Rachael Inch, from Glenroy, has recently been appointed Chairperson of the Canterbury/ West Coast Branch of the New Zealand Deer Farmers Association (NZDFA), bringing with her a wealth of experience in rural life, governance, and community service.
The NZDFA, which supports16 active branches and one associated society across the country, is focused on helping deer farmers maximise sustainable benefits and maintaining strong links between the farming community, the wider agricultural industry, and the public. At a local level, branches like Canterbury/West
Coastplayakeyroleinfeeding back to the NZDFA Executive Committee and Deer Industry NewZealand—offeringinsights and advice on how to keep improvingtheindustry.
For Rachael and her husband Rodney,deerfarminghasbeen a family-centred journey.
“Rodney, a sixth-generation farmer, and I bought our farm 15 years ago and quickly decided deer would be our main focus,” she shared. “My father-in-law, Harold Inch— whorecentlypassedawayfrom motor neuron disease—was a major influence. We talked daily about farming, the country, regulations, and mostlyabouthisvision:forour family to keep farming, for the
loveoftheland.”
It was Harold who helped shape their approach to working with deer in their
Rachael Inch
Castle Hill’s Easter Art Weekend Page 2
Hororata Black Diamonds Shine in Singapore Page 12
Opening Hours 7:30am - 5pm
FREE SKIN CANCER SPOT CHECKS
• Educare Ph 318 7943
• 3 Year Ph 318 7948
• 4 Year Ph 318 8843 EDUCARE
Any queries phone: 027 627 8993
Email: Darfield@playcentre.org.nz
Melanoma New Zealand’s Nurse Educator will be in Darfield on Monday, May 5, offering free skin cancer spot checks and melanoma education from 10:30am –2:30pm at the Darfield CommunityLibrary.
Thisisauniqueopportunityfor people in the community to receive a free five-minute and non-invasive spot check in a private space, from a trained melanoma Nurse Educator and learn life-saving advice and informationaboutmelanoma.
Andrea Newland, Melanoma New Zealand Chief Executive, says, “I am delighted we’re bringing our free spot checks to the Darfield and wider Malvern community, and I encourage people to come
along and make the most of this opportunity. Since launching the service five years ago we’ve performed more than 20,000 checks and detected more than 2,000 suspicious lesions including nearly 600 suspected melanomas, so it’s critical in ourfighttosavelives.”
Please note that the Nurse Educatorwillcheckuptothree spots. This is not a full body check, and a diagnosis is not provided. Regular full body skin checks by your GP, dermatologist, surgeon, or plastic surgeon are still recommended.
No appointment is necessary. However, as this is a public event, spot checks will be provided on a first-come, firstserved basis. If you cannot be seen on the day, you can book an online consultation with a Melanoma New Zealand Nurse Educator at melanoma.org.nz (or digital link here) melanoma.org.nz/how-we-canhelp-you/appointmentbooking/.
New Zealand has the highest
mortality rate from melanoma in the world. More than 7,000 melanomas are diagnosed in New Zealand every year, and around300 die from it.In fact, more people die from skin cancer each year in New Zealandthan onourroads.But most skin cancers are preventable, and if recognised and treated early enough, melanoma is almost always curable.
La Roche-Posay, the proud sun -safe supporter of Melanoma New Zealand, helps to make Melanoma New Zealand’s community spot check service possible.
For anyone wishingto For anyone wishingto For For support Melanoma New support Melanoma New support support Zealand, you can donate at Zealand, you can donate at Zealand, you donate at Zealand, you donate at melanoma.org.nz/donate or melanoma.org.nz/donate melanoma.org.nz/donateor phone 0800 463 526. phone 0800 463 526.
Kieran Heenan kph@meareswilliams.co.nz
Anita Molloy-Roberts am@meareswilliams.co.nz
W: www.meareswilliams.co.nz
T: (03) 374 2547
SELWYN STARS TALENT SEARCH
Can you sing, dance or play an instrument? Selwyn District Council is searching for the next Selwyn Star that will get audiencessinginganddancingin theirseats!
Heats will take place on Friday, May 9, 6–8pm at the Rolleston CommunityCentre,FridayMay16, 6–8pm at the Lincoln Event
Centre and Friday, May 23, 6–8pm, Darfield Recreation and CommunityCentre.Itcosts$5to enter with age groups ranging from5to13yearsand14to18 years;heatsarefreetowatch. Thefinaleventwilltakeplaceon Saturday, May 31, 6-8pm at the RollestonCommunityCentre.
WINTER BRINGS INCREASED RISK TO PRIVATE DRINKING WATER SUPPLIES
With winter setting in and wetter conditions on the way, Environment Canterbury is encouraging rural landowners to check and test their private bores to make sure their drinkingwaterstayssafe.
The combination of wetter soils, deeper drainage, and potential surface flooding during the colder months can increase the chance of contaminantsmakingtheirway into groundwater – especially if your bore isn’t well protected.
Simple steps can make a big di erence in keeping your watersafe.
Bores should be fenced o from livestock by at least five metres and kept well clear of potential contamination sources like septic tanks, rubbish dumps, e uent areas, or where chemicals and fertilisersareused.
Your borehead should be at least half a metre above the ground and securely sealed to prevent stormwater from gettingintoyoursupply.
Install a backflow preventer to stop contaminants siphoning backintothewell.
If your property experiences flooding, heavy rain, snow, or longpoweroutages,itissafest
to boil any water before drinking it – and let anyone elseusingtheboreknowtodo thesame.
Getyourwatertestedregularly – nitrate, E. coli, and even metals like lead, copper or arsenic can all a ect water qualityandhealth.
“Many private bores are in good condition, but winter is a great time to double-check yours is up to scratch,” says Dr Elaine Moriarty, Environment Canterbury Water and Land Science Manager. “Protecting your water supply protectsyou andyourwhanau’shealth.”
See advert below. See advert below. See See
CASTLE HILL’S EASTER ART WEEKEND
A wonderful celebration of creativity over the Easter weekendwasenjoyedbymany visitors to the 9th biennial Easter Art Weekend at Castle Hill.Themainexhibitioninthe village hall showcased 110 pieces from 36 different artists. With the recent extension of the village hall, theenhancedspacebeautifully complemented the display of creativity nestled in the mountainlandscape.
Supported by the Castle Hill Community Association, the opening evening was beautifully calm, and thankfully dry, providing a perfect setting to unveil the artworks. On display were oils, acrylics, pastels, and watercolour paintings, as well as sculptures in ceramic and stone. These sat alongside photographs, prints, pen and ink drawings, and textiles, forming a rich and diverse collection.
On Saturday and Sunday, the main exhibition was complemented by workshops
around the village and smaller artworks and crafts for sale in the SDC community marquee. The event was a vibrant displayofcreativityinspiredby the surrounding landscape. Visitors were well fuelled by Village Coffee and delicious cakes and slices, eagerly servedbyan enthusiastic team of younger volunteers. Saturday’sweatherwasperfect for the variety of children’s workshops, which included craft activities, beading, trickle -painted stones, Zentangle, and lantern and knotted pixie making. Adults enjoyed a similarlyengagingline-upwith a geology walk, a photography walk, stone carving, natural wreath making, and forest bathing workshops. The final activity of the day was the children’s Chalk the Court competition, which showcased endless creativity from young artists—earning them welldeservedprizes.
That evening, Sarah Deans delivered an interesting and informative talk on how to
engage your brain to tap into your creativity — a lovely conclusion to a full and inspiringSaturday. Sunday began with children discovering that the Easter Bunny had been busy in the highcountryduringtheAnnual Great Easter Egg Hunt, followed by more kids' workshops. Adults enjoyed a second geology walk, deeper forest bathing (a particularly enthusiastic group braved the rather soggy Sunday!), and indoor craft and beading workshops, as well as more Zentanglesessions—beforethe community pitched in to help pack down for a well-earned restonMonday.
The Castle Hill Creative’s
organisers are very grateful to the Castle Hill Community Association for hosting the openingeveningandproviding seed funding for the event, and to Village Coffee for sponsoringthe ChalktheCourt prizes. Special thanks also to Stoneworks SI Ltd for supplyingtherawmaterialsfor thecarvingworkshop.
The People’s Choice award went to Nic Tucker for her panoramic woodcut of Kura Tāwhiti, with joint runners-up being Chris Owen of Twenty SixFramesPhotography,Conor Boyd Photography, and local up-and-coming artist Mari Henderson.
Whether visitors left simply admiringtheart,purchasingan
original piece, or learning something creative in a workshop, all went home with a renewed appreciation for the area and a little more balance in their lives thanks to the inspiringhighcountrysetting. Finally,eventorganiserswould like to thank the numerous unnamed volunteers who helped bring this special weekendtolife. Everyone had their part to play, and the event had a truly wonderful community atmosphere.
Donations and surplus funds from the weekend will go to the Craigieburn Fire Recovery Trust and the Trapping Alliance.
The People’s Choice award went to Nic Tucker for her panoramic woodcut of Kura Tāwhiti.
TotheEditor:
I wish to express my concern about the national road toll, particularly here in Selwyn and Canterbury.
During the inclement weather over Easter, I witnessed a near accident while driving behind a black car heading west on SH8. Despite the poor visibility, the driver was not using their lights, or had daylight running lights. This driver seemed to assume other road users could easily see them.
An oncoming car flashed the black vehicle while passing a slowercar,butthedriverfailedto notice that their unilluminated presence on the road was a hazard speeding towards a possible tragedy. Luckily there was just enough space and an accidentwasavoided.
There are numerous reasons to drive with headlights on: night, fog, rain, mist, shadows, sunstrike, and vehicle colour. Dark-coloured cars (black, blue, and red) and those that blend with the road (silver and light gray) are particularly di cult to see. Even drivers with daylight running lights should remember that their rear lights may not be visible in certain conditions and that the auto-on function may needtobemanuallyoverridden. Ultimately, the most important reasontoTURNYOURLIGHTSON is to SAVE LIVES and prevent injuries, damage, and inconvenience.
Allan Coker, West Melton .
TotheEditor:
The informa on and opinions published are not necessarily those of the Malvern News proprietor. The final approval of le ers for print, rests with the editor. Le ers to the Editor should be no more than 200 words in length. Le ers to the Editor won’t be considered for publica on without the writer’s name (given and surname) and area of residence (not address) also being printed. Le ers wri en using a pseudonym, are unable to be published.
Thank you for the opportunity to present the Rolleston Residents Association'sview
The growth in Selwyn has been mainly in the east so adjustments have to be made to ward boundaries and where councillorsareelected.
Our Council consulted on two possible models for the 2025 election, a 3 ward 8 councillor model and a 4 ward 8 councillor model. After submissions and a hearing our Council adopted a model (4 wards 10 councillors) that communities had not had any opportunity to consider or submiton.
Council's chosen model split the Rolleston community of interest between the Te Waihora EllesmereWardandtheKāMānia Rolleston Ward. This did not fulfil an important criteria of a RepresentationReview.
The RRA resolved at its November 2024 meeting to appeal Council's Final Proposal.
The RRA was concerned that Rolleston's community of interest was being split over two wards –hence the appeal of Council's flawedmistakendecision.
The LGC determined that Council was wrong and restored the 4 ward 8 councillor model adding 2 more councillors to be elected atlargeastheLGCfeltthat8was toofewcouncillorsforSelwyn.
Malvern has never been represented by just two councillors. When Council is sworn in every Councillor –elected by ward or at large –
swears an oath to represent the whole district not just the area from whichthey were elected.To claim otherwise shows a lack of understandingintheprocess.
Mark Alexander Chair, Rolleston Residents Association
UNVEILING OF MEMORIAL ON ANZAC DAY
Kirwee’s inaugural ANZAC Day servicewillbeheldat12noon in the Kirwee Recreation Reserve on Anzac Lane, which runs between the Reserve and
HoskynsRoad.
Ngaire Kent, secretary of Kirwee Residents Association, says, “The Kirwee Memorial, which has been the result of
much fundraising, sponsors and grants, has been erected and looks great and we are grateful and appreciate all thosewhohavehelped.”
“We are hoping to have many from the community there to marktheunveilingofthe Memorial, and in recognition of those who fought in World WarsIandII.”
After the service, there willbe refreshments served in the Sports Pavilion in the Reserve. Parking is off High Street by the Bowling and Rugbyclubs’carpark.
Kirwee Residents Association chairperson Stu Begg and committee member David Kent proudly stand beside the new Kirwee Memorial – a community recognition to those who fought in World Wars I and II.
COUNCIL TRANSFERS OVER SHEFFIELD MEMORIAL POOL TO COMMUNITY-RUN LEGAL ENTITY
The Selwyn District Council voted in favour of transferring the Sheffield Memorial Pool to Kowai Pass Reserve Trust, a community-run legal entity, to take over the ownership, operation, and maintenance of the local swimming facility, at yesterday’sCouncilmeeting.
The decision was made after an extensive consultation process with the local community and wider district, which included 181 submissions and 15 oral
presentations with 95% in support of transitioning the asset.
“The Sheffield Memorial Pool isanageingassetattheendof a serviceable life that requires a level of investment that is hard to justify for Council, considering the relatively low usage,butthelocalcommunity hasbeenclearthattheydonot wanttolosetheirpoolandare willingtostepup,”saysDenise Kidd, Executive Director, Community Services &
Facilities.
The Council will now work through the final legal terms for transferring the facility to thecommunitygroup.
“It has been a long process to get to this point, and we hope this council decision will be the start of a new lease of life for a treasured community asset,”saysKidd.
Providing Total Rural & Residential Property Management Solutions
MALVERN LIONS ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT RAISES
$30,000 FOR DARFIELD PLAYCENTRE
The Malvern Lions Annual Golf Tournament was held on Friday, 11 April, at the Hororata Golf Course in Glentunnel. The day was perfect for golf, and the picturesque course was in great order. A total of 179 players took part in the Ambrosecompetition.
Organisers commented that the day was a huge success andthankedeveryoneinvolved fortheirefforts.
This year’s chosen recipient was Darfield Playcentre, with the funds going towards playground maintenance, garden upkeep, building maintenance, equipment preservation, general running
costs, and the ongoing purchaseofresources.
Darfield Playcentre is a not-for -profit organisation, run byour families for our families, and provides a quality Early Childhood Education option. It is the only education provider in New Zealand where parents and caregivers stay, play, and learnalongsidetheirchildren.
Opportunities like this to raise valuable funds are hugely important. They allow us to financially support our centre, maintain our building, manage the upkeep of our outdoor area, replace and update resources, and keep up with everydayutilitycosts.
We are incredibly grateful to
Malvern Lions
the Malvern Lions for giving our centre this amazing opportunity to raise some precious funds in order to future-proofourcentre.
The Playcentre team did an outstanding job with the food on the day, offering a great variety and plenty to go around.We’dalsoliketothank everyone who supported the tournament—whether by making raffle prize or monetarydonations,enteringa team, or simply attending. We were blown away by the generosity and ultimately by theamountraised.
The raffle table was outstanding, with well over $4,000 worth of prizes up for
Golf Tournament 2025
grabs—meaning not many went home empty-handed! A special thanks must go out to our sponsors, as we could not have achieved what we did withoutthem.
A huge thank you also goes to the Hororata Golf Club for providing such a wonderful venue, an immaculate course, and even ordering perfect weatherconditions!
We were thrilled to be able to present $30,000 to Darfield Playcentre on the day.
If you are interested in being therecipientofnextyear’sgolf tournament,pleasecontactthe Malvern Lions at golfmalvernlions@gmail.com for an information and applicationpack.
We wish of these generous sponsors their suppor suppor support! t!t! t!
We wish to thank all of these generous sponsors for their suppor
• Adama NZ Ltd
• Agnova Technologies NZ Ltd
• Agrimagic
• Airsoft
• Alan & Janet Mathewson
• Allan Thorne
• Allied Petroleum
• Allproof Industries
• B and B Mechanical
• B B's Mobile Engineering
• Ballooning Canterbury
• Barenbrug/NZ Agriseeds
• BASF
• Bennetts Sawmill
• Black Caps
• Braided River Vets
• Bray Street Engineering
• Brian Hunt & Faye Richards
• Brooker Farming
• Cambridge Partners
• Canterbury Grasslands
• Carpetdealz
• Charlie and Sue Buttle
• Aakland Chemicals
• Aercore Services 2012 Ltd
• Alpine Hotel Arthurs Pass
• Alpine Ice
• Anna Stretton
• Antigua Boatsheds Café and Boat Hire
• Ballance Agri Nutrients Ltd
• Baxter Contracting
• Bayleys Real Estate
• Black Cat Cruises
• Blue Contracting
• Bunnings Airport
• Café on the Green
• Adrenalin Forest
• Arion Farm Park
• Augustine
• Barkers
• Café 51 Oxford
• Clip ‘n Climb (The Kind Foundation)
• Darfield Bakery
• Darfield Fruit Supply
• Drafters - Rolleston
• Enhance Beauty
• Charlie Draper
Major Sponsors:
• Chesters Plumbing and Bathroom
• Cochranes of Canterbury
• Continuous Spouting South Ltd
• Cropmark
• Darfield ITM
• Darfield Pharmacy
• Darfield Seed Ltd
• Darfield Tyre Centre Ltd
• DC Insulation Services
• Drummond & Etheridge
• Ellesmere Transport
• Farmlands
• Fern Energy
• Forsyth & Barr Ltd
• Frews Transport
• Gas Engineering Services
• Graeme & Gill Marshall
• Hamish Thorne Spraying
• Harcourt Insulation
• Hawkins River Spraying
• Hawkins River Transport
• Hazlett Agronomy
• High Country Horse Adventures
• Hororata Golf Club
• Hunter Glass
• J & M Morten
• John Paterson Livestock
• Kevin Hughes
• Kirwee Challenge
• Lay & Associates
• Leech & Partners Ltd
• Luisetti Seeds
• Malvern News
• Min Cookson
• Mitchell Bros Sawmillers
• Moore Builders
• Nufarm NZ
• NZ Trucks
• Offaly Farm
• Orion
• PGG Wrightson
• Property Brokers
Premier Sponsors:
• Challenge Alpine Shop, Springfield
• Chipmunks Wigram
• Christchurch Casino
• Cookie Time
• Darfield Automotive
• Darfield Hotel
• Discovery Jet
• Donaghys
• Ecostore
• FMG
• Glenn Kimber Fencing
• Gnomes Ski Shop
• Gough Agritech
• Hanmer Springs Hot Pools
• Hells Pizza
• Hi-Tech Auto Electrical
• L R Construction
• Lumino The DentistsDarfield Dental
• McLeans Island Miniature Railway
• Mega Air
• Mike Richards Water Blasting
• Murray Shipley Texel Stud
Valued Sponsors:
• Espresso Car Wash Moorhouse Ave
• Fairleigh Flowers
• Ferrymead Heritage Park
• Getting Lost
• Glenlothian Farm
• Heartland Chips
• Hororata Community Trust
• Huski
• Launch Pad
• Lauren & Louise
• LIC
• Marinas Natural Health & Beauty
• Minchin’s Milling
• Mitre 10 Hornby
• Moonlight Clay Earrings
• Orana Park
• Oxford Pharmacy
• Pak n Save Hornby
• Smoke Rolleston
• South Pacific Roses
• Rabobank
• Reform Radiology
• RHL Contracting
• Rural Building Solutions
• Rural Plumbing Services Ltd
• Rural Tenancy Ltd
• SA Brooker Contracting
• Selwyn / Rakaia Vet Services
• Selwyn District Council
• Selwyn Times
• Southern Screenworks Ltd
• Southern Woods
• Spiderban
• Survus + Rural
• Syngenta Crop Protection
• TC Build
• The Good Oil
• Tuatara Structures
• VTNZ Jipcho Road
• WaterForce
• Whiskey Galore
• Wrightco
• Ninja Valley
• Opzeeland
• Rick Daly
• Rolleston Hair Cuts
• Rural Livestock
• Rural Marketing
• Searle Contracting
• Sian & Dean Jenkins
• Stoneylea Farm
• Taege Engineering
• TRT
• UPL
• VetEnt & Petfirst Darfield
• Tara Marshall
• The Buckland Plant Nursery
• The Sewing Room
• Thea's of Oxford
• Tui Balms
• Uprising
• Waimak Golf Club
• Willowbank
The Board, Golf Committee and Members of the Malvern Lions Club thank Board, Golf Committee and Members of the Lions thank all the sponsors for their very generous support this year and hope the sponsors for this year and hope year and hope year and hope you all had an enjoyable day at one of our fine local courses. you all had an enjoyable day at one of our fine local courses. all had an enjoyable day at one of fine local all had an enjoyable day at one of fine local
The Malvern Lions donated the funds this year to Darfield Playcentre. Pictured from Left - Caroline Barron (Darfield Playcentre, Daryl Collier (President Malvern Lions) and Emily Mitchell (President Darfield Playcentre)
A total of 179 players took part in the Ambrose competition.
AUTUMN LEAVES AT TERRACE STATION
OnSunday,April27from11am until 3pm visitors will have theirlastchanceuntilspringto cometoanopengardendayat TerraceStation. Thisyear,due tonodrought,thetreesshould have good autumn colours. Wood cyclamens are lingering on, Liriope and Japanese anemones are making a great show, and white nerines will be bright treasures in this woodland garden. Hydrangea paniculata limelight is dramatic andother hydrangeas stillshowcolour.
The Hutch displays historic farming and gardening tools along with 19th century domestic items, some of which cause lively debate as to their originaluses,especiallyamong theyoungervisitors.Aswellas the Hutch, the Swaggers’ Hut, light-horse stables, and the
Stinky (ploughman’s caravan) are able to be viewed. Informationisavailablewithin.
These all date from the 1880s. Children will be provided with a list of various items to find around the garden and a bag to collect cones and leaves to take to school for a talk. The stump of the old poplar
AMen AMen AMen AMen’ ’’ ’sBowler ofthe Year sBowler ofthe Year ofthe Year sBowler ofthe Year CongratulationstoZakFoulkes.ThisisZak’ssecondconsecutive win as Men’s Bowler of the Year. The cricketing star has had a stand-out season across the board, dominating across all three formats. Racking up an outstanding 44 wickets, he consistently led from the front, delivering in the clutch and setting the standard.
Predator Free Fund Predator Free
Applications for the Predator Free 2025 Fund are now open! Thefund'spurposeis tosupporttherestoration andprotection of Waikirikiri Selwyn’s indigenous biodiversity (plants and wildlife)throughtheeliminationofintroducedpredatoranimals.
Applications close on 30 May 2025. For more details on eligibilityandhowtoapplyvisit:selwyn.govt.nz/.../predator-free -2050-fund.
provides a great hiding place too!
Old oaks and sequoias in the BigTreeWalkingTrackarejust some of the magnificent old trees, along with a massive hornbeam, Portuguese laurel, horse chestnuts, celery pine, acer maples, linden limes, holm oaks and cedars. Please bring a picnic to enjoy in a sheltered corner of this heritagegarden. The $10 entry fee (no Eftpos, cash only) goes to the Terrace Station Charitable Trust, children are free, and please leave dogsat home.There will notbeaplantstallthismonth. Terrace Station will be signposted from the Hororata roundabout. More information about open days and group tours is available at terracestation.org.nz.
Please check the Facebook page nearer the date for weatherconditions.
Autumn Garden Open Day
TERRACE STATION, HOR TERRACE STATION, HOR TERRACE STATION, HOR TERRACE STATION, HORORATA ORATA ORATA ORATA
Sunday 27th April Sunday 27th April Sunday 27th Sunday 27th 11am- 3pm 3pm3pm 3pm www.terracestation.org.nz www.terracestation.org.nz www.terracestation.org.nz www.terracestation.org.nz
SYNLAIT MAJOR SPONSOR OF
BDI RUGBY CLUB
Synlait has signed on as the major sponsor of the BDI Rugby Club (Burnham, Dunsandel and Irwell) for the next three seasons, marking a renewed commitment to supporting the local community.
The dairy manufacturer, which operates out of Dunsandel, sees the partnership as an important way to foster community engagement and contributetolocalinitiatives.
BDI Rugby Club draws players from across the Ellesmere region, including Synlait employees, their families, friends, and farmer suppliers, making the sponsorship a naturalfit.
Synlait Acting CEO Tim Carter said, “As a large employer in the community Synlait was
keen to support a sport connected to a number of our team members and farmer suppliers. Synlait is very pleased to sponsor BDI Rugby Club and we wish the team all thebestfortheseason.”
Matt McIntyre (BDI Rugby Development O cer) reflects on the sponsorship renewal, “we’re thrilled to have Synlait back on board with BDI Rugby Club. Their support means a lot to our players, families,
and wider community—it’s partnershipslikethisthatkeep grassroots sport thrivingin our ruraltowns.”
As part of the three-year agreement, the Synlait logo will feature on team jerseys, fromjuniorJABgradesthrough to senior rugby. The sponsorship underscores Synlait’s long-term support of grassroots sport and its connection to the region it callshome.
SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY AIMS FOR PREDATOR-FREE TOWNSHIP
In July 2021, predator-free trapping began at Glentunnel School.
after lizards and geckos by providing safe habitat, and awarenessoftheissues.
community's participation.
Principal Ed Trotter, an avid hunter, came from predatorfree Miramar, where schools and the community trapped 5,500ratsonthepeninsula. HewaskeentoseeGlentunnel School, in collaboration with sta and parents, to take part in making the area predatorfree and restoring flora and fauna, ensuring native species thrive.
The school has a Teina group of seven Yr 3 students who weekly check the A24 traps down by the school bike track with the principal. The Tuakana group, consisting of nine Yr 4, 5 and 6 students, checktheDoC200andDoC150 trapson the River Walkonce a week, predominantly catching rats,stoats,andweasels.
Ed says most of the 100 children are involved in some shape or form through trap making, checking them with sta ,learningaboutinitiatives, trapping at home, being involved in the EnviroSchools team, planting trees, looking
The children learn that they can be part of the solution to protect native species by reducing pests and protecting flora and fauna for future generations. They also participate in garden bird surveystotracktheincreaseof nativebirds.
"We'veseenamassiveincrease in fantails, grey warbler, bellbirds, Tom tits, kotare and a resident pair ofbush falcons. With the planting of native trees and shrubs we are seeing a habitat change whichincreasesthesespecies," saysEd.
He is proud of the school and
“Local support for the school group comes from parents, sta ,andthecommunity.”
"We are about to launch a massive community project of one hundred DoC 200 and rat tunnel traps going out into surrounding Malvern area residential properties and farms with one trap per resident."
Ed says children also learn about reusing what they catch.
Possumfurasaby-productcan be sold and the funds used to purchase more traps while hareshuntedon farmsbecome meat to go into the CoC200 traps.
"Success breeds success for a collectivee ort."
Teina Term 1 Trapping Team (yr 3)
Left to right Riley, Hadley, Alenia, Harry H, Gus, Freddie, Te Tahi next to an A24 Good Nature trap.
BDI Rugby Development Officer Matt McIntyre (left) and Synlait Acting CEO Tim Carter (right) pictured with the new season rugby jersey.
NEW CHAIRPERSON FOR CANTERBURY/ WEST COAST NZDFA BRANCH
...continuedfromfrontpage.
“Thanks to him, Rodney is an excellent farmer, and I’ve become truly passionate about deer.”
Like many farmers, the couple have faced their share of challenges. The recent velvet accessissuessawtheir income slashed by 30%, prompting some tough decisions. In searching for guidance, Rachael realised a deeper issue: no one had ever asked herwhatshemostneededasa farmer.
“It got me wondering—how many other farmers have had the chance tosaywhat’sreally worrying them? What clever solutions have they quietly come up with? Farmers are some of the most resourceful people Iknow, butaslivesget busier and community
MOBILE SEED CLEANING SERVICE
volunteers drop off, we risk losing the networks that once keptusstrong.”
That’s something the committee hopes to change.
“We’re a small but committed group of deer farmers who genuinely care about the future of our industry and its people. We believe the best ideas and support come from within the farming community—when we bring peopletogether.”
Rachael brings with her a strong background in governance and leadership. As National Executive Secretary of
Flying NZ (Royal NZ Aero Club), she manages operations and works with a volunteer team supporting over 4,000 members. She previously served as District Arts Advisor
in Selwyn, helping embed the arts into regional strategy and contributing to national initiativessuchastheEssential Freshwater Social Impact Report through the Rural SupportTrust. Her approach is inclusive and grounded. “We’re not here to tell anyone what they should do.We’reheretoask—whatdo you need? What’s on your mind?Andhowcanwesupport eachotherthroughthis?”
Over the past 20 years, Rachael has volunteered in social services and held governance roles across Selwyn. “At my core, I know setbacks aren’t failures— they’repartoffarmingandlife. You adapt, you learn, and you keepgoing.That’sthemagicof it.Ifeltcompelledtostepup— not just for myself, but to help our sector through this time of change. And I’m not doing it alone.”
The Canterbury/West Coast Branch is calling on all deer farmers in the region to get in touch and share their experiences. “There’s a wealth of insight in our community,” Rachael says. “Sometimes one honest conversation is all it takestosparkchange.”
To connect with the branch or share your thoughts, email: chair@nzdfa-cantwest.co.nz.
HORORATA BLACK DIAMONDS SHINE IN SINGAPORE
The Hororata Black Diamonds, alongside their matesfrom the Kirwee Highwaymen, have returned home with full hearts and sore bodies after a memorableweekattheGolden Oldies Rugby Festival in Singapore. This international gathering of rugby lovers celebrated not just the sport itself, but the camaraderie, culture, and downright good funthatcomeswithbeingpart of the golden oldies community.
The Golden Oldies World Rugby Festival is a biennial event that first kicked off in Auckland in 1979. Since then, it's become a legendary occasion for players aged 35 andover toreconnectwiththe spirit of the game, and with each other. For many of the Hororata crew, this year's festival had been on the bucketlisteversincetheevent was held in Christchurch a decadeago.
DayOne-OpeningCelebration
Theweekbeganinstyleatthe
stunning Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre. Teams from Japan, America, Australia, Singapore, and New Zealand gathered for a night of food, drinks and entertainment. Ben Southen described the venue as "very flash" and noted the tricky escalator might just be the longest ever seen. The welcome party set the tonewell-run, full of energy, and a good splash of Singaporean culture.
DayTwo-GameDay1
Timetolaceuptheboots!The Black Diamonds took on the Perth Wanderers in their openingmatchattheDempsey Hill complex. In true Golden Oldies fashion, several players swapped sides to balance the numbers and create a competitive and fun atmosphere-ahallmarkofthe festival spirit. With a special appearance from the now Golden Oldies famous Corky. (thiswontmeanmuchtoevery one else, but was the team highlight…)
DayThree-FunctionDay
Back at the Marina Bay Sands for a buffet lunch, endless beers, and a karaoke session that became an instant classic. FromaheartfeltversionofLast
Train Out of Sydney to a rousing group rendition of World in Union, it was clear this festival didn't lack talent. The day continued with a spirited pub crawl around the city, with the group lucky enough to hang out with Mr and Mrs Kooga and Hallie Sullivan - creators of the team's custom rugby gear and major sponsors of Golden OldiesRugbySingapore.
DayFour-GameDay2
The weather turned wild just in time for the boys' second match - a proper tropical downpour. The match was eventually cut short due to lightning strikes, but that didn't stop the fun. With mud flying and smiles all round, it was one of the most memorablegamesoftheweek.
DayFive-FreeDay
A well-earned rest day saw everyone heading off in different directions.Some took a trip toSentosa Island, others ventured across the border into Malaysia, and a few just made the most of their hotel bar. That evening, the teammates all reunited, and Moff Molloy managed to swap his shirt with a guy from Disney-whothenshoutedthe crewdrinks.Legendary.
DaySix-GameDay3
The Black Diamonds' final match was against a local Singapore team with only three players - a situation quickly solved as other teams pitched in to form a strong side. Even some of the Hororata boys jumped ship to make it a good contest. Afterward, the team headed to their new favourite watering hole, BQ Bar, who kindly screened the Crusaders match, followedbyabeautifulcurryat Molly's and a fine post-match sessiontowrapitallup.
DaySeven-ClosingCeremony
Saturday night saw everyone return to Marina Bay Sands for the Finale Awards Dinner. The evening was a glitzy affair, with silver service, flowing drinks, and excellent entertainment. One of the standout moments was a tribute to 90-year-old Bob Talbot, the festival's oldest participant.Bob waspresented with a bottle of champagne
and spoke sincerely about what rugby has given him throughouthislife.Hethanked everyone he had played with and against, offering wise and moving words that many will carrywiththem.
Dan van der Salm summed it up well: "A wonderful experience, well-organised, and a great way to experience
a new culture. It definitely makes you appreciate how good we have it here in New Zealand."
Special thanks go to Ben and Dan for organising the adventure, Josh Bell for being theteam'sman-on-the-ground, Chloe Neil for keeping the social media buzzing, and the wives who helped keep the crewonschedule.
With Vancouver announced as the next destination in May 2027, plans are already being whispered. If the Black Diamondshaveanythingtosay about it, their next Golden Oldiesadventurewillbejustas unforgettable.
On Thursday , April 17, 2025, peacefully at Elms Court Village, surrounded by his loving family, aged 75 years.
Dearly loved husband of Julie, much loved father and father-in-law of Vikki and David Buck, Bindi and the late Kerry. Loved granddad of Jacob, Devon, Ollie and Ginnie. Loved brother, brother-in-law, uncle and friend to many. The family wishes to acknowledge the sta, at Elms Court Village for the care extended to Ray. Messages to the Leech family, c/o PO Box 111-01, Christchurch 8443. At Ray’s request a private cremation has been held, a Memorial Service will be held at a later date.
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 2025.
GOLF RESULTS
GREENDALE GOLF GREENDALE
Malvern Anglican Parish
SUN 27 April 9:30am
ACCOUNTANTS
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At 10:30am
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CHIMNEY CLEANING
CARRS CARRS CARRS Chimney Cleaning. Servicing the Selwyn district. $80 per chimney. Please ph Rodney on 03 324 2999 and leaveamessage.
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DRIVEWAYS
LIFESTYLE LIFESTYLE LIFESTYLE, farm tracks, yards and dairy lanes our speciality. Screened rottenrock, it’s local and lasts better. Phone Springfield Quarryon3184132.
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GARDENING
GENERAL GENERAL garden maintenance in Darfield area. Domestic hedge trimming, pruning, edging, lawns and water blasting. Please phone Kane 0274676613.
LEASE LAND WANTED
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Darfield owned and operated since 2008. Call Brian Walker for your pest control requirements! 0800 667 778
ROOM TO RENT
SINGLE SINGLE lockable rooms in Darfield Hostel. Internet, Sky TV. $190pw. Please phone 0274791431.
ROOF MAINTENANCE
ROOF & house maintenance. All aspects covered including spouting, mortar, tiles, reroofing, roof painting, moss, mould & silicone sealing. General repairs. Ph 03 347 6702or0210302835.
Quadbike Tour Guide
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Weekends and pre-Christmas are the busy times with hours of work flexible. Will be required to attain a work place first aid certificate and have a drivers licence.
WANTED! WANTED! WANTED! Amalgamated Scrap Ltd. Buying cars & farm machinery. Specialising in farm clean-ups. Best prices Rod McQuoid - buyer. Please phoneeither0276950480or alternatively0800030712.
WINDOW REPAIRS
TRANSPORT
SELWYN SELWYN SELWYN Shuttles provide safe and reliable transport for young and old, near and far. Call or txt Brad 021 776
TOOLS TOOLSTOOLS TOOLS wanted - mechanics, engineering, wood working etc. Garage, shed, barn clearances, deceased estates etc. Please phone Rob on 033425885.
DEAD DEADDEAD DEAD cars - we buy dead cars, end of life cars, scrap cars, old farm vehicles. Cash paid. Pleasephone0274848121.
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TRADES
KITCHENS KITCHENS KITCHENS KITCHENS - new or renovate existing with new doors and bench tops, wardrobes, laundries, vanities made to size. Built-in bookcases and wallunits,melamineortimber desks, buffets, tables or any furniture. Great prices and advice. Please phone Lex 0274393926or3490150.
•
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Judge: I wasn't talking to you! Page 16 Thursday 24th April 2025
Bobby: What is the difference between a lemon, an elephant, and a bag of cement?
Ray: I give up, what's the difference?
Bobby: You can squeeze a lemon, but you can't squeeze an elephant.
Ray: What about the bag of cement?
Bobby: I just threw that in to make it hard.
Judge: Silence in court! The next person who laughs again will be thrown out of court.
