60 32 | Mahurangimatters 5 October 2011
localentertainment
Warkworth sheep set the pace in Auckland Overwhelming Warkworth sheep are gearing up to impress the tourists and townies when they run the Grand National Sheeplechase at TelstraClear Pacific Events Centre in Manukau this month. The Sheeplechase will be part of a number of free Heart of the Nation events run at the venue by Auckland Council in conjunction with the Rugby World Cup. Warkworth’s Sheep ‘n Show operator Greg Clark says colours worn by their toy horse jockeys will relate to various national rugby teams, enabling spectators to back their favourite. The sheep can make the 100m run in less than a minute but the build-up includes humorous insights into their past form and the chance to take a punt on the winner. Greg says there’s no force or coercion involved in making the sheep run, except the promise of a tasty bowl of sheep pellets at the end. “After performing the event numerous times they have become surprisingly savvy, picking up on verbal cues and getting ready to go at the gate as the build-up speech finishes,” he says. The sheep have had about five months rest over winter and will now do the race at various venues about every Warkworth sheep make a dash for the line in an event that will form part of second weekend. Heart of the Nation celebrations in south Auckland. “They readily jump on to the trailer, whether it’s heading out to an event are doing much better than the average shearing show. The event will be held on October 11, or back home to the Warkworth farm sheep that ends up at the butchers.” and with some up to six years old, they The race is followed by a sheep- 13, 15 and 16.
response to call for pianos
An appeal for a piano for composer Claire Cowan, who will start work soon as the artist-in-residence at Mahurangi Regional Park, has received a “tremendous” result. Mahurangi Matters highlighted Claire’s appeal in its September 1 issue. Thirteen pianos were offered, either on loan or as gifts. Ms Cowan has short-listed options and is now in the process of trialling these to find the most suitable piano. Because she is both composing and recording using this instrument, the quality of sound is very important. Programme coordinator Michelle Edge says some pianos reside in Snells Beach, one is from Red Beach and one person offered us his piano currently housed in Texas! “Someone has also offered their grand piano on loan but the logistics of getting a grand into Scott Homestead with its very small doors may prove insurmountable,” she says. “One of the pianos on the shortlist and of particular interest to us has a strong connection to the Scotts Landing area, having been shipped up into the Mahurangi Harbour by barge early last century.” Ms Cowan will begin her residency on October 14 and will work for two months from the Scott Homestead at Scotts Landing. “So if you’re out on your boat in the bay or enjoying a picnic on the beach, you may just hear a masterpiece in the making.”
Pleasures of Puhoi
Local wine, cheese and talent will be on show for the annual Puhoi Concert, in the Puhoi Centennial Hall, on October 15. The programme will include a range of musical styles, from classical to jazz. Tea and Puhoi coffee will also be available. The evening starts with wine and cheese at 6.45pm, followed by the concert at 7.30pm sharp. Money raised will be spent on the upkeep of the hall. Info and bookings: Quintin Lush 422 0635 or Beatrice Pritchard 425 0527.