Darfield Pre-School & Nursery willcelebrate its37thbirthday in September, a milestone that reflects decades of supporting local children and families.
Over the years, countless teachers and families have shaped the centre into the communitypillaritistoday. Amongthosewhohavedefined its history are two of its longest-serving sta members:
Netty de Hertog, who recently stepped back from a permanent position after 33 years, but still comes in and helps out when needed, and Centre Manager Clare Clatworthy, who will be finishing her 24½ year tenure attheendofJuly.
Clare first joined the centre as an administrator following the birth ofher son, seekinga role that allowed her to work locallyandbeavailableforher children. Over the quartercentury that followed, her role evolved significantly. In 2016, she succeeded Sally Whitwell as Centre Manager, and she
has since overseen major milestones,includingthemove to the purpose-built Cardale Street facility and the recent completion of a new administrationblockforsta . Reflecting on her time, Clare says that the most rewarding part of her role has always been the people. She often references the Māori proverb: “Heahatemeanuioteao?He tangata, he tangata, he tangata” — What is the most
important thing in the world?
It is the people, it is the people,itisthepeople.
“It is knowing we have been a large part of people’s lives,”
Clare says. “To know we are theretosupportthesechildren grow and then see them head o to primary school makes us very proud. It is also so rewarding to see past children return with their own children—fullcircle.”
The Board of Trustees
expressed their deep gratitude for her impact on the centre, and wish Clare all the best in her new venture and thank her for all the amazing commitment and dedication she has shown to the preschool. She has been the heartbeat of the preschool for many years now and will be greatly missed by all of the familiesandsta !”
Clare Clatworthy with Netty de Hertog and Janene Prendergast ‘Neeny’.
The Sunflower House Page 2
Sheffield and Kirwee
Historic Coleman Shield Final Page 13
THE SUNFLOWER HOUSE:
SPROUTING COMMUNITY IN GLENTUNNEL
When Brianna Reuter and Daniel Kearney moved to Glentunnel, they didn't expect their home to be rebranded.
But after a "lucky dip" of sunflower seeds resulted in a front garden overflowing with towering blooms, their property was quickly dubbed "TheSunflowerHouse."
"It was inspired by spontaneity," Brianna says. "A friend gave us a mix of dried seeds, not convinced they’d grow. We planted plenty, expecting only a handful to come up. instead, they nearly reachedourgutters."
The vibrant display became a local landmark, visible from the neighbourhood loop. "When we first moved in, people knew our home as the previous owners' place," Brianna explains. "That quickly changed to 'the one with the sunflowers.' We loved it; it felt positiveandwelcoming."
To share the joy, the couple set up a small stall at their front gate, selling stems for just $2. The goal was simple: make beauty a ordable. This small gesture sparked deep communityconnections.Locals and campground visitors often stop for chats, and on Valentine's Day, Brianna even helped a last-minute shopper surprise his wife with a freshcut bunch after the stall had closedforthenight.
"The stall has given us the chancetomeetpeoplewemay
not have otherwise," says Brianna. "It’s been a simple way to feel part of the community."
Daniel has been the project’s "motivator," building the stall and roadside signs. Together, they are planning an even biggerimpactfornextsummer. They intend to expand the patch using seeds dried from thisyear’scropandaddsurplus vegetables and home-baked breadtothestall.
Most importantly, the couple plans to donate future proceeds to a mental health
organisation. As professional facilitators and trainers, both Brianna and Daniel see the need for better wellbeing support, particularly for young people."Contributingtothat is importanttous,"shesays.
As they prepare for the next season,Briannaismostexcited about seeing repeat customers and meeting new faces. For this couple, the project has proven that something as simple as a sunflower can brighten a day, spark a conversation, and help a new familytrulyputdownroots.
Daniel Kearney and Briana Reuter.
CAPS SHOW PRIDE AND RAISE FUNDS FOR DARFIELD COMMUNITY
When Aileen and Alan Peacock set o last year on their retirement bucket-list trip to Gallipoli, Europe and the UK, there was one thing missing: a way to proudly show where they came from – a Darfield cap.
PartoftheMalvernCommunity Board’s role is to promote our wonderful district. With that in mind, the MCB has designed “Darfield – Our Home under the Alps” caps to help fill that gap. The caps are also a fundraiser, with every dollar of profit available to support worthy causes in the Darfield community.
Available in navy blue and khaki, the caps can be bought from DarfieldPost Shop, which issellingthemonbehalfofthe MCB without adding any
margin to cover its costs. This helps ensure more of the proceeds can benefit the community.
The aim is to promote the township while giving back through cap sales. If other townships or villages in Malvern would like caps of their own, a minimum order of 20 isrequiredtocover artwork set-up costs, and any profits would go back to that
township. To get the process started, simply contact any member of the Malvern CommunityBoard.
At just $25 each, including GST, these quality caps make an excellent gift for friends, overseasrelativesorvisitorsto the district. They are available from Darfield Post Shop, and the MCB hopes the community will support this worthy initiative.
When people think of Japan in spring, they often picture delicate cherry blossoms framingancienttemples.While the Sakura season is undeniably spectacular, it's only one chapter of what makes this remarkable country sounforgettable. What continually surprises travellers is the contrast. In Tokyo, centuries-old shrines sit comfortably alongside futuristic skyscrapers, while tranquil gardens provide moments of calm just minutes from some of the busiest streets in the world. One day you might be learning the art of sushi-making from a master chef, and the next you're gliding across the countryside onabullettrain.
Beyond the cities, Japan reveals another side entirely.
Wander through bamboo forests in Kyoto, discover beautifullypreservedmountain villages with their distinctive thatched-roof homes, or watch the famous snow monkeys relaxing in steaming natural hotsprings.Everyregiono ers its own unique scenery, traditionsandflavours.
Historyalsoplaysanimportant role in understanding modern Japan. A visit to Hiroshima is both moving and inspiring, whilethefloatingToriiGateon Miyajima Island and the breathtaking views of Mt Fuji remind visitors why Japan is considered one of the world's mostbeautifuldestinations.
Ofcourse,springaddsanextra layer of magic. Parks, castles and riverbanks burst into shades of pink and white as cherry blossoms bloom across the country, creating a celebration that locals eagerly
anticipateeachyear. For me, Japan isn't simply a destination to tick o a bucket list. It's a country that rewards curiosity, whether through its gracious hospitality, exceptional cuisine, rich cultural traditions or stunning natural landscapes. If you've everdreamedofvisitingJapan, spring o ers an extraordinary opportunity to experience one oftheworld'smostcaptivating countriesatitsverybest.
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BIG TECH'S CASH MACHINE GOES ON STRIKE
By Greg McGeorge By Greg McGeorge By Greg McGeorge By Greg McGeorge –– Shaw Shaw
and Partners Financial and Partners Financial and Partners Financial and Partners Financial Adviser. Adviser.
For more than a decade, America's largest technology companieshavebeenpowerful driversofglobalsharemarkets. Businesses such as Alphabet (Google), Amazon, Microsoft and Meta (Facebook) generated enormous free cash flow, allowing them to reinvest, pay dividends and, importantly, buy back their own shares. Those buybacks reduced the number of shares onissue,boostingearningsper share and providing steady demandfortheirstocks. Thatdynamicisnowchanging. Artificial intelligence requires extraordinary investment. Building AI isn't just about software, it demands vast data centres, advanced chips, networking equipment, power infrastructure and specialist talent.
Collectively, these four
companies are expected to spend more than US$700 billion on capital expenditure over the coming year (and more in the yearsto follow) as they race to build AI infrastructure. Every dollar invested in AI is a dollar that cannot be returned to shareholders through buybacks.Some companiesare even issuing new shares or raising debt to fund these investments, marking a significant shift from the cashgenerating model investors havebecomeaccustomedto. None of this suggests AI is a poorinvestment.IfAIreshapes how we work, search and communicate, then these companies can’t a ord to fall behind. The question for investors is whether future profits will justify today's
enormousspending. History shows that transformative technologies oftencreatetremendousvalue, but periods of heavy investment can also produce excessive optimism. For long-term investors, the lesson remains unchanged: stay diversified, avoid chasing fashionable themes, and remember that even exceptional businesses experience periods where expectations run ahead of reality.
A new historical publication celebrating Weedons School andthewiderdistricthasbeen released, preservingmore than 150 years of rural Canterbury historyforfuturegenerations.
The 231-page book, A CelebrationofWeedonsSchool
Te Kura o Karamū and the Development of the District 1871–2025, was originally planned as part of the school’s sesquicentennial celebrations marking 150 years since its establishment in 1871.
After COVID-19 disrupted anniversary plans, organisers turned their e orts toward creating what has become the most comprehensive historical record yet assembled about thedistrict.
As neighbouring Rolleston and the wider Selwyn District continuetoexpandrapidly,the publication captures the people, families, institutions and stories that shaped Weedons before further change transforms the area.
Once a distinct rural community built on farming, schooling and local enterprise, Weedons now faces increasing pressure as surrounding development grows and its identityrisksbeinglost.
CurrentprincipalRobNaysmith said preserving local stories had become increasingly important.
“As we document the rich history of Weedons School, it becomes increasingly vital to preserve the stories and
experiences that have shaped our community. This book is not just a collection of memories; it reflects the enduring spirit of our school amidst the rapid growth of the neighbouringRollestonarea.”
The book combines school history with a broader account of the district, weaving together memories from former students, principalsand local families. It includes class photographs spanning more than a century, from 1923 to 2025, alongside extensive historical research into the originsanddevelopmentofthe area.
Former student Oliver Ryan, who attended the school from 1951 to 1958, played a significant role in researching the district’s history and gathering reflections from past studentsandschoolleaders,as well as stories from longestablished local families.
Former principal Kathy Bell also contributed to the
publication, commenting that she sees this book as a valuable history of the development of a district and school, spanning major events throughwarstoapandemic.
Full of photos and memorable moments, it will take many back to their childhood and school dayswhile ensuringthe past is not lost to future generations”.
Beyond the school gates, the book highlights Weedons’ wider historical significance, including its origins in early Canterbury pastoral settlement, its role as a transport and postal hub, the story behind the district’s name, notable agricultural achievements, and links to the RNZAF base at Weedons and Antarcticsupportoperations. Copies are available for $50 plus $15 p&p, or may be collectedfromtheschool.
For bank details, contact o ce@weedons.school.nz.
A HEARTFELT FAREWELL TO CLARE CLATWORTHY
Continuedfromfrontpage...
Clare is moving on to an administrative role within Chamberlain Agriculture Ltd, an agriculturalcontractingfirm where she and her husband Nigel are partners. She leaves the centre in the capable hands of Janene “Neeny” Prendergast, who returns to
the preschool as the new CentreManager.
The community is invited to a farewell afternoon tea for Clare on Saturday, August 1, between2pmand4pm. This will be a wonderful opportunity to say goodbye andtourthenewadminblock.
Weedons School Principal Rob Naysmith with a copy of the book.
AstheMalvernNewscontinues its series on local Canopy Camping Escapes, this week wevisitRockwoodStationnear Windwhistle, where two very di erent stays showcase the beauty of the family farm. From a charming garden retreat to a lovingly restored railway carriage, both o er guests the chance to slow down, disconnect and experience the high country in auniqueway.
The Summer House The Summer HouseWindwhistle Windwhistle
Originally intended as nothing more than a peaceful spot for the family to enjoy, The Summer House has become one of Rockwood Station's mostpopularescapes.
Host Cheryl says the building began life as an old hut, transformed into a summer house nestled beside native bush and the Rockwood Stream.
House. They loved it and later recommended we join Canopy Camping."
"Itwasgoingtobeourginstop on garden walks during summer," Cheryl says. "When guests, staying in our Shearers Hut, asked if there was somewhere quiet to unwind, we o ered them The Summer HororataRiver.
Today, guests enjoy a peaceful retreat with no Wi-Fi or cellphone reception, encouraging them to truly switch o . Native bush walks begin just metres from the accommodation, while the nearby stream provides the soundtracktoarelaxingstay.
For Cheryl and her husband, whose family has farmed Rockwood Station for five generations, sharing the property has deepened their appreciationforitshistory.
"My husband has always valued the land, but since I arrived in 2004 I've been amazed by the beauty of the gardens, the bush walks and the family graves dating back tothe1870s,"shesays.
The family has spent years restoring the walking tracks, caring for the historic graves and developing the gardens, creating a special place for visitorstoenjoy.
The Carriage The TheCarriage Carriage- Windwhistle Windwhistle
A short distance away sits one of Malvern's most distinctive accommodation experiences–arestoredgoods carriage overlooking the
Positioned where the Rockwood and Boundary streams meet, the twobedroom carriage enjoys sweeping views towards Mt Hutt.
Cherylsaystheideacameafter the family considered building a house on the sheltered riversidesite.
"Then I found an old goods carriage on Trade Me," she says. "That was the lightbulb moment. We decided to move itontothesiteandtransformit into another glamping experience."
Like The Summer House, The Carriage encourages guests to disconnect, with only patchy cellphone reception. Instead, visitors can cool o in the swimming hole where the streams meet, soak in one of twooutdoorbathsbeneaththe stars, or explore the nearby bushwalk.
Hosting guests has reinforced just how special the property is.
"We've always appreciated this part of the farm for its shelter and incredible views," Cheryl says. "It's something you really need to see to fully appreciate."
From peaceful bush retreats to riverside accommodation with spectacular mountain views, Rockwood Station o ers visitors an authentic taste of theMalvernhighcountrywhile showcasing a landscape that has been treasured by generationsofonefamily.
PARENTING THROUGH BIG BURSTING BEHAVIOUR
Parenting can feel incredibly overwhelming when children are struggling with big emotions, sensory overload, anxiety, meltdowns,orbehavioursthatseemtocomefromnowhere.
AspartofthewiderEmpoweringtheVillageseries,AndreaGreer is coming to Dunsandel Community Centre on Thursday, August 20, 2026, from 6:30 – 8pm for a practical, down-to-earth evening designed to help parents and caregivers better understand what may be happening underneath the behaviour, andhowtorespondin waysthat support regulation, safety, and connection.
Andrea is a Registered Social Worker with a Master’s endorsementinMentalHealth.Sheblendsprofessionalexpertise with real-world lived experience supporting children and familiesnavigatingemotionalandbehaviouralchallenges.
This session is especially valuable for parents, caregivers, whānau, educators and support people working alongside children with emotional regulation challenges, ADHD or neurodivergent traits, sensory overwhelm, anxiety and shutdowns, big bursting behaviours, and trauma or stress responses. Parents will leave with practical strategies, a greater understanding,andideastheycanuseineverydaylife. Thisisa freeevent;however,registrationisessential.
To register, visit events.humanitix.com/parenting To register, visit events.humanitix.com/parenting visit events.humanitix.com/parenting visit events.humanitix.com/parenting--through through through through-big big--bursting bursting bursting bursting--behaviours. behaviours. behaviours.
Andrea Greer
STEVE GIBLING APPOINTED
PERMANENT CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF SELWYN DISTRICT COUNCIL
Selwyn District Council o cially appointed Steve Gibling as its permanent Chief Executive on July 1, 2026. Steve had been acting in the position since January, providing vital stability during a significant period of government reform and the development of the Annual Plan.
The Chief Executive serves as the sole employee of the elected Council, responsible for leading more than 600 sta and managing the district’s operational delivery. The role involves overseeing essential services—ranging from infrastructure and parks to libraries and community facilities—while ensuring that the Council’s strategic vision is implemented e ciently and remainsfinanciallysustainable.
MayorLydia Gliddonconfirmed that the appointment followed a thorough and robust recruitment process. Lydia
noted that while there was a high calibre of candidates, Steve’s performance during his acting tenure proved he was the right leader for Selwyn’s future.
"We had the benefit of seeing Steve lead the organisation over the past seven months, and he showed strong, steady leadership through a period of change," Lydia said. She emphasizedthatStevebrought a deep understanding of the district and a people-first approach, which was instrumental in building trust with both councillorsandsta . Lydia also highlighted that a ordability remained a top priority for the community, noting that Steve understood the delicate balance between financial responsibility and planning for growth. She specificallypointedtohiswork with Upper Selwyn Huts residents as a prime example of his ability to reconnect the
Councilwithitspeople.
With over 25 years of leadership experience across the local government, tertiary, and not-for-profit sectors, Steve expressed immense pride in taking on the role permanently. He noted a personal connection to the region, sharing that his own children livedandplayedsport in the district, giving him firsthand insight into what made Selwynspecial.
"My focus was on building on the work already underway, continuing to support our people, and strengthening our partnerships with mana whenua," Steve said. He acknowledged that the sector was facing the largest reforms sincethe1980s,whichbrought both uncertainty and opportunity. Steve emphasized that the 600-strong sta remained the backbone of the community’s services, and he committed to ensuring the Council remained e cient and adaptable for the decade ahead.
Selwyn Mayor Lydia Gliddon with newly appointed Selwyn District Council Chief Executive Steve Gibling.
At the U3A July meeting, Antony Bush, a prominent NZ physiotherapist with extensive experience in spinal pain and musculoskeletalsportsinjuries, spoke about "Movement as Medicine". It was perhaps not surprising that he started his presentation by asking members to undertake a simpleexerciseregime!
Antony explained how humans developed to be capable of extensive periods of exercise simply as part of everyday life. By way of contrast, he presented a chart showing, on average, how much of an individual’s day is sedentary. He quotedMelanie Challenger: “The world is now dominated byananimalthatdoesn’tthink it is an animal.” He then noted how pharmaceutical companies market their products to expand sales, suggesting that any malady could be cured with a pill and that no pain should be tolerated.
Antony argued that whilst it’s easiertosurviveinthemodern world, we seem to experience more stress and pain despite being significantly less active than our ancestors. He noted that other experts have commented that our
healthcare systems are aligned more toward treatment than preventative health and wellness. Whilst there are many reasons thatrequiremedicaltreatment, Antony noted that movement is a medicine for creating changeinaperson'semotional andmentalstate.He discussed various examples of exercise that can contribute toward improved functional mobility in our later years. He noted research evidence which suggests that for those over 60, those in the top third in terms of mobility and strength have a significantly reduced mortality risk when compared tothosewhoarelessactive. Antony explained how, regardless of our age, we can allimproveourhealthbysmall increases in exercise over an extended period without straining our bodies. He gave
examples of Everest Sherpas carrying significant weight by taking short breaks, allowing theirbodiestorecharge.
Antonynoteda quotation from DrJohnRatey(HarvardMedical School) stating that exercise will improve the performance of our brains. He noted how mindfulness and movement can both reduce stress and have a 95% success rate in makingusfeelbetter. Antony’s presentation was fast paced at times but was enjoyedbyallattending.
Malvern U3A meets monthly at the Darfield Bap st Church, normally on the second Friday of the month. It is an organisa on for seniors to come together for con nuous learning and informa on and is open to all who are no longer in full me work. While U3A stands for the University of the Third Age, it is not a university in the modern sense of the word; there are no qualifica ons required and no exams! Come along and see for yourselves.
Antony Bush.
FINDING YOUR STYLE: BUDGET-FRIENDLY INTERIOR DESIGN TIPS
ByLeanne Cummins, ByLeanne Cummins, Manager at DarfieldOpshop. Manager at DarfieldOpshop.
Hi there! Are you a lover of interior design but don’t know where to start? Are you a minimalist? A maximalist? Or just confusedanddon’tknowwheretobegin?
Here are a few tips and tricks I have learned along the way. You may be like me and have had many decorating fads and colour themes over the years. I have always loved gorgeous homes and interiors but haven’t always had the budget to decoratewith.So,usingthingsIalreadyhadorinheritedfrom my grandmother, my husband’s grandmother, and my own mother,thisiswhatIdo:
Check out your local Darfield Op Shop at Trinity Church Hall on Greendale Road, everything is $5 unless marked. Open Wednesdays10-3andSaturdays10-1.
A COLD NIGHT EXPECTED FOR A GOOD CAUSE
Councillor Sam Wilshire is Councillor Wilshire is preparingtospenda night preparingtospenda night sleeping on cardboardin sleeping on cardboardin sleeping on cardboardin sleeping on cardboardin centralChristchurch to centralChristchurch to centralChristchurch to centralChristchurch to raise fundsandawareness raise raisefundsandawareness fundsandawareness raise for people experiencing for people experiencing homelessness. homelessness.
Cnr Sam is taking part in The Big Sleepout 2026, hosted by Christchurch City Mission on Thursday, August 13. The event asks community and business leaders to sleep rough for one night, giving a small glimpse of the discomfort and uncertainty facedbypeoplewithoutasafe, warmplacetocallhome.
Christchurch has about 250 to 300 people who are currently homeless, and the number continuestoclimb.
“I wanted to be involved becausehousinginsecurityand financial hardship are issues that a ect people across Christchurch and Selwyn, and I believe we all have a role to playinhelping,”hesays.
He hopes the event will help people better understand how di cult life can be for those who do not have secure
“Homelessness isn’t always visible, and many people experiencing hardship are doing their best to get by despite circumstances beyond their control,” Sam says. “If sharing my experience encourages more empathy, understanding, and support for thoseinneed,thenitwillhave beenworthwhile.”
While he is keeping an open mind about the night itself, he says no amount of preparation can truly replicate the challenges faced by those who sleep rough every night. “I want to be mentally prepared for the discomfort and use the opportunity to reflect on how fortunate many of us are to haveasecurehome.”
He isalso learningmore about the work being done to support people experiencing homelessness and says the rising cost of living has placed significant pressure on many households.
“For some people, a job loss, illness, relationship breakdown, or unexpected expense can quickly lead to housing insecurity. Behind every statistic is a person, a family, or a young person facing real challenges, and our communities are stronger when we look after one another.”
Sam encourages anyone who can to support The Big Sleepout through a donation, sponsorship, or by helping spread awareness. He says people can also support local charities, donate goods, volunteer, or check in on someone who may be struggling.
Sam hopes the money raised will provide practical support, including emergency accommodation, food assistance, access to support services, mental health support, and pathways into stablehousing.
He says the goal is not only to help people through immediate hardship, but also to support long-term solutions that help individuals and familiesrebuildtheirlives.
“I’m honoured to participate in The Big Sleepout 2026. Every contribution, no matter how large or small, helps make a positiveimpact.”
To sponsor Sam, visit To Sam, visit bigsleepoutsouth.nz/cr bigsleepoutsouth.nz/cr bigsleepoutsouth.nz/cr--samuel samuel samuel--wilshire. wilshire.
Sam Wilshire.
SHEFFIELD AND KIRWEE TO CELEBRATE 40 YEARS SINCE HISTORIC COLEMAN SHIELD FINAL
Former players, supportersand rugby followers are invited to celebrate the 40th anniversary of one of Malvern rugby's mostmemorableachievements when She eld and Kirwee reunite to commemorate the 1986ColemanShieldFinal.
Playedat Kirweeon 17 August 1986, the match saw She eld defeat Kirwee 19-6 to claim the Ellesmere Combined Rugby Sub-Union's prestigious Coleman Shield. The victory secured She eld's place in local rugby history, as they became the first Malvern club to win the coveted trophy. It remained a unique achievement for many years until Darfield added its name to the honours board a couple ofyearsago.
The reunion will be held at the Kirwee Rugby Club on Saturday, 22 August 2026, from2.00pmonwards.Theday will also feature Ellesmere representative rugby matches anda sausage sizzle, providing
agreatopportunitytoenjoyan afternoon of grassroots rugby while catching up with old teammatesandfriends.
The invitation is extended to everyone connected with the 1986 final, including players, coaches, o cials, supporters and volunteers. Anyone who played rugby during the 1980s with or against either She eld or Kirwee is also warmly invited to attend and share in the memories of an era that produced some outstanding countryrugby.
Following this introduction is the original CentralCanterbury News match report, published on Wednesday, 20 August 1986, recounting She eld's memorable Coleman Shield victory.
For further information, contact: Lee Golding 027 343 3483.
The sun shone on Malvern rugby in more ways than one, whenShe eldandKirwee,coleaders in the Ellesmere Combined Rugby Subunions Senior Championship, met to decide the winner of the Coleman Shield in perfect spring weather at the Kirwee domainonSunday. She eld ran out comfortable winners by 19-6, but not beforetheyhadsubduedavery game and determined Kirwee pack.
In the long run, goal kicking, fitness, overall mobility and greater awareness of the requirements in back play carried She eld through to a win.
The day belonged to Tony Thorpe, Carl Ferguson, Kerry Pauling, John Morrison, Keith Jenkins and Lee Golding, plus theirnineteammates.
Tony Thorpe fully earned his player of the day award. He featuredintheplayleadingup
DARFIELD GUN CLUB UPDATE
tobothofShe eld'stries. She eld never dominated the Kirwee front row of Alex McKenzie, Gavin Henderson and Greg Dawson in the set scrums. The pressureexertedbytheKirwee eight in the set pieces and the rucks should have been the winning of the game, but this wasnottobe.
Behind the scrum, the backlines, was the real di erence between the two teams.
The She eld pack always seemed eager to get the ball back to their rear division as quickly as possible, whereas Kirweedidn’t.
John Morrison, She eld’s halfback was very quick in dispatching the ball into the backline and was very quick to break when he decided to run.
His opposite, Jimmy Reardon, was more stereotyped and later in the game su ered when he receivedthe ballvery muchunderpressure.
becauseofslownessinpassing and the wrong option being taken.
One other factor in the She eld win was the accurate goalkicking of fullback Lee Golding. Besides converting the penalties into points he converted one of She eld’s twotries.
After participating in such a strength sapping game for Canterbury against Australia, Don Hayes gave his all and should be a model for all youngplayers.
Scoring: After 11 minutes, a penalty to Lee Golding; after 17 minutes, hooker Steve Smith scores for She eld whenhesecuresthelooseball at thefront ofa lineout onthe Kirwee goal and dives over; after 29 minutes, a penalty for Kirwee to Ian Shinn; half time score:9-3toShe eld.
ByBevan Brown.
ByBevan Brown. ByBevan Brown. ByBevan Brown.
It was cold and windy with heavy rain for the July 5 shooting events as the Southerly arrived. We had a slight delay to allow for grading before commencing the Side-by-Side Trophy shoot and there was plenty of competition and shooto s required for the top grades.
OntotheRossShieldandwith the rain at its worst for round one, we had some very wet shooters over the first four squads, but it got a little bit better by the end of the squads.
We had a stop for afternoon tea and a chance to warm up and dry out before round two.
Withjustabitoflightrain,the wind stayed strong for round
two and some better scores. A quick calculation and shoot o s were again in the picture with third/fourth placing and for seventh/ninth placing with sixshootersalltiedon43.
Thanks to all the workers and those who supplied afternoon tea. Our next shoot is Sunday, August2,at12.30pmstart.All welcome.
RESULTS
The RossShieldHandicap by The RossShieldHandicap by
Distance: Distance: Distance: Distance:
Winner: Winner: Winner: Winner: NickWiseman49/50
DArmitage 48 RBryant 47
ASheppard 47 PRyder 46
RMillichamp44DFolley 43
EGreenwood43
SAramoana 43
Side bySide Trophy: Side bySide Trophy: HOA/AGrade HOA/AGrade
JasonShe ord 14/15
BGrade BGrade BGrade BGrade
PaulTempleton 13/15
CGrade CGrade CGrade CGrade EthanGreenwood 13/15.
Keith Jenkins, She eld’s first five, was unflustered, always seemingtohaveplentyoftime to switch to the alternative option if needed. Outside him Arthur Marsh and Hugh Wright attackedanddefendedwell.
On several occasions the call of Kirwee captain, Don Hayes, to get the ball wider was not heeded, and the scoring opportunity that had been there was wasted, mainly
Second half, after 9 minutes, a penalty to Ian Shinn; after 13 minutes, a penalty to Lee Golding; after 25 minutes, a penalty to Lee Golding; after 29 minutes, John Harrison scoresforShe eld,followinga run on the short side by Tony Thorpe. Final score: 19-6 to She eld.
That the game flowed, without the usual number of lineouts, was a tribute to the flexible control exercised by the referee, Mr Murray Dulieu. Touch judges: S McKnight and JCalder.
Winner of the 2026 Ross Shield, Nick Wiseman.
Winner of the 2026 Side-bySide Trophy, Jason Shefford.
ACCOUNTANTS
ARE AREARE ARE your accounts taking up valuable time you’d rather spend growing your business or with your family? Let the team at Sterling Accountants handle your accounting and tax compliance—right here on your doorstep. Call AnnMaree at Malvern Business Hub:0212150981.
BUSINESS CARDS
ST JOHN YOUTH CADETS
Wednesday.
5:30-6:30pm for 5-10 yr olds. 6:30-8pm for Year 7-13.
4 Bray Street, Darfield.
IS IT IT IS IT time to redesign your Life? Running a business shouldn’t feel this hard. I helplocalbusinessownersfix team and leadership problemswithoutlosinggood workers. Kieron McGhieStrategic People & Performance Coach Darfield. Confidential local coaching. Phone0212768311.
CARPET/WINDOWS
CARPET CARPET CARPET/Window Cleaning. Thorough job, good price, quick drying. Highly recommended. Please phone/ text Robert anytime on 027 299 9599.
CARRS CARRS Chimney Cleaning. Servicing the Selwyn district. $90 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.
COUNSELING
RECEIVE RECEIVE RECEIVE valuable, professional support as you navigate life's challenges. Confidential service with qualified therapist, Lisa Mills. Initial free 1/2 hour consultation. O27 814 0785. www.goldentouch.co.nz
PEA PEAPEA PEA straw, small bales $9 delivered. Minimum delivery 21 bales. Medium bales $90 no min. Phone 021 077 3692.
MEADOW MEADOW MEADOW MEADOW hay. Conventional bales. Old season. Shed store. Suitable sheep and cattle. $5 per bale. Kirwee area. Phone 03 318 1964.
GIB BOARD GIB BOARD GIB GIB BOARD one piece, 10mm x 1200mm x 2400mm. Free. Pick up Glentunnel. 0226 189 966.
& COAL
WILLOW WILLOW WILLOW wood, Dry. 4 and 8 Meter loads. Good clean burning wood. Free delivery. Phone0277811492.
GENERAL GENERAL GENERALgardenmaintenancein Darfield area. Domestic hedge trimming, pruning, edging, lawnsandwaterblasting.Kane 0274676613.
WINTER WINTER tidy-up. Lawn mowing and garden services. Large sections a specialty with catcher or side discharge. Hedge trimming and other garden maintenance services alsoavailable.Regularor one -off jobs. Based in Darfield and servicing Selwyn. Contact Granton021619165.
HANDYMAN
LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL handyman -Part time. Any work considered, including farm work. Please phoneKerry0276222161.
LEASE LAND WANTED
LEASE LEASELEASE LEASE land wanted. Selwyn area suitable for cattle grazing. All sizes consider. PhoneReg0275670720.
MORTGAGE ADVISOR
ARE ARE AREyouinneedofarefinance, firsthomeloan,buyinganew home,investmentpropertyor a property development? I deal with all the lenders, and Icangetyouthebestdealto suityou.Ihave30+yearsof lending experience, and I am local. I can come to you. Alan Lover Loan Market 0272516644.
I bring the the banks to you. banks to you. you. you.
Native Plants, locally sourced. Lots of varieties. Call and see if we have what you need. Please phoneAnnie0273702067.
SCRAP METAL
WANTED! WANTED! WANTED! WANTED! Amalgamated Scrap Ltd. Buying cars & farm machinery. Specialising in farm clean-ups. Best prices Rod McQuoid - buyer. Please ph 027 695 0480 or alternatively0800030712.
Container Storage. For all your secure storage needs (secure site with camera). Cardale St, Darfield. PhonePhil0212234553.
AMMUNITION AMMUNITION AMMUNITION AMMUNITION and reloading equipment. Powder projectiles, presses etc. Any caliber rifle / shotgun. Anything hunting related. Cash buyer. Please contact Rob033425885.
TOOLS TOOLS wanted - mechanics, engineering, wood working etc. Garage, shed, barn clearances, deceased estates etc. Please phone Rob on 033425885.
TENANCY
RURAL RURAL Tenancy Inspections. Also providing Total Rural and Residential Property Management Solutions. Please phone the office 03 745 7102 or email office@ruraltenancy.co.nz
I recently asked a friend, “Has your son decided what he wants to be when he grows up?”
“Yes, he wants to be a rubbish collector,” my friend said. “That’s an unusual ambiDon to have at such a young age,” I managed to reply.
“Well,” said the boy’s father, “he thinks that rubbish collectors only work on Tuesdays.”
Pulling into the crowded parking lot at the shopping center rolled down the car windows to make sure my puppy had fresh air. She was stretched full out on the back seat and I wanted to impress upon her that she must remain there. I walked to the curb backward, poinDng my finger at the car and saying emphaDcally, "Now you stay. Do you hear me? Stay! Stay!"
The driver of a nearby car, a preHy young blonde lady, gave me a strange look and said, "Why don't you just put it in park?"
