Issue 1,130 Friday 12th April 2024

Phone: 03 318 7450

Email: info@malvernnews.co.nz

Website: www.malvernnews.co.nz

PLAYING AND LIVING THE DREAM

SOS TO HONG KONG

Rugby can open thedoor to opportunities; sometimes you just need to be in the rightplaceattherighttime.

One of the West Melton lads, Jack Barnes, who currently plays for Lincoln University recently got a phone call that he just couldn’tsaynoto.

Jack was packing his bags to head to Brunner for Easter when he received a last-minuteinvitationfroma connection (a person who managed his Lincoln Uni Colts team last season) to be part of the Overseas Old Boys Team to play in the Tradition Hong Kong 10’s Tournament.

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The team has played in this competition for the last 10 years and is made up of players from around the world (England, USA, Fiji, Samoa,andNZ).Fourofthe Englishplayerspulledoutat thelastminute,sofourKiwi lads, including ex-local player Tom Ruwhui, got the SOS call. Tom grew up in Kirwee and now plays for NewBrighton.

The Overseas Old Boys Team headed to Hong Kong on Easter Sunday, trained with the team on Monday and Tuesday, then played three games on the

Wednesday,winningtwoand drawingtheirlastgame.They went on to play in the Cup Quarter Finals against Ashbury Tropics (who had ex Crusader Nemani Nadolo in their team) but they lost 7-8, which meant they were destined for the plate final againstScottishExiles,which theylost7-10.

Theteamplayedatotalofsix games in the tournament with Jack and Tom playing in all the games, spending limitedtimeonthebench. The pair stayed on and watched the New Zealand

Men's and Women's 7’s teams both win the Hong Kong7’sTournament.

Jack says, “It was a wonderful experience to travel to another country and play some rugby. Both Tom and I have thoroughly enjoyed it and would like to thank everyone for their support.”

I’m sure we will be hearing moreaboutthesetwoduring theirrugbycareers.

JackBarnescontestingtheline-outin theCupQuarter Finalmatch against AshburyTropics which theynarrowlylost7-8. TomRuwhuiisalso picturedon theright.

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SPREAD THE WARMTH THIS WINTER

A new community project is aimed at helping keep people warm this winter. ‘Spread the Warmth’ is an initiative organised by Darfield Food & ClothingBank. The organisation is seeking donations of warm bedding for thosein need.

For some families keeping warm in winter is a real issue; having enough bedding to keep warm and get a good night’s sleep can be a challenge and with the rising costs of living, particularly high petrol, food, housing and heating costs, money left for new bedding is not an option for somefamilies.

Darfield Food & Clothing Bank manager Rose Craven says, “We want to be prepared

for when the cold weather really hits. We have families coming in from warmer countries to work and they will need warm bedding. New clients with children often need an extra blanket or quilt above what they think the can managewith at present.”

Donations of warm bedding, including blankets, duvets, wool mattress covers, and flannelette sheets, can be dropped off at Rural Tenancy on Telegraph Road or the Malvern News office on South Terrace, Darfield between 9am– 4pm.

SHARING THE DISTRICT'S HISTORY

The Hororātā Historical Society recently provided an informative and enjoyable evening of entertainment with Pimms in the Park held at the Hororātā Domain. Forty people enjoyed beautiful finger food and refreshments within theoldstables.

Early photos of the domain were viewed on a large screen some, including movies of skating on the Edwardian Lake in the early 1960s. The lake was installed in 1906 and was named after Queen Victoria's son, Edward, who was King from1901– 1910.

Jenni Carter and Kate Foster spoke about the history of the domain with some amusing insights into the past. The old stable building was an appropriate place to be hearing some racing history, which dated back to 1885. At

this time, pigeons were used to get the results of each race back to Christchurch. A special train was run on the day to Coalgate and in 1887, 300 people arrived from Christchurch, as well as some of the horses transported by thismethod. During the war, 900 personnel were stationed in Hororātā,

some from America. There was an O.P. (Observation Post) on top ofStJohn'schurch tower. This wonderful domain is still used for many activities. The Hororata Historical Society intends to have more of these popular sociable evenings, sharing the history. There are manymorestoriestobetold.

Agroupofinterestedfolkenjoystoriesaboutearly Hororātā atPimmsin thePark.

Image by freepik

The Malvern News brings you areportfrom your localcommunitygroup, keeping

The Malvern News brings you areportfrom your localcommunitygroup, keeping The brings you areportfrom your localcommunitygroup, keeping

The brings you areportfrom your localcommunitygroup, keeping you in touch with whatishappeningin your area. you in touch with whatishappeningin your area. you touch with whatishappeningin your area. you touch with whatishappeningin your area.

DARFIELD RESIDENTS’ ASSN

Darfield Residents’ Association (DRA) continues to be active in promoting the interests of Darfield on behalf of residents. We have recently had a successful ‘Cleanup Day’ project, where rubbish was collected from the streets in the township. We have also arranged, through KiwiRail, to get the Selwyn District Council to erect effective signage for the Darfield Train Station, given we are one of the few stops on the scenic TranzAlpinerailwayroute. We are currently lobbying Selwyn District Council to drop the targeted ‘Sewerage Investigation Rate’ of $82 per ratepayer per year and to return the unspent amount of $603,400 to Darfield ratepayers. This charge should have stopped in 2020 when

the Council voted to proceed with theseweragescheme. The continued chlorination of our water supplyis a source of worry for numerous residents.

Despite the discouraging responses from the Council, DRA is actively pursuing the creation of a chlorine-free public water station. Our aim is to locate this station ideally at Tussock Square, providing people with access to filtered water.

Aside from our Facebook presence, DRA has launched a website dedicated to showcasing Darfield to both residents and visitors. A key objective of this initiative is to increase awareness and support the development of all our local clubs, sports and recreation groups, community services, and businesses. If

PROPOSED CLOSURE OF THE SHEFFIELD MEMORIAL POOL

BySheffieldSchoolBoard BySheffieldSchoolBoard OfTrustees. OfTrustees. OfTrustees. OfTrustees.

The Selwyn District Council proposed in their Long Term Plan to close the Sheffield Memorial Pool. Whilst the facility is considered at the end of its lifespan, the Sheffield School Board of Trustees (BoT) have been working with external expertise to independently understand the challenges faced with repairing and maintaining the existing facility and exploring the options of building a new facility within the school grounds.

The Board met with community members on the evening of Monday, April 8 to present these options to the community. The meeting quickly established the community’s support for the retention of a swimming facility as one of the few community activities that connects locals in Sheffield, Springfield, and Waddington areas with particular support from community members for

repairingtheexistingfacility. The option of repairing the facility would require the Council to return the asset backtothecommunityand put forward to the community the money proposed for decommissioning for the much neededrepairs.

The Sheffield School BoT would like to encourage community members to support a community entity to take ownership back from the council, repair and maintain the existing facility by way of submissions to the council through the Long Term Plan consultation process. The Board encourage every single community member to have their say by May 2nd to support this wonderful communityfacility.

Tohave your sayvisit: yoursay.selwyn.govt.nz/ltp

Let’stakeclosingthe Let’stakeclosingthe SheffieldMemorialPool offofthetable!

you haven't already, please register your listing on www.darfield.org.nz. The Council’s Long-Term Plan (LTP) is for the next 10 years – what they’re committing to do, how and when, and how it will be paid for. They have some big decisions ahead of them and the LTP is now out for public consultation. We urge residents to make their viewsknown. Ifwe don’tspeak upnow, nothingwillchange! DRA exists to serve the residents of Darfield. Whether you have concerns, ideas, or projects that require assistance, don't hesitate to reach outtousfor supportat darfieldresidentsassociation@ gmail.com. If you're interested in becoming a part of our committee, please get in touch with us.

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By

By

GreendaleSchool GreendaleSchool

The Malvern Spelling Bee is an annual event held at Darfield Primary School Hall every year in Term 1. Lily, Hannah, Ryton and Alexis were selected to be in the Greendale Super Spellers team.Our librarian, Jan, helped us with practicing beforetheevent.

Mrs Harding, the Greendale School principal, organized the Spelling Bee event and Councillor Lydia Gliddon was the Bee Master. The Bee Master called out the words and the teams wrote them down on their pieces of paper. The words were not overly

challenging, but they were not easyeither. There were 10 teams at the Spelling Bee this year.When we arrived at the Hall, we could tell the other schools werenervoustoo. The day went well for our Greendale School team; we won the Spelling Bee and had a great day.Glentunnel School got second place and Darfield Schoolgotthirdplace. Thank you to Mrs Harding for organising the day for the Malvern schoolchildren.

Malvern SpellingBeefirstplacewinnersGreendaleSuper Spellersteamfromleft, Alexis, Hannah, Lily, andRyton

NATIVE PLANTING IN COALGATE

ByLydiaGliddon

ByLydiaGliddon

A brilliant community day was held in Coalgate last Saturday, when over 1000 native plants were planted. It was a great collaboration between Selwyn District Council, Coalgate Residents Committee, Malvern

residents and Bathurst Resources.

Over 40 people showed up to dig, in some challenging conditions, and get these plants in the ground. It's the kind of stuff that makes your heart full when you see a community come together for a common goal. Thank you for all coming out and volunteering. Bathurst Resources donated

over 1000 plants to a staged replanting approach. These plants are all eco-sourced from Bush Gully or Tara Stream. The Bathurst team sourced germinated seeds and haveon-grown manyplants. We are so grateful, not only for thedonation plants, butfor the team who came and helped put them in the ground.

Little nursery - BIG service! Phone Nat or Adrian on 021 258 7241

Alexis, Hannah, Lilyand

Alexis, Hannah, Lilyand Alexis, Hannah, Lilyand Alexis, Hannah, Lilyand Ryton, GreendaleSchool Ryton, Ryton,GreendaleSchool

Selwyn DistrictCouncilplantingteamatCoalgate, fromleftCiaran, Johanna, Joelle andLydia.

COMMITMENT ACKNOWLEDGED

West Melton Netball Club coach Tracy Mangels won the Community Coach of the Year Award at the 2024 Sports Canterbury Sport and Recreation Awards held on Friday, April5.

The trophy is sponsored by University of Canterbury and awarded to a community coach who shows evidence of

success, the creation of a positive culture, and the encouragement of fair play and commitment to their chosen code over the past 12 months.

Tracy fosters fair play, safe environments, and creativity in her coaching approach. Her commitment is evident, having coached for 10 continuous

TraceyMangelswith NewZealandNetballCoach JulieSeymour.

SUPPORTING BRAIN AND BODY HEALTH

Neuro Neuro--latesClassExpandingin

WestMelton latesClassExpandingin WestMelton latesClassExpandingin WestMelton latesClassExpandingin WestMelton West Melton's commitment to holistic health gains momentum with a popular Neuro-lates class. Designed and facilitated by Kim Churton, the class has received encouraging feedback in Term 1 with 11 participants taking part in the first programme and one member reporting that the balancing exercises have helpedher enormously.

Tailored for individuals managing acquired neurological conditions, but suitable for anyone wanting to work on brain and body health, the class offers gentle exercises in seated or supported standing positions. From strength-building to improving balance, coordination, and flexibility, participants engageattheir own levelin afun, supportiveenvironment.

Kim's background as a Speech-Language Therapist, Pilates instructor, Yogateacher, andLifeCoach allows multiple physical and cognitive elements to be included in the programme fostering a comprehensive approach to wellness and delivered in a fun, diverse and social manner. The incorporation of activities such as breathwork and singing has been well received by participants, supporting communication and social connection.

Due to increased interest, a second class has been added to the Term 2 timetable with all classes starting back from April 29. Additionally, a new Pilates for Beginners class has also been added to offer a gentle introduction to those who are completelynewtoPilatesor mayberecoveringfrominjury.

For those interested in joining this journey towards well-being, please see the timetable on this page. Feel free to reach out via phone or emailif you areinterestedin becoming partofthis welcomingandsupportivewellbeingcommunity.

years for her club, and more recently, at a representative level.

Other nominees included: Victoria Law from Marching Canterbury, Riley Chandler from Canterbury Hockey Association, Paul Dillon from Oxford Football Club and Nigel Nevin fromPapanuiSoftball.

NEW ZEALAND POLO RECOGNITION

JamesReidfromKirweewas recentlyselectedin theNew ZealandPoloEndofSeason 2024SchoolSquads. Thepurposeofthesesquads istorecogniseandreward playersplayingatahigh level.

SISTER CITY TEACHERS WANTED

An opportunity to teach overseashas becomeavailable through the Selwyn Council Sister City (SCSC) programme. The SCSC Committee has been asked by two of its overseas partners to help recruit teacherstoworkoverseas.

Selwyn’s Sister City in Indonesia is in Toraja, in the highlands of Sulawesi. Toraja is a coffee growing, mainly Christian community. In 2019, three retired Selwyn teachers spent up to three weeks each working with Junior High School English teachers to assist their teaching practice to more interactive. Last year, one of the Toraja teachers spent three weeks in Selwyn, mainly at Rolleston College, observing teaching and learning.

Now Barana Christian Senior High School is asking if there are three or four Selwyn retired teachers, or teachers on sabbatical, who would spend three to four weeks in their school helping to further develop an English environment for their

students. Barana is a boarding school that draws students fromthroughoutIndonesia.

New Zealand teachers' pay their own travel to Sulawesi costs and insurance. Once there, their accommodation, transport and tourism activities are paid for by Barana Christian community. September is the preferred month weatherwise.

Toraja culturally is unique with traditional long houses, coffee grown by small farmers, and buffalo are an important aspectoffuneralprocesses.

The second request is for full time teachers to join the teaching staff of Lanzhou City University, in Gansu Province in China. Lanzhou is in northwest China and is situated on the Yellow River. Historically, it was on the Silk Route.

Lanzhou City University was originally the Bailie Oil School established by Rewi Alley and George Hogg. Rewi Alley was born in Springfield in Canterbury and educated in Amberley and Christchurch. The Bailie schools were

established to provide vocational education for the ruralpoor.

Lanzhou City University is looking to recruit English teachers with more than one year’s teaching experience and a minimum of a bachelor's degree for a year-long contract. A salary range is paid, and a contribution made towards return travel after one year. Accommodation is provided in a fully furnished apartment with free internet access.

Both experiences give you an opportunity to share your expertise and experience differentcultures.

For moreinformation

For moreinformation twoopportunities, please twoopportunities, please twoopportunities, twoopportunities, contactSelwyn Sister Citiesat contactSelwyn Sister Citiesat Selwynsistercities@gmail.com. Selwynsistercities@gmail.com.

For moreinformation on these

For moreinformation on these

Lanzhou CityUniversityislookingfor English teachers. PicturedistheRewi AlleydisplayattheUniversity.

Torajaisknown for itsunique traditionallonghouses.

FORTY-YEAR ANNIVERSARY

“Loving your job” is the secret to longevity at Darfield High School for student administrator JillHill.

Jill recently celebrated a major milestone – 40 years of service to the school. She says she has loved her job and has seen students progress through the school as new entrants and returning as parents and sometimes as grandparents of current students.

Jill started as a Science Technician but has mostly served in the front office and asschoolnurse/firstaider. She has seen thousands of students in her time, estimated by principal Andy England at over 5,000 and he says she has an amazing memory for faces, names and relationships.

Jill has worked with five principals during this time and staff say she has a wealth of knowledge about the local community and is the go to person when they need to know something about pretty much anyone or anything, past andpresent.

Current students say she is helpful, knows the school like

the back of her hand, helps those who get lost, is competent, and is a friendly faceduringtheschool day.

Jill is not hanging up her glasses just yet, and staff, parents and students alike will continue to enjoy her presence and helpful advice at theschool.

JillHillcelebrateswith staff 40yearsofserviceatDarfieldHigh School.

Please contact us to make an appointment in one of the four convenient office locations.

Kate Warren Senior Associate

Mobile: 027 384 3054

Email: kate.warren@tp.co.nz

Rolleston & Darfield: 03 317 9099

Christchurch: 03 374 9999

Ashburton: 03 308 4188

Darfield office open: Mon & Thurs, 9 - 5pm or by appointment

GOVERNMENT UPDATE

Itrusteveryone enjoyed a happy Easter with friendsandfamily.

I am slowly starting to return to MP duties – as and when my 12-week-old baby allows.

In March, I had a great time at the Children's Day and the Malvern Show and have spoken at the opening of an art exhibition at Kate Sheppard House, as well as attended the opening of the multi-milliondollar New Zealand Riverland pet food plant in Hornby, and the Christchurch Hospital new birthingunit.

The Government has announced its latest action plan, outlining the dozens of things we will do in the next few months. In our first 100 days, we stopped work on wasteful projects to reduce government spending, scrapping the Ute Tax, Jobs Tax, and Auckland Regional Fuel Tax, and cancelling fuel

tax hikes this term to ease the financial burden on New Zealanders.

We are now ready to take the next steps in the plan to build a stronger economy so we can all enjoy the public services weshouldexpect.

We have set 36 action points that need to be achieved by June 30, focused on three key areas: rebuilding the economy and easing the cost of living, restoring law and order, and delivering better public services.

To ease the cost of living, we will pass a budget that reduces wasteful spending and takes pressure off inflation. Like we promised during the election campaign, our first Budget will also legislate for personal income tax relief and provide up to $75 per week to help with early childhood education costs.

To restore law and order, we will push ahead with extending

rehabilitation to prisoners on remand and pass laws to bring back the Three Strikes law to deter repeat, serious offenders.

To deliver better public services and improve health education, we will set targets for those responsible ministries for them to deliver on.

Finally, news that will be of interest to our local builders and tradies, just last week we announced changes to make it easier and more affordable to build byeliminating barriers to using overseas products. This will be a much-welcomed change, asthecost ofbuilding has risen by 41% since 2019. Building a stand-alone house here is now 50% more expensivethan in Australia!

With the number of subdivisions pending in Selwyn, these changes will deliver real cost-of-living savings to families in our community.

LOCAL MP CELEBRATES WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Nicola Grigg recently attended a local celebration of International Women's Day in Selwyn. The event was organised by The Empowerment Project and provided a great opportunity for women who are either in business or looking to start a business to come together, share their stories, ideas, and strategies. She says, “I also had the chance to speak about my own

career journey – hopefully other women with an interest in politics will now see that if I can doit, theycan too.”

“The best part of the evening,” says Nicola, “was that the proceeds raised by the event were donated to Aviva, an organisation dedicated to preventing family harm. Their work is truly extraordinary.”

FUNDRAISER HELPS WITH SCHOOL FEES

A recent fundraiser to help carry the costs of students’ fees throughout the year has proved to be a success.

Students who signed up for the school fundraiser took on the challenge of selling frozen croissants, receiving 30% of theprofitfromtheir sales.

Darfield High School co-

ordinator Pip Deans says, “We sold over $11,340 worth of croissants, which is an amazingeffortbyeveryone.” The promotion was aimed at supporting students and by signing up to sell the frozen croissants, they directly contributed to their account to helpcover their schoolcosts.

With Nicola Grigg. With Nicola Grigg. With Nicola Grigg. With Nicola Grigg. It's hard to believe that April is alreadyhere–

LATEST PUBLICATION

Greendale author Sandra Arnold is excited to reveal the cover of her new book, Below Ground, due to be published by UK-based publisher Imspired.

Available on Amazon in midJuly,BelowGroundfeatures 77 flash fiction stories that explore the themes of social dislocation, bullying and disconnection through childhood, adulthood and old age, as well as the ways in which healing, and connection maybefound.

In her frank, cleverly constructed prose, Sandra delves into a side of humanity she finds intriguing. “I chose those themes because of situations I’ve observed, and I’m always interested in the different ways people react,” she says. “Some people are permanently damaged while othersbecomestronger.”

She began writing the stories for Below Ground during a writing residency at the Robert Lord Writers Cottage in Dunedin in 2020, during which time two of the stories were nominatedforBestMicrofiction and the Pushcart Prize. Below Ground will be her eighth published book; her previous

books include novels, short stories and non-fiction: Where the Wind Blows (Truth Serum Press, Australia), The Ash, the Well and the Bluebell (Makaro Press, NZ), Soul Etchings (Retreat West Books, UK), Sing No Sad Songs (Canterbury University Press, NZ),ADistractionofOpposites (Hazard Press, NZ), Tomorrow’s Empire (Horizon Press,NZ).

Sandra became attracted to writing flash fiction after a conversation several years ago with poet James Norcliffe who is a master of the form. She lovesthewayflashfiction,with its maximum of 1,000 words per story, engages the reader’s imagination through minimuminformation.

She says this means every word must count without revealing too much of the backstory or the likely outcome. “Flash fiction often uses poetic language, but unlike poetry, it relates a complete storywith beginning, middle and end, though not necessarilyinthatorder.” PeopleoftenaskSandrawhere she gets her ideas. She says that ideas are everywhere. “They are there in overheard conversations, expressions on faces, memories, dreams and the different ways in which people interact. All of these, mixed with imagination and followed by a great deal of editing, produce stand-alone stories.”

Author Sandra Arnoldislookingforwardtotherelease ofher newbookofflash fiction stories BelowGround.

GREENDALE METHODIST CHURCH TO CELEBRATE 150 YEARS

• Screened/Crushed Rotten Rock

• Compacts Like Concrete

• Bulk Deliveries - Truck & Trailer

• Lifestyle Driveways - Free Quotes

• Rotten Rock Dairy Lanes

• AP20

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• Drainage

• Erosion

• Landscape

Greendale used to be known as the ‘Holy City’ with three churches and in the early 1900’s a large family with the surnameofChurch. Todayonly the Methodist Church remains and it is part of the Malvern Co-operating Parish. Early Methodist services were held in the early sod whares and the blacksmiths shop. The first church was built by John Frew, a local builder and the ancestor of the present Frew family. It opened on 4 May 1874 and now 150 years later a celebration will be held on 5 May. This first church was extended in 1894 to allow for fifty to sixty extra people but was demolished after the present Church was opened in 1958. Nearly 500 people attended this opening. While the organisers are not expecting this number, they are hoping that both present and past members will wish to attend. Annie Adams nee Early who will turn 100 this year is believed to be the oldest past member but she will be unable

toattend.

Anyone and indeed everyone who has any connection with the Greendale Methodist Church or who just wants to join in the celebration is welcome. Many families have a connection with the Sunday School which was the only one operatingfor manyyears. Rev. Lionel Brown who was the minister in the 1980’s, along with his wife Rachelle will be attending, as will Rev. Stephanie Wells, minister 2012. Rev. Mark Gibson, son of the late Rev. Loyal Gibson

who designed the Church window will also be there. An opportunity for family and friendstorenewlinks.

The service on May 5th will start at 10.30am followed by the unveiling of a plaque, the planting of a tree and photos. There will be a light lunch at theGreendaleHall. While it is not necessary to register it would be helpful to the organisers so that numberscan beobtained. Registration can be via email Registration can be via email Registration can Registration can to: greendalechurch150@ to: to:greendalechurch150@ greendalechurch150@ gmail. com gmail. gmail.com com gmail. com

OldGreendaleMethodistChurch.

OLDEST BAT IN NEW ZEALAND

Meet ‘T7787,’ a long-tailed bat matriarch that’s just been awarded the title of Aotearoa New Zealand’s oldest known bat!

She was caught this summer as part of an ongoing pekapeka monitoring programme in the Eglinton valley, Fiordland, and determined to be a recordbreaking26-years-old.

Our Principal Scientist, Colin O'Donnell, leads the bat monitoring work and remembers catching T7787 back in 2000 when she was a young mother. She's since produced a pup every year for

20 years and will now be the matriarch of many bat generations. Despite a few grey hairs she seems to be in good overall health and is showing signs that she's now stoppedbreeding. The old age of T7787 indicates that predator control in the Eglinton valley is having a positive effect on long-tailed bats in the area. Prior to 2000, the population was declining by 5% per year, but that has been reversed and is now growing by 5% thanks to large-scale predator control using trapping, bait stations andaerial1080.

• Site & Garden Clearance

• Lawn Construc'on (Small & Large)

• Hole boring (200 – 600)

•

•

• Driveways Give Neil a call on 022 451 7207 or email neiljudith@xtra.co.nz Nothing’s a Problem!

Long-tailedbat‘T7787’, she isbelievedtobetheoldest batin AotearoaNewZealand.

Photo: Keith Barber

Photo: Jennifer Gollin.

DARFIELD HIGH SCHOOL AG EXPO A SUCCESS

Darfield High School’s Rural College inaugural Ag Expo, held last Friday in the school hall, was deemed a success with over 200 students from Year 9 to Year 13 receiving an opportunityto engage with key industry stakeholders.Twentyfive students and two teachers from Ellesmere College also attendedtheevent.

Co-ordinator Pip Deans says the purpose of the expo was to provide students with a first -hand look at the diverse range of businesses that support farmers in the community.

“By participating in this event, businesses had the opportunity to showcase their services and engage directly with our students, offering them valuable insights into the agricultural industry and the various career paths available.”

Each business had the opportunity to talk about their business and how they support the farming community. Some provided interactive activities and quizzes for the students togetthemthinking.

“It was great to have a number of ex Darfield High School students, who now work in agricultural businesses or support businesses, pass on their knowledge,”saysPip.

She adds that feedback from the businesses has been positive and supportive, including some feedback for futureevents. “It was great for all of them to get behind

us and see the value in engaging our students now, while at school. Building relationships with farmers and businesses is an essential element to our Ag Programmes and we welcome anysupport.”

Pip says they already have other businesses asking to join them for their next Ag Expo, which will be held in Term 1, 2025 “Our vision is to include additional businesses and possibly inviting more schoolstojoin us.” Students share their feedback fromtheevent.

Poppy Molloy (Yr 10) says, “There were lots stands telling us about things like cropping, shearing, cow identification, seeds and bees. I really enjoyed learning about differentpartsoffarmingthatI

haven’tcomeacross.”

Ryan Thomas (Yr12) says, “The ag expo at school had heaps of different stalls. It was good to walk around and ask questions about what they alldoin theagindustry. Itwas a great opportunity with lots of puzzles, quizzes and activities all to do with what their jobswere.”

Harley Scobie adds, “We had the awesomeopportunity to be able to talk to a lot of local businesses about potential opportunities to work in theag industry, we also had Drummond and Etherege come in and I was talking to them about the type of opportunitiesthat they have. We also were able to try Kirwee Bee’s honey – holy molyitwasnice.”

explainingwoolsamples tosomeYear 9Girlsthatattendedthe Expo.

END OF SEASON BOWLS RESULTS

Kirwee Bowling Club celebrated the end of the season on Sunday, March 24 with the traditional play-off of the Men’s and Women’s club champions: the Rinks, the Triples, the Pairs and the Senior and Junior Singles. There were no contenders for the First and Second Year Singlesthis year.

While the men won the Rinks and the Triples games, the women won the other three games, making them the recipients of the Jenkins Tray. The Rinks win earned the men the Harrison Salver. The final trophy that stood to be won on the day was the V & A Trophy for the winner of the Junior Singles – in this case

LizMcKay.

ClubChampionshipWinners ClubChampionshipWinners Men

Rinks: LyndsayWild(Skip), John Tate, DaveMcConchie, BobAdams.

Triples: Ken May(Skip), Dave McConchie, Lindsay Westaway.

Pairs: GeoffGriffiths(Skip), Ron Glassey.

Open Singles: BruceMonro.

Junior Singles: BruceMonro. 1st& 2ndYear Singles: Ron Glassey.

Women Women Women Women

Rinks: RosieCroft(Skip), Allison Lalor, LorraineAdams, JanetDysart.

Triples: AnneMay(Skip), ElvaGlassey, JacqSime.

Pairs: Marian Galloway(Skip), JanetDysart.

OpenSingles:MarianGalloway

Junior Singles: LizMcKay.

MichelleWebster

PTA

FUNDRAISER ENJOYED BY ALL

All those who took part in the day, players, organisers, and volunteers, deemed the Swing for a Cause fundraiser a success.

Twenty-four teams registered for Darfield Primary School PTA’sinauguraleventheld last Sunday at the Hororata Golf Course. Over 80 sponsors donated to the prize pool and over 110 raffles were won plus eight items were sold at auction.

PTA organisers say the day was beautiful and players raved about the course and the Club’s hospitality. The full day of events included golf, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, drinks, raffle, auction, and prizegiving. Funds raised (the tally is yet to be calculated) from the day will go towards a new spacious and modern playground for DarfieldPrimarySchool. The PTA wish to thank all those who participated and a special thanks to the event’s Gold Sponsors: Mitchell Sawmill Brothers andChristchurch European. A Darfield Primary School spokesperson commented “So many people helped make this day a huge success but

special recognition should go to the following people: Claire Stevenson, Aline de Souza, Gemma Smith and Melissa Savage. The school would also like to recognise the contribution of the Hororata Golf Course - you were fabuloushosts.”

RESULTS RESULTS

1st:TeamGreen 53.25 1st:TeamGreen 53.25 1st:TeamGreen 53.25 1st:TeamGreen 53.25

Don Adams, John Ridgen, Nelson Early& TonyZwart

2nd:Chickswith Sticks55.875 2nd:Chickswith Sticks55.875 2nd:Chickswith 2nd:Chickswith ClaireStevenson, Nicky Muir, AngelaMowbray& GemmaSmith

3rd:D Town Destroyers56 3rd:D Town Destroyers56 3rd:D Destroyers56 3rd:D Destroyers56

AdamSweetman, Andrew Bell, MattGregg& Jason Elvy.

4th:ForePlay56.875 4th:ForePlay56.875 4th:ForePlay56.875 4th:ForePlay56.875

WillDavidson, JackKennedy, Isaac Earl& HarleyGray

5th:Christchurch European 5th:Christchurch European 5th:Christchurch European 5th:Christchurch European 57 57 57 (ByCountback)NikiMills, MickKain, Dan Martin & Cameron Hall

ClosesttothePin Females ClosesttothePin Females ClosesttothePin Females ClosesttothePin Females

Hole6: SueHammersley

Hole17: SandraGilmour

ClosesttothePin Male ClosesttothePin Male ClosesttothePin ClosesttothePin

Hole11: JackKennedy

Hole14: GregBram

LongestDrive LongestDrive

Female: NickyMuir

Male: Dan Martin

DARFIELD JUNIOR TENNIS 2023/24 SEASON

ByRichardHindle, ByRichardHindle, Junior Co Junior JuniorCo Co Junior Co--ordinator ordinator ordinator

Another year of summer tennis is over, with all the kids getting ready for their winter codes.

On Friday, March 15, we held our junior tennis end-ofseason prize-giving. The weather was very poor, so instead of outside games, we ran an impromptu kid’s quiz, followed by a feed of sausages andhotchips. With the ongoing professional coaching, players are improving every season, making it very hard for the team managers to pick their top playersfor theseason, but the top four were finely decided.

Junior Clubwinnersfor the Junior Clubwinnersfor the Junior the Junior the 2023/24season were:

OverallGirl:BrookeButler

OverallBoy:JamesManning

MostImprovedGirl:JamieHunt

MostImprovedBoy:RileySmith

Teamwinnersfor the2023/24 the2023/24 season were: season seasonwere: were: season were:

Div2Knights:CameronCridge

Div3Avengers: Ashleigh Rhodes& JamieHunt

Div3Ninjas: LukaRuddenklau & RileySmith

Div3Titans: LeviVincent& YannickRuddenklau

Div4Challengers: ArchieOrangi, AdriannaHeasley &Casper Grimme.

I’d like to say a big thank you to all the parents for taking the time to get involved in their children’s sport, and special thanks to those who took on the role of team managers, especially Katie Molloy for all the extra work she puts into the juniors, wouldn’t work without this help.

DISTRICT PRODUCING SWIMMERS

Darfield Primary School student Ayden Taljaard (10) loves to swim and has been swimming since he was five years old. His father says he loves swimming so much that he would probably try and swim in a puddle if he could. He swims at the Selwyn Aquatic School, is in a squad and is beginning to prepare for competitiveswimming.

Ayden recently represented Malvern at the Canterbury Primary School Swimming Sports and came third in the

Boys 50 SC Metre Backstroke

Year 5 and fourth in the Boys 50 SC Metre Free Year 5. Only the best primary school-aged swimmers compete at this event and competition is fierce.

Other local schools that did well in the swimming sports were West Melton School, which came fifth in the Boys 200 SC Metre Year 7 Freestyle

Relay, Darfield High School which came fourth in the Girls 200 SC Metre Year 7 Freestyle

Relay and Saphia Ridgen, from

Darfield High School, who camefourth in theGirls100SC MetreBackstrokeOpen.

Ayden Taljaard

BrookeButler, TopJunior Girl.

JamesManning, TopJnr Boy.

WAIMAK GOLF WAIMAK

The Malvern Farmers Vet Club Charitable Trust (MFVCCT) would like to invite individuals, community groups and organisations to apply for grants from our organisation.

The MFVCCT purpose is to advance the welfare of our rural community and the individuals connected to the community.

This involves distributing grants that meet the following criteria:

• The strengthening of charitable community and voluntary organisations involved in the relief of poverty

• The advancement of education

• The provision of financial support for specific community projects that advance charitable purposes

• The strengthening of charitable community and voluntary organisations

• The provision of financial and other support in anticipation of or in response to emergencies or adverse events

• The enhancement and retention of essential services that advance charitable purposes. To apply for grants please visit: mfvc.org.nz or email mfvcinfo@gmail.com for more information.

All applications to be received by 30th April 2024

CATTERY

on

CELEBRANT

CLEANER WANTED

3HRS 3HRS 3HRS 3HRS weekly. Light cleaning. Based in Hororata. Hrs and days negotiable. Please phone0272586026.

OXFORD OXFORD

BOARDING BOARDING

KENNELS KENNELS

312 Kiri Kiri Rd, Oxford

Phone Jude & Bevan Blackmore 03 312 3355 027 288 8724

OPEN 7 DAYS 9am-11am, 4:30pm-6:30pm

MEADOW MEADOW MEADOW hay. Conventional bales. Good quality. $10 per bale. No rain. Shed stored. Ph 03 318 8072. Greendale pickup.

Malvern Lions have PEA STRAW AVAILABLE

$7 per small bale. Medium squares pea straw also available! Phone now for free delivery.

• Hugh Wright

Sheffield - 021 565 550

• Les Clement Darfield - 027 318 1165

• Andrew Brooker Kirwee - 027 432 6176

• Stu Lill

Kirwee - 03 347 6770

• Anthony Dalzell Coalgate - 027 240 6501

MALVERN NEWS

DEADLINE: 10am, Tuesday Weddings • Namings

Renewal of Vows Renewal of Vows Renewal of Vows Renewal of Vows Funerals Funerals Funerals Funerals

• Interments Interments Interments Interments

JENNI GIBSON

Ph: 03 324 8332

M: 021 723 089 www.newzealandcelebrant.nz

Jo Babe - Wedding Celebrant 0274323360 jobabenz8@gmail.com www.jobabecelebrant.co.nz

For your personalised wedding ceremony

CHIMNEY CLEANING

CARRS CARRS Chimney Cleaning. Servicing the Selwyn district. $80 per chimney. Please ph Rodney on 03 324 2999 and leaveamessage.

CHIM 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 anysizedopenfire.Wequote and undertake repairs, flue extensions and install bird netting. Please phone us on 021939113.

FIREWOOD & COAL

GENERAL GENERAL GENERAL garden maintenance in Darfield area. Domestic hedge trimming, pruning, edging, lawns and water blasting. Please phone Kane 0274676613.

towels with black roses. Please phone0272586026 GIFTS

PAINTING/DECORATING

ROOF MAINTENANCE

• Sections

• Kerbsides

Competitive Rates

Free Quotes

P: 027 432 4533

MORTGAGE BROKER

ARE ARE you in needof a refinance, first home loan, buying a new home, investment property or a property development? I deal with all the lenders, and I can get you the best deal to suit you. I have 30+ years of lending experience, and I am local. I can come to you. Alan Lover Loan Market 027 2516644. I bring the bankstoyou.

SITUATION VACANT

MOSS MOSS MOSS control, silicone seal (waterproofing), spouting clean& repairs,birdproofing, spider & fly control. Roof leak repairs (incl Butynol) all roof & spoutingtypes incl2 storey work! Call Arthurs Roof & Property Services, 6 days. 03 3472635or0275847980.

PAINTING/DECORATING

SITUATION VACANT

Day Relievers

Darfield High School is a rural year 7 to 13 school We are currently looking to employ day relievers to join our relief pool, who can cover a variety of subjects.

Secondary and Primary teachers who are trained and registered should send their CV including two current teaching referees to be considered for day relief.

To apply for this position email: trish@darfield.school.nz

Human Resources Coordinator

Darfield High School Tel: 03 318-8411

FIREWOOD & COAL

KARMA KARMA Kids. Personalised embroidery. Mother’s Day Special - White hand

required for local, well established salon. Part time to start but could build to full time.

Contract + commission or competitive hourly rate + bonus. Please phone the owner for more details: 021 353 794.

Springfield School / Te Pou Tī Kōuka

Scale A Teacher

Fixed Term, Part Hme, FTTE 0.4

Starts beginning of Term 2 2024, or by negoHaHon

We seek an innova've and vibrant teacher to join our wonderful rural school. We are situated 45 minutes West of Christchurch at the foothills to the Alps. With amazing outdoor pursuits at our doorstep and a great community feel, this could be just the job for you!

We seek a teacher who is able to build quality rela'onships with students and someone who:

• Contributes to all aspects of life at a rural school

• Works effec'vely both collabora'vely and independently

• Passionate about taking the learning outdoors

• Comfortable u'lizing digital technologies to effec'vely enhance learning

• Is happy to work across all levels, with the posi'on being primarily with Year 4-6.

• As we are a Structured Literacy School, experience in this area would be preferred.

Please make clear in your applica'on your skills, strengths and passions.

ApplicaHons close on Friday 26 April at 5pm.

For enquiries and an applica'on pack please contact: office@springfield.school.nz

Call Brian at Spiderban 027 471 7001 027 471 7001 027 027 SHREDDING SHREDDING

Call Brian at Spiderban

ROOM TO RENT

SINGLE SINGLE lockable rooms in Darfield Hostel. Internet, Sky TV. $180pw. Please phone 0274791431.

SITUATION WANTED

EXPERIENCED EXPERIENCED EXPERIENCED EXPERIENCED stockman looking for work. Tractor driving experience. GST registered. Please phone 0225747805

Rural Tenancy Rural Tenancy Rural Rural Inspections. Inspections. Inspections. Inspections. Also providing Total Rural and Residential Property Management Solutions. Phone Rebecca 027 313 2270 or rebecca@ruraltenancy.co.nz TENANCY

AMMUNITION AMMUNITION AMMUNITION and reloading equipment. Powder projectiles, presses etc. Any caliber rifle / shotgun. Anything hunting related. Cash buyer. Please contact Rob033425885.

WANTED TO LEASE

Dexi (my pooch) and

been living in

s for

years. We are looking for somewhere permanent to call home in the Malvern Hills/neighbouring districts. It must be private, independent, and fully self-contained, able to connect to the internet. I am self-employed and work full-time.

P: Russell

P: Russell 0223508359

E: E:

E: russell.t.blackney@gmail.com

E: russell.t.blackney@gmail.com

WINDOW CLEANING

WANTED TO BUY WINDOW

TINT-A-WINDOW

Solar Protective films. Fade UV block. Heat Glare control. Privacy. Safety/ Security. Frosted films. Free online quotes. Ph 0800 368 468. info@tintawindow.co.nz www.tintawindow.co.nz

KITCHENS KITCHENS - new or renovate existing with new doors and bench tops, wardrobes, laundries, vanities made to size. Built-in bookcases and wall units, melamine or timber desks, buffets, tables or any furniture. Great prices and advice. Please phone Lex 027 4393926or3490150.

Phone 03 318 1973

or 027 421 1637

dean.hardy.builder@gmail.com

At an art gallery, a woman and her 10 year old son were having a tough time choosing between two paintings. They finally chose and went with the autumn themed one. “I see you prefer an autumn scene as opposed to a spring one,” said the gallery owner, who happened to be nearby and witnessed the mother-son interaction.

“No,” said the boy. “This painting is wider, so it’ll cover the three holes I put in the wall.”

Jessie is telling Sam about the new mechanic in the neighborhood.

"I'm telling you Sam, that's a mechanic you can trust!" "Really?"

"Oh yeah, I thought he was going to charge me a lot of money for a lot of made up repairs, but he didn't. He only charged me for changing the light blinker fluid."