claire Millichamp quietly admitted she had never seen the film. Attending with mum Wendy, Claire says, “It just looked like a lot of fun and fabulousness and I really wanted to support South Canterbury Pride Month. It’s such a cool event for Geraldine.”

Despite it being her first time, Claire was awarded a prize for best-dressed by Timaru drag queen and event host Dee Dee Devine. Was she surprised? “I was in that I went for a fusion of trans and Rocky Horror,” she says. FI MCCAFFERTY

Fishnets, wigs and glitter were popular costume choices at Friday night’s event. Claire Millichamp (bottom right), with mum Wendy, was excited to win. PHOTO: Fi McCafferty

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Crowds check out the results at the Woodbury Flower Show; Riley Ackroyd (9) with his giant marrow; James Earl (8) with his second-place-winning sand saucer; just some of the colourful sand saucer displays. PHOTOS: Becky Talbot-Van Beers.

BECKY TALBOT VAN-BEERS

FAMILY PICNIC & GAMES DAY

Saturday 18 March

9am-3pm Woodbury Domain

Bring a picnic or buy something tasty from the food stalls Country living and garden themed stalls

FREE ADMISSION

Tickets for entry to competitions and games: 12 for $10

Disabled parking available

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

9am Stalls open

All competition and Potato in a Bucket entries dropped off to Woodbury Hall

9:30am Guess where the pony will poo - Round 1

Gumboot throwing

10:30am Three legged race - 1 TICKET

(2 people per entry required )

Live music starts

11am Goat milking demonstration

11:30am

Potato weighing

Sack Race

Guess where the pony will poo - Round 2

12pm Lunch break

Bring a picnic or enjoy food from the stalls

12:30am Potato in a Bucket winner anounced and presentation

1pm Chainsaw sculpture demonstration

Stick and pine cone race - 1 TICKET

(2 people per entry required)

1:30pm Woolsack race - 1 TICKET

(Minimum of 3 people per wool pack)

2pm Fill the bucket with water relay

2:30pm Moon hopper race

Guess where the pony will poo - Round 3

Bragger’s Rights

Silent Auctions announced and raffles drawn

3pm Stalls close TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE SLIGHTLY AS WE’LL BE RUNNING ON VICAR OF DIBLEY RULES

COMPETITION SCHEDULE

Baking entries to be homemade and labeled

Produce entries to be homegrown/made or foraged

1 jar of jam • Herb in a pot • 1 jar of jelly

1 jar of relish or chutney • Fruit/Vegetable animal • Autumn wreath

1 bottle of sauce • Flowers in a jar • 1 loaf of bread

Mixed harvest basket (produce and/or flowers)

Tussie mussie (small hand posy)

Woodbury cake (must incorporate either a fruit or vegetable

Most bizarre home grown vegetable

Jar of foraged foliage (roadside weeds)

Biggest apple | Bird feeder Scarecrow

POETRY COMPETITION

TICKET OR GOLD COIN PER ENTRY

Theme: Harvest/Autumn. Style: Any form, including free verse or rhyming - you choose. All entries will be displayed at the Hall.

Please state name and age bracket 3-5 yrs, 6-12 yrs, 13-17 yrs, 18+. Prizes will be awarded for each category.

COMMUNITY STALL

Please bring spare produce or surplus garden equipment for the Community Stall

Guess the weight of the pumpkin

Meet Pearl the Sheep | Horseshow toss | Stilts

ART EXHIBITION

Sharon Whittaker and Kane Tarres

BRAGGER’S TABLE

Bring your biggest piece of produce to put on the Bragger’s Table and let the public vote

Woodbury Harvest Gala

Running Duck flying with new wings

A 65th birthday party seems an unlikely place for a sales pitch to buy a café, but that’s exactly how Ben and Debbie Kearney heard about “an amazing café in Geraldine that was for sale” - the Running Duck.

Both Ben and Debbie have history here in Geraldine. Ben grew up in Clandeboye, Debbie in Geraldine itself. After an extended period of living away, they decided it was the right time to come back and take on a new challenge - hospitality. Ben says, “We love working in the café. It’s fantastic. We enjoy the variety of the job, meeting all the new people that come in, as well

as catching up with our regulars. It has been a learning curve understanding how the café runs, but the previous café owners, Alastair and Anna [Bolland], were great during our transition period. That helped us a lot.”

Debbie has previously worked in hospitality. Ben says, “Debbie’s scones and muffins have proved really popular. They sell like hotcakes. And we get so many comments from tourists who love the quirky theme ... We really enjoy the child and dog-friendly nature of the place and plan to keep most things the same,

but the thing that really drew us to the business was the bach theme. We once had a bach at the Rangitātā huts where we loved spending time; it just felt like us.”

Debbie says, “Since we started in the café back in November, we have not had a quiet day. It’s just been such a great start. When winter comes, and things slow down a bit, we have some new ideas we want to explore to put our mark on the place.”

The Running Duck’s opening hours are 8am-4pm weekdays, 8.30am-4pm weekends, closed Tuesdays. ANNA VEAUX

HARVEST GALA APPROACHES The games are organised, the scales are polished, and the excitement is brewing as the inaugural Woodbury Harvest Gala edges closer. Committee member Dianne Hamilton says, “We have some great family games planned, including a moon hopper race, wool sack races and a water relay.”

With free admission and a $2 entry fee per family event, organisers say the day is set to provide plenty of good, old-fashioned fun.

For more information, see ad this page. ANNA VEAUX

FROM LEFT: Gala committee members Dianne Hamilton, Mary Burgess, Kristine Diehl-Breading, and Jo Marama, with Matilda and Sophie.

Ben and Debbie Kearney were drawn by the Running Duck’s “quirky” bach theme. PHOTO: Anna Veaux

Club celebrates 25th annual fun day

Last Tuesday, the Geraldine Croquet Club lawns sparkled as 64 players, from Christchurch to Oamaru, dressed in silver to participate in the 25th anniversary of the club’s fancy dress fun day.

Club captain Sue Cleveland and fellow club member Bev Hill, the only two club members to participate in all 25 fun days, had the honour of cutting the anniversary cake. Sue says, “It is a mixed blessing for us both. Bev and I have seen many friends and members come and go during that time, so we do this [cut the cake] in remembrance of them also.

“Fancy dress has been the order of the day from the very first event, and although I have canvassed players about dropping it over the years, to date, most have said, ‘No, we love it’. I must admit we sure have seen some sights and had some fun with it over the years.

“Back when Golf Croquet was quite a new phenomenon in New Zealand, two local ladies, Una Landreth and Anne Ussher, decided to get the Geraldine Golf Croquet club up and running. These two enthusiastic and innovative ladies grew the club by running business house competitions and other events that are commonplace in clubs today.

“When Una hit upon the idea of a fun day, she and Anne believed Geraldine was the first club in New Zealand ever to hold one…, and while I cannot verify this, I do know without a doubt we certainly were the first around here, and to my knowledge, anywhere else. The idea certainly took off, and here we are today, hosting number 25.”

As the host club, Geraldine members did not participate in the competition, catering the morning and afternoon teas,

running a raffle fundraiser and coordinating the day’s activities. Club member Shirley Lindroos says, “We had a waiting list of teams wanting to participate; the fun day is well supported, and the costumes are really amazing.”

The winning fancy dress pair was Mavis Holt and Lindsey Thompson, both of Aorangi Club, Timaru. The best individual fancy dress was awarded to Gay Jones of Cashmere Club, Christchurch. The overall winner (most hoops) of the fun day’s croquet tournament were Lorraine and Paul Kiesanowski, both of Waimate Club. Overall, equal runners-up were Aorangi Club pairs Mavis Holt and Lindsey Thompson and Lois and Colin Beattie.

Geraldine Croquet Club days are 9.30am Wednesdays, and 10am Sundays. Contact Shirley Lindroos 021 210 9672 or Sue Cleveland 027 630 3990. DEBBIE

YOUR LEGAL SPECIALISTS IN GERALDINE

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Our office is open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 5.30pm. Come in and see us or call 03 693 8207 to make an appointment.

Phone 03 693 8207 or email@gressons.co.nz or visit our website: www.gressons.co.nz

GERALDINE PRIMARY SCHOOL (GPS)

ANNUAL TRIATHLON Last week, GPS hosted its Tāwhirimātea (Year 3-4) and Tangaroa (Year 5- 6) syndicates' annual triathlons.

Principal Andrew Leverton says, “It is fantastic to see the individual efforts from all children across both triathlons,

with the one at school serving as an ideal introduction to the longer one at the Geraldine Domain for the older children. Along with our swimming carnivals, the triathlons were a culmination of a month of swimming lessons at both the school and Geraldine Swimming Pool. The tamariki did so

well and showed much effort and determination.” DEBBIE OLIVER

Primary School triathlon; the

syndicate triathlon begins with the swim leg at the Geraldine Community

FROM LEFT: Winners of best fancy dress, Mavis Holt and Lindsey Thompson of Aorangi Club, Timaru; Bev Hill and Sue Cleveland, participants in all 25 Geraldine Croquet Club fancy dress fun days, cut the anniversary cake. PHOTOS: Debbie Oliver

FROM LEFT: Zac Wilson and Reed Burnside compete in the Geraldine

Tangaroa

Pool. PHOTOS: Supplied

Mayfield show “a real team effort”

The sun shone as the crowds turned out for the 97th Mayfield A&P Show on Saturday, 11 March.

Along with the traditional horse events, sheep shearing and displays of farm machinery, the most popular displays were the tractor pull and the famous pig race. A pet tent and an array of bouncy castles kept the children entertained.

Entertainer and balloon artist Shad Rutherford says, “These community shows are just amazing. It is so great that the show puts on these extras for the children, like paying for me to be here and the face painting as well. I really enjoy this event.”

A&P shows are designed to bring rural

communities together. Mayfield School has a long-held relationship with the show. Acting principal Alana Turnbull says, “The children put in a lot of work. It is a fun and busy process, but being able to share their work with the community is very special. We hope it contributes to children’s excitement and pride towards a very exciting show day.

“Our home and school committee have put on a scavenger hunt, and other staff members have other roles during the day. It’s a real team effort and shows how well we work together.”

Andrew Mackenzie, President of the Mayfield A&P Association, says he is

IN BRIEF

proud of the event the show committee put on for the crowds. “We are really appreciative of the support from the community and the committee. It is such a great atmosphere, and everything is running seamlessly.

“My favourite aspect of the show is enjoying how the community and committee come together, offering up their time to create such a great event that everyone can enjoy. We really aim to have a bit of something for everyone. We think it’s important that it is affordable for families. We look forward to delivering another great day next year.”

ANNA VEAUX

GERALDINE MULTI CHALLENGE IS BACK

Now a "must-do" annual fi xture for recreational and competitive athletes alike, the Geraldine Multi Challenge takes in a purpose-built single track, Ōrari River trails, quiet back country roads and local farmland.

In its 13th year, the community event for all ages, organised by the Geraldine Lions and Bike Geraldine, offers mountain bike, run and walk events with options for all ages and abilities.

This year’s Geraldine Multi Challenge is on Sunday, 19 March, at the Ō rari racecourse. All proceeds from the event go back to local community charities. Visit geraldinemultichallange.co.nz to enter. SUBMITTED PHOTO: Supplied

The Mayfield A&P Show provided plenty of activities and entertainment for children. PHOTOS: Anna Veaux

Geraldine Temuka show supports flood recovery

On Saturday, 4 March, the weather held out long enough for crowds to flock to the Temuka and Geraldine A&P Show. From motorbikes to alpacas, there was something for everyone.

The school shed in particular was popular, as children and their parents viewed artworks based on the Once Upon a Time theme. Shed co-ordinator Ali Talbot says, “The theme provided a

wide range of creations for both the school and home industry displays. It’s always interesting to see how people interpret the theme and make it their own.”

Show president Stephanie McCullough says, “The day was a success. We are really pleased to see the crowds back at the show. The digger mini golf was very popular, as was the chainsaw sculpting by Andrew Stevens. We were delighted

Centre. We have enjoyed our 30 years and offer a massive thanks to our customers for being so supportive. We wish Tommy and Karen every success in their new venture.

Max&Kay

with wonderful trade sites, loyal sponsors and all those people who contributed to the show’s success.”

The committee was also pleased to be able to make a donation of $650 to Federated Farmers in aid of the flood recovery efforts in Gisborne and Hawkes Bay.

BECKY TALBOT-VAN BEERS

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Blake (4) on pony Cindy, with mum Kourtney Saulala; Andrew Stevens uses a chainsaw to carve a sculpture which was later auctioned off to support Federated Farmers flood relief effort; Peter and Lynley Young with their prize-winning alpacas; Catherine Neil with her first-place-winning quilt. PHOTOS: Becky Talbot-Van Beers

IN THE LOOP

The nights are drawing in, and the end of daylight savings is just around the corner - Sunday, 2 April, at 3am. Yes, folks, the year is well underway.

It is a very busy time for the Geraldine Sculpture Trail. The work plan and budget for the new financial year are coming together in the background, as well as receiving quotes for the viewing platform, one of two hard landscaping elements, which, once built, will finalise Loop 1.

Proposed dog park meets with opposition

At the Geraldine Community Board (GCB) meeting held on Wednesday, 8 March, chair Jan Finlayson noted a “big turnout that I’m sure is here for one purpose”, namely to voice concerns about the proposed dog park in Kennedy Park.

The operations team will be on Loop 1 this week to decide where the permanent signage will be placed and to finalise the information to be included on each one. Designed by Glasson Huxtable Landscape Architects, the signs will be macrocarpa mounted on stone plinths, in keeping with the natural environment - sustainable and beautiful (pictured below).

The information will be in Te Reo M ā ori and English to reflect and embrace our country’s cultural heritage. Last month I shared the Kawe Korero app with you. It is a tool developed by Environment Waikato. Check it out; there are translated greetings, kaikarakia, and protocols, to mention just a few. It is a wonderful tool, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

Several speakers expressed their views opposing the idea. Dr John Jensen stated that “a designated dog park would change what has traditionally been a familyoriented area”. He asked for an environmental report, saying, “the native wood pigeons (kereru) really enjoy the fermented plums; they are often seen lying ‘drunk’ on the ground after a feast.”

Others voiced concerns such as “dogs and children don’t mix” and “it’s everybody’s park, all ratepayers, not just dog park enthusiasts”. The GCB is gathering feedback

to be heard at the next meeting.

Timaru District Council Parks and Recreation Manager Bill Steans spoke to a proposal that would “harvest radiata and Oregon pines in Pekapeka and Riddells Reserve to fund replanting of the area in native forest.” Not only are the trees mature, but this would also give carbon credits to the council by adding “native trees that create bird movement which supports the forest with growth”.

In response to board members’ concerns, Bill confirmed that firebreaks would be created alongside the forest to protect homes. He added that the community might be able to help replant the area and that, in time, the new plantation could become a reserve. There is also opportunity for creating better recreational trails.

Cr Gavin Oliver addressed the recent flooding at Peel Forest, reminding the board that the new Peel Forest and Rangitātā Gorge fire stations are there to aid residents in an emergency. Created to be used as ‘community hubs’ by police, St John and Land Search and Rescue, they house state-of-the-art backup generators and utilities such as a full kitchen, toilets and shower.

In another agenda item, Janene Adams has been appointed as the board’s representative to the Geraldine Sculpture Trail committee.

The meeting ended with Cr Oliver saying, “We [the GCB] need to keep talking to the community, keep them informed.”

The next GCB board meeting is on Wednesday, 19 April.

DEANNE MARSDEN

The operations team walking Loop 1 are (from left) Jeff Coulter (DOC) Steve Sullivan (Coordinator Geraldine Sculpture Trail), Bill Steans (TDC Parks and Recreation Manager), and Nicky Donkers (Geraldine Sculpture Trail Chair).

A dog park proposed for Kennedy Park, has been opposed by community members attending last week’s Geraldine Community Board meeting. PHOTO: Martinborough Business Association

Rennie Pearson: “a foot-stomping affair”

Rennie Pearson, trans-Atlantic Celtic music composer and multi-instrumentalist, is playing a 23 March gig hosted by Geraldine Community Arts Council (GCAC). The show also features award-winning folk musician Bob McNeill.

Including traditional Scottish, Irish, and Canadian Maritime Celtic music as well as Rennie and Bob’s original compositions, the show is part of an 18-date traverse of the South Island on the back of a sell-out North Island tour.

Rennie plays flute, guitar, fiddle, Irish whistle, and bodhran, and performs vocals. He says the show’s a “foot-stomping affair. We can really send it. And Bob’s a fantastic

accompanist. He’s a virtuoso on guitar, finger-style, and Celtic backing. He’s one of New Zealand’s best Celtic guitarists.” Bob, also on vocals for the show, is a notable composer with three Tui songwriting awards.

Rennie is a frequent visitor to Geraldine. Since his last local concert he has been touring full-time, playing solo and in groups. In August, he released his first solo album, From Across the Sea

GCAC chair Elaine Taylor says, “After Rennie’s last performance here, we promised the audience we would encourage him back. We didn’t need to. Rennie loves Geraldine, and he made the call to me.

We are so pleased to be hosting him again with Bob McNeill. Together, they are credited with lifting the bar in Celtic sounds.”

Rennie says, “We’re very excited to bring a fresh act to Geraldine after playing there. There’ll be a lot of new material and one of New Zealand’s finest Celtic songwriters.”

Rennie Pearson plays Geraldine at the Lodge Theatre, 7.30pm Thursday, 23 March. Tickets $25 are available at renniepearsonmusic.com/events-tickets or cash at the door. CDs will be available.

JAN FINLAYSON

Cooking up a storm for flood relief

Barker’s Foodstore and Eatery is hosting a dinner for the Cooking up a Storm fundraiser on Monday, 20 March. Similar events, in support of those who have been impacted by the effects of Cyclone Gabrielle, will take place in restaurants, bars and cafes across the country.

Participants will be serving up a twocourse meal for a set price of $69 (GST inclusive). Proceeds will be distributed to the Emergency Mayoral Funds or held to be distributed to impacted hospitality businesses.

Barker’s will join with eateries nationwide

in opening their doors at 6.30pm for dinner to be served at 7pm for what is set to be New Zealand's largest dinner party.

Barker’s Eatery are Cooking up a Storm on Monday, 20 March at 7pm. Tickets $69 per person at events.humanitix.com/barkersfood-store. DEBBIE OLIVER

Trans-Altlantic Celtic musician Rennie Pearson is looking forward to playing in Geraldine again.

The Monday night event is part of a nationwide campaign to create New Zealand’s largest dinner party. IMAGE: Supplied

JUNIOR NETBALL REGISTRATION ANZ futureFERNS

NNZ Year 3-6 Program

Or

geraldinenetball@gmail.com

Our small group classes cover:

• Understanding your device (computer, laptop or smartphone)

• Emailing and tex琀ng

• Social media, including sharing your videos and photos

• Using the internet safely

• Online banking and shopping

• Finding, downloading and using apps

• Basic compu琀ng

Bring your own device and learn on it ‐or we have laptops available for learning. Feel free to get in touch with us!

CALL/TXT 027 721 2000 or 03 688 0894 EMAIL info.c9@literacy.org.nz

HANGI FUNDRAISER

For Cyclone Gabrielle

When: 17th March 2023

Pick-up: 5.30-6pm

GHS Kennedy Park St Entrance

Orders: Sarah 0275963838

s.foley@geraldinehs.school.nz

Jordyn Te Rahui-Hobbs 0278941229

j.terahuihobbs@geraldinehs.school.nz

GNews NOTICES

DIDN’T GET YOUR GNEWS? If for some reason you don’t receive the Ashburton Courier containing GNews , email hugh@gnews.co.nz or call or txt 027 920 8751. We’ll try to get one to you and try to ensure any delivery issues are resolved.

CLASSIFIED ADS CASH SALES 24 Hislop Street 10am til 4pm weekdays. Please come to the front door and fill out the form on the clipboard. If we’re not home, just leave the form on the clipboard and we can arrange payment at a later date. Ads are 63 cents per word.

BIRTHS, DEATHS & MARRIAGES

MURRAY RAMSAY Passed away 15 years ago on the 14 March 2008. Missed everyday by his family and friends. Resting in peace.

BUY, SELL OR HIRE

WOODBURY HALL Visit woodburyhall.co.nz.

g news results

TRADES & SERVICES

AUTO PARTS AND ACCESSORIES. North End Motors, phone 03 693 8673.

BROOKSIDE BOARDING KENNELS Farmstay for dogs. 208 Woodbury Road. Phone 03 693 9929.

BUILDER Qualified LBP, 20 years experience, for all building work. Phone Ants 027 309 0798.

CARPET CLEANING Powerful equipment, fast-drying. Upholstery, mats, rugs. Experienced owner-operator. Phone John 0274 351 042.

CHIMNEY SWEEP & REPAIRS call Dan Mckerrow on 021 118 7580.

SPYWARE / MALWARE / VIRUS REMOVAL Geraldine Computer Solutions 03 693 9496.

DOUBLE GLAZING ENQUIRIES. Phone Geraldine Glass 03 693 9927.

HEAT PUMPS Clean, service, repair and install. Please call Silvery Bauman 021 544 760.

GERALDINE GOLF CLUB 11.03.23 Kerr

Quaich Rd 2: R Putz +4, B Auld +2, B Robertson

C Paton +1, G Robertson+1, D Mannsen +1, M Kolhalmi +1. Ladies Par: H Oldfield +6, L Pearsall +4, D Dewe +3, 09.03.23 Twilight 9 Holes: B Cosgrove 24pts, K Lester 23, S Wheeler 21, D Amos 18, R Holling 17.

Mixed Stableford: R Stevenson

T Putze 40, D Lapthorne 39, T Kerr

I Macdonald 38, D Law 37, D Sheldon

37, M Besemann 37. 06.03.23 Medal: F Grant

Net 67, M Gregan 72, M Bolton 72, J Kellahan

73, S Besemann 73. 9 Hole: K Turner 21 pts, J Murphy 17, C Ford 16, G Gibson 14.

GRANDE VUE GOLF CLUB Stableford Round 1st G Marshall 82-16-66-40Stabs, D Law 77-11-66-38, C Seaton 90-21-69-37, G A Patrick 88-20-68-36, R Stevenson 89-2069-35, S Scott 89-20-69-34, C Paton 86-16-70-34, J Gyeltshen 87-16-71-34, A Muff 87-13-7433, M O'Malley 88-16-72-33, D Bruce

84-13-71-33, M Lang 84-11-73-32, D MacLeod

88-14-74-32, G Patrick 80-8-72-32, J Rate

91-19-72-31, C McNulty 90-15-75-30, J Patrick

NATIONAL SUPERANNUATION GOLD CARD DISCOUNT 15% off all and labour prices only. Phone Geraldine Auto Restorations 03 693 1401.

PAINTING AND INTERIOR PLASTERING Contact Stephen Foster painting and decorating on 021 041 3318.

PAINTER GERALDINE-BASED Friendly professional service, good rates, excellent local references. Phone Wolffie 03 693 9803 or 027 962 4841.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

THE HONEY SHOP Plenty of honey still at The Honey Shop, Woodbury Road Corner. Also Honey Dew available.

1004. SUPER LIQUOR Check out our weekly specials instore.

WOODBURY STORE CAFÉ Enjoy seasonal menu and cabinet options at the restored historic store and country garden setting. Open 5 days, Wednesday - Sunday 8.30am-4pm. Only 6km from Geraldine. Phone 03 971 6292.

“Seasons of mists and mellow fruitfulness”

Keats’ beau琀ful lines were penned in England but it is de昀nitely becoming autumnal here – although we are having a lovely balmy late summer during the days, some trees are beginning to shed and I heard the stags roar last night.

The trac past Harcourts corner is unbelievable and tourism seems back in full 昀ight. We are seeing people from all over the world, grey nomads and the usual rowing ski昀s. It all rubs o昀 on the local economy and whatever your opinion it is mainly tourism and farming and a li琀le manufa cturing which keep us 琀cking over.

Proper琀es are s琀ll selling well with 8 con昀rmed sales in February in Geraldine. We are no longer the rock stars of the past, it is just back to a normal market but without doom and gloom as further North.

60% of people are buying and selling in the same space and whilst investors are notably absent, 昀rst home buyers are ac琀ve and we believe our local market will con琀nue to chug through the waters of a year which has already been plagued by poli琀cal uncertainty, 昀nancial ups and downs and the horrors of the 昀oods further a昀eld.

Some琀mes there is a lack of alignment between the aspira琀ons of Vendors and Purchasers but we can usually help to 昀nd compromise or a solu琀on. This is where feedback and communica琀on during the marke琀ng period is paramount and local knowledge and experience come to the fore.

Following Interna琀onal Woman’s Day and on a personal note it is not only teachers who deserve to be admired , appreciated, respected and rewarded but also nurses and carers, there are some wonderful people in this world, dispropor琀onately women!

Un琀l next month,

Kind regards,

NEW LISTING

4 bedroom home ready for you to walk in and enjoy. Be quick for this one! PBN over $545,000.

PRICE REDUCED

Amazing value, now $995,000. 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom and on 1.99ha close to Geraldine.