ISSUE 1,067 - FRIDAY 16TH DECEMBER 2022

In saying this, we are putting the harnesses, chainsaws and pruning gear down to focus on our family until early February. We are still available for emergency work and quotes so please get in touch if we can help with any of your tree needs. Hope

MUSIC CONCERT COMING

Nicky Moran has always wanted to sing. She calls herself a ‘late bloomer’. It was in her maturity that she became the artist who now writes and records prolifically and tours all around the country at a bewildering pace.

Between 2006 and now, Nicky has released ten albums. At the same time, she was performing in pubs, churches, rehabilitation centres, mental health units, private homes and community events. Over the six year period, she was also touring New Zealand prisons (the only female artist to do so), performing 450 gospel shows before both male and female prisoners.

Earlier, when she was in her 30s, Nicky had faced her own personal confinement, brought on by severe illness. Unable to do much because of her health, she worked on piano and song writing. Along the long road to recovery, she said she encountered divine inspiration and discovered what she calls, ‘her true heart voice’.

“My songs are about life, love, how we are precious, the journey of hope and healing, and how to get to know the Almighty. I like

to encourage people to make a good choice,” commented Nicky. Her songs help carry this message. They touch genres of folk, rock, country, gospel, blues and even a little disco. Nicky is a talented multi-instrumentalist, playing keyboards, guitar, bass and drums, and handling the lead vocals and harmony. Nicky will be performing at Trinity Church Darfield, in January. Entry is free and a koha is welcome.

See advertisement in this issue for further details. Take

DARFIELD:

• Horndon Street, Darfield

• McIlraith Street, Darfield

• Stanwood Grove, Darfield

•

• McLaughlins Road, Darfield

• Cardale Street, Darfield

• Stott Drive, Darfield

COALGATE:

•

•

WADDINGTON/SHEFFIELD:

•

• Sheffield Township

SPRINGFIELD:

• Springfield

OXFORD:

• Main Street, Oxford

KIRWEE:

• Brooker Place, Kirwee

WEST MELTON:

NickyMoran.

• Corner of Weedons Ross & Jacks Drive

• Elizabeth Allen Drive, West Melton

• Iris Taylor Ave, West Melton

• Preston Downs, West Melton

• Royston Common, West Melton

• Shepherd Ave, West Melton

• Shona Lane, West Melton

• Wilfield Drive, West Melton

LIFE CHANGING ILLNESS

Local Rolleston girl, Mea Richards , was diagnosed with Aplastic Anaemia in July after being admitted to hospital with influenza. The diagnosis was determined after five weeks of testing and a bone marrow aspiration.

The preferred treatment option is a bone marrow transplant, unfortunately there are no suitable matches on the international database, and her sibling, dad (Ray ) or mum (Nicole) weren't matches either. There are 42 million people on the international registry, of that five had initial matches with Mea, with further testing showing they were not a high enough match.

Recently the family held a Donor Drive at the Hornby Working Men’s Club to try and find a suitable match for Mea.

The number of people that attended exceeded the family’s expectations, with 220 amazing people being swabbed and another 55 samples that were sent away later.

“Both Ray and I were blown away by the generosity of the people that showed up on the day, at least half didn't know me or Ray personally,” commented

Nicole Richards.

“We urge anyone willing to donate between the preferred age bracket (18-35 years old), to pop into their local blood bank and ask to go on the registry.

“Recently, Mea started yet another treatment called Immunosuppressant Therapy, with a drug called ATG, which included a fourteen day stay in the Child Haematology and Oncology Centre (CHOC). This treatment is six months long, with another bone marrow aspiration due at around one hundred days.

“Mea is like any other eight year old, she has a caring, bubbly personality and just wants to continue life as normal and she misses her friends and school, she also misses home when we are in CHOC. She has endured so much in the past five months, more than any child should have to, her dad and I are so proud of how she is coping with it all. She recently had to have a second Hickman Line put in, as her first one only lasted three weeks due to an infection, during this process she has mentioned more than once ‘I don't want this stupid disease’, the only real

LOVELY FLOWERS

complaint that has come from her,” continued Nicole.

We would like to say a huge thank you to the Hornby Working Men’s Club for donating a room for the Donor Drive and the Warehouse Hornby for their generous donation of sweets and lollies for the Drive. To both our workplaces Pro+Med (NZ) and 73 Hire/73 Hire Landscape, Rolleston, for giving us both the time and space to be there for Mea and to concentrate on our family. Also to NZ Bone Marrow Donor Registry for making the Drive possible, and Leukaemia and Blood NZ for all their ongoing support. To all our nurses and doctors at CHOC, you are all so kind and amazing at what you do, especially in our most vulnerable times.

“Finally, to our family and friends for supporting us through this unknown journey, sharing our story and helping to get donors tested, thank you,” Nicole concluded.

MeaRichards.

CHAIRS FOR HERITAGE

The Selwyn Heritage Centre, (Ellesmere Heritage Park Trust), will be running a fundraising auction, to continue to further develop their vision of a highquality museum for the Selwyn district.

They offered the community a chance to repurpose, decorate, re-invent, etc, an iconic Toomey’s stack-a-chair.

The inspiration behind this idea came from the ‘Christchurch has

giraffes’ and ‘Christchurch has penguins’ Art Trails, so organisers thought why can’t Selwyn have chairs.

Currently, they have received forty one amazing chairs, which have been designed and completed by local and nonlocal artists. The creativity of participants is astounding, and finished chairs will be displayed at various locations around the district, including at the Council,

libraries and some businesses.

The community will be able to purchase the chairs at auction on Sunday, March 26th, 2023, at Southbridge Hall. All proceeds will go to the Selwyn Heritage Centre for planning and project management in refurbishing the existing Leeston building.

Visit Selwyn Heritage Centre’s Facebook page for contact details or to see more examples of finished chairs.

SNAP SEND SOLVE

Snap Send Solve allows users to report issues across New Zealand in thirty seconds or less.

Free from the App Store and Google Play, the service works on both iOS and Android devices.

Some of the most commonly reported issues are dumped rubbish, illegal parking, overgrown vegetation, damaged pavement and graffiti.

Whatproblemscanbe reported?

Snap Send Solve enables users to report an array of incidents including, but not limited to:

• Abandoned cars or vehicles

• Abandoned trolleys

• Animal related issues

• Communication equipment pits and lids

• Dumped rubbish and litter

• Graffiti

• Noise

• Overflowing bins

• Parking

• Pavements and roads

PrimarySchoolLife.

• Parks and playground equipment

• Street lights

• Street cleaning

• Trees

• Travel troubles

• Water and sewer issues. If you need to report a different issue either submit it under the General Request incident type.

HowdoIknowwhatcouncil orauthoritytoreportto?

Snap Send Solve eliminates the complexity of knowing where and how to report incidents on the spot by enabling users to capture and send photos of issues that need attention, wherever they are. Your geolocation will automatically be tagged, so your report is sent to the correct council or authority, all you have to do is confirm that the location of your report is correct.

TheBeachChair, ArtistLynetteEdwards. SponsoredbyLeestonPharmacy.

ArtistBruceMcMillan. SponsoredbyCropmarkSeeds.

TheLakeFly.ArtistDavidLloyd. SponsoredbyCanterbury FinancialServices.

SUMMER IN SELWYN

There are numerous events taking place in Selwyn over the summer period as part of the popular ‘Summer in Selwyn’. Listed below are a few events, but for further details or a full list visit: selwyn.govt.nz/events

PICNICS IN THE PARK:

• Arthur’s Pass: Sat 7th January, 12pm - 2pm, Arthur’s Pass Cricket Field. Head along and join everyone for a picnic and a game of backyard cricket. There will be a small mountain bike track for young ones to do circuits. If the breeze is blowing there will be kites to fly! All ages.

• Castle Hill: Sat 7th January, 5.30pm - 7.30pm, Castle Hill Community Centre and Village Green. Head along to a community picnic and fun evening of kite flying in Castle Hill. Decorate and fly one of the assorted kites and play with the oversized family games. Enjoy a free barbeque and ice cream, BYO salad and drinks. All ages.

• Hororata: Sun 12th February, 11am - 2pm, Hororata Domain. Bring your picnic and a blanket and join in a free, fun and relaxing community picnic filled with lots of exciting things to do. All ages.

• Sheffield: Sun 19th February,

11am - 3pm, Sheffield Domain. Head along for a picnic lunch and hilarious games for the whole family in conjunction with The Locals Club. Bring your picnic lunch and blanket and the entertainment will be provided. All ages.

INFLATABLE FUN DAY:

Friday 13th January, 10am12.30pm, Darfield Recreation and Community Centre. The Centre will be filled with bouncy castles to turn it into an inflatable fun zone for the kids!

Under 8 years: 10am - 11am, 812 years: 11.30am - 12.30pm, $5 per child. Bookings required.

SKATE ‘N’ SPLASH:

Thursday 12th January, 10am4pm, Selwyn Sports Centre and Selwyn Aquatic Centre. Head along for some roller skating fun and then head to the pool to enjoy the inflatable obstacle courses. An active day out that’s guaranteed to be lots of fun for all. Under 8 years: Skating 10am - 11.30am, Pool 12pm - 2pm, 815 years: Skating 12pm1.30pm, Pool 2pm - 4pm, $5 per person/child. Bookings required.

KIDS WATER SAFETY:

• Tuesday 17th January, 11am11.45am Darfield Pool.

• Saturday 21st January, 10am2pm Selwyn Aquatic Centre. Learn about water safety and try out the inflatable boat with our Learn to Swim team. 5-7 years. $5 per child. Bookings required

POOL PARTIES:

• Sunday 15th January, 1pm3pm Darfield Pool. Enjoy the inflatables, water rollers, inflatable spa, free ice blocks and more. Normal pool admission applies. Drop-in.

• Monday 16th January, 11am2pm Selwyn Aquatic Centre. Enjoy the awesome inflatables inside as well as the outdoor space behind the aquatic centre with water rollers, boats, an inflatable water slide, a 20m inflatable obstacle course, an under 5’s bouncy castle and much more! Normal pool admission applies. All ages. Bookings required.

LET’S PLAY BALL:

• Monday 16th January, 10am11am, Tawera Memorial Hall.

• Tuesday 24th January, 10am11am, Glentunnel Community Hall.

• Friday 27th January, 10am11am, Sheffield Community Hall.

Head along with your friends and family and play a variety of ball games. Bookings required.

WIND WORKSHOP:

• Mon 16th Jan, 2pm - 3.30pm, West Melton Community and Recreation Centre.

• Thur 19th January, 10am11.30am, Darfield Recreation and Community Centre.

• Thur 26th January, 10am11.30am, Glentunnel Community Centre.

Join the fun wind workshop and make a kite and windmill.

Then take your creation along to the Family Kite Festival at Foster Park on Sunday 5th February. $5 per child. Bookings required.

“Thankyoutothestallholders,supporters,volunteersandthe communitiesoftheMarket.It'sbecauseofyouthattheMarkethas beensosuccessful.Weappreciateallyoudoforus,”commented TaniaFernandez.

Closed from 1pm Thursday 22nd December and re-open 8am Monday 16th January 2023

PREP,

CHECK & KNOW THE RULES

Do you plan to go boating this summer??

Current research shows that the three risk factors most likely to cause death and injury on the water are:

• the failure to wear lifejackets

• an inability to communicate when an accident happens

• failure to check forecasts to avoid boating in bad weather and lake conditions.

Prep your vessel:

Always wear a lifejacket and take communications when on the water, including when using a standup paddleboard.

Like your car, your vessel (including human-powered ones) needs maintenance and an annual check. Check the hull is sealed, that motors and oars/paddles aren't damaged, the bilge and fuel lines are not blocked or have perished, the electrical equipment and navigational lights are working, and that the outboard, pull cord, kill switch, throttle and gear shift are working.

Check your gear: Canterbury bylaw states, everyone onboard a vessel under six metres must always wear a lifejacket, even in calm conditions - you can still fall

overboard, and it's not always easy to put a lifejacket on once you're in the water!

On larger vessels, you need to make sure you have one suitable, fitted lifejacket for each person onboard. Everybody must wear their lifejacket if there are circumstances of increased risk to the safety of people aboard (eg: crossing a river bar or worsening weather).

Also, check that all people have their lifejackets on properly. Go out with a friend on another boat or let someone know your intentions and what to do if you fail to check in by a certain time.

Alternatives to VHF radio in lake areas:

Ensure you have two forms of communication that work in the area. VHF radio has limited coverage on inland waterways and lakes numerous places is not monitored by authorities. Cell phone reception can be unreliable.

Consider investing in a PLB (personal locator beacon) as your first choice of communication, as well as a secondary device such as a satellite communication device (like InReach and SPOT), flares, air horns, or torches.

Know the local rules: Pay attention to the laws of the water - both Mother Nature's laws and human-made ones.

If you're in charge of any kind of vessel, it's your responsibility to

check the latest rural weather forecast and the local conditions. Conditions can change very quickly on a lake, so make sure you check the high-country forecast beforehand. If there's a storm looming or the conditions are set to deteriorate while you're on the water, stay on land.

Identify your vessel:

In Canterbury, a bylaw states that your boat (including jet skis) needs an identifying number on each side of the hull. The ID must be at least 90 millimetres high and be distinguishable to the naked eye from 50 metres away. It could be printed on a sticker from a sign shop or it could be painted on.

The ID needs to be either the trailer registration number or a VHF callsign, certain boat club ID numbers are also acceptable.

An ID number provides a starting point for locating the owners of any washed-up vessels and allows people to provide identification information when they are reporting concerns with boating behaviour.

Non-powered vessels (measuring six metres or less), paddle craft and vessels solely powered by oars (like kayaks and canoes) only need a contact name and phone number written somewhere onboard.

Make sure you prep, check and know the rules before you go.

For more informa on visit: old4new.coastguard.nz

From Malvern Cancer Group

To all our wonderful volunteers, we would just like to say a huge thank you for all you have done for the Cancer Society this year. You truly go the extra mile to make the lives of the people we support just that little bit nicer and with a little bit less stress. We receive lots of lovely messages from clients thanking us for the beautiful baking packages that were delivered to them. Thank you to the Men’s Shed for the bowls and platters, and to the drivers who delivered these packages.

To the drivers who drive our clients to their hospital

appointments, thank you. You really do make a difference!

But Cancer doesn't stop for the holidays, if you or someone you know needs our help and support, please contact us at

malverncancer@gmail.com

Malvern Community Board

The Malvern Community Board of Ken May (Chair), Sean Ellis , Sharn Nu’u , Bruce Russell and Calvin Payne, with Councillors Bob Mugford and Lydia Gliddon , extend the seasons greetings to you and wish you all the very best for the New Year.

As 2023 looms large upon us, we hope for good health to pervade the country and make the coming year a year to celebrate.

We look forward to achieving progress with mitigating those issues that have concerned us in recent times.

Our initiative of holding ‘Drop In’ sessions throughout the ward in 2021, that was put on hold during the COVID times, will be restarted and a programme of ‘visits’ will be advised to our communities, providing the opportunity for individuals to

voice their concerns. So, as the year draws to a close, please take care, drive carefully, treat every obstacle with care and attention, and make sure that you are around to celebrate Christmas and the New Year with your family and friends, and the Community Board joins me wishing you all the very best for 2023.

Therese Davel, MCB.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, Elaine Guy, on behalf of the Malvern Cancer Support Group.

From St John Darfield

ST JOHN AND THE YEAR THAT’S BEEN!

As 2022 draws to a close, we always seem to find the time to look back on what has been, and then look forward at the same time.

For many in the local community, there has been a fair share of hard times. Many have battled Covid, or the side effects of it with personal (and ongoing) illness, seeing those close to you unwell, or lost opportunities because of restrictions put in place to curb the spread of the disease. There has also been a big rise in the cost of living, affecting all we do.

All these things take their toll on our well-being, the way we interact with others, and our willingness to just get things done. We then see artificial pressures put on all the things we do, and that all mounts up. On top of this, all the things associated with a ‘normal year’ build up.

As Christmas rolls around each

year, we also share in the rise in festive mood, the parties, fruit tarts, special treats and gifts associated with the occasion. We all owe it to ourselves to share the mood. What may be a strain for some could well be eased by the people around them. It is more than just the material trappings of Christmas that make this time so special.

There is no promise of what lies ahead, but lots of that can be influenced by the good choices we make along the way.

St John Ambulance services will continue to operate as they do for the rest of the year and will respond to your emergencies as normal. Crewing, at times, will be affected by holidays, workload etc and there may be delays, but help will arrive. Minor miseries will still be supported by your local GP or other health resources, depending on the services available.

Looking for a gift for that special person?

A first aid kit or an Ambulance transport subscription is great forward planning.

An upsurge in Covid within the community will be stressful to some of those most vulnerable, so respect the fact that some may need to go back to mask wearing, and social distancing, to stay safe.

It seems there may be a slight increase in road traffic incidents in the build up to 2022 Christmas, so please be careful out there. Practice good driving habits and look out for others. But mostly, have a fabulous festive season. Take a chance to relax, recharge and refresh. As 2023 is just around the corner, let’s be ready for it.

On behalf of St John, thank you for your support in 2022.

Ross Meder, St John Darfield.

From Selwyn Police

TAKING CARE OVER SUMMER

As we approach the Christmas season and summer gets into full swing, it’s a good time to remind everyone about the Government’s ‘Road to Zero’ strategy. Deaths on rural Canterbury roads have decreased over the last twelve months, but we aren’t at zero yet. We all have a part to play in keeping the roads safe for our families, so when you are travelling our beautiful country this summer, remember that even momentary distractions caused by cell phones, or driving a few kms per hour too fast can have disastrous consequences. Getting to your destination five minutes faster is not worth the risk.

Police see a rise in burglaries over the summer, mostly due to windows being left open during hot nights or people being on holiday.

Some extra precautions you can take before leaving home if you are having a well earned break are:

• Allow extra time to double check the security of your windows and doors before you hit the road. Padlocks on gates are a simple, affordable, yet very effective way of keeping your property secure also.

• Make sure all your security lights are working and your cameras have working batteries. If you don’t have security cameras, now might be the time to consider getting some.

• If you know your neighbours let them know you are away so they can keep an eye on

your home.

• Get someone to pop around and clear your mail and check on your home while you are away, or even consider getting someone to house sit for you. We’d like to wish you a very happy Christmas break and remind you to only call 111 in the case of an emergency. It’s really important to keep 111 free for emergencies.

Senior Sergeant Anna Lloyd, Rural Area ManagerPrevention.

Quality Entertainers Paradise

What an opportunity to come and live in the country in this very desirable area. Set on 2.21ha (5.48 acres) sits this stunning home and immaculate property.

• An award winning Benchmark Home

• Open-plan living, separate formal lounge, four bedrooms, two bathrooms, office

• Internal access from a large double garage

• 6x6m lock up shed with 3ph power

• Two-bay pole shed with one bay lock up

• Chook house, berry house, small set sheep yards

• Two well fenced paddocks

• A superior entertainer’s home with excellent indoor outdoor flow

• For Sale by Negotiation Phone to View.

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

I will be around over the festive season for anything Real Estate.

There was a party as the new youth space in Rolleston town centre was officially opened last Sunday.

Street art, skateboarding, hip hop and sports competitions were all on show, as hundreds enjoyed the newly opened area on the edge of Rolleston Reserve.

Mayor Sam Broughton officially opened the space before taking part in a free throw competition. Gaga ball and the new skate area were particularly popular, along with a nerf war and sumo suits that were available on the day.

Nelson Creek Skateboards and Outsiders Skate Shop gave a demonstration and led a skate competition, with prizes such as skateboards and safety gear up for grabs, including three boards decorated by artist Canvas Artz who also hosted a street art demonstration on the day. Swarm Studios and Afro Fusion brought the noise with a dance battle and workshops, and the Selwyn Hawks basketball team finished the day off with

skills, drills and 3 x 3 games. Youth Council Chair, Rue Jeche said, “It was great to see such a fantastic space open. The youth space is an awesome place for us to be able to come together and engage in fun and inclusive activities that are local to Selwyn.”

The area was designed in collaboration with input from students at Selwyn’s four high

schools, and features a half basketball court, netball zone, gaga ball pit and skate areas along with hang out spaces and a large ‘Eagle Claw’ basket swing.

It is the latest part of the new Rolleston town centre to open, joining the sensory space, cultural, community, library and heritage centre Te Ara Ātea, and the first eateries in the Rolleston Fields area.

OPTIMISM IS EASIER IF YOU HAVE CONTROL

While everything seems to be rising around us, it is hard not to get that sinking feeling!

Most of it is out of our control, but how we react is in our control.

When it comes to keeping the roof over your head, adjustments will need to be made. Communicate your worries with your partner and make a plan.

Involve the kids to a degree - don’t load them with more than a child should carry, but keep them in the loop in a positive way as to why Santa may not be quite so generous this year.

Making a budget will help if you stick with it and keep the end goal in sight. Ten years down the track, you will be so glad you made the small sacrifices today.

Most of all, having a plan will make it easier to float and enjoy the ride.

I wish each and every one of you a joyful Christmas and lots of sun-filled summer days!

Ginny Nelson.

A new town square and amphitheatre, upgrade of the remaining reserve area, and further expansions of Rolleston Fields are also planned over the next three years.

“What an amazing space for the youth of our district to enjoy. I’m excited to see the completion of the amphitheatre and remaining reserve over the next couple of years. Well done to Phil , Dylan, and their teams on the completion of this space,” commented Malvern Councillor, Lydia Gliddon

SamBroughtontookpartina freethrowcompetition.

SamBroughtonhelpedcreatesomecolourfulstreetart.

When TW Adams began planting trees at Greendale in the mid1800s, he wanted to provide shelter on the windswept Canterbury Plains. Now a new installation is sheltering his 160year-old sod cottage.

The Greendale Community Trust has finished building a canopy to protect the cottage Alfred Albert Thomas William (known as TW) Adams built at his arboretum in 1865 - part of the Trusts’ work to restore the historically significant arboretum.

Trust Secretary Ruth Warren said, “She’s delighted with how the neglected site has been transformed.

“When we began working on the arboretum in 2016, it was completely overgrown and inaccessible. After TW died in 1919, there had been no funds to maintain it. Now it is open for people to enjoy and learn about its history,” commented Ruth.

TW Adams, an international

authority on forestry, settled in Greendale in 1862 and started an arboretum growing 800 tree species and 500 fruit tree varieties. Some are now the only ones of their kind in Aotearoa, and several are extinct or endangered in their countries of origin.

To make a home, he dug down into the ground and used the earth to build his cottage.

The cottage’s protective shelter was made possible thanks to volunteers from the Trust and community, as well as a $4,000 heritage grant from Selwyn District Council. The grant will open again for applications in June 2023.

“It’s been a great project, and I’d like to thank all the people who’ve donated their time and skills to preserve our history,” Ruth concluded.

There is no doubt in amongst the information we are constantly being fed around housing that we are in for a tight year in 2023. The negative impacts of rising interest rates and rising costs are only just beginning to have an effect on the market, and I think we will find we are in for a turbulent year.

Most landlords are already needing to supplement the costs of rental houses personally - and remember that most landlords in New Zealand are mum and dad investors who will also have their own home mortgages, and of course, living costs.

Many mortgages this year will come off low fixed term rates and will go up 3 or 4 percent, which will have a major impact. So, how many people can afford to hang in there and how many will decide to sell remains to be seen. However, with the law changes around interest deductibility on second hand houses, these will likely not be

attractive to investors. What is more, selling a house which is tenanted is a bit more complex than a standard sale whereby tenants must be given 90 days notice to have the house vacant for sale or at possession. So the whole process can be a bit of a time consuming process. Maybe this will be the year of the first home buyer?

It has been a fairly tumultuous few years in the rental market, with many changes favouring tenants and putting a lot of pressure on landlords. I am hopeful by the end of 2023, it will have all flattened out a bit and we will be back to a new normal, what that looks like I am not sure. Ideally we will have a reasonable sized pool of rental properties available for tenants to choose from, at manageable prices and landlords gain some recognition for the immense pressure they are being put under by way of some sort of break….who knows. That may be

as likely as hoping for an end to Covid! Anyway - onwards and upwards!

The Rural Tenancy team would like to thank the community for the support we receive and wish all of our clients a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Rebecca Smith.

GOOD BYE 2022 - HELLO 2023 - HOUSING GOING FORWARD

Christmas shopping is well underway and Fire and Emergency New Zealand is reminding people to be cautious around lithium-ion batteries. Make sure you charge them on a hard, flat surface - not under a pillow, on a bed or couch - they can overheat and cause a fire.

If you notice anything unusual with your battery, stop using it straight away. This could be anything like a strange smell or a change in colour, too much heat, a change in shape, swelling, leaking, or odd noises. People also need to be careful when disposing of lithium-ion batteries. Do not put them in the rubbish.

SDC and E-Cycle have teamed up to bring a battery recycling programme to the Selwyn Community.

The service accepts the following battery types:

• Lithium-ion (used in laptops, mobile phones, tools)

• Alkaline, dry cell and zinc (used in flashlights, radios, remote controls, smoke detectors)

• Button cell/coin (used in watches, hearing aids)

• Nickel-cadmium (used in portable electronics, tools, toys)

• Nickel-metal hydride (used in digital cameras, laptops, mobile phones).

New World supermarkets are supporting the Council initiative, with drop off points at New World Rolleston and New World Lincoln, as well as at the Darfield Library and Service Centre and the Pines Resource Recovery Park.

When batteries are collected they will be sorted and held until there is sufficient volume to send for recycling in Australia - where 7090% of the battery is recycled into new batteries or ingredients used in roading mixes and fertilisers.

Nickel-cadmium and Lithium-ion batteries are forwarded on to a specialist recycling plant in South Korea.

CANTERBURY CHAMPS

New to the competition event of Waterways, Jake Baxter and Emma Pennells from Darfield Volunteer Fire Brigade took out the Canterbury honours last Saturday.

The event was held at Darfield Recreation Centre with six, two person teams, from throughout Canterbury competing.

The Waterway Challenge is a fun, team-orientated event that taps into vital pump and hose skills.

Each step of the process relies on team work - the hose to the pump, the standpipe to the hydrant, connectors extending twenty five metres. Only through precision, speed and working together can you hit the target.

The Waterway Challenge has been an enduring UFBA tradition since it was first introduced back

in 1885. It's an opportunity to put hose-running and pumpoperating skills to the test in a competitive environment.

This event is designed to make firefighters better firefighters so, when the alarm goes off they are there to serve the community as best they can.

A lot of training goes into getting ready for a competition event and Jake and Emma would like to thank all those involved with helping them.

The next event is the South Island Waterways Challenge on the 4th February in Cromwell, followed by the National Challenge on the 17th and 18th February, in Methven.

The team at the Malvern News wish Jake and Emma all the best for their upcoming competitions.

On Sunday, December 11th, a sunny Canterbury morning greeted a group of parishioners and clergy, who gathered at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in West Melton, to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Anglican worship in the area.

The first Church of England service was held in the newly opened West Melton School House on December 22nd, 1872, and St. Paul’s was built in 1884.

In his sermon, Archdeacon Mark Chamberlain paid tribute to John Hill , who arrived in New Zealand as a fourteen year old on one of the first four ships and moved to West Melton in 1864. John was the main driving force behind the establishment and maintenance of the Anglican Church in West Melton.

John’s great-grandson, Colin Watson (St. Paul’s longestserving member), was helped by Chloe Haywood (the youngest parishioner) in cutting a celebration cake during morning tea on the lawn. The celebrations concluded with lunch at the West Melton Tavern.

If you would like to attend St Paul’s Christmas Eve Service it’s at 7pm at the Church.

ChloeHaywardandColinWatsoncuttingthecake.

StPaul’s150thcelebrationattendees.

FANTASTIC SHOWCASE

On Sunday, December 11th, students from TM Dance World (TMDW) held their end of year showcase performance, ‘Dancers Don’t Need Wings To Fly’. The show was held at St Margaret's Collage in the beautiful Charles Luney Auditorium, where we had an amazing audience of 450 family members and friends attend to support the dancers. All TMDW dancers participate in the show, with the youngest being three years old through to seventeen years old. It is always a very exciting day for the students, as they come together to perform with different ages and classes and create large group items. The dancers showcased items in a range of styles, including Jazz, Ballet, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Musical Theatre and

Acrobatic dance. Several students train in all genres, which makes for a very busy show!

“A highlight performance this year was from our Musical Theatre students. Level 2 and 6 students combined to perform a mini six minute Matilda show. The dancers loved acting their chosen characters and combined with their dancing, they performed a very exciting number! This performance was choreographed by our Musical Theatre teacher Jemma Dalley,” commented TM Dance World Studio Director, Tara McKeown. “The show is the completion of the last couple of months work and the dance year. Our talented dancers performed outstandingly, and have earned a well deserved rest over the summer break!

Congratulations to all our dancers and teaching team for another fabulous year of dance and another fantastic show,” Tara concluded.

Photocredit: AngelaJonesPhotography.

PREMIER CRICKET REPORT

Despite missing five representative players, Darfield managed to drag themselves across the line against a young and motivated Ohoka side last Saturday at Mandeville. Captain Liam Foulkes won the toss and asked the hosts to bat first. An early wicket was forthcoming, but bowling discipline withered, and Ohoka gradually mounted a score. The 5th wicket fell at 122, however, the bowlers were far from their best, and the fielding was substandard, which allowed Ohoka to push on to a troublesome total of 176.

Robbie Foulkes finished with 3 wickets, and there were 2 each for Will Greenslade, Tom Innes and Nick Jenkins

Robbie Foulkes continued his good day with 30 at the top of the innings, and he and Jordy Frew (52) seemed to have things under control, but the fickle nature of club cricket would turn to bite them on the bum. A wobble followed as only Tim Boyle (45) managed to hold things together, but he soon fell to a good catch on the boundary. The run rate slowed to a crawl as the tail ticked off the remaining 20 runs with 3 wickets in hand, not without a few nervous moments and some additional

stress wrinkles for the coach. Darfield’s last game before Christmas is against LeestonSouthbridge on Saturday, December 17th, at Leeston Domain.

Ohoka 176/10 from 44 overs Henry Rumball 37 George Mauger 29 Paul Miller 42 William Baggot 24 Will Greenslade 2/41

Tom Innes 2/38 Robbie Foulkes 3/17 Nick Jenkins 2/31

Darfield 180/7 from 37 overs Robbie Foulkes 30 Jordy Frew 52 Tim Boyle 45 Bodie Hawkins 21* George Mauger 3/27 Matt Burns 2/41. Shannon McAleer, Premier Coach.

Above:AbbiMooreandSaigeMcNaeenjoyedgetautographs fromtheWhiteFerns.

Over the last season, and more so in the past eight weeks, a great bunch of young lads that make up the Darfield Cricket Club Year 9/10 team, have been working hard and building their mana with the goal set on winning the Canterbury Country Cricket Associations Super League Championship. The boys have worked extremely hard in the last three months on their technique, game awareness and focus and have shown themselves, how they as a team of fair players, can win a competition through hard mahi and support for each other. They have had their highs and lows and ended up after the round robin stages third behind Ashburton Collage and Lincoln High School Red, meaning a must win semi-final against Lincoln, to challenge the winner of Ashburton Collage and Rangiora Colts Gold.

Semi-Final: Our team played a tight game in the field against Lincoln, restricting them to 89/10 of 24.4 overs.

In true semi-final form, Lincoln then turned the tables and had us reeling at 6/23, before a steading of the ship by Willie, and then Finn got us to 76/8 before Sam and James brought the game home, winning the semi in the 24th over.

Final: Ashburton College v Darfield Cricket Club Y9-10 Ashburton College won the toss and elected to bat first on their home soil. Darfield were the underdogs as they had beaten us previously by 13 runs and gone unbeaten in the competition so far.

Ash Coll started well with 17 runs before the first wicket was taken, then the second wicket was taken with 42 on the board.

Darfield were again tight and rolling as one in the field, with lots of talk, accurate bowling and miserly fielding, saw the next 5 wickets fall for just 21 runs.

The number 7 batter put on 61 from 42 deliveries and assisted by his lower order team mates, they amassed a final score of 147/9 of their 35 overs.

Innings break over our top order went to work, Finn and Sam out in the middle made 42 before Sam was dismissed, bowled by a good delivery and Finn (c&b) soon after on 39.

Blake, returning for the final, after a broken toe kept him out for the last 3 games, was partnered with James Cathcart , unfortunately, Blake was bowled by a good delivery for 3, leaving Darfield’s top order gone with 55 runs on the board.

James was next partnered with Reid and together they constructed the best partnership of the season. While under pressure, Reid a new team member was solid in defence and picked holes to run singles, as did James, ticking over the scoreboard until Reid’s dismissal with the score 112/4.

This well constructed and timed partnership was the backbone of the Darfield innings and secured us the chance to chase the final runs in the late overs of the game.

The focus from the team had not waived, and Willie MacPherson our number 6, came on and with James they finished the chase in the 32nd over with James a very

well constructed 44* and Willie 14*

This is the best run chase Darfield has compiled and the patience shown by James to tick over the scoreboard and punish the bad balls, requires special mention.

Darfield looked the calmer team under pressure and were ably led by Finn who played his field and bowlers perfectly. Our Spin attack was the game changer with 5 wickets between the 2 played spinners, and good captaincy kept up the attack. Field placement and good hands from Gagana among others saw 4 superb catches in the field.

Darfield won by 5 wickets and are the new 2022 CCCA Junior Men’s Super League Champs.

I would like to congratulate the Darfield Y9/10 Cricket team on a super victory. Special thanks to Coach Luke Jacobs , for his tireless efforts in coaching the lads over the past years and all his helpers and support crew.

To the players and parents thanks for your support of Darfield Cricket Club.

Dave Galletly, Darfield Cricket Junior Co-ordinator.

Sheffield

HORORATA GOLF

Selwyn Bike Trails

Explore Selwyn’s family-friendly biking trails this summer!

Cycle the Coalgate to Glentunnel, Doyleston to Leeston, Lincoln to Rolleston

Palmer 34 M. White 34 Two's: P. Collins (x2) Nearest the Pin: M. Wills, SA. Gilmour

The New Zealand Secondary Schools Athletics were held from December 9th - 11th, in Tauranga. Darfield High School’s contingent of Kirsty McCarthyDempsey , Jody McCarthyDempsey and Oscar Stevenson made the trip north.

Results:

Kirsty - Year 12:

3rd (Bronze Medal): Senior Girls

Discus

6th: Senior Girls Javelin

5th: Senior Girls Shot Putt

Jody - Year 11:

1st (Gold Medal): Junior Girls Long Jump

2ndQ: Junior Girls 80m Hurdles

3rdF (Bronze Medal): Junior Girls 80m Hurdles

2nd (Silver Medal): Junior Girls High Jump

Oscar - Year 11:

18th: Senior Boys Javelin

19th: Senior Boys Discus.

CHIMNEY CLEANING

CARRS Chimney Cleaning. Servicing the Selwyn district. $70 per chimney. Phone Rodney on 03 324 2999 and leave a message.

CHIM Chim. We'll sweep your log-burners flue, check the firebricks, baffles, air-tubes and controls. We're experts on coal-ranges, also sweeping any sized open fire. We quote and undertake repairs, flue extensions and install bird netting. Please phone 021 939 113.

Members of the NZHHA.

AUTOMOTIVE

DARFIELD Automotive, service & warrant centre. 3D wheel aligner. 7:30am - 5:30pm, Monday - Friday. Your onestop auto shop! Please phone 03 318 8113.

DRIVEWAYS

LIFESTYLE , farm tracks, yards and dairy lanes our speciality. Screened rotten-rock, it’s local and lasts better. Contact the Springfield Quarry today! Phone 318 4132.

General

Contact Dave on 021 142 0567 or email: pearsondavid106@gmail.com

PAINTING & DECORATING

UDI Painting & Decorating. For all painting & decorating services! Fully qualified. Interior & exterior painting & plastering. Wallpapering & roof painting. Quality Services. Free quotes. Please contact Udi Aale 021 074 2075. www.udipaintingndecorating.co.nz

FARM COMPLIANCE

&

LOCKSMITH

Old Man Pine, Bluegum, Macrocarpa, Oregon. TRY THE HOT MIX! E pos available. All top quality, clean wood. Ph Rini 027 451 7300

FOR SALE

POINT of lay hyline/shavers pullets for sale. Please phone 021 863 158.

WOOD shavings - untreated, clean shavings suitable for horse stables, calving sheds, chicken houses and rabbit hutches. Available in 70L bags, 1m 3 bales (compressed) and bulk delivery. Phone 021 243 8378 for more details.

GARDENING

GARDENING, handyman. All jobs considered. Interior and exterior. Please phone 021 207 0532.

GENERAL garden maintenance in Darfield area. Domestic hedge trimming, pruning & edging. Please phone Kane 027 467 6613.

LOCKSMITH Selwyn based 24hr mobile service, keys cut and general lock and safe maintenance. EFTPOS available. Call Locktight Security 021 171 8060.

Darfield Based Will cover all areas

Contact Micky on 021 125 1613 conwaydecor@hotmail.com FULLY INSURED

SCRAP METAL

WANTED! Best prices! Amalgamated Scrap Ltd. Buying cars & farm machinery. Specialising in farm clean-ups. Rod McQuoidbuyer. Please phone either 027 695 0480 or alternatively 0800 030 712.

ROOF & house maintenance. All aspects covered including spouting, mortar, tiles, re-roofing, roof painting, moss, mould & silicone sealing. General repairs. Please phone 03 347 6702.

SITUATION VACANT

ROOF MAINTENANCE

ROOF & property services. 2 storey work! Roof leak repairs (incl Butynol), moss control, silicone seal, spouting clean & repairs, spider & fly control, bird proofing, roof painting. All roof & spouting types. Call Arthur’s, 7 days, 03 347 2635, 027 484 7980 or 027 584 7980.

Country Paws Kennel & Cattery

We have a position available to join our team over the Christmas holiday period in our boarding kennels and cattery. Applicants must be confident around animals, be physically fit and have reliable transport. Previous experience would be an advantage but not essential as full training will be given. Work will be on a roster system and hours may vary so some flexibility is required. Please apply via email stating any relevant experience and a contact phone number to: countrypaws@xtra.co.nz

Automo ve Mechanic/Technician

• Experience of at least 3-5 years

• Wages and remunera on nego able

• Start date asap in 2023.

For further info please email Shelley on coalgatemotors@xtra.co nz

Barenbrug specialises in the research, development, production and marketing of pastures. Headquarters are at Courtenay, near Darfield.

RECEPTIONIST WANTED

• Part time, Fixed term, 10 – 12 weeks commencing mid January 2023

• Reception, Administration and Clerical duties

• Flexible working hours to suit.

We are seeking a person who likes helping people, has good communication, co-ordination and organising skills, with a good understanding of Microsoft office software.

The position includes a wide range of reception and clerical duties which includes answering phone calls, receiving visitors and tradespeople, ordering and maintaining supplies, cafeteria and catering responsibilities, and making transportation arrangements. To apply, please either telephone Barenbrug 03 3188 514 during office hours, or attach your CV, covering letter and email to mail@barenbrug.co.nz.

Closes Monday 9 January 2023.

SITUATION VACANT

GREENDALE SCHOOL KĀNUKA RURUHAU

Cleaner & Caretaker permanent position starting end January/start of February 2023

Visit our website: www.greendale.school.nz

- Our People - Staff Vacancies where the application forms and job information can be downloaded.

Applications close at 5pm, Friday 20th January 2023

SITUATION VACANT

WANTED TO RENT

WANTED to rent, 1 - 2 bedrm cottage in Springfield area. Please phone 027 372 3343.

WANTED

Dunsandel Stop Shop is looking for a full-time cook, with front of house experience and excellent coffee making skills! You will be in charge of food prep every morning, baking, cooking food all day for the hot food cabinets as well as meals. Some serving behind the counter will be required. Being available to work weekends is a must! But don’t worry you get guaranteed weekends off as well, approximately 35 hours per week. If this sounds like something you are interested in please email your CV in to dunsandelstopshop@gmail.com

TRADES

TRADES

TOOLS wanted - mechanics, engineering, wood working etc. Garage, shed, barn clearances, deceased estates etc. Please phone Rob on 03 342 5885.

DEAD Cars - we buy dead cars, end of life cars, scrap cars, old farm vehicles. Cash paid. Please phone 027 484 8121.

WINDOW TINTING

TINT-A-WINDOW Solar Protective films. Fade UV block. Heat Glare control. Privacy. Safety/Security. Frosted films. Free online quotes. Please phone 0800 368 468. info@tintawindow.co.nz www.tintawindow.co.nz

TRADES

JAMES Hunt Residential Ltd. Renovation Specialists. Registered Master Builder. Please phone 027 466 0092. www.jameshuntresidential.co.nz NEW kitchens, wardrobes, laundries or what ever you need! Remodelled or just new doors. Good advice, good price. Ring Lex 03 349 0150 or 027 439 3926.

UPHOLSTERER - Recover lounge suites, dining chairs, squabs etc. Free quotes. Based in Weedons. Please phone 03 980 4979.

The team at Leech Drainage wish to thank all our loyal customers for their support this year.

Office 318 8609 | 0274 338 693 admin@leechdrainage.co.nz

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas, safe New Year & Happy Holidays. The team will be taking a well-earned break and will be closed from 24 December - 9 January. See you in the new year!

This past Christmas, I told my girlfriend that all I wanted was an Xbox. That’s it - beginning and end of list: Xbox. You know what she got me? A homemade frame with a picture of us from our first date together. Which was fine. Because I got her an Xbox!

A teenager brings her new boyfriend home to meet the parents on Christmas Eve. They’re appalled by his haircut, his ta oos, his piercings. Later, the girl’s mum says, “Dear, he doesn’t look to be a very nice boy” “Oh, please, mum!” says the daughter “If he wasn’t nice, would he be doing 500 hours of community service”