A well-attended public meeting organised by the Darfield Residents Association heardfromtheninecandidates vying for the five seats on the MalvernCommunityBoard.
Since the Selwyn District Council was forced to reverse its’ attempt to dis-establish the Board in last year’s Representation Review, bowing to public pressure to
retain it orchestrated by the residents’ associations, the current Board has established a strong leadership in the community and also given residents a real voice in their a airs.
The position of the Board has been strengthened with a full endorsement from the Local Government Commission who also suggested the formation of other Boards in the district as well as the delegation of real authority to act. To their credit, Council has acted to now be fully supportive and is moving to implement these
recommendations. This has resulted in strong interest in standing for the Board with a high calibre of candidates who presented their views at the meeting.
DRA Chair Harvey Polglase says, “The Board is providing a great link for residentstohave their issues heard and giving us a real channel to get local action from Council. It is great to see it functioning well and that we have a good selection of talented candidates putting their hands up to serve. This bodeswellforthefutureofthe Board.”
Malvern Community Board candidates evening: From left, Sarah Barnsley talking on behalf of Barry MacKenzie, Wayne Lawson, Gary Payne, John Verry speaking on behalf of Evan Frew, Alan Peacock, Bex Lambie, Samantha Samuel, Erin Brodie, and Gideon Pieters.
EDUCARE Opening Hours 7:30am - 5pm
ANNABEL’S EDUCARE & 3 YR & 4 YR OLD KINDERGARTENS 12-16 South Tce, Darfield
Steam SteamSteam Steam--punk, up punk, up up punk, up--cycle, trash cycle, trash cycle, fashion, men at work, fashion, men at work, fashion, men at fashion, men at vintage, children vintage, children children’ ’’ ’s wear, s wear, pirate, secret model, and pirate, secret model, eveningwear ... eveningwear ... eveningwear eveningwear
You name it – everything was all go at the annual Trinity ChurchFashionShowthisyear.
Presenters Christine Anderson and Elizabeth Connor introduced the models and read the beautiful story of the model’s outfit. Interestingly, wesawlocallydesignedoutfits by Fi Maddison, and Julia Atkinson displaying their passionfordetail,sewingskills andimagination!
Thanks to Elizabeth Connor who contacted Julie Syme of Kaikoura who graciously allowedfiveofheroutfitstobe modelled. ‘Trash Fashion’, is held every year in Kaikoura highlighting the council’s zero waste policy. Each costume is made not just with recycled materials, but completely withwhatwasdestinedforthe
landfill.
It was so humbling to see some of our models in their 90s giving it a go and modelling bravely, and with flair. Our only male model Jesse – chef extraordinaire modelled Men at Work in his Darfield Bakery chef uniform anddelightedthecrowd.
Thechildren–Ennoa,Iloi,Zoe,
Phoebe, Summer, and Sophia – charmed the applauding crowd as they bravely modelled in front of the community.
Thank you to the presenters, models, designers, sound operator, pianist Cecilia and the afternoon tea team for making the Trinity Church FashionShowawinner!.
Julia Mitchell’s technicoloured dream coat was made from deleted curtain samples. Betty Henderson’s outfit (centre) was made of video tapes knitted together to create a sophisticated gown. Margaret Overton sashayed down the aisle to the tune of “I am Sailing by Rod Stewart”, modelling a gown of Sea Feast-Flags.
SPRING ALONG TO THE PARISH FAIR
The popular and longestablished Parish Spring Fair atTrinityChurchisback!
The fair, being held on Saturday, September 20 from 9am - 12pm, hosts a range of stalls selling hand-made and local products including knitwear, wooden items, clothing, jewelry, cards, candles and lavender products.
The bake table is also back, as well as a ra e, books and puzzles. Outside, there will be two plant stalls and other
house and garden items. Feeling a bit peckish? There will be real fruit ice cream, donuts, co ee and a sausage sizzleon o er.Andforthefirst time this year, we have Over the Rainbow face painting joiningusfromRolleston. Fundraising from the sale
helps support local Anglican parish servicesacrossMalvern, including Sunday worship, weddingsandfunerals,aswell as home visiting and the maintenance of church buildingsinCourtenay,Kirwee, Darfield, She eld and Springfield.
SCHOOL CHAMPS GOES AHEAD
The Canterbury Primary and Intermediate Schools Ski Race Championship, normally held at Mt Cheeseman, went ahead on Monday, September 8 at Porters Alpine Resort with stunningweatherandsnow.
Mt Cheeseman ski field event
organisers thanked the Porters crewfor collaboratingwith the ski field to make the event happen in what has been “arguably one of Cheeseman’s trickiest winters in many years.”
Thewinningschoolswere:
• Primary–Darfield
• Intermediate–Sumner. Otherwinsonthedayincluded Evie Stevenson – Fastest Girl Year 3 & 4, Brockton Kerr –Fastest Boy Year 5 & 6 and 2ndplaceoverallYear1–8.
For the first time, Darfield Primary School (Years 1-6) won the fastest school trophy. Students who took part were Blake Smith, Evie Stevenson, Ruben Smith, Brockton Kerr, Theo McLeod, Willa Dickens and Jed Warman.
Originallyhailingfromcitylife in Auckland, Nikki spent some time in the Middle East, soaking in the culture and contrast of life abroad. That chapter sparked her curiosity and love for people and animals alike, eventually leading her home to New Zealand to study veterinary science at Massey University inPalmerstonNorth.
After graduating, Nikki traded city life for gumboots, spending time in Taumarunui, taking on sheep and beef work,withaparticularinterest in working dogs and small animalsurgery.
Immersed in the rural community,shegainedalotof experience in both the large andsmallanimalspace.These days, she calls Christchurch
NIKKI SEKAHR
home, working at Petfirst and Farmfirst in Darfield. She enjoys the hands-on nature of rural companion/production animal practice and the strong senseofcommunitythatcomes withit.
When not in scrubs or overalls, Nikki balances her veterinary career with a passion for the outdoors. She is often found with her constant companion Nova–herenergetictwo-yearold dog and adventure buddy. Nikki can often be found hiking, swimming, rock climbing or exploring new trails – always keen on discoveringhiddengemsacross thecountry.
AsNikkistepsintoherroleasa
Mixed Animal Veterinarian, she is excited to keep growing her skills, meet more of the locals, andcontinue makinga positive impact in the community she now calls home. Whether it’s
providingpeaceofmindtopet parents with a gentle check –up or supporting farmers with practical, down-to-earth solutions, Nikki is here to partner with you in keeping your fur friends and livestock thriving – because for her, greatcareisaboutconnection, trust, and being part of what mattersmosttoyou.
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Life can be a tricky journey to navigate successfully. One minute you are earning your firstwageandthenextminute you are looking at retirement and what life is going to look likeonapension.
Thereisnotimelike rightnow to make sure you have enough moneyforretirement.Oneway to achieve this could be using the equity in your property to buyarentalproperty. Get informed about rental yieldsandareastogetthebest returns. Talk with property investmentspecialists.
Findoutwhatyoucouldafford and if you have the means to ‘top up’rental income to cover insuranceandrates.
When you look at ‘downsizing’ this could mean a lot more than just the house. No wages can mean downsizing life interests,soactnow.
Love growing potatoes? Think yours are the best? PGG WrightsonDarfieldisrunninga fun competition to grow potatoes in a bucket or any container that can be transported for judging. All proceeds and potatoes grown will be donated to Darfield Foodbank. There will be prizes for largest single spud, most spuds, and least spuds. To enter collect your seed spuds from PGG Wrightson Darfield for a gold coin donation by October 3. Return your bucket of spuds to the store for judging by December 11 and discover who is the king or queenofspudsinDarfield.
Agreat eveningwashadbyall recently when the Friends of theDarfieldHospitalheldtheir annual fund-raising Indoor Bowling Tournament on Tuesday, September 2,
attracting22teams.
Chairperson Elisabeth May (Elly) says, “Huge thanks to all the sponsors who donated to the event, including Lydia Gliddon for paying for the hire of the hall out of her own pocket (rather than Council funds), which was much appreciated.”
Just under $5000 was raised and from the funds the committee has purchased for the Darfield Hospital two lazy boy lift chairs, a Dyson stick vacuum cleaner, a toastie maker,twopedestalfansanda magi-mix food processor, which the sta really appreciate.
“The committee wish to thank everyone who participated and to those who helped run the event.”
VOLUNTEER PLANTING DAY
Te Ara Kākāriki is hosting a volunteer planting day on Sunday, September 21 from 10am to 4pm in West Melton tocreatenativegreencorridors linking the mountains to the sea. Participants will receive tools, instructions, and refreshments, while needing to bring their own lunch and transportation, with registration required in advance. For enquiries, email o ce@kakariki.org.nz.
DROP DROPDROP DROP--INSERVICE AND INSERVICE AND AND INSERVICE AND SUPPORT FOR DISABILITIES FOR DISABILITIES
The first Selwyn community drop-in session hosted by Enabling Good Lives will be held on Wednesday, October 22 at Darfield Library from 5:30pmto7pm.
This is an opportunity to connect with other people and find out what support is available in your community. Parent to Parent, Aspire Canterbury and Enabling Good Lives, Selwyn base connectors, will be there to talk about what they do and answer any questions you may have about disability and mainstream supports in your community. Lightrefreshmentswillalsobe available.
This Saturday Waikirikiri Selwyn’s young people, celebrate the opening of the newYouthZoneatFosterPark, Rolleston.
Designed with input from Selwyn rangatahi, the new YouthZoneisaimedtoprovide an active outdoor space for Selwyn teens and features the district’s first parkour area, a pump track, 3x3 basketball courtandareastohangout.
Theo cialopeningofthenew Youth Zone will start at 1pm Saturday 20 September. The festivitieswillinclude3x3pick -up basketball games, a DJ, and free braids and fades hairstyling. Bring your scooter or bike and try out the pump track and parkour areas. The Piki Amokura Selwyn Youth Strategy includes a key pillar of making sure that ‘Waikirikiri Selwynisafunplaceformeto grow up’. The main need young people identified for this pillar was access to outdoor recreation spaces and parks, with good variety of activities
HISTORIC JAIL REOPENING
A small ceremony on Saturday marked the reopening of the 110-year-old Darfield Jail, a much-loved landmark on the township’smain street andthe ribbon cutting to a memorial seatinfrontofthebuilding.
The Darfield Residents’ Associationhasnowtakenover therunningoftheJailfromthe SelwynDistrictCouncilandhas refreshed the interior with a new display outlining the building’s history. The
Association is committed to ensuring the Jail is regularly open for locals and visitors to explore.
A spokesperson for the Residents’ Association says, “Preserving places like the Jail is about keeping our stories alive.Selwyn hasa rich history dating back to the 1860s, and we’re proud to help share that withfuturegenerations.”
The Jail joins a growing list of attractions in Darfield,
including Te Huanui Art Gallery, McHugh’s Forest Plantation, and, of course, the township’s renowned icecream shop – all o ering visitors a reason to pause and enjoythearea.
The reopening of the Jail not only safeguards an important piece of history but also adds to the welcoming character that makes Darfield such a specialplacetoliveandvisit.
TOWN TURNS YELLOW FOR CANCER
The Malvern Cancer Support Group's (MCSG) annual "Paint the Town Yellow" initiative achieved notable success this year, with numerous businesses from Kirwee to Springfield making significant contributions. Their e orts played an important role in supporting the Cancer Society’s Da odil Day fundraiser by fostering widespread communityparticipation.
Each year, businesses participate in Da odil Day by creating window or in-store displays that reflect the event's purpose. This year, there was an increase in the number of businesses taking part in the group's initiative which brought a tough decisionforthejudges.
The winner this year is The Sewing Room. The judges noted the e ort involved in creating their display using materials and products from their shop. They are now proudly displaying the “Paint theTown”trophy.
The judges selected their top five displays, including thewinner.
and the Darfield Post Shop were among those recognised, each receiving certificates in recognition of their e orts. Nevertheless, all participating businessesdemonstratedgreat e ort, and it was great to see the fun had – Challenge Springfield sta were all dressed as Minions with Sue handing out Da odil earrings for their e orts in dressing up fortheday.
The Malvern Cancer Support Group sincerely appreciates the support from the businesses in highlighting this importantcause.
AspokespersonforMCSGsays,
“Thank you toAimee Cosgrove from the Cancer Society and Kathy Muscroft-Taylor from
the Malvern Cancer Support Group for judging and visiting each business.Anda bigthank you to our wonderful community for supporting the Da odil Day fundraiser, which raised about $9,500 for Malvernthisyear. These funds help to support our cancer patients and their families through services such as drivers, meals, counselling, physiotherapy, nutrition advice,andcancerresearch.
Thank you to our wonderful community, for those who volunteered their time to collect on Da odil Day, both Friday and Saturday, and to everyone who donated generously to the cause – it trulyisappreciated.”
This year’s winning window display for the Paint the Town Yellow awareness campaign went to The Sewing Room.
L-R: Kathy Muscroft-Taylor (judge from Malvern Cancer Support Group), Colleen Marsh, Maureen Marsh and Lotus Green.
Current Mayor Sam Broughton was one of the many candidates that attended the opening.
MUSIC CONCERT ENJOYED BY ALL
The 38th Malvern School of Music Annual Concert was a great success with over 70 musicians performing to an appreciative, large audience at theDarfieldHighSchoolHall. Group items of guitars, drums, violins, cellos, keyboards/ piano, singers, and ukulele (with a few solo items) provided a diverse musical menu for the afternoon concert held on Sunday September,14.
The concert finale was the orchestral item ‘Carol of the Bells’ followed by ‘Ode to Joy’. These pieces were cleverly arrangedbyHelenLangenwho
ensured even beginning students were able to participate. Fifty-seven students played together with manyneverhavingplayedinan orchestra before. The orchestra
was ably conducted by Melissa Jebson QSM who also was the MC.
Thanks to the Selwyn District Councilfortheirsponsorship.
SHEFFIELD SCHOOL TOPS MATHS COMPETITION
On Thursday, September 11, She eld Contributing Primary School’s CantaMaths team of Archie, Dylan, Lachie and MonicatravelledtoGlentunnel for the Malvern CantaMaths competition. There were nine teams in total, and the event was30minuteslong.
The team of four says, “In that time our team managedtoget through 25 questions and score44pointstowin.Itwasa
super fun event, and everyone did well. Abigthank you toMr
Trotter for organising and runningtheevent.”
I commend the Malvern News for their lift-out on the local Body Elections, and the excellent questions you asked all the candidates – all different questions that I could never have been able to ask at candidates’ meetings. Their replies have made my choice of candidates for mayor, councillors, community boards, andECan easier. This will help ensure we get the right people to represent us, the ratepayers, for the good of our communities. Listing the candidates for each vacancy within the Selwyn Council Local Body Elections means there is no need to go to meetings to
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.
hear candidates make a whole lot of promises that maynot stack upin council. This is the first time I have seen it done like this, and I am very impressed with the Malvern News. From this, we hope more people will vote in these Local Body Elections. Well done, team.
Regards Stuart Jones, Kirwee (45 years of paying rates)
Tothe Editor:
On behalf of Malvern U3A, I am researching the route of the Oxford branch railway from the Gorge Bridge to the site of the Oxford West railwaystation.
• Where was the railway bridge sited?
• Where are the old railway locomotives lying?
• Where was the site of the communal shearing she andsheepdip?
It seems that a movie existed about oxford and the railway. Does any of your readers have any information about this or anything regarding the Oxford railway from Oxford to the Gorge bridge. I would be delighted to hear from you. Thank you in anticipation.
Playing the cello is student Sacha Deans and tutor Cecilia Pascoe.
Pictured with their winners’ cup are Sheffield Contributing Primary School students; Lachie, Monica, Archie, and Dylan.
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LOCAL QUARRY SELLS TO RHL CONTRACTING
RHL, the family-owned business, located in Darfield, has been in operation since 2022 and took over the Springfield Quarry at the start of September, enhancing their service offerings and stabilising the supply chain to ensure they have the necessary aggregates during periodsofhighdemand.
A year ago, RHL also acquired WA Boyes, expanding their range of services to include farm development and maintenance, earthworks, residential, roading, commercialprojects,andmore.
RHL is a community-focused company. Although they are not currently hiring new staff due to the Springfield Quarry acquisition, they hope that
future growth will create new opportunities as the business evolves.
Springfield Quarry has been operational for over 25 years, maintaining an impeccable record of minimal environmental disruption and impact on its surroundings.
RHLiscommittedtoupholding
the same standards set by the previousoperator.
RHL extends their best wishes to the Hawkins family for their future and expresses gratitude to landowners George and Jenny Adams for the opportunity and the promising futureahead.
WEAR BLUE, SAVE LIVES
Each year, around 180,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer worldwide, and tragically 26,000 men lose their lives. These numbers are staggering, especially considering how treatable prostate cancer is if caughtearly.
The real issue is awareness. Prostate cancer often grows silently,without symptoms,until ithasalreadyspread.Bythetime issues like lower back pain, urinary trouble, or blood in the urine appear, it can already be advanced.
That’s why September is Blue September –amonth dedicated to raising awareness about prostatecancerandencouraging men to act for their health. Wearing blue is a powerful symbol, but the more important step is booking a check-up and asking your doctor about screeningoptions.
InNewZealand,BlueSeptember is a major awareness campaign led by the Prostate Cancer FoundationofNewZealand.The campaignencouragesmentoget checked, urges families to start conversations, and helps fund research,awareness,andsupport services.
One of the most effective tools for early detection is the PSA
(Prostate-Specific Antigen)blood test. It’squick andsimple:just a standard blood sample that measures PSA levels in your blood. Elevated levels don’t always mean cancer (they may indicate infection or prostate enlargement), but they are a crucial early warning sign that shouldn’tbeignored.
Unfortunately, prostate cancer screening is not automatically included in most routine blood panels.Thatmeansmenneedto asktheir doctorspecificallyfora PSA test during annual checkups.
Average risk men should start discussions at age 45-50, while higher risk men—those with a family history of prostate cancer—should start between ages 40 and 45. Screening usually involves both a PSA blood test and sometimes a digital rectal exam (DRE), which helps detect lumps or enlargement.
When caught early, prostate cancer has a nearly 100% fiveyear survival rate. When diagnosed late, treatment is moreinvasive,andsurvivalrates dropsignificantly.Earlytestingis the difference between simple monitoring and life-threatening treatment.
Don’t wait for symptoms – they maynevercome.Thebestthing you can dothis September isto bookacheck-up,wearblue,and askyourdoctorforaPSAtest. Tolearnmore,visit blueseptember.org.nz. blueseptember.org.nz. blueseptember.org.nz. blueseptember.org.nz.
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OPERATION DEEP FREEZE
70 YEARS OF COLLABORATION BETWEEN NEW ZEALAND AND THE USA
ByJackyLawson, Malvern U3A. MalvernU3A. U3A.
Ursula Rack spoke at a recent Malvern U3A meeting and briefly noted three earlier phases of international collaboration on Antarctic scientific research, between 1882–83,1901–3and1957-8. Shealsonotedthat,duringthe years following the Second World War, when governments were appropriately focused on recovering their economies, it wasdi culttojustifyspending on scientific research in a very remotecorneroftheworld.
Over these three periods, science evolved from more general research into specific disciplines. Whilst interrupted during the war periods, USA influence increased from the 1930s. During the cold war period, increased international collaborationdeveloped.
To generate public acceptance ofthe allocation offundingfor this work (during the post war austerity period), organisers used the Disney network to helpcreateanarrativethatthe public could engage with. Of course, the digital and photographic skills we are used to today were in infancy at that time, so two artists (Standish Backus and Robert Charles Hann) were used to working with the early teams and created artwork that was shared with the public. The artwork was intended to show
work as being part of the tradition of exploring remote regions,ongoingscientificwork and how such work was communicatedtotheworld.
OperationDeepFreeze(1955–59) was a period when the groundwork for future research was laid. Work was undertaken on logistics (material supply to remote bases), mapping of areas of the continent, air reconnaissance, preparation for scientific work and preparation oftheSouthPoleStation.
Ursula noted The Ross Dependency was created in 1923 by the UK, who then promptly made NZ responsible for ongoing work. At the time, NZ saw this responsibility as a burden! In 1928 Admiral Boyd (USA) selected NZ as his base or launching point for subsequenttraveltoAntarctica. This selection becoming the basis of the future collaboration between the USA andNZ.
In December 1955 there was an expedition to the Antarctic. International Geophysical Year was over the 1957-58 season, during which scientific collaboration was achieved despite the cold war tensions.
Ursula notes that no land claims were made during this period, to avoid potential conflict. The Edmund Hillary Trans Artcic Expedition was completed, albeit with little science undertaken during the
trip. NZ further contributed by surveying three glaciers, which laidgroundworkforsubsequent scientificwork.
Ursula explained whilst no longer operational (due to budget cuts) one area of research was drilling through the ice to examine seabed cores and the interface between the land (base of the glaciers) and sea. She also explained that NZ research, in di ering areas of interest, are undertaken by Universities of Canterbury, Otago and Auckland.
Ursula noted the development of Scott base in 2015-6. She explained that the USA, Italy, South Korea and two other countries base their operations in Christchurch. She also explained that there are four other gateway bases in Australia, Argentina, Chile and SouthAfrica.
Members thanked Ursula for her presentation of the development of this scientific collaboration.
Ursula Rack.
AQUATIC CENTRE INNOVATION WINS NATIONAL AWARDS
Selwyn Aquatic Centre has been recognised as New Zealand’s top facility for its innovative approach to supporting children with disabilitiesandusingadvanced technology to improve swimmersafety.
At the 2025 Recreation Aotearoa Aquatics Awards, the centre won both the Aquatic Innovation –Programme and Aquatic Innovation – Operations awards, highlighting its leadership in inclusive aquatic educationandsafety.
The Innovative Programme Award was given for the centre’s unique WAVES Programme, which supports children with disabilities.
Developed seven years ago by a qualified Speech and Language Therapist on sta , WAVES started with just eight children and has grown into one ofthe largest programmes ofits kind in the country—now helpingover120children.
Each lesson in WAVES is personalised to the child’s learning style and co-designed with their family. Lessons are one-on-one, ensuring every child has the chance to build skills, confidence, and a sense ofcommunityinthewater.
Executive Director of Community Services and Facilities,DeniseKidd,saysthe
programme fills an important gap.
“We’re incredibly proud of our team. Families often struggle to find a ordable, suitable services for children with additional needs. It was important to us to o er something meaningful and accessible to families in our community,”shesays.
“The team supports a wide range of children—from those with medical challenges and sensory impairments, to those whousewheelchairsorrequire fullphysicalassistance.Parents often share how much joy and confidence their children gain fromtheprogramme.”
The centre also won the Operations Award for its cutting-edge AI drowning prevention system — the first of its kind in a public pool in Aotearoa. The system includes 27 AI-powered cameras that monitor swimmers and alert lifeguards through smartwatches if someone showssignsofdistress.
“Selwyn Aquatic Centre welcomes over 500,000 visits each year, making safety and serviceatoppriority,”saysMrs
Kidd. “These awards are a reflection of the team’s dedication to creating a safe, inclusive,andwelcomingspace for everyone in our community.”
MEMORABLE YEAR FOR MALVERN HOCKEY
Malvern Hockey celebrated another fantastic season at its annual prizegiving on Friday, September 12. The evening was filled with recognition, teamspirit,andplentyofwelldeserved congratulations for the girls from each team, who allplayedanexcellentseason. It wasespeciallyhearteningto see younger players step up throughout the year, filling in for injured teammates and showing true commitment to their teams. That spirit of support and teamwork shone throughtheentireseason. Aspecialhighlightofthenight
was the Platinum Girls Division 3 team being crowned the 2025 champions. The girls received their medals from their dedicated coach, Rebecca Hooper, whose support and leadership have been a huge partoftheirsuccess. The evening also included thankstoAmyTruscottandthe organising team, whose hard work ensured another smooth and enjoyable season for all involved.Congratulationsagain to all the players, coaches, and supporters for making 2025 a successful and memorable year forMalvernHockey.
MIP:RosariaCridge
CoachesChoice:Lavinia
Burrows
Platinum GirlsDiv 2 Platinum GirlsDiv
MVP:ZoeTruscott
MIP:HayleeMcDonaldand MaddyMead
CoachesChoice:Georgia
Johnson
Platinum GirlsDiv 3
Platinum GirlsDiv
MVP:AnnaTruscott
MIP:SummahHooperand SophiaWhittington
CoachesChoice:PaigeThorpe
LADIES GIVE CATCHBALL A GO
There’s a new team sport in the area and it’s catching on womenofallages. Catchball is a simpler form of volleyball where players catch theballandpassitaroundand then jump and throw it over the net. It does not require volleyball skills so it is easy to learn and any woman, even those who have been out of sport for a while or who have never played sport before, can quickly become a catchball player. The group, based in Rolleston, have an age range from 20s through to late 60s playing currently and you can be anywhere in your fitness
journey.
The sport was introduced to NewZealandin Nelson Baysin 2018 by Muriel Ronen, who grew the sport there, introducing it to hundreds of women locally. In Nelson Bays, there are currently six teams playinginalocalleague.
On moving to Christchurch, Muriel introduced the sport to LytteltonwithAntjeSchmidtin 2022, and this year started RollestonCatchballinSelwyn. Catchball is not only a sport thatgetswomenactivebutisa means for women to connect to others and to their community by providing
weekly sessions of 90 minutes that includes warm up, ball skills,catchballteamskillsand gameplay.
Thisisa fun waytoget active, makefriendsandplaysport. It provides regular meetups with others that provides social connection and improves not only your fitness but also your senseofwellbeing.
Currently in Canterbury there are three locations to play Catchball,theclosestbeing: • RollestonCatchballat SelwynSportsCentre. Term4Mondays:7:309:00pm.ContactMurielon 0274757803
Malvern Hockey Trophy winners for 2025. Back L-R: Georgia Johnson, Zoe Truscott, Haylee McDonald, Mandy Mead, Sophia Whittington and Summah Hooper.
Front L-R: Anna Truscott, Abi Pooler, Paige Thorpe, Lavinia Burrows and Rosaria Cridge.
Photo Credit: Dave Carney.
WAVES instructor Emma O’Connor and student Lily Donnelly at Selwyn Aquatic Centre
GYMNASTICS SHOWCASED
Last weekend, West Melton Gymnastics Club hosted an Open Day at the Darfield Recreation Centre, inviting local families to learn more about gymnastics and the Club’s programs. Club members were available to answer questions from parents, while current gymnasts guided interested children through the di erent apparatus and shared their experiences.
The morning o ered a relaxed opportunity for new participants to try out equipment, with support from coaches and senior gymnasts.
This informal introduction aimed to make gymnastics accessible to anyone who was considering joining and provided useful information about training at both the Darfield and Rolleston locations.
Intheafternoon,theClubheld its Junior Ribbon Day event, with coaches, parents, and senior gymnasts volunteering to assist. Gymnasts performed their routines in three divisions – Gym Fun, Grade 1, and Grade 2 – for a panel of judges. Each routine was scored out of ten, and participants received ribbons foreachapparatus.
Ribbon Day is not a competition; children are not ranked against each other. Instead, the event allows gymnaststopresentwhatthey have learned in a supportive setting.It also servesasa way for younger gymnasts to experience the format of a competition, which may help them prepare for future regionalevents.
West Melton Gymnastics Club is a non-profit, volunteer-run organisation. Training takes place at the main gym in Rolleston and at the satellite site in Darfield, located at the Recreation Centre. The Club welcomes new members and encourages anyone interested
to visit their website at westmeltongymclub.nz. Congratulationstoallgymnasts who participated. The event
HORORATA GOLF HORORATA GOLF
wasa positive reflection ofthe work and commitment shown byeveryoneinvolved.
Ribbon Day at Darfield: Back row (left to right) Courtney Jones, Mackenzie Whittington (Senior Coach), Yoie Opsomer (Darfield Coach), Izzy Hopkins, Alexis Ahlfeld, Katie Griffiths (Senior Coach), Erin McElroy (Senior Coach). Front row Grade 2 gymnasts: Raelyn DeFrees, Addison Lang, Arabella Christian, Lyna DeFrees, and Flora McLeod proudly display their certificates and ribbons.
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 Sept 2025.
ST JOHN JOHN Youth Cadets. Wednesday. 5:30-6:30pm for 5-10 year olds. 6:30-8pm for Year7-13.4BraySt,Darfield.
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BUSINESS COACHING
GROW GROW your business with NZ Life Coaching NZ. Helping with Business Improvement and Career Development. Unlock your potential and transform your life. Contact KieronMcGhie0212768311, www.newlifecoachingnz.com or send an email to newlifecoachingnz@gmail.com
CARPET
NEED NEEDNEED NEED carpet? Go local! Very competitive pricing, seldom beaten. 30 years servicing this area. In home sample service, also repairs and installations. Please ph Alan Roberts0212272080.
CARPET/WINDOWS
CARPET CARPET CARPET/Window Cleaning. Thorough job, good price, quick drying. Highly recommended. Ph/text Robert anytimeon 0272999599.
CHURCH NOTICES
CHIMNEY CLEANING Darfield
CARRS CARRS CARRS CARRS Chimney Cleaning. Servicing the Selwyn district. $80 per chimney. Please ph Rodney on 03 324 2999 and leaveamessage.
CHIM CHIMCHIM 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.
CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL, professional counselling/therapy. Offering valuable support as you navigate life's challenges. Freeintroductory 1/2hr consultation. Lisa Mills 0278140785. COUNSELLING
Anything considered, numbers to suit. Enquiries to Glenn Peddie 027 200 2232
ELECTRIC ELECTRIC ELECTRIC Rover Scooter. Large pannier bag, front basket. Offers.Pleasephone027318 0047.
GARDENING
GENERAL GENERAL GENERAL garden maintenance in Darfield area. Domestic hedge trimming, pruning, edging, lawns and water blasting. Please phone Kane 0274676613.
UNIVERSAL UNIVERSAL UNIVERSAL UNIVERSALHealingcansupport physical well-being, mental health, and emotional stability. Contact Lisa Mills 027 814 0785 or visit www.goldentouch.co.nz/ universalhealing
FOUR FOUR FOUR Highland Heifers & two Highlandsteercalves,looking fornewpostcode.Willonlybe soldinpairs.Ph0211498108
LEASE LAND WANTED
LEASE LEASE land wanted. Selwyn area suitable for cattle grazing. All sizes consider. PhoneReg0275670720.
PLANTS FOR SALE
EMERALD FARM EMERALD FARM FARM EMERALD FARM Native Plants, locally sourced. Lots of varieties. Call and see if we have what you need. Phone Annie0273702067.
SINGLE SINGLE lockable rooms in Darfield Hostel. Internet, Sky TV. $190pw. Please phone 0274791431.
Looking for a semi-reHred person to work from start of Spring Hll Autumn. • Must have clean drivers licence
• Reasonably fit
• Full training given
• Ute provide
• Must be good with people
Brian - 027 471 7001
MORTGAGE ADVISOR
ARE ARE AREyouinneedofarefinance, firsthomeloan,buyinganew home,investmentpropertyor a property development? I deal with all the lenders, and Icangetyouthebestdealto suityou.I have30+yearsof lending experience, and I am local. I can come to you. Alan Lover Loan Market 027 2516644. I bring the bankstoyou.
We are looking for a roadside breakdown/recovery driver for the summer months. This is an interes(ng and rewarding job, mee(ng and assis(ng all kinds of people from all over the world. You will also need to be able to assist in our busy workshop when required.
You will need to have a clean driver’s licence, with a minimum of Class 2, and the ability to gain a V endorsement. Some mechanical knowledge is a must. Must be able to work weekends when required (a minimum of two per month).
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TENANCY
RURAL RURAL RURALTenancyInspections. Also providing Total Rural and Residential Property Management Solutions. Please phone Rebecca 027 313 2270 or email rebecca@ruraltenancy.co.nz
All major brands Contact Nigel now for your no obligation free quote P: 021 387 750 E: nigel@malvernair.co.nz
While sports fishing o- the Florida coast, a tourist capsized his boat. He could swim, but his fear of alligators kept him clinging to the overturned craft.
Spotting an old beachcomber standing on the shore, the tourist shouted, "Are there any gators around here?!" "Naw," the man hollered back, "Ain't been any for years!"
Feeling safe, the tourist started swimming toward the shore. About halfway there he asked the guy, "How'd you get rid of the gators?" "We didn't do nothin'," the beachcomber said.
"The sharks got 'em."
A woman knows all about her children. She knows about dentist appointments and romances, friends, favourite foods, secret fears, and hopes and dreams. A man is vaguely aware of some short people living in the house.
Darfield based, working Canterbury wide. All Maintenance, Hot Water Cylinders, Log burners, Spouting, Rainwater Harvest, Wetbacks, Pumps, Alterations (new and existing)
