15 March 2024

Rotary Bulletin - Meeting Thursday, 15 February 2024
This meeting was an 'outing' to Caroline Bay to visit the new CPlay playground facility – more details below.
 
Messages from President Don:
  • A March meeting night visit is being planned to South Pacific Sera (Jeremy's former workplace) at Kennels Road in Washdyke, then adjourning to the Richard Pearce Tavern Armadillos Restaurant for a meal. Good attendance is requested as we plan to receive two Paul Harris Fellowship awards, but please keep this plan to ourselves until the awards are presented.
  • Thanks to Peter Prader, who organises the JR McKenzie Youth Trust funding grants, which provide financial help to families in need with school uniforms and shoes.
Here is the national story of the good this programme delivers:
 
I thought Clubs would like to know some details about the uniform grants paid out for the 2024 school year. 
The application form was sent to 35 Rotary clubs from Motueka to Timaru, including the West Coast. Applications were received from 18 clubs, one school and one support agency. 
Grants were paid out towards the uniform costs for 536 children (2023, 401 children, 2022, 359 children).  This has assisted 315 families. 
The basic grants were paid at the rate of $200 for primary school, $270 for intermediate school, $300 for secondary school and $470 for families. Some grants were for less than these amounts because the uniform cost was lower than the basic grant. 
A total of $106,272 was paid out in grants. Thank you for your contribution to this process.
  •  
Christine Arnold – Secretary
J R McKenzie Youth Education Fund
 
4-Wheel Drive Trip
A reminder from Trevor Johnson about the 4WD trip which is planned for Saturday, 16 and Sunday, 17 March. This involves a trip to Macreas Mine at Palmerston on Saturday, overnight in Dunedin City, then a Sunday on the Tieri Gorge train. A 4WD vehicle will NOT be required this time.
Saturday to Macraes via SH1, then right onto Trotters Gorge. Lunch (optional)is available at the historic Stanley Hotel @ $26 p.p., or you can bring your own picnic. Accommodation is available at the Leviathan Hotel in Dunedin for $139 per night (Saturday). An evening meal (optional) is $45 p.p
Tieri Gorge train leaves Dunedin Railway Station 10 am on Sunday.
All enquiries should be sent to Trevor at 027 546 0212 or 03 688 7547.
 
H2H - come and collect your vests needed for the event:
Thursday, 29th February 2024 - evening (in lieu of our meeting), please come to Richard Pearce Tavern by 6 pm to collect your H2H duties and vests and stay for a restaurant meal if you wish. Seniors discount is available for your meal if you flash your "Gold Card"!
 
The Hadlow to Harbour fun run event is scheduled for Sunday, 3 March, only 2 weeks away now. All available members are requested to help out for a few hours that morning.
 
CPlay visit
Thanks to Geoff Cloake and daughter Roslyn Fauth, who helped organise this visit. Members from the Timaru Rotary Club and the Temuka Geraldine Rotary Club also joined us.
A picnic tea was followed by a tour of the new playground led by Roslyn.
 
Playground facilities include a 14.5m long shipwreck, with the main deck on a 45-degree angle, lighthouse-themed 7 and 5 M slide tower, floor lava obstacle course, rush to the rescue themed mouse wheel, double cyclops swing, 50m tandem flying fox, Mahika kai themed whare and tuna eel areas, accessible equipment including basket swings, spinning bucket, swings, carousel, trampoline, musical bridge, climbing wall, instruments and a range of musical instruments. Plus, there is art and story-sharing signage to help inspire imaginative play. We looked at the Shipwreck history on the side of the mouse wheel. More story-sharing signage and gardens are still to come. The equipment is designed to allow users to assume some risk while playing.
The total play area is 18,085.27 m2, including its courts, paddling pool, bike skills park, and skatepark.
 
Key Features:
  • Playground with over 40 pieces of play equipment designed to offer a range of options for various ages, stages, abilities and sizes.
  • Fully fenced Paddling pool and shade sails, bike skills park, tennis, basketball and bike polo courts, and a skatepark adjacent.
  • It is set in one of Timaru District's premier parks: Caroline Bay.
  • A free-to-use double electric BBQ with a shade sail is on the playground by the courts. (And another BBQ by the paddling pool).
  • Covered picnic area and two drinking fountains.
  • MyWay shuttle stop is adjacent.
  • Bike racks.
  • Mobility friendly
  • Shock-absorbing rubber matting to limit injuries, which consumed 1/3rd of the budget. Previous matting was recycled and reused.
Next Rotary gathering
A reminder to members about the special gathering at Richard Pearce Tavern restaurant on the 29th to collect your H2H duties and vests. (as our next meeting follows the H2H 3 March weekend)
You can come for a meal or just to collect your H2H stuff from John – 027 292 5267. This will save him from having to chase down every member at home. Thanks.
Please check the roster below to ensure you arrange and complete your following meeting duties, and log an apology if you will be absent.
 
Rotary Youth Driver Awareness programme
RYDA 2024 is scheduled for Wednesday, 10 April, at Levels Raceway. Our Club has again asked to help sponsor this event and provide volunteers.
At least 3 volunteers are requested from our Club to attend and assist on this day between 9 am and 1.30 pm – please let John Keenan know if you can help.
 
The Road Safety Education team would like to express their gratitude for our continued support to RYDA. It's heartening to witness schools eagerly booking for the RYDA workshop in the upcoming 2024 year. The support of Rotary clubs throughout the country has been so appreciated by our team.
 
⁠Across the 2023 year, 53,323 students from 639 schools across New Zealand and Australia graduated from the RYDA programme – our highest participation ever! They engaged in 454 programs which took them from classroom learning to our fun-filled, frontloading workshops and back to the classroom and community to further explore and put their learning into action.
 
There is some great data around the behaviour change we are creating with RYDA graduates.  
  • 89% of students told us they felt more equipped with strategies to reduce risk after the RYDA workshop.
  • 95% of students would likely or very likely to apply RYDA learnings when in a vehicle.
  • 99% of teachers rate rider is worthwhile or very worthwhile for their students.
  • 97% of teachers rate writer content as effective or very effective.
 
15 March 2024 Anthony Brien 2024-02-14 11:00:00Z 0

Bulletin - 01 February 2024

Rotary Bulletin - Meeting Thursday, 1 February 2024
 
President Don welcomed members to the New Year meeting.
In President's Time:
  • Don advised that a meeting night visit was being planned to South Pacific Sera (Jeremy's former workplace) at Kennels Road in Washdyke, then adjourning to the Richard Pearce Tavern Armadillos Restaurant for a meal. Good attendance was requested as we plan to receive two Paul Harris Fellowship awards, but please keep this plan to ourselves until the awards are presented.
  • Geoff Cloake advised a planned member (family) evening visit (in lieu of our NEXT scheduled meeting on 15 February) from 5 pm to 7 pm at C Play on Caroline Bay. BBQs are available, so we would have a bring-your-own picnic tea, then a tour around the new playground facilities led by CPlay volunteer Roslyn Fauth, and some of the younger members can have a swing or a slide. Owen Jackson may also be there to thank the Clubs for their financial help towards the new playground development. The Timaru Club and the Temuka Geraldine Rotary Club will also be invited to attend.

    If the weather proves unfavourable, we will send out a note a day before, and we will adjourn back to the Richard Pearce Tavern Armadillos Restaurant.
     
  • Peter Prader updated us about a successful and popular (timely) JR McKenzie Youth Trust funding round, which provides financial help to families in need with school uniforms and shoes. $9,930 was paid out with Family Works $4,250 and 4 schools the beneficiaries. TBHS $1,500, TGHS $2,140, Waimataitai $1,140 and Grantlea Downs $900 distributed.
  • Trevor Johnson advised of the 4WD trip which is planned for Saturday, 16 and Sunday, 17 March. This involves a trip to Macreas Mine at Palmerston on Saturday, overnight in Dunedin City, then a Sunday on the Tieri Gorge train. Trevor took names from those who will travel and attend this trip so that bookings could be made. A 4WD vehicle will NOT be required this time, but participants will need to arrange their own accommodation.
  • Geoff Cloake discussed a planned member (family) evening visit (in lieu of one of our scheduled meetings) to C Play at Caroline Bay. BBQs are available, so we would have potluck tea and then a look around the new playground facilities. Some of the younger members can have a swing or a slide. Date to be confirmed.
  • H2H: Thursday, 29th evening (in lieu of our meeting), please come to Richard Pearce Tavern by 6 pm to collect your H2H duties and vests and stay for a restaurant meal if you wish. The Hadlow to Harbour fun run event is scheduled for Sunday, 3 March, only 4 weeks away now. John requested that all available members are requested to help out for a few hours that morning. All members will be given a task unless they advise John they are overseas and unavailable. Please put this date in your diary. You are welcome to rope in family or friends to help, as many members cannot assist this year – please let John know their details.
  • Don advised Members that Selwyn Crawford had been in hospital but had gone to the Croft on Park Lane a week ago to live. He now cannot speak but would appreciate visitors who can call in to have a quick visit and chat with him about stuff in your world.
 
3 Minute Speaker
  • Bill Weir spoke about town milk farmers who tendered as a group to take waste products from DB Breweries at Washdyke. Their malted barley waste is an excellent stock food product and good for stock health. The brewer's grains help with a beautiful coat on cows as well as stock health improvement. The other advantage was that people could buy milk and get drunk! Years ago, Seadown farmers drove to the Brewery to collect their supply while others took trucks. Each was allocated a collection time, but there were some differences when some got in early and took more than their allocated share. The downside of this arrangement was that at the time of year that stock feed was most wanted, DB shut down for winter maintenance work, a time when there was less demand for beer products!
 
  • The giving
Guest Speaker Adrian drew his own lucky ticket #39 to take home a bottle of fine red wine!
 
  • The taking
Sergeant Harley Smithson did the collection from members and used Bookarama products to match a book to a fine. Colin Clemens took away "You Know You Are Over 40 when", Bob Austin's "Cars of the 40s and 50s", Derek Coupland "The Racketeer", Bill Weir got "Siege" as he is a Trump fan, Trevor Johnson got the "Fordson Magazine", Noel Crawford "The science of sheep", John Gibson went "Fishing", David Hewson "Farm Tractors", Gavin Craig got "Utes and Pickups" as he cruises around in a Ute, and Peter Prader was awarded the Senior Citizens Survival Guide".
  • The giving
Trevor Johnson has replaced Bob Austin as the regular lucky punter and had the lucky number 98 to take home this week's fine red vintage.
  • Guest Speaker
Tony Brien introduced our Guest Speaker, Adrian Findlayson, the Brewing, Quality, and Utilities Manager for the Washdyke DB Brewery. Adrian has been at DB since 2000, after he left Uni. He first worked in the laboratory, then in Production, then in a stint at Monteiths Brewery in Greymouth, and then back to Timaru in 2006 for 7 years in Production. At that time, Production was at a low ebb with one shift; over time, volumes increased with exports to Australia via Prime Port and up to two daily shifts. He then spent three years in Ethiopia (one of the fastest growing economies in the world) on a huge brewery new build, then 3 years in Vietnam where the 90M population like drinking, like our 1970s' big drinkers! The Vietnam project was 50 times the size of our Washdyke Brewery.
 
Adrian told us the Brewery was built in 1970 by 60% shareholder DB Breweries and 40% shareholders of the two Southland Licencing Trusts, who still control the liquor industry in the deep south today. They run a continuous brewing system, one of only 5 plants in the world, which was the reason Heineken brought DB to learn this technology; Heineken is a family-owned company.
 
In the early days, beer was distributed directly to hotels by bulk road tankers, then later by more efficient kegs. Production averaged 100 stainless steel kegs per hour; quart bottle crates are still produced, and a steady demand for these continues. ABC still recycle quart bottles at Washdyke and at Lion in Auckland. Craft-style beers, Cider, Hi and Low Alcohol and No Alcohol drinks are a new trend. They still produce Double Brown cans.
 
40 people work each production shift, mostly in packaging. 1/3rd of Production is exported, mostly to Australia. 6T of malt is used per brew, barley is sourced locally, and hops are mostly from Motueka, with some from Geraldine. Sugar is also used in Production. 1/3rd of surplus yeast is recycled into the next production batch. The balance of the surplus yeast used to be supplied to Sanitarium in ChCh, but that opportunity ceased after the ChCh earthquakes when the site closed, and the Marmite plant relocated to Auckland. Surplus yeast is shipped out for sale and reuse. Spent grain, which contains no alcohol but still has heaps of proteins, so a good stock feed is still a good side hustle.
Adrian said DB has made a substantial investment on the site in recent years with a focus on producing for the South Island market due to increased freight costs to the north. Sustainability has been a focus with electric forklifts introduced with steam from Pioneer Energy next door, who now feed their boilers with wood chips, replacing DB's old coal-fired boilers, and investing in wastewater treatment and composting of waste products.
 
VoT:  Colin Clemens proposed the vote of thanks and acknowledged the riveting presentation Adrian had talked us through. He said members like nothing better than to talk about Rugby, Racing or particularly Beer!
President-Elect Don closed the meeting with a reminder to members of the matters he had raised early in the meeting and the special gathering at RPT on the 29th to collect your H2H duties and vests.
The next meeting is two weeks hence and on Thursday, 15 February, at CPlay on Caroline Bay.
 
EDITORS NOTE
No rostered at meeting duties 15 February due to CPlay outing.
Geoff Cloake has swapped Colin Clemens' 15 February Chair's duties.
Please check the roster below to ensure you arrange and complete your following meeting duties, and log an apology if you will be absent.
 
Bulletin - 01 February 2024 Tony Brien 2024-01-31 11:00:00Z 0

Meet the Candidates


From left: Jo Luxton. Labour; Barbara Gilchrist, Green; Karl Thomas, New Conservative; Robert Ballantyne, NZ First; James Meager, National; Dolf van Amersfoort, New Nation; Front: Toni Severin, ACT.

Over 200 voters packed the West End Hall, 7 September, to hear and meet all the Rangitata Electorate candidates. Each party had 10 minutes to put their views and answer questions from the floor. The audience got quite lively at times to show support for their idea of pressing issues.
The Rotary Club of Timaru North is apolitical and committed to strengthening our community in the fairest way possible.. Accordingly we don't support any particular candidate or issues that may affect the outcome of such elections.
Meet the Candidates 2023-09-07 12:00:00Z 0

Circus Quirkus comes to town

Some families may never get to see live shows. These shots are from Circus Quirkus, held in conjunction with Timaru North Rotary Club the other night - thanks to tickets sponsored by local businesses.
Circus Quirkus comes to town 2023-05-16 12:00:00Z 0

Team us with us and do great things

By joining us, you can help out on projects like the H2H: Alpine Energy Hadlow to Harbour each year generating $180,000 since year 2000! We also have other events and fundraisers like Bookarama, which has been running since 1976.  Help us make these even more successful. Then there's the fun of our social occasions - bring along your family too! You'll love the camaraderie and stimulation of our club, and have the opportunity to network and mix in your abilities to help lead us into the future. Visit http://intro.rotarytimnth.nz. Enquire to Gavin Craig: 021 661 554, Don George: 027 223 424. or Email: join@rotarytimnth.nz
Team us with us and do great things Geoff Cloake 2023-04-13 12:00:00Z 0

Team up with us and go places

By joining us, you can explore remote and spectacular parts of our South Island like the Clarence Reserve shown here.
 
Then there's the fun of our social occasions - bring along your family too!
 
You'll love the camaraderie and stimulation of our club, and have the opportunity to network and mix in your abilities to help lead us into the future.
 
Want to learn more learn more   
Enquires to
Gavin Craig: 021 661 554,
Don George: 027 223 424. or
Team up with us and go places 2023-04-10 12:00:00Z 0

Visit to Glenmore Station

On Febuary 19th, members and partners took on a 50-kilometer return 4x4 trip in the riverbed of the Cass Valley on the Glenmore sheep station, Going was a little smoother thanks to Jim Murray who was reworking the track with his grader.
Visit to Glenmore Station 2023-02-27 11:00:00Z 0

Harold always likes to make an appearance at the H2H

Harold the Giraffe closes in runners pushing for the H2H finish line

Look out for Harold at this year’s 5th March H2H. He will be on one of his “friends” eye-catching set-of-wheels. He may even wander through the finishing line and pose with fans – he’s a big celebrity throughout Australasia!  This is because he is always alongside school children learning about their uniqueness and their right to stand tall and proud – just like a giraffe.

Read more about entering and prepaying here: h2h.org.nz/entering/about-entering

Harold always likes to make an appearance at the H2H 2023-02-23 11:00:00Z 0
“The H2H means everything ‘Timaru’ to me!” Geoff Cloake 2023-02-09 11:00:00Z 0

Rotary volunteers working on the H2H preparations

Jeremy Hogan chatting with H2H team member Geoff Cloake about this year’s promotional arrangements.

At the finish line, Jeremy Hogan gets to see the buzz of cheering supporters, the endless huge expressions of relief, astounding smiles of achievement and welling pride topped with congratulatory back-patting and hugging. “Helping on projects like this is just fantastic!” he says. “Being able to give something back to the community I live in, is also loads of fun and you get to meet and work with some very interesting and motivated people.” He adds: “That’s why I like to help out with the H2H. It brings people together in such an friendly and enjoyable way.” About his Rotary Club’s role, he comments:  “Rotary projects like this really strengthen our community’s spirit and wellbeing.”

Help is welcome to spread the load and lift the H2H to even greater heights for the benefit of all. Would you like to join in? Please contact John Keenan @ keenanj.s93@gmail.com or 027 292 5267

Read more about entering and prepaying here: h2h.org.nz/entering/about-entering

Rotary volunteers working on the H2H preparations Geoff Cloake 2023-02-08 11:00:00Z 0

Step out for the Hadlow to Harbour

Upwards of 1000 people are expected to take to our streets on Sunday 5th of March to run, walk, jog, and even scooter, the 10kms to Caroline Bay from Hadlow or, for a lighter task, 3kms from Countdown on Church Street.  Some will be led by dogs, more in fancy party dress or disguise, while others load themselves with extra challenges like pushing strollers. Free Ritchie buses will shuttle to Hadlow, but please be early to ensure a ride.

Grateful thanks go to all supporters including volunteers and club members who freely provide their time and resources to make H2H so successful.  More volunteers are always welcome, even if for a couple of hours on the day or helping more seriously with lead-up tasks. Please contact  John Keenan @ keenanj.s93@gmail.com or 027 292 5267

Read more about entering and prepaying here: h2h.org.nz/entering/about-entering

Step out for the Hadlow to Harbour Geoff Cloake 2023-02-07 11:00:00Z 0
Great turnout for 2022 Prime Port Santa Parade 2022-12-05 11:00:00Z 0

Second successful BOOKARAMA for 2022

Yes we held another BOOKARAMA for 2022!

Donations have been so plentiful we decided to run Bookarama again 4-6 November, making up for the events missed due to Covid-19 restrictions. Extending the Friday hours to 9:00pm proved popular.  Friday was an extra day added last time to help spread out attendance and deal to capacity donations.

See this Timaru Herald lead-up item by Racheal Comer - Nov 02 2022 including a video interview with convener Gavin Craig:

Second successful BOOKARAMA for 2022 Geoff Cloake 2022-06-29 12:00:00Z 0

Alpine Energy hosts H2H function for beneficiaries and key supporters

Back row from left: Noel Crawford; Andrew Toombes; Bruce Steven; Ethel Elliot; and Peter O'Neil. Front row: Janice Higinbottom; Clare Bruce; and Margueritte Gliddon.

Alpine Energy, main sponsor of our H2H Fun Run invited beneficiaries, key supporters and club representatives to a 4:30pm function at their Washdyke head office on 20 May 2021. Donations were transferred earlier as cheques are now obsolete. Instead, Certificates of Appreciation were presented to: The Heart Foundation; Stroke Club; Hospice; and Life Education Trust for their volunteering on the day.

CEO, Andrew Toombes welcomed everyone at the door with mirth as he ran through visiting procedures and later in the cafeteria expressed great pleasure in supporting the H2H. Key Rotary members in turn responded with their appreciation, followed by beneficiary representatives giving thanks and outlining their charity roles.

Alpine Energy hosts H2H function for beneficiaries and key supporters 2021-05-20 12:00:00Z 0

Circus Quirkus comes to town 2021

Circus Quirkus performance in TBHS School Hall 13 May 2019.

About 300 kids and their folks were treated to a magnificent 90 minute music pumping show featuring acrobats, clowns contortionists, jugglers, hula hoop dancers and more.  The show has been touring New Zealand since 2002, hosted by NZ Lions, Rotary Clubs, etc. 

Each year, complimentary tickets are distributed to organisations focusing on support to less fortunate or special needs children and their families to allow them to have a great day out with the family.

Tickets are sponsored by local businesses are not for public purchase or resale. Read more here...

See more photos here


Circus Quirkus is run by International Entertainment Ltd, a New Zealand based event management company specialising in the production and sourcing of both local and international acts particularly for charitable organisations. Read more here...

Circus Quirkus comes to town 2021 Geoff Cloake 2021-05-09 12:00:00Z 0

272 individually named dictionaries to local students

St Joseph's Year 4 primary school students with their new illustrated dictionaries

Again Year 4 primary school students were thrilled to received the wonderfully illustrated education learning aid from us this year. Schools included Barton Rural, Beaconsfield, Gleniti, Grantlea Downs, Highfield, St Joseph's, Timaru Christian, Oceanview Heights and Waimataitai.

Working with other Rotary Clubs, the cost was covered by a Rotary Foundation grant. Special thank to President Rod Sparrow who individually signed the 272 explanatory letters covering each Dictionary, and members and family who helped prepare, distribute and present the dictionaries to each school.

272 individually named dictionaries to local students Geoff Cloake 2021-04-20 12:00:00Z 0

Timaru fun run speeds ahead hours after alert level change

Our annual H2H Alpine Energy Hadlow-to-Harbour fun run, walk, jog went ahead on the 7th March 2021, the Sunday morning just hours after the move back to Covid-19 alert level 1.

Stuff reports: "Hadlow to Harbour co-ordinator Noel Crawford said the event went “very well indeed” with 870 people taking part."

"The Rotary Club of Timaru, which runs the event, made a decision last week to gamble on the alert level dropping before Sunday so they could hold the event – a gamble that paid off as the country, except for Auckland, moved out of level 2 restrictions at 6am, just three and a half hours before the start of the run."

Crawford said he had seen people come back to the event year after year. “There’s one friend of ours, she came the first year pushing one child, and then a few years later there was two, and now there was three this morning.”

Despite forecast rain, Sunday morning was sunny and warm. “The weather was very nice, in fact it got a bit hot. People generally didn’t push themselves too hard; they came over the line quite comfortably.”

Click here for full story and photos

Timaru's annual Hadlow-to-Harbour to go ahead despite snap alert level change

Gamble pays off for Timaru's Hadlow-to-Harbour organisers

See photo coverage on Flickr here

Timaru fun run speeds ahead hours after alert level change Geoff Cloake 2021-03-04 11:00:00Z 0

Carols by Candlelight - 2020

The Mountainview High School Auditorium was again packed to capacity on Sunday night 20 December for a sing-along to brass band backed Rhyth-mix singers and performances by Jess Bacon’s highland dancers & piper William McArthur, the Austin family and Junior Drama League. Christmas messages were given by Mayor, Nigel Bowen and Rev Ben Randall representing the South Canterbury Ministers Association.  Big thanks to The Aoraki Foundation for their support covering expenses. About $900 was raised for The Salvation Army food bank, our charity for this year, off-setting some of the local hardship caused by COVID-19. 

Watch the recorded video here

Photo coverage is here
Carols by Candlelight - 2020 Geoff Cloake 2020-12-20 11:00:00Z 0

Farewell to Seven Oaks

5 MARCH 2020
President Jeremy welcomed a large turn out or member and partners to this, our last meeting at Seven Oaks.
He took us back to the year 1999 and reminded us of the context. Bill Clinton was acquitted by the Senate after being impeached. The Panama Canal was handed back to Panama. We all experienced the Y2K scare and the Euro was created. At the time there was a paltry 6 billion humans on the planet. One notable individual, Lance Armstrong “won” his first Tour de France.  Within popular culture, Notting Hill, The Matrix, Austin Powers (The spay that shagged me) and the popular Toyota TV ads all screened.  Jenny Shipley became our first female Prime Minister, followed by Helen Clark.
Locally Wynne Raymond was Mayor and in a significant move Timaru North Rotary shifted its meeting venue to Seven Oaks in Wai-iti Rd.
Since then there have been 994 meetings held and approximately 1,500 hours of fellowship including an estimated 45,000 glasses of very good and welcome cheer. Debbie and Gavin took over in 2006 and have been wonderful hosts.
Some 22 Presidents and 868 guest speakers have entertained and enlightened us and so we toasted Seven Oaks, thanked Gavin and Debbie for their “shout” tonight and sang the Rotary grace.
Under President’s time John Keenan thanked all those who participated in Hadlow to Harbour. We were blessed with great weather and an improved turnout.
John also reminded everyone of the upcoming Dictionary for schools with 9 schools to distribute to and 289 dictionaries to prepare. Help is needed to write up the dictionaries and to hand them out. Volunteers, please let John know as soon as possible.
President Jeremy entertained us with a photo montage trip down memory lane, but not before he had been told by Gordon Bower that the move to Seven Oaks was 1998 not 99! Thanks to Geoff for the photos which everyone appreciated. A few highlights included a 1998/99 shot of President Alister Rowley who commented “ The move to Seven Oaks was most satisfactory”.
Other photos included dubious ones of Roy Carter,  the Dixie band in full flight (2009),  the dress up as rugby players in the world cup year (2011),  the 50th birthday celebrations last year with Bob and Roy cutting the cake (we think), Christmas functions, Paul Harris fellowship awards and generally members have fun and fellowship. Finally a photo of what the site might look like under St John’s ownership. All in all, thanks for the memories which will be treasured.
President Jeremy made a presentation to Gavin and Debbie and told them of the club’s gratitude for their hospitality and friendship over the last 14 years and hoped they would take time to indulge their passion for travel.
Gavin replied saying it was a sad moment for him and Debbie but life moves on.  He commented they had enjoyed their time with the club and following a short break would be back as members, continuing the friendship.
Raffle – last raffle at the venue won by Colin Shaw.
Next week – the new venue of Harlau Hose Café, Beaconsfield Road. Apologies in the normal way.
Farewell to Seven Oaks Barrie Payne 2020-03-08 11:00:00Z 0

Our First Home

Gordon and Roy tell me that Timaru Norths first 'Home' was at the Ashbury Lounge in Evans Street (Formally Cassidy’s Tearooms). At the time 1969 called Piccadilly Tea rooms and owned by Margaret Fenton.   They also catered for our Charter Presentation night at St. Pat’s Hall on 04 October 1969. Roy was of course the First President.
Gordon joined in Jan 1972 and has included some photos he took at the changeover in June/July 1972 .
At the beginning we had 27 Members and it provided a suitable meeting place. Also Merv Williamson (Charter Member, President 1972/73} had his Veterinary Surgery opposite where he invited some of us to meet for a little fellowship before the meetingsWinking smile. WE could also use his premises to park cars.
During the first couple of years the Club growth was considerable with the result we out grew the venue. At that time Trailways was being built, Merv Williamson & George Clough
(Pres. 1971/72) knew the owner of Trailways hence, led the charge to shift our venue.   This happened sometime in 1972.    

 I (the editor) looked through Gordons photos and was surprised how few members were still members in 1986 when I joined.
 
However here are two couples we knew and three of whom are still with us.  Happy memories for you Roy.
 
 
 
 
Just take a look at the suits and Ties.  Rotary was quite a different beast in those days.   If you missed three meetings in a row you would be asked some serious questions.    Remember the big old round Badges!
 
Our First Home Barrie Payne 2020-02-25 11:00:00Z 0

Carols by Candlelight - 2019

Several members Rhyth-mix Singers lead the caroling. Oh what a night!!! Despite seating limitations caused by the unexpected closure of the Theatre Royal, 400 carolers filled the Mountainview High School Auditorium on Sunday evening 15 December 2019.
 
Guests arrived as Sheryl Higgs Singers ‘Double Talk’ entertained until Robbie Jackson introduced the evening.  Sue Shewan, standing in for the voiceless Tony Bunting, compared the evening commencing with Jess Bacon's Highland Dancers.  Lead by the Rhyth-mix Singers the crowd joyously sang out carols to the rousing accompaniment of the Alpine Energy Brass Band. In between, items were given from Mrs A’s Music School students and soloists Abhi Barathan and Abigail Austin gave class performances. Christmas messages were given by Deputy Mayor, Steve Wills and Rev Gordon Rosewall representing the South Canterbury Ministers Association.  About $1000 was raided for Family Support. Big thanks to Alpine Energy for their support.

Watch the recorded video on our club's Facebook Page here
Photo coverage is here
Carols by Candlelight - 2019 Geoff Cloake 2020-01-22 11:00:00Z 0

2019 Santa Parade a big success

Harley Smithson's grand daughter Lily was in for some very special attention from Santa before this years parade.

See slideshow here

With about 48 floats, our combined services clubs really stepped up this year's Santa Parade. What an event to organise? Big thanks to our club volunteers!  Stuff reported: "Floats included classic and modern fire engines, a Burrell traction engine, classic cars and a Pleasant Point Railway train engine on a truck and there were recognisable characters form Minnie and Micky Mouse to minions and Frozen's Olaf."

 
2019 Santa Parade a big success 2019-12-02 11:00:00Z 0

Art auction success

 
The future of our club's art scholarship programme is again assured after a very successful art auction held at the Aigantighe Art Gallery Friday 18 Oct 2019.  Convenor, Harley Smithson was thrilled by the turnout and bidding that contributed over $10,000 to the scholarship fund.  61 Items were donated or offered by artists or owners, including very well known and collectable artists including: Hanrahan, Brinsley, Webb, Mulholland, Cleavin, Bower, Esplin, Badcock, Greig, Forde and van den Bergh.   The auction was topped-off by an artwork by The Honorable Jacinda Ardern,
Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage.  The works of two previous winners of the scholarship, Isobel and Emily Bell, were also auctioned.
 
Big thank-yous go out to: Rose and Dale Walden for arranging the bulk of the items; our auctioneer, Snow;; the Staff of the Aigantighe, for professionally, hanging the exhibition; and the Friends of Aigantighe for the hospitality.
Art auction success 2019-10-19 11:00:00Z 0

ARTARMA 2019

Supreme winner: Aoliyah Beswick.

Supreme winner: Aaliyah Beswick. with Aigantighe Art Gallery Manager Hamish Pettengell.

40 years on and our annual ARTARAMA is still showcasing some amazing art from our South Canterbury kids. 400 entries make up another great Rotary show in conjunction with Aigantighe, Friends of Aigantighe; and South Canterbury Art Society.

Gleniti students with their 'Wearable Art': from left: Luke Campbell with his brochure dress, Azaria Phillips and Addison Tait with their wedding dress, and Zac Campbell with is map dress.

Awards:

Aigantighe Art Gallery:

Painting: Year 1-3, Indie Robinson-Smith; year 4-6, Fletcher McCall; year 7-8, Pippa Nevin; year 9-10, Lucy Grieve; year 11-12, Liana Karika; year 13, Jazmin Duncan.

Collage and Print: Year 1-3, Lincoln Tocker, year 4-6, Dan Ali; year 7-8, Emily Bray; year 9-10, Maia Grieve; year 11-12, Ellarose Bennett; year 13, Kaia Holland.

3D: Year 1-3, Room 3 St Joseph's School; year 4-6, Luke Campbell; year 7-18, Luke Winter.

Class awards: Pacifica Turtle (Grantlea Downs) and Makikihi School.

Supreme winner: Aaliyah Beswick.

Rotary Club of Timaru North:

Painting: Year 1-3, Brylee Dennison; year 4-6, Amelia Walker; year 7-8, Wihanel Kruger; year 9-10, Yunseo Lee; year 11-12, Yixuan Li; year 13, Bam Na Ranong.

Collage and print: Year 1-3, Hynun Lee, year 4-6, Penny Smith; year 7-18, Taylah Cross; year 9-10, Beth and Ruby (Mountainview High); year 11-12, Felafoai Fiso; year 13, Ella Waters.

3D: Year 1-3, Isla Prue; year 4-6, Zac Campbell; year 7-8, Lilou Caspritz and Briar Annett; Year 13, Alexandra Innes. 

Richard Logan Memorial:

Payge Overstone.

Friends of Aigantighe:

Robots (Bluestone).

South Canterbury Arts Society:

Anne Marie Bendsen.

ARTARMA 2019 Geoff Cloake 2019-08-17 12:00:00Z 0

H2H cheques for charities

Our key H2H sponsor, Holcim hosted lunch for South Canterbury charities who help man the H2H Fun Run Walk Jog this year.  $8000 of funds raised was donated to: Heart Foundation, Hospice, Life Education Trust and Stroke Club, In presenting the cheques on 20 May 2019, John Keenan said: "It's a great way for people who participate to give back to our community." Read the Stuff article here for more of our story.
H2H cheques for charities Geoff Cloake 2019-05-26 12:00:00Z 0

Club visits the Clarence Reserve

 
Trevor Johnson led members in nine 4x4s over the Seaward Kaikoura Range into the Clarence Reserve on 30 March 2019. Reaching 1300m above sea level this track was spectacular but not for SUVs or the lighthearted. In perfect weather everyone lunched out at the old homestead on Quail Flat, and listened to Barrie Payne's account of the area and farming on NZ's most-remote Muzzle Station.
 
Andy and Kath hosted everyone to lunch the next day on Foxdown farm, allowing a decent rumble through their private museum.  See photos from the club's annual weekend away here:
Club visits the Clarence Reserve Geoff Cloake 2019-05-26 12:00:00Z 0

Circus Quirkus comes to town

2019 President Harley Smithson and President Elect Shirley Keenan posing with George, a Gagliardis clown, after the Circus Quirkus performance in TBHS School Hall 13 May 2019.

Circus QuirkusAbout 300 kids and their folks were treated to a magnificent 90 minute music pumping show featuring aerialists, acrobats, clowns contortionists, jugglers, hula hoop dancers and more.  The show has been touring New Zealand since 2002, hosted by NZ Rotary Clubs, this being our first year. It was held at the TBHS hall because the Theatre Royal was closed for earthquake renovations. 

Each year, less-advantaged children are given complimentary tickets so they can attend, with their families. Tickets are sponsored by local businesses are not for public purchase or resale. Read more here...


International EntertainmentCircus Quirkus is run by International Entertainment Ltd, a New Zealand based event management company specialising in the production and sourcing of both local and international acts particularly for charitable organisations. Read more here...

Circus Quirkus comes to town Geoff Cloake 2019-05-26 12:00:00Z 0

H2H 2019 - the Hadlow to Harbour Fun Run Walk Jog. 

Timaru North Rotary’s iconic H2H - Hadlow to Harbour Fun Run Jog was again held in early March this year. First held in 1971, this popular event attracts hundreds of young and old who run or walk the 10 km from Hadlow, just beyond the western edge of Timaru, through the city streets to finish on Caroline Bay, near the port of Timaru. For the youngest and oldest, or those less fit for whom 10 km seems too far, there is a shorter course of 3 km from the Countdown Supermarket in Church Street.  H2H has always been a fun run, and a feature each year is the number of children – and adults - who run in fancy dress.

Our H2H is always a fun feature on our annual calendar, especially when watching the fancy dress turn-out. This year we counted 928 people of all ages crossing the finish line in a festival of colour. Combined with supporters, 1500-2000 people may have enjoyed the great morning out.

For the past four years we have deliberately coincided H2H with Children’s Day on Caroline Bay so children can continue their day with free amusement rides and other activities.

Members efforts, though still considerable, are made a little easier each year due to ongoing refinements.  Thanks go to our charities, who also help-out, boosting volunteer numbers to ensure every street crossing is now manned – in return for a donation.

Our generous sponsors and supporters are also to be thanked for, promotions, sales, transport, street arrangements, funding and prizes

Read on for a full report.

H2H 2019 - the Hadlow to Harbour Fun Run Walk Jog. Geoff Cloake 2019-03-04 11:00:00Z 0
Emily Bell - Art Scholarship winner - 2019 2019-02-26 11:00:00Z 0

December flashbacks

Santa and his little helper passing out pressies at our club's Xmas party.
 
Carols by Candlelight.
December flashbacks Geoff Cloake 2019-01-21 11:00:00Z 0

Otipua Wetlands native tree planting

500 native grasses, shrubs and trees were planted at the Otipua Wetlands on an incredibly nice morning. Eight from the Boy's Brigade 3rd Timaru, with leaders Fiona Blisset and Chris Kronings,  joined 16 Club members making short work of the task.. Also digging in was Jim Garden of the Timaru Rotary Club.  This project follows a Rotary International initiative, planting 12 million trees world wide.
.
Noel Crawford preparing a hole for a plant held by Inga, an AFS student from Germany . One day this hillside will be covered with native flora, as seen in the distance.
 
Otipua Wetlands native tree planting 2018-08-10 12:00:00Z 0

Change-over night 2018

Sue and Neil Dickson - Harley and Jennifer Smithson

Sue and Neil Dickson - Harley and Jennifer Smithson

Welcome to your new leadership role Harley Smithson and big thank you to Past President Neil Dickson and partners!  These sentiments were expressed along with awarding of Paul Harris Fellowships and Honorary Memberships at our club's well attended change-over night 12 July 2018.

Change-over night 2018 Geoff Cloake 2018-07-15 12:00:00Z 0

H2H Fun Run Walk Jog 2018 donations possible with Holcim sponsorship,

From left: Jeff Paul; Peter O'Neill; Noel Crawford; Marthy Cloake; Heather Barber; Rosalie Davidson; Allan Barber; Paul Coleman (Holcim); Barbara Fleming

Thank you Holcim for your sponsorship of our H2H - Hadlow to Harbour Fun Run Walk Jog,  While entry fees cover most of the associated costs, sponsorship ensures donations can be made to partnering charities.  The need for volunteers has increased over recent years to meet safety planning requirements, and our club is fortunate to have extra support from: 

  • Alzheimer's Foundation - Barbara Fleming and Rosalie Davidson

  • Heart Foundation - Marthy Cloake

  • Stroke Club - Heather and Allan Barber

  • Hospice - Peter O'Neill

  • Life Education Trust - Jeff Paul

Holcim, now our major sponsor, invited representatives to a presentation and tour of their premises 5 June 2018..

See more images of the presentations and tour here:

H2H Fun Run Walk Jog 2018 donations possible with Holcim sponsorship, Geoff Cloake 2018-06-06 12:00:00Z 0

H2H 2018 - the Hadlow to Harbour Fun Run Walk Jog.
 

Our H2H is always a fun feature on our annual calendar, especially when watching the fancy dress turn-out. This year we counted 760 people of all ages crossing the finish line in a festival of colour. Combined with supporters, 1500-2000 people may have enjoyed the great morning out.

For the past three years we have deliberately coincided H2H with Children’s Day on Caroline Bay so children can continue their day with free amusement rides and other activities.
Members efforts, though still considerable, are made a little easier each year due to ongoing refinements.  Thanks go to our charities, who also help-out, boosting volunteer numbers to ensure every street crossing is now manned – in return for a donation.

Our generous sponsors and supporters are also to be thanked for, promotions, sales, transport, street arrangements, funding and prizes

Read on for a full report…

H2H 2018 - the Hadlow to Harbour Fun Run Walk Jog.  Noel Crawford 2018-03-11 11:00:00Z 0

Art Auction

President Elect Harley Smithson welcomed Members and Guests to Rotary Timaru North’s Art Auction. Harley explained to the audience that Clark Esplin, an Artist and former Rotarian donated two of his paintings to be auctioned with proceeds to go towards the study of Arts.
 
Ten more paintings and three art works in pottery were sourced through the Saffron Art Gallery and made up all the items for the auction. The Rotary Club of Timaru North decided to use the money generated from this auction to set up an Art Scholarship. The Scholarship is intended for resident South Canterbury students and artists between the ages of 17 and 25. Applications for the scholarship close on January 12th 2018.
 
The Auction got under way timely and “Snow” the auctioneer did an outstanding job and sold all except one of the art works. “Snow” the auctioneer understood how to work and entertain the audience and get the most value out of every sale. Great evening was enjoyed by all.
 
As mentioned one painting is still for sale. If you were unable to come to the meeting, please contact Harley and he will make sure you get it for a good price.
 
And if you missed out on an Art purchase you can still make a donation towards the newly established Timaru North Art Scholarship.
 
President Harley thanked everybody for their attendance and participation in tonight’s Art Auction
 
Art Auction Tony Brien 2017-11-17 11:00:00Z 0

Art scholarship announced

Timaru North Rotary Art Scholarship announced

President Elect Harley Smithson announces an annual art scholarship fund is being established by the Rotary Club of Timaru North, to help with tertiary education costs for 17-25 year-old students studying arts. They must be NZ citizens living in South Canterbury at the time of application.

“The fund is being kicked-started with a donation of art work by renowned and once-resident artist, Clark Esplin. One painting has just been raffled and an auction event follows 16 November.” Says Harley.

The public are invited to the auction to be held Thursday 16th November 5.30pm at the Seven Oaks. RSVPs are requested by 1.00pm 15th November

The pieces are currently held by Saffron Gallery and can be viewed on-line at: esplin.saffrongallery.co.nz. A catalogue will be available on request. Absent bids may also be arranged.

$2000 has been allocated for next year. Upon agreement, this can be used towards course fees and related material costs incurred during 2018.

The successful applicant must be prepared to report formally to the club and agree to publicity.

An application form with criteria is downloadable from artscholarship.rotarytimnth.nz. Applications close 5:00pm 12th January 2018, and will be considered by the club committee.

 

For further information please contact:

Harley Smithson

handjsmithson@gmail.com
03 686 6055 or 027 4972 292

Art scholarship announced Geoff Cloake 2017-10-19 11:00:00Z 0

RYDA 2017 - Rotary Youth Driver Awareness

 
During 10-11 April 2017 , Club members along with local school teachers volunteered at the Levels Raceway, to support 200 students, in small peer groups, to rotate through six interactive sessions, focusing on the crucial ‘big five’ road safety issues of speeding, DUI, fatigue, seatbelts and distractions as well as the importance of driving as a social responsibility, The PROactiveDRIVE programe manager Tim Hartnell, was one of 7 specialists running sessions on:
 :
  • Speed and stopping
  • Hazards & distractions
  • The 'i' in drive
  • Road choices
  • After the crash
  • Genevieve's story
RYDA 2017 - Rotary Youth Driver Awareness Geoff Cloake 2017-04-11 12:00:00Z 0

29th Festival of Magic

Thanks to the generosity of many local businesses, hundreds of children and their families enjoyed a magnificent show of magic - something they would not normally get to see.

President Robbie Jackson's gave a warm welcome, explaining our club’s community service and fundraising roles. Then internationally acclaimed Chuck Jones, soon had everyone’s attention focused on his illusions, egging them on to volunteer to make all sorts of things and people appear and vanish in explosions of colour and smoke.

Our club sends its thanks all those businesses that supported us this year,

Read more about our club project here.

29th Festival of Magic Geoff Cloake 2016-12-03 00:00:00Z 0

October-BOOKARAMA

Next BOOKARAMA will be held at the Trinity Hall:

Friday 6th October - 9:00am to 7:00pm
Saturday 7th October - 9:00am to 5:00pm
Sunday 7th October - 9:00am to 3:00pm
 

BOOKARAMA has been run since 1976 between the Rotary Clubs of Timaru North and Timaru South, providing a low cost book service to the community and significant donations to many local charities.

Book sales

Friday to Sunday around October - November each year.
Trinity Church Hall
College Road
Timaru

Donations & collection

Wanted:

  • Books
  • Tapes
  • CDs
  • DVDs
  • Records
  • Puzzles

Unwanted:

  • Magazines
  • Encyclopedias

Collection points

Most service stations in Timaru, during the two weeks prior to Bookarama,

Collection by arrangement:

Bulk collection may be arranged in special circumstances by emailing our coordinator: bookarama@RotaryTimNth.nz.

COVID-19 considerations

The running of this event may be affected and any notifications will be placed on this web page and our Facebook page here.

    Further information

     
    October-BOOKARAMA Geoff Cloake 2016-11-26 11:00:00Z 0

    27th ARTARAMA - 2016

    Fostering the art of South Canterbury school children

    About 200 students, parents, caregivers and teachers attended the ARTARAMA opening and prize giving at the Aigantighe on 13 August 2016 1:00pm. The supreme prize was awarded to Makikihi Primary School. See major prizes and awards here ....

    ARTARAMA is a festival of student art displaying the paintings and drawings; prints and collage; and 3 dimensional works from 30 schools. The exhibition, now in its 27th year, runs from 13 to 28 August 2016.

    See photo gallery here...
    A news item from Stuff is here...

    Instigated in 1979 by founding member Dick Logan, in conjunction with the Aigantighe Art Gallery, ARTARAMA has, for decades, consistently represented the artwork of thousands of year 1-13 students from our South Canterbury region. As well as promoting to the schools and donating prizes, our club supports the gallery staff with volunteers to hang and take down each year's exhibition.  Artworks are not sold as this is purely a community service and not a fundraiser.

    ARTARAMA is also supported with prizes and awards from: The Friends of Aigantighe; Waihi School,  South Canterbury Art Society; ARA Polytechnic, and Warehouse Stationery.  

    27th ARTARAMA - 2016 Geoff Cloake 2016-08-14 00:00:00Z 0

    India celebrates three years without polio

    Throughout India and around the world, Rotary clubs are celebrating a major milestone: India has gone three years without a new case of polio. The last reported case was a two-year-old girl in West Bengal on 13 January 2011. To mark this historic triumph, Rotary clubs illuminated landmarks and iconic structures throughout the country with four simple but powerful words, "India is polio free."
     
    The three-year achievement sets the stage for polio-free certification of the entire Southeast Asia region by the World Health Organization. The Indian government also plans to convene a polio summit in February to commemorate this victory in the global effort to eradicate polio.
     
    India celebrates three years without polio 2014-02-26 00:00:00Z 0