MARCHING DREAM COMES TRUE
Page 4
Seventeen-year-old Mel Beatty is going places. Most recently, she was part of the Eclipse Under 18 team that claimed the New Zealand Marching Championshiptitle.
Mel has been involved in marching since the age of five and has spent much of her childhood and teenage years developing her skills and passionforthesport.
Following the national championships, applications opened for marchers from across the country to audition for the prestigious New Zealand Marching Drill Team (NZMDT).
NZMDT affiliated with Marching New Zealand, brings
together top marchers from across Aotearoa to represent the country at international military tattoos and selected national events, while developing skills, teamwork and future pathways for marchers.
Assoonassheheardaboutthe opportunity, Mel knew it was something she had always dreamed of being part of. Initially,shethoughtshemight be too young to apply. However, after carefully reading the eligibility requirements, she discovered she qualified by just over a month. At just 17 years old, and only due to turn 18 a few months before departing for
MALVERN NEWS DELIVERY CHANGES
The delivery days and times for the The delivery days and times for the The days and for The days and for Malvern News Malvern News Malvern News Malvern News have have have have recently changed to better align with our distribution recently changed to better align with our distribution changed to better align distribution changed to better align distribution network. This shift is primarily due to our deliverers network. This shift is primarily due to our deliverers shift is primarily due deliverers shift is primarily due deliverers’ ’’ ’ preference to distribute the distribute Malvern News Malvern News simultaneously simultaneously with the withthe the Selwyn Times Selwyn SelwynTimes Times for greater e ciency. e Because the Because the the the Selwyn Times Selwyn is now being dropped o to our is now being dropped o our delivery team later than previously scheduled, we have had delivery team later than previously scheduled, we have had team later we have had team later we have had to adjust our timelines accordingly. We appreciate your to adjust our timelines accordingly. We appreciate your adjust We appreciate adjust We appreciate understanding as we adapt to these external logistical shifts understanding as we adapt to these external logistical shifts as adapt to these shifts as adapt to these shifts beyond our control. beyond our control.
Switzerland, she would be one of the youngest marchers selectedifsuccessful.
Determined to give herself every opportunity, Mel put in many hours of self-directed training to prepare her audition video. She also spent considerable time carefully
answering the selection questions, including the important question of why she deserved a place in the team.
Once her application was submitted, she faceda nervous wait while selections were beingmade.
Continuedonpage13...
Mel Beatty is following her marching dreams with her selection for the New Zealand Drill Team and an opportunity to perform in Switzerland.
Kirwee Players Present Cinderella
RESIDENTS INVITED TO HELP SHAPE DARFIELD’S FUTURE
Darfield residents are being invited to help shape the township’s future identity at a Branding Darfield Workshop laterthismonth.
Hosted by the Darfield Residents Association, the workshop will be held on Tuesday, August 25, at the Darfield Recreation Centre, following the association’s annualgeneralmeeting.
TheAGMstartsat7pm,withthe interactive branding workshop beginning at the conclusion of the AGM and continuing until 9pm.
Hear from guest speakers, take part in interactive discussions andcollaboratewithotherswho careaboutDarfield.Thesession is an opportunity for residents to explore the values, stories and experiences that make Darfield distinctive, and
consider how they should be reflectedinfuturebrandingand communityinitiatives.
Discussion will centre on questionsincludingwhatmakes people proud to call Darfield home, what should never change as the town grows and whatvisitorsshouldknowabout thecommunity.Participantswill also be asked how they hope Darfield will be described in 20 years’time.
All viewpoints are welcome throughoutthesession.
The association says the workshop is intended to be relaxed and welcoming, with every contribution valued. It is open to people who live, work, volunteer, run a business, attend school or simply care aboutDarfield.
The workshop is part of a broader Branding Darfield
programme, aimed at developing a clear identity for the growing rural service town whilerecognisingitscommunity characterandlifestyle.
Arelatedartcompetitionisalso inviting secondary school studentstoshare their vision of Darfield. Entries can depict the township today, imagine its future or capture its spirit through visual art, graphic designordigitalillustration.
The workshop will help inform the next stages of the branding programme, including community engagement, the development of brand concept and a planned official launch laterintheyear.
Residents are encouraged to come along, join the conversation and help shape the future of their community together.
DAFFODIL DAY DAFFODIL DAFFODILDAY DAY
To help promote Daffodil Day on Friday, August 28, the Malvern Cancer Society invite you tocreatea Yellow Window Display for the week starting 24th August. There is a trophy forthebestdisplay.Forfurther information please email malverncancer@gmail.com
JOHNNY FRESH YALDHUR JOHNNY FRESH YALDHUR JOHNNY FRESH YALDHUR JOHNNY FRESH YALDHURST ST ST ST REBRAND REBRAND
Johnny Fresh Yaldhurst has rebrandedtoTommyFresh–it is owned and operated by
Johnny’s son. For those who want to support the local Johnny Fresh, you can find the same fresh produce at the Darfieldstoreandshoplocalat thesametime.
SELWYN BUSINESS SURV SELWYN BUSINESS SURV SURVEY EYEY EY
The Selwyn Business Survey is a twice-yearly pulse check of local businesses, measuring current performance and the outlook for the next six months.
With support from Business Canterbury, all completed
surveysgointhedrawtowina 12-month Business Canterbury Connect membership valued at $850+GST. The prize includes enhanced business promotion, networking opportunities, expert guidance and a one-onone session with Business GrowthAdvisorJasonMacRae. The survey takes about 10 minutes. Business insights will help shape a district recognised for economic resilienceandinnovation. yoursay.selwyn.govt.nz
ICONIC TAVERN FACES UNCERTAIN FUTURE
“ ““ “See you at the Westy. See you at the Westy. you at the Westy. Westy.” ”” ”
Those friendly words could soon become part of history. With the sale of West Melton’s iconic meeting place near the corner of West Coast Road and Weedons Ross Road, West Melton residents stand to gain a new Woolworths supermarket but, in the process, lose their much-loved watering hole, the West MeltonTavern&Restaurant.
Business owners Simranjeet (Sam) Singh and Devinderpal (Johnny)Singhhave ownedthe restaurant and bottle store business, leasing the building, for the past three years. Both say they are deeply saddened by the potential loss of such a historiclocalbusiness.
The tavern is also Sam’s first business venture in New Zealand. Not only will he lose the income that supports his youngfamily,but10localstaff members also face losing their jobs.
Johnny says the West Melton Tavern iswoven intothefabric ofthecommunity.
“The local community is going to lose it, and we’re going to lose the business. Taking that away from them is, I think, a disaster to our conscience. We havelostsleepoverthis.”
Despite the uncertainty, Sam and Johnny are determined to stop the tavern from disappearing.
“The West Melton Tavern has been around for a long time, some people have been coming here for 50 years. Its name carries a legacy, and we wanttosaveit.”
Relocating the tavern presents itsownchallenges.TheSelwyn District Council says it would need to move to commercially zoned land, but there are currently no suitable sites availableinWestMelton.
The business owners are hoping for community support to encourage either Woolworths or the council to help keep the tavern in the township. Johnny says he and Sam are willing to invest in a new premises and undertake therefitthemselves.
“We would like to carry on the legacy.Wejustneedsupport.”
Meanwhile, in the face of opposition coming to the township, West Melton Four Square owner Brent Little says his focus remains on providing a strong local supermarket with great service and strong communityconnections.
Brent says he and his team have had the privilege of serving the local community forthepastdecade.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the loyalty and support of our customers. As a locally owned and operated business, we’re committed to meeting their needs while continuing to invest in our store, our team and our community for the longterm.”
Locals have taken to social media to share their thoughts on the likely closure of the West Melton Tavern. While some welcomed the prospect of a larger supermarket, others were disappointed, saying there are no other venues in West Melton large enough to host community functions and that the council should have been more forward-thinking whenthefirstsupermarketwas established.
One resident wrote: “It’s a bloody shame. The pub has been the backbone of the area andstillis.”
Others are hopeful the five additional shops proposed as part of the Woolworths development will bring new services and businesses to the
growingtownship.
West Melton Tavern owners Sam and Johnny are encouraging anyone with ideas, support or opportunities that could help secure the tavern’s future to get in touch. They remain committed to finding a way to keep the Westy alive so future generations can continue to say,“SeeyouattheWesty.”
KIRWEE PLAYERS PRESENTS CINDERELLA
ReviewbyPennyOliver. ReviewbyPennyOliver.
I was invited by the Malvern News to attend the Kirwee Players’ dress rehearsal and write this review of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, which included music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, new book by Douglas Carter Beane and the original book by Oscar HammersteinII.
MySundayafternoonwasfilled with fascination and delight as this magical production
unfolded.
The show opened with the band, whose musicianship created a superb sound.
Ella, played by Annalyse Welford, gave a beautiful opening performance, while Prince Topher, played by James Sinclair, was equally impressive. Their singing was exceptional, and the ensemble delivered an enjoyable vocal performance.
For those familiar with the traditional children’s
Cinderella, this 21st-century adult version o ers something quite di erent. It is witty, amusing and full of surprises. As one character says, “One musthangontoeveryword!”
The palace o cials decide that the young Prince must marry and organise a ball so he can meet women. Along comes Fairy Godmother Marie, played by Amy Oughton, who grants Cinderella’s wish to attend. Her wand is very much a productofthiscentury,proving that even impossible dreams canbecomepossible.
The ball is captivating, magical and great fun. The Prince meets his future Queen, although she does not reveal her name. Then midnight strikes, and we all know what happens next. After the interval,thePrincesearchesfor the elusive Cinderella, determined to find her. A banquet is arranged, and this timeCinderellaleaveshershoe behind. Yes, the Prince finds hislove!
This production is directed by Vanessa Simmons, with choreography by Mandy Hopkins and musical direction by Sue Eason. The dancing is excellent, the lighting splendid, and the scenery and props perfectly suited to the action. Sparkling costumes and beautiful make-up complete thedelight.
Congratulations to the cast, band and backstage crew. Special recognition goes to the Darfield High students, who performed in their school production shortly before this dress rehearsal. The singing is superb, and audiences can expect fun, romance, laughter and magic. Come along to Cinderella. Performances are at 7:30pm on Friday, August 7 and Wednesday, August 12 to Saturday, August 15. Earlier performances are Saturday, August 8 at 6pm and Sunday, August9at2pm.
Seeadvertisementalongside onhowtobooktickets. onhowtobooktickets. onhowtobooktickets. onhowtobooktickets.
Annalyse, playing Ella brings so much joy, kindness and fun to the role capturing the warmth and spirit at the heart of this much-loved character. Come along to the show and watch the magic unfold as Ella transforms into Cinderella
James Sinclair plays Prince Topher, bringing princely charm, humour and just the right amount of endearing awkwardness. James will have you laughing and cheering as Topher navigates royal expectations, enthusiastic would-be princesses and the search for his own happily ever after.
COMMUNITY SERVICES AWARDS NOMINEE REMINDER
Do you know of anyone whom you consider deserves to receive an award for their outstanding voluntary service tothecommunity?
The Malvern Community Board wishes to invite nominations for their Community Services Awards.
Every two years, the awards acknowledge and recognise service of a voluntary nature given by a resident of the Malvern Community Board area, or a non-resident who performs their service to the bettermentofthisarea.
Guidelines for eligibility
include voluntary service provided to the Malvern community by residents or non -residents across categories including recreation, sport, youth, aged, welfare, education, innovation, culture, religion, and community organisations. However, the length of service is not a major criterion. Organisations, associations, societies, clubs or individuals may make a nomination.
Excluded from the awards are people who have previously been awarded a Royal Honour or Selwyn Award. Posthumous
awardsarepermitted. Nominationformsareavailable from the Darfield Service Centre/Library, 1 South Terrace, Darfield, or by contacting any Board member ortheBoardSecretary. Submissions must thoroughly detail the nominee's merits and nominee consent is required before any award is presented. Unsuccessful nominations do not roll over but may be re-nominated in futureyears.
The closing date for The date for nominations is Friday, nominations August 28, 2026. August 28, 2026.
ST JOHN YOUTH HELPS YOUNG PEOPLE REACH THEIR POTENTIAL
St John Youth helps young people develop their potential throughleadership,hauoraand engagingintheircommunities.
Open toall youngpeople aged five to 18, the programme providesopportunitiestolearn, connect and grow while developing practical first-aid, leadership and life skills. It also builds confidence, resilience and a commitment toservingothers.
Thedi erencethistrainingcan make was highlighted at the recent Hato Hone St John Cadet prizegiving in Doubtless Bay, where sistersJulianna and Amelia Trevithick received CourageinActionAwards.
Earlier that day, the girls had attended a St John Youth session on responding to choking. That evening, while eating soup and crusty bread, their mother suddenly began coughing aggressively, clutching her throat and strugglingtospeak.
“We thought Mum was in danger of dying,” the sisters recalled. “It was frightening. Weknewitwasabadsituation andthatMumwaschoking.”
They immediately put their training into practice, using back blows to help dislodge the bread. They also knew to call 111 if blood appeared or theirmotherbeganvomiting.
Julianna said the lesson came straightbacktothemwhenthe emergency unfolded. Although scared, the sisters felt confident using the skills they had learned and were proud they recognised what was happening and knew how to respond.
Hato Hone St John is far more than an ambulance service. They also o er many rewarding ways for people to volunteer and become involved in their communities.
Opportunities range from Area Committees and Caring Callers to Youth divisions, community education and driving Waka OraHealthShuttles.
Mid Canterbury divisions operate in Darfield, West Melton, Rolleston, Ellesmere, Methven, Lincoln and Ashburton.
Darfield meets on Wednesdays at St John Darfield, 4 Bray Street. Penguins meet from 5:30pm to 6:30pm, followed by Cadets from 6:30pm to 8pm.
For more information, For more information, email Lynda Walter at Walter at lynda.walter@stjohn.org.nz
INTERVIEWEES WANTED FOR DARFIELD RESEARCH PROJECT
The Selwyn District Council along with Central Government have determined that Selwyn, including Darfield, is expected togrowsignificantlyinthenext 50 years, and housing intensification is a way to enable more people to live in Darfield while ensuring rural landismaintained.
For his dissertation for his Master of Planning, Lincoln University student Remy Fitzgerald is researching why thereisalackofacceptancefor housing intensification in
Darfieldandiskeentointerview residents and developers for their views and experiences so that future housing intensificationinDarfieldcanbe done in a way that is more acceptable.
The research explores how social, spatial, temporal and policy factors shape local acceptance of housing intensification in Darfield, including stakeholder views, neighbourhood character, infrastructure, past experiences, future growth expectations and
planning rules. It also considers current policy tools and what SelwynDistrictCouncilcoulddo tobuildgreateracceptance.
If you are interested in participating and being interviewed, contact Remy and he will send you the Research Information Sheet and Consent Form before organising a time todoaninterview.
CallRemy on0274310668 CallRemy on0274310668 on0274310668 on0274310668 oremailat remy.fitzgerald@ remy.fitzgerald@ lincolnuni.ac.nz.
BUILD CONNECTIONS AND GROW YOUR BUSINESS WITH THE NETWORKERS
The Networkers brings together business owners across New Zealand, creating opportunitiestobuildgenuineconnectionsand strong relationships with inspiring, friendly people. These local networking groups provide a supportive environment where people in business can share knowledge, develop new opportunities and work towards sustainable outcomes for their businesses and wider communities.
A new West Melton Networkers Group is now being held every Wednesday morning from 8:00amto9:00amatDandelion& CloverCafe.
Facilitated by Jeanette Neal, the meetings are fun-filled, positive and focused, while remaining relaxed and supportive. Local business owners will have the opportunity to reflect on the past week, discuss what lies ahead and explore potential relationships and synergies that could benefit both themselves andtheirbusinesses.
The existing Darfield Networkers group is held also on a Wednesday at 9:00am and is led by Ann-MareeOzanne.
The Networkers’ weekly meetings are informative, structured and light-hearted, offering a valuable balance to the working week. Each session includes professional networkingasawholecommunity,small-group
discussions, opportunities to develop speaking skills and open, collaborative conversations with like-minded people who understand the ongoingchallengesofrunningabusiness.
At the heart of The Networkers are the values of doing what we say, creating opportunities for everyone, giving people a voice and being fun to be with. Members benefit from a growingnetworkofsupportiverelationships,as well as access to member profiles, networking events, online communities and other resources.
Visitors are welcome to attend two meetings free of charge, providing an opportunity to experience the community and discover whetherTheNetworkersistherightfitfortheir business.
• Darfield Networkers: Darfield DarfieldNetworkers: Networkers: Darfield Networkers: annmaree@thenetworkers.co.nz
• West Melton Networkers: West Melton Networkers: jeanette@thenetworkers.co.nz
For more information visit: For more information visit: For For thenetworkers.co.nz thenetworkers.co.nz
SNOWDROP SUNDAY IS HERE AGAIN
The welcome signs of spring have appeared at Terrace Station with the arrival of spring-flowering snowdrops, hellebores and other early flowers.
The first Open Garden Sunday of the season is on August 16, and the gates will be open from 11am until 3pm. Bring a picnic and meet friends for lunch.Ifitiscold,abrazierwill
DARFIELD GARDEN CLUB REPORT
The July meeting was held on Tuesday 21 July at the Catholic Church Centre. A good turnout of members was enthralled with Kerry Middleton from Selwyn Peonies presentation and demonstration on the process of dividing for propagation and the care of peonies. Kerry’s 12,000 plants are exported via Auckland to overseas destinations. Her tubers are mainly sourced from the Netherlands. The venture of growing from seeds was rewarding but not without its surprises. Cut flowers are also available on the cut flower market. Sarah Bernhardt is a favourite named after a famous actress in 1901. Eight varieties are grown for the commercial market.
The meeting followed and we now have 27 financial members. An invitation to all members to bring along a friend within the next two months was welcomed and will hopefully boost our numbers. The programme is varied, full and interesting for the next year with speakers and outings.
Competitions: Winner for most points for flowers winner was Georgie Eaves and winner of Novice Floral Art was Nicola Peacock. The new addition to the programme, The Barbara’s Challenge, this month was The Queens Tray judged by members was won by Helen Williams.
Next month's meeting will be held at The Catholic Centre 1:30pm on Tuesday, August 18 with Brigit Blair from LindenLeaves who will speak on her successfulbusiness from a humble kitchen to now an internationally recognised brand known for its everyday luxury and made in New Zealand products. New members always welcome; for more information emaildarfieldgardenclub@gmail.com. Lee Stokes.
belittowarmchillyfingers.
Within the garden, the Hutch, once a summer house, will be open for visitors to view vintage gardening and farming tools along with information about the station dating from the1860s.
The 17-hectare plantation of oaktreesalongthefarmaccess road is also a good place to explore on the way home after visitingthegardenasthedrifts of snowdrops and hellebores spreadfurthereachyear.
The $15 entry fee goes to the Terrace Station Charity and supports the preservation of the buildings and heritage itemsontheproperty.Children have free entry and will find lots of space to run around. Activity sheets and treasure hunts are available for young (andolder)explorers.
Kate Foster (caretaker in residence) has been potting up plants, including snowdrops and hellebores over the past few months, and these will be availableforsale.Bringcashas Eftpos is not available and leavealldogsathome.
Terrace Station is signposted from the Hororata roundabout. Check the Terrace Station Facebook and Instagram pages incaseofinclementweather.
For more information about For more information about For about For about Terrace Station events, Open Terrace Station events, Garden Sundays, group tours Garden tours and history of the property and history of the property and the people who have and the people have lived and worked there, visit lived and worked there, visit lived and worked lived and worked www.terracestation.org.nz www.terracestation.org.nz
To the Editor:
My name is Cryptomeria japonica Spiralis (my fancy botanical name) and I am a small conifer living in the special conifer garden on the Trinity Church property in Darfield. My friends and I have been happily growing there for nearly two years, being carefully planted with home grown compost and mulched to protect us from drought. After the heavy rain at the beginning of this month seven of my friends were brutally pulled out and taken away.
The small gardening team caring for us are devastated as we were carefully selected for our size, shape and colour. Lists were made, garden centres around Christchurch were visited as well as a visit to the lovely garden centre in Ashburton. Online searches found a few of us in a wellknown nursery in Tapanui. Our gardening team leader, an avid gardener, knows us all by name and we were all looking forward to providing the locals with a lot of joy in the coming years as they watched us grow and flourish. Our different characters were just starting to develop and now we have seven holes to remind us of our lost companions. We can only hope that they are being treated with the same care and attention as we have received, lots of compost, being watered when
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.
dry and putting lots of mulch around to keep us snug no matter what the different seasons throw at us.
Thank you,
Granny s Ringlets (my common name)
To the Editor:
Big depot, difficult company. Big depot, difficult company. Big depot, difficult company. Big depot, difficult company.
Last year in September, an insecure broom flew off a Fonterra truck on Telegraph Road and hit my car multiple times. Initially Fonterra admitted responsibility, then back tracked when I asked them to cover the insurance excess for the damage and sent me on a trail of many phone calls and emails. They told me that the damage to my car could not have been made by their broom, because they are secured on the driver's side. I suggested that the broom was left unsecured on the wrong side of the vehicle.
My issue is, we welcomed Fonterra into our area, but as an elderly pensioner I waited for Fonterra to do the right thing and make sure I wasn't out of pocket, after all, I was not responsible for the incident. But they refuse to pay the $400 excess, which will now be increased to $500 in the future.
Fonterra made me feel like a
DARFIELD SCOUTS
QUIZ NIGHT
A great night was had by all at the Darfield Scout Group's Jamboree Fundraiser Quiz Night, held at Thirsty Acres in Kirwee on Monday, July 27. The 15 teamsansweredrightly or wrongly over the eight roundsoftrickyquestions.
Darfield Scouts ran a group rafflefundraiser,withproceeds to be split between the Darfield Scout Group and the three Scouts attending the 24th NZ Scout Jamboree at Mystery Creek in December 2026.
A spokesperson for the group,
liar, my word meant nothing, and I felt very bullied. The $400 was a week's worth of pension for me, which meant no food, petrol or bills that week.
IsthisreallyhowFonterrawants totreatitslocals?
Janet Talbot, Darfield
The Malvern News sent the above letter to the Communications Team at Fonterra and gave them a Right of Reply in the same issue as the Letter to The Editor. Their response was; Wetalked totheclaimantaftertheincident happened.
Followingproperprocedure,we asked her to contact our insurance provider to resolve theissue.
Chloe Hoang on behalf of the Fonterra Communications Team.
Scout Leader Gordon Thrower, says, “We would like to thank our generous sponsors for the prizes and all our supporters who have bought raffle tickets, and we also appreciate the generosity of Thirsty Acres hosting the evening and providing prizes to quiz winners and losers. We raised $1325 from the raffle and $1135 from the quiz ticket sales. So overall it was a great success for the three scouts going to Jamboree and the DarfieldScoutGroup.”
BREAD WITHOUT COMPROMISE
Malvern local Cathryn Louise Hunt has a passion for making bread–notjustanybread,but gluten-freesourdough.
After struggling with health issues in her 20s and discovering she was gluten intolerant, Cathryn says living gluten-free made a di erence to her life, but adapting to a new way of eating was challenging.
“Thoseearlyyearswereo and on as I found the gluten free lifestylehardtolive.
Learning to make uncompromising gluten free versions of my favourite foods was where I found consistency.”
Initially, Cathryn stuck to gluten-free baking. She tried standard sourdough made with high-quality flour after being told it was more widely tolerated, but it did not work forher.
“My search for good bread came about when my son was four and experiencing serious illhealth from gluten,” Cathryn says.
She wanted him to experience delicious bread that could wraparoundasausagewithout splitting or be served warm alongsideabowlofsoup.
Cathryn believes that food is deeply emotional. “My Dad has made fabulous soups all my life,soeverywinterImakeand eat soup. Winter without rich bacon hock soup filling the house with delicious smells is not winter, and soup must havebread.”
The gluten-free sourdough Cathrynnowmakes,andshares through her breadmaking workshops, is springy, soft, flavourful,anddelicious.
She says, “There's no compromise; even my gluten loving husband will devour it, because it tastes so good! I don’t know anyone living gluten free who hasn’t grieved thelossofgoodbread.”
Cathryn decided to share her passion for sourdough bread by running breadmaking workshops.
She says her first group was eager to learn, with participants bringing di erent levels of kitchen experience and coming from di erent stagesoflife.
“We shared a bunch of di erent gluten free food together and ate a fresh loaf, whileanotherbaked.”
Cathryn believes experiencing the smell of warm, yeasty bread baking, and knowing it is gluten-free without compromising flavour or texture,canbelife-changing.
“It's not that hard once you know how, and it really is that good,” she says. “The bonus is that it is a ordable, about $4.50tomake.”
To find out about To find out about To about To about Cathryn Cathryn Cathryn’ ’’ ’s breadmaking s sbreadmaking breadmaking workshops, email workshops, workshops,email louisecathryn@gmail.com. louisecathryn@gmail.com.
JULY RAINFALL JULY
ANNAT ANNAT ANNAT ANNAT by Allan Hogg: by Allan Hogg: by Allan Hogg: by Allan Hogg: For July, I tipped-out 79.50mm from twelve rain-days, five of which yielded less than 1mm on each occasion. Our wettest daywas38.25mm. The July average is 75.63mm, year-to-date is 526.75mm, which is higher than our average year-to-date of 477mm. Our warmest daytime highwas15.5°andourcoldest nightwas-4.7°
Our average daytime high was 10.8° a long way from our coldest July, in recent years, of 8.7° in 2017, but not far from theall-yearsaverageof11.2°
In August I am hoping for an average daytime temperature of 12.8° and 70.37mm, but I won'tholdmybreath.
DARFIELD DARFIELD DARFIELD by Birchfield by byBirchfield Birchfield by Birchfield Energy & Resources Ltd: Energy & Resources Ltd: The rainfall recorded for July was114mm for the month and 65mm on the July 7. We had six days with rain, totalling 541mmfortheyeartodate.
SPRINGFIELD SPRINGFIELD SPRINGFIELD by Tom Innes: by Tom Innes: by Tom Innes: by Tom Innes: We recorded 41mm for July compared to a 20-year July average of 92mm. That's less than half, and it is dry. A dry monthonitsownmaynotbea big deal but we are starting to fall behind our year-to-date average. The high rainfall in
January means that, despite every other month since then being significantly below average, we were still above ouraverageyear-to-date.
Somewhere in May-June we reached "crossover", being the pointatwhichtheyear-to-date rainfall fell below the average. This is concerning given that the long-term outlook is for a super el nino, most probably bringinghotanddryconditions toourpartoftheworld.Onthe otherhand,wedodgedabullet at the beginning of the month when there was flooding in both North and South Canterbury.
Cathryn Hunt and her son, Oliver, enjoy the nurturing benefits of freshly baked sourdough.
EXPLORING THE MALVERN HILLS MINING HISTORY
By Matt Williams. By Matt Williams.
By Matt Williams.
By Matt Williams.
A visit to the Malvern Hills mine sites was organised by the Frew family adjoining farm owners, 30 people came tothe outing.
Among those attending were several people with close associations to the underground mining activity begun by Charlie Green and Alan Nimmo at the Klondyke Minein1936:
• Nimmo’sgrandchildren, Richardandhissister ChristineDennis,were accompaniedbytheir spousesandchildren
• CliffHattonhadoperated dozersandexcavatorsasa contractortotheNimmo family
• RussellGreen,sonofCharlie Green,whowithWilliam Smith(ShinyBob)first prospectedtheKlondyke Mine,wasaccompaniedby hissonandgrandchildren
• ReneMcRae,whohad workedatBathurstCoal’s opencastsite,andhad clearedscrubtogivevisitors accesstotheKlondykeMine sites.
Our first stop was at the bottom of the yard where the long drop and the shower block relocated from the Coalgate railway station still stand. The remains of the coal bins used to load out three grades of coal to motor lorries wasvisited.
Next, we could see the strata in an exposed face that
clearly showed how the coal seam ran at 45 degreestoward thesouth.
AlanNimmo’sfirstwinchhouse was visited and still contained the winch drum and the old switchboards. This was a horizonminewiththemaindip (shaft)driven at right anglesto the strike of the seam. The winch was powered by an electric motor but theconcrete plinth on which the Ruston Hornsby 6HR single cylinder diesel backup engine was mounted, remains. This engine is now displayed at Homebush stables. This mine was closed off due to spontaneous combustion causing a fire in theseam.
The second winch house built by Green and Nimmo was next to be visited, this was oriented for the dip to be directly into the seam. It contains the 1950 Beckett and Anderson electric winch, complete with the motor switchboards and the resistive brake controls. The winch operation is from an elevated platform that allowed a view directly down the 45degree dip. This mine caught fire in 1966 and had to be flooded.BillWebster, the mine manager at the time, leased the mine and with Jack Shaw and a team from Denniston, brought the mine back into production. Excessive flooding and the Mines Dept deeming themineunsaferesultedinthe closurein1973.
As a boy I was treated to go
downthisminewithmyfather, Russell, while he attended an electricalfaultonthepumpsat thebottomofthedip.
Allan and Rolly Nimmo purchased the Avenue Mine in 1957 and opened the Malvern Hills mine when this was worked out. After the death of Rollyin1986,themineclosed.
Nearly 20 years later it was reopened as an opencast mine by Bathurst Resources Ltd Miningandwasclosedagainin 2021.
We then travelled by vehicles up the Bathurst haul road passing an old brick explosive magazine,andpastthesitesof the other underground mines, workedoutinthemid1980s.
We went past Surveyors Gully Road to the last remaining sediment pond, associated withtheopencastmine,which is now clear for discharge into head water of the Waiananiwa stream.
Three generations of the Green family from left Russell, George, Will and Mike.
Russell Green again at the winch controls 53 years after it was last operated.
MARCHING DREAM COMES TRUE
...continuedfromfrontpage. ...continuedfromfrontpage. When the email finally arrived offeringheraplaceinthe2027 NZMDT, it was a moment she willneverforget. Notonlyhadshebeenselected asoneofjust24youngwomen from across New Zealand to represent the country, but she had also earned the opportunity to perform internationallyattherenowned Avenches Tattoo in Switzerland.
For Mel, being selected is the fulfilment of a long-held dreamandrecognitionofmany yearsofdedicationtothesport sheloves.
The journey, however, is only just beginning. Over the coming months, Mel will continue marching (now with Eclipse Seniors), balancing local and national competitions alongside the demanding training schedule required for the NZMDT with
the first bootcamp being held inAucklandonAugust29-30.
Mel will also be working hard to fundraise and save for the trip, with the goal of proudly representing her community, her marching club, and New Zealand on the international stage.
If anyone wants to sponsor If anyone wants to sponsor If anyone to If anyone to Mel or has any fundraising Mel or has any fundraising has any fundraising has any fundraising suggestions please email suggestions please email suggestions please suggestions please amanda.beatty.ab@gmail.com amanda.beatty.ab@gmail.com
DARFIELD AEROBICS STUDENTS BOUND FOR NATIONALS
Students of Darfield Aerobics, run by Kylie Leech and her daughter Rubie Leech (DHS Year 11), recently competed in the Primary Sports Canterbury competition on July 22 andthe Canterbury Regionals on July 25-26. Both events were held at Rangi Ruru School Girl’s School.
Lily Prattley, Freya TymonsBell, Lexi Perri and Rubie Leech have all qualified to compete at the National Championships in Dunedin in September.
Rubie is also currently trialling with NZCAF Aerobics to be selected to represent New Zealand in the World Championships in Invercargill laterthisyear.
Earlier this year Rubie and Lily both had their first international competition experience when they
competed in the Fisaf Pacific Open Championships in Sydney.Lilycameeighthinthe Mini National Intermediate Individual category and Rubie was 13th in the Fisaf Youth Individual and fourth in the Fisaf Junior Petite Team category.
RESULTS RESULTS
Primary Sports Canterbury Primary
• LilyPrattley-1stYear5/6 OpenIndividual
• FreyaTymons-Bell-3rd Year7/8OpenIndividual
• FreyaTymons-BellandLexi Perrin-1stYear7/8Open Pairs.
Canterbury Regionals Canterbury CanterburyRegionals Regionals Canterbury Regionals
• LilyPrattley-3rdU12Open Individual
• FreyaTymons-BellandLexi Perrin-1stU14OpenPairs
• RubieLeech-3rdFisaf YouthIndividual (International)
RACHEL TAKES ON THE WORLD IN BLACK JERSEY
Rachel McKenzie has just returned home from overseas after competing in the World Junior Ultimate Frisbee Championships in Logroño, Spain, from July 11-18. She wasintheNewZealandUnder20NationalWomen’steamand was the only woman from the South Island named in the squad. Forty-seven national teams from 26 countries took part with over 1,200 participants.
• RubieLeech-1stFisaf JuniorPetiteTeam (International).
Competing for the first time this year, Cate Hughes from Glentunnel School, performed well in the Year 3/4 Primary Prechoreographed section and enjoyed her first experience on stage.
GREENDALE
Rachel says representing NZ and wearing the black jersey was something she will never forgetandhopestodoagainin the future. “It made me really proud of everything I have accomplished, that has only been made possible by the supportofthecommunity.”
The team came 9th out of 14, and first in Spirit of the Game, in the women's division. The men's team, Katipo, came
fourth out of 19, in the opens division.
Spirit of the Game is one of the core elements in flying disc sports. It is like fair play and sportsmanship, but in Ultimate there is a much higher emphasis placed on it given that it is a self-refereed sport.
“Playing against the best junior teams in the world was an amazing and challenging experience for both me and the rest of my team,” Rachel says. “It was great to see that even at the highest level, and in each game where everyone was putting their all out on the field for the win, that honesty and sportsmanship stillcamefirst.”
Rachel also thanked everyone whosupportedherthroughout thecampaign. “Itrulycouldn't have done any of it without yourbacking,”shesays.
Heading to the the National Championships are, from left, Freya Tymons-Bell, Lily Prattley, Lexi Perrin and Rubie Leech.
DARFIELD DUCKS ADVANCE IN NATIONAL U85KG CUP THRILLER
Darfield Ducks have advanced tothenextroundoftheU85kg National Cup after defeating Southern Alps U85kg champions West Melton Moas in front of a large crowd at West Melton Rugby Club last Saturday.
West Melton came out firing, scoringanearlytryandputting Darfield under pressure with a fast-paced style of play. However, Darfield gradually adjusted and fought their way
backintothecontest.
Darfield’s tries were scored by TobiMoore,whocrossedtwice, Hugh Saunders, Oskar Trafford, Morgan Sim, captain Jono Hendry, Fergus Gunn and Todd Thomas.
TheDarfieldsideismadeupof players from the club’s Premier Men, Division 2 and Colts teams. A few players even had to reduce their food intake betweentrainingandgameday to ensure they met the U85kg
weight limit. Players are officially weighed before each match to confirm they are in thecorrectweightcategory. The team is coached by Chris Lea and managed by Joe Stewart, with a number of experienced players and managers also assisting with trainingandongameday.
Darfield’snextmatchisagainst Waihora this weekend. The exact time will be announced on the Darfield Rugby Facebookpage.
19June-25Sept
ObservatoryPublicOpenNights
31July-27Aug MeltingPotArtExhibition
WestMeltonObservatory
TeHuanuiArtGallery
7-15Aug KirweePlayersPresent-Cinderella KirweeCommunityHall
7Aug 7pm NZMountainFilmFestival-NationalTour
7Aug 10:30amGospelService
TaweraMemorialHall
GlentunnelCommunityCentre
8Aug 10:30amCourtenay-PaparuaPloughingMatch 1909HighfieldRd,Courtenay
8Aug 4pm MalvernMastersTennisAGM DarfieldTennisClubrooms
8Aug MtOlympusAlpineCurlingEvent MtOlympusSkiField
10Aug 1pm MalvernNews- EditorialDeadline-info@malvernnews.co.nz
11Aug 9:30-12:30WeeklyMalvernCancerSupportClinic DarfieldLibrary
11Aug 12pm MeetYourMP-NicolaGrigg SheffieldPies
11Aug 10am MalvernNews- AdvertisingDeadline-info@malvernnews.co.nz
12Aug 9am WeeklyDarfieldNetworkersGroup-www.networkers.co.nz
12Aug 11:30-12:30WeeklyJusticeofthePeaceService DarfieldLibrary
12Aug 5pm SurvivingandThrivingtheElNinoCyle CoalgateTavern
14Aug 10am MalvernNews- FeatureAdvertisingDeadline-info@malvernnews.co.nz
14Aug 7pm NZMountainFilmFestival-NationalTour TaweraMemorialHall
16Aug 11am SnowdropSundayOpenGarden TerraceStation,Hororata
17Aug 10am RollestonNews- FeatureAdvertisingDeadline-info@malvernnews.co.nz
17Aug 7pm MalvernAnglicanParishQuizNight ThirstyAcres,Kirwee
19Aug 10am RollestonNews- AdvertisingDeadline-info@malvernnews.co.nz
20Aug 2pm MCVTAGM DarfieldLibrary
21Aug 10:30amGospelService GlentunnelCommunityCentre
22Aug 2pm SheffieldandKirweeRugby40yrReunion KirweeRugbyClub
24Aug 7:30pm MalvernA&PShowAGM SheffieldPavillion
28Aug EntriesClose—GreendaleSchoolPTAClearingSale
28Aug CommunityServiceAwardsNominationsClose
1Sept 5pm SubmissionsCloseforFocusForFutureShortFilmCompetition
4Sept GreendaleSchoolPTAClearingSale MillRoad,Greendale
12Sept NorthCanterburyWearableArts RangioraBaptistChurch
17Sept FocusforFutureShortFilmCompetitionAwardsandScreening TeAraAtea
18Oct SpringfieldFestival-CommunityMarketandClassicCarDisplay
29Oct MalvernCommunityBoardAwardsEvening
Wintry greetings to you! As I write this, the sun is shining magnificently—what a lively, changeable season we are in.
Life is often the same: sudden changes and events outside of our control can lead to overwhelm, confusion, fear, or even panic. I am sure you have heard the expression "take a deep breath" when this happens; indeed, this simple remedy can make a huge difference. The invitation here is to physically pause and acknowledge your mental or emotional state. Stand still or sit down, then breathe, focusing especially on slowing down your exhale. Start by breathing in for three counts and out for three counts, then slowly extend the length of the exhale until you are breathing in for three and out for six.
Relax and continue this breathing pattern for one to three minutes. You will naturally calm your nervous system, settle a whirlwind mind, and soothe your emotions. Afterward, return to the problem or challenge; you will likely be able to meet the issue with more clarity and ease. Try this for yourself and discover how powerful our "forever friend," the breath, can be.
Lisa Mills is a qualified creative therapist, Lisa Mills is a qualified creative therapist, Mills is a qualified creative therapist, Mills is a qualified creative therapist,
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 Ann-Maree at Malvern BusinessHub:0212150981.
CARPET/WINDOWS
CARPET CARPET CARPET CARPET/Window Cleaning. Thorough job, good price, quick drying. Highly recommended. Phone/ text Robert anytime on 0272999599.
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
CHURCH NOTICES
CHIMNEY CLEANING
CARRS CARRS CARRS CARRS Chimney Cleaning. Servicing the Selwyn district. $90 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 any sized open fire. We quote and undertake repairs, flue extensions and install bird netting. Please phone us on021939113.
CHURCH NOTICES
DEADLINES
DOGS
GARDENING
LAWN LAWN LAWN mowing and Garden services. Large sections a specialty with catcher or side discharge. Hedge trimming and other garden maintenance services also available. Regular or one-off jobs. Based in Darfield and servicing Selwyn. Contact Granton021619165.
PAINTING/DECORATING
UDI UDI UDI UDI Painting & Decorating. For all painting & decorating services! Fully qualified. Interior & exterior painting & plastering. Wallpapering & roofpainting.QualityServices. Free quotes. Please Ph. Udi Aale 021 074 2075. udipaintingndecorating.co.nz
PLANTS FOR SALE
EMERALD FARM FARM EMERALD FARM Native plants, locally sourced. Lots of varieties. Call and see if we have what you need. PhoneAnnie0273702067.
PAINTING/DECORATING
WILLOW WILLOW wood. 4 and 8 Meter loads. Dry. Good clean burning wood. Free delivery. Phone0277811492.
DRY DRY DRY Oregon/Mac mill off cuts. Pick up Hororata. $110 per m3.Phone0272755635.
LEASE LAND WANTED
LEASE LEASELEASE LEASE land wanted. Selwyn area suitable for cattle grazing. All sizes consider. PhoneReg0275670720.
MORTGAGE ADVISOR
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. Ibringthebankstoyou.
SHEEP SHEARING
PAINTING/DECORATING
CELEBRANT
SCRAP METAL
WANTED! WANTED! WANTED! Amalgamated Scrap Ltd. Buying cars & farm machinery. Specialising in farm clean-ups. Best prices Rod McQuoid - buyer. Please phoneeither0276950480or alternatively0800030712.
STORAGE
DISCOUNT DISCOUNT DISCOUNT Container Storage. For all your secure storage needs (secure site with camera). Cardale St, Darfield. PhonePhil0212234553
WANTED
TOOLS TOOLSTOOLS TOOLS wanted - mechanics, engineering, wood working etc. Garage, shed, barn clearances, deceased estates etc. Please phone Rob on 033425885.
WANTED TO BUY
LETTERBOX LETTERBOX. Old style rural delivery metal letterbox wanted in functional condition.Notaverseto some signageonit(farmnameetc) call/txt021867598.
OLD OLD two man cross-cut saw wanted for decorative purposes only. Any length. Bitofrustok.call/txt021867 598.
UPHOLSTERY
ADVANCED ADVANCED Upholstery advancedupholsteryltd@xtra. co.nzorphone033187378.
URBAN, LIFESTYLE, FARM
GENERAL GENERAL property care. Services provided include: cleaning services (inside & out), gardening, fencing, maintenance, gorse/ weed control, spraying, hedges, chainsaw work, mowing. All tasks considered. H Donaldson. Phone0277899532.
TRADES
TRADES
ROOF MAINTENANCE
ROOF ROOFROOF ROOF & house maintenance. All aspects covered including spouting, mortar, tiles, reroofing, roof painting, moss, mould & silicone sealing. General repairs. Ph 03 347 6702or0210302835.
WINDOW TINTING
TINT TINTTINT TINT--A AA A--WINDOW WINDOW WINDOW
Solar Protective films. Fade UV block. Heat Glare control. Privacy. Safety/Security. Frosted films. Free online quotes. Ph 0800 368 468. info@tintawindow.co.nz www.tintawindow.co.nz
TRADES
A police car pulls up in front of grandma Bessie's house, and grandpa Morris gets out. The polite policeman explained that this elderly gentleman said that he was lost in the park...and couldn't find his way home. "Morris ", said grandma, " You've been going to that park for over 30 years! So how could you get lost? " Leaning close to grandma, so that the policeman couldn't hear. Morris whispered, "I wasn't lost.....I was just too tired to walk home."