23 November 2010

ADDENDUM on the ADDENDUM please add to WARRINGTON SCHOOL (column)

A big thank you to Blueskin Bay Library car, for providing a wonderful
service to Warrington School's students.

The Juniors enjoyed a nice sunny day at their Athletics in Palmerston
late in November. It's great to see how well our children did
competing in all the events. Well done to Elsa and Lola who
represented the school at the Otago Athletic Championships. It has
also been great seeing so many students involved in summer sports ­
Rippa Rugby, T­ball, Soccer and Surf Group.

Blueskin Low Oil Commuting Group

by Virginia Toy
Blueskin Low Oil Commuting Group (BLOC) was launched with a bang last month during the Blueskin10:10:10 hikoi. Since then, we have been slowly growing in strength and extend a warm welcome to new members who have signed up to the mailing list in the last few weeks. Just a reminder that we have a few more vouchers for bike tuning from Browns Cycles to give away -- you have only to express interest in joining the list by emailing bloc@geology.co.nz.
 
The weather has been fickle in the last week; spells of rain starting at 4:30pm foiled my attempts to cycle home on a few days. This is where the mailing list can come in handy -- I just posted to the list looking for a lift home so I could ride on a nicer day. I'd really like to see the mailing list used for 'on the day' networking about cycling and other travel opportunities and hope others will get into the swing of this soon.
 
Also, if anyone is interested in providing details of their regular travel schedules to other BLOC list members, drop me an email and I will forward it on. Happy commuting!

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From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media: voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff, Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

22 November 2010

Orokonui Ecosanctuary

By Sue Hensley
 
The eight kiwi released in November are exploring their new home and it seems that one of the favoured feeding grounds is the grassy areas near the main tracks at the top of the Ecosanctuary. I guess that it shouldn't be surprising since under the mat of long wet grass is soft moist earth and juicy grubs. What was surprising for me was how big the probe holes are that kiwi make when they push their beak right up to their head to reach their prey. It has also been really exciting to discover kiwi poo on the tracks and the guides have been down on their hands and knees to learn and identify its distinctive smell!
 
The upgrade of the top to bottom Valley Track is almost complete thanks to another helicopter drop of gravel courtesy of the Rotary Club of Dunedin. It has been a massive job and track ranger Craig Leach and many many volunteers over the last year have put in untold hours of heavy work. There have also been extensive changes to the route due to water problems on the old track. The new sections show off some beautiful old trees, including one part where John Barkla of the Botanical Society found a rare perching orchid (Drymoanthus flavus).
 
The Visitor Centre, designed by Tim Heath of Purakaunui, has recently won a prestigious architectural award. I think the birds, too, have given it the seal of approval with the pond award from the paradise ducks, the best nest place from the swallows and best fast food outlet (the exterior wooden blinds that house lots of spiders and insects!) from the fantails and bellbirds. It is also a great building to work in and not many people have such an amazing view from their workplace. Congratulations to Tim.
 
Christmas is nearly upon us and gifts and guided tour vouchers etc are available from the Visitor Centre shop. Visitor Centre and cafe are open every day 9.30 - 4.30. Orokonui facebook and www.orokonui.org.nz will keep you up to date with events.
 
A big thank you to those local volunteers who have dedicated many hours to the Ecosanctuary project. Thank you also to those who support Orokonui through memberships, visiting, attending events and such like. Places like Orokonui survive on your generosity. Merry Christmas to all and wherever you go, safe travelling.

OROKONUI ECOSANCTUARY column

OROKONUI ECOSANCTUARY


by Sue Hensley


The eight kiwi released in November are exploring their new home and it seems that one of the favoured feeding grounds is the grassy areas near the main tracks at the top of the Ecosanctuary. I guess that shouldn't be surprising since under the mat of long wet grass is soft moist earth and juicy grubs. What was surprising for me was how big the probe holes are that kiwi make when they push their beak right in up to their head to reach their prey. It has also been really exciting to discover kiwi poo on the tracks and the guides have been down on their hands and knees to learn and identify its distinctive smell!


The upgrade of the top to bottom Valley Track is almost complete thanks to another helicopter drop of gravel courtesy of the Rotary Club of Dunedin. It has been a massive job and track ranger Craig Leach and many many volunteers over the last year have put in untold hours of heavy work. There have also been extensive changes to the route due to water problems on the old track. The new sections show off some beautiful old trees, including one part where John Barkla of the Botanical Society found a rare perching orchid (Drymoanthus flavus).


The Visitor Centre designed by Tim Heath of Purakaunui has recently won a prestigous architectural award. I think the birds too have given it the seal of approval with the pond award from the paradise ducks, the best nest place from the swallows and best fast food outlet (the exterior wooden blinds that house lots of spiders and insects!) from the fantails and bellbirds. It is also a great building to work in and not many people have such an amazing view from their workplace. Congratulations to Tim.


Christmas is nearly upon us and gifts and guided tour vouchers etc are available from the Visitor Centre shop. Visitor Centre and café are open every day 9.30-4.30. Orokonui facebook and www.orokonui.org.nz will keep you up to date with events.


A big thank you to those local volunteers who have dedicated many hours to the Ecosanctuary project. Thank you also to those who support Orokonui through memberships, visiting, attending events and such like. Places like Orokonui survive on your generosity. Merry Christmas to all and wherever you go, safe travelling.





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From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media: voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff, Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

ADDENDUM please add to WARRINGTON SCHOOL (column)

We made the most of the tree trimming by creating clay fired pots in
the clean up bonfire. Many of the pots were made using local clay that
was dug at the edge of the beach and were fired in old metal bread
baskets. This was a great experience for all of us.

In the next few weeks we will be making the most of our swimming pool
and fun activity days including class trips to town, camping in the
school playground and cooking cockles on the beach.

Many thanks to all those in the community who have helped make our
year at Warrington school so fantastic!

Community Clean-up Days 2011

The Dunedin City Council advises that in 2011 skips will be available at the Warrington Domain for community clean-up days on the following weekends:12-13 February and 28-29 May.

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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media: voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff, Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Blueskin Bay Library: Change of Opening Hours

by Louise Booth
 
From Monday 6 December the opening hours of the Waitati Library will change to give a standard closing time of 6:00pm from Monday to Friday.  This will be easier for you to remember while still providing opportunities for you to call in to the library on your way home after work.  The new hours will be:

Monday        2:00 - 6:00pm
Tuesday       2:00 - 6:00pm
Wednesday  2:00 - 6:00pm
Thursday      2:00 - 6:00pm
Friday         10:00am - 12:00pm and 2:00 - 6:00pm
Saturday     10:00am - 1.00pm
 
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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media: voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff, Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

Obituary

Tracy Kyle (1965 – 2010)

 

Tracy was a wonderful parent to Nick and Josie, and loved partner to Dennis. An involved member of the local community, she was a loyal friend and provided special 'counsel' - wise and intuitive, non-judgmental and very funny - she made us laugh lots!

 

Tracy's impish, perky grin and fierce drive said it all. It was Tracy who began calling our new Waitati Edible Gardening group 'the Weggies' – and suggested a particularly uncomfortable membership greeting as well! Vital and vibrant, full of life and laughter, intelligent and wise, kind, caring and compassionate, Tracy loved life and lived it to the full. 

 

Tracy attended Warrington Taekwando with Nick and Josie. She earned the respect of Senior Black Belts through her application and dedication, and of the juniors for her compassionate yet firm and precise pedagogy, always with a smile or laugh. Naturally, she earned her black belt, and earned the respect of New Zealand's Taekwando fraternity in the process.

 

She had a natural grace and style no matter the situation, whether socialising, or at work, and especially in gumboots on the farm. Tracy's cancer was virulent and unrelenting. In the ten months between diagnosis and her death she continued to go into work and shared the management of their home building project. She came to Weggie markets, attended friends' parties and threw her own big birthday party with flair.

 

Tracy loved her family so much. Her pride in her children was clear for all to see, and when the Kyle's hosted an Edible Garden Tour Tracy couldn't help but entertain visitors with stories of Dennis' garden exploits, all the while claiming that her job was only to survey it all, glass of chardonnay in hand.

 

Of course she was angry that she was dying, and angry she wouldn't be there to care for and support her family, to share in their successes and their failures, or to see the new house completed. But she was also astonishingly upbeat with those around her, even in her last days, such as advising a friend on how to deal with a dickey heart, while all the while battling herself. Tracy thought of others first.

 

As a successful businesswoman, with her business partner, she built a flourishing nursing business. She loved her work and the opportunities it gave her to use all her wonderful qualities and to make people's lives a bit better, a bit brighter. A Southland girl, who loved fishing, worked in town and lived in Blueskin Bay, Tracy had great friends around the country. Her nursing friends have many, many stories about Tracy during her nursing training.

 

Dennis talks about Tracy's passion for catching salmon off the treacherous 'Pudding Stone' on the peninsula, and of the privilege of nursing his partner and best friend. We all carry great memories of her in our lives, and she is strong in our thoughts. 

 

Our thoughts and best wishes are with Dennis, Nick and Josie.

Warrington Playcentre

By Lis Hall

It's hard to believe Christmas is nearly upon us and we are getting ready to wind up for the year! 

 

We have been really enjoying the lovely weather and getting out and about. We've had two visits to the Warrington School Swimming Pool recently and really enjoyed catching up with our old Playcentre friends during their Playtime.

 

We have just learned that we are to receive $1500 from a COGS lottery grant to go towards power/gas/water. Fantastic! 


We are continuing planning our 'Wild Things' area. Things are moving along with a load of dirt being donated and distributed (many thanks to all for their muscle power especially Tim for giving up his Saturday morning to play mud-pies!). Some grasses and plants have also started to arrive (thank you Gilbert, Lyne, Neville and Coleen). It's exciting to see things starting to take shape but please remember us when clearing out your garden, we are still after a variety of trees, shrubs, plants, rocks, logs etc. Call Lisa if you can help (482 2511).

 

Coming up … we will be travelling to the Otago Museum to take part in a Japanese Culture Expo. We can't wait to learn more about Japan as Miwa and Ayano have been teaching us little pieces throughout the year. Arigato!

 

Our Christmas party this year will be on board the Seasider train!  We are all looking forward to making our way from Warrington to Palmerston for lunch, and then returning. It will be such an adventure, as we often run out to wave at the passing trains when we are at Playcentre, to see if we can get them to 'toot!'

 

Thank you to everyone who has been involved with us this year, your support and enthusiasm has inspired and enriched our children in so many ways.

 

If you are interested in joining us next year we are open Wednesdays and Fridays 9:15am to 12:15pm, phone the Playcentre 027 227 7329 or Mary-Jane 482 1962.


We wish you all a very merry Christmas and safe and happy holidays.  See you in 2011!

 

 


Extra Market for Christmas

By the editors


An extra Coast Road Market at Seacliff will be held the weekend before Christmas so we can all buy our gifts from local producers.


Always held on the first Sunday of each month, the additional market will be held on Sunday 19 December from 11am to 2pm.

 

Coast Road Market  is held in the grounds of Coast Road Retreat, alongside the Art Shed, at 728 Coast Road, Seacliff.

 

Experience a unique blend of food, coffee, art, craft, clothes, local produce, plants, preserves, bric a brac, books, toys and more!!

 

It's a free market so if you would like to have a stall, come along before 11am to set up. Or you can phone first on 465 7990 with any

queries.



21 November 2010

Note from the editors

This is the final issue of Blueskin News for 2010. The next issue will be published on 1 February 2011.
The deadline for receipt of copy for editorial and advertisements is January 22.
The editors of Blueskin News would like to take this opportunity to thank all the various community groups and individuals who have contributed articles and photos to Blueskin News during the year. Without your input, there would be no local paper and we confidently expect more of the same next year.
We wish you and your families a joyful, sunny and safe holiday season and look forward to being back in your mail boxes in February.

Blueskin Bay Working Breakfast

By Lynnaire Johnston

Following the success of the first Blueskin Bay working breakfast in October, a second was held near the end of last month.
Although considerably reduced in numbers, enthusiasm for the concept remained high, with its official purpose still to be decided. At the initial meeting there were two distinct schools of thought: that it should be a business networking group comprising businesses located in Blueskin Bay; while other attendees had a preference for it to have a more community project focus.
However, from the second meeting it seemed as if a third option could be emerging: a Bluekskin Bay Business Association. The meeting seemed mostly concerned about issues concerning local businesses. Community Board member Alasdair Morrison spoke about the potential of next year's Rugby World Cup to bring visitors to Blueskin Bay. He suggested that local businesses start thinking about how they could benefit from the increased numbers travelling through the area.
Also discussed was the number of recent burglaries and the need for additional vigilance by local residents.
The Blueskin Bay Working Breakfast is an initiative of the Blueskin Resilient Communities Trust and your input is sought on its future direction. Please email Lynnaire Johnston with an indication of your preferred option, as outlined above.
The next meeting will be held in February.
Lynnaire Johnston, lynnaire@wordwizard.co.nz

Blueskin Bayleaf

By Rowan Holt

Cherry and Gingernut Biscotti Cheesecake

 

I have a real soft spot for cheesecake and have started to practise this one ready for Christmas pudding. This recipe has been adapted from a recipe I found on a cream cheese packet. I have used the word biscotti in its literal form, Bi meaning twice and cotti cooked. Serve with Greek yoghurt or whipped cream.

 

1 1/4 c mix of Gingernut and malt biscuit crumbs

80g butter, melted

750g cream cheese, softened

3/4 cup caster sugar

1 1/2 t vanilla

2 eggs

200g Greek yoghurt or sour cream

400g jar cherries, drained, liquid reserved

dash of brandy

1 t grated lemon rind

1/4 c caster sugar, extra

2 t cornflour

 

Combine biscuit crumbs and butter. Press into the base of a greased 22cm round spring-form tin. Chill.

 

Beat half the cream cheese, 1/2 c sugar and 1 t vanilla until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time. Pour mixture into tin and bake for 20 min at 180. Cool for 5 minutes.

 

Beat the remaining cream cheese, sugar, vanilla and lemon rind until smooth. Then add the yoghurt or sour cream. Pour over the cooked base and bake for 10-15 minutes or until just a little wobbly in the centre. Remove from oven and cool. Chill.

 

Combine 1/4 of the cherry liquid with the cornflour to create a paste in a small saucepan on medium heat. Slowly add the extra sugar and the remainder of the reserved liquid and stir until the syrup has darkened a little and thickened.


Stir in all the cherries and the brandy, take off the heat. Cool.


Pour cooled cherry topping over the cold base and chill for at least an hour.

To serve, carefully remove the sides of the tin and present on a large plate. When you slice it you will reveal the four layers – base, cheese, yoghurt, topping – delicious!

 

 

 

WAIKOUAITI COAST COMMUNITY BOARD column

Photo: Les Pullar, Mark Brown, Geraldine Tait, Gerard Collings (Chairperson),
Andy Barratt, Alasdair Morrison (Deputy), Andrew Noone (Councillor)
Photo courtesy East Otago Review

WAIKOUAITI COAST COMMUNITY BOARD

by Gerard Collings

Well it's a new triennium and a new board.
First of all I wish thank the two retiring board members Murray Holland and
Nancy Higgins for the time and effort they have put in to serving
our community.

The board has a key role in presenting community issues and
concerns to the Dunedin City Council, it is also important that
the board actively identify, encourage, and assist with initiatives
that enhance the social, economic, and environmental well
being of our area.

Over the last few weeks members of the board have expressed a
very real desire to ensure that we engage and communicate
effectively with you the residents and ratepayers in our
community. It is intended that the board will hold two informal
public meetings early in the New Year (dates and venues to be
advised). In addition to the public meetings the board will be
looking to meet informally with special interest groups, businesses, and public and service organisations within our community.

At our November board meeting we set up two working groups:

1. Rugby World Cup: to develop a project plan/strategy for presentation to the Boards January meeting to enable the Board to assist our community in maximising the potential benefits of the rugby world cup. Members of the working group are Andrew Noone, Alasdair Morrison, and Gerard Collings.

2. Coastal scenic route: to develop a project plan/strategy for the creation and promotion of a coastal scenic route within our area. Members of the working group are Andy Barratt, Les Pullar, Mark Brown, Geraldine Tait, and Gerard Collings.

Members of the respective working groups are only too happy to hear (by phone or email) from members of the community that have suggestions relevant to the projects.

The Board's next meeting is 5.30pm 26 January at the East Otago Events Centre, Waikouaiti. Members of the public wishing to speak at the public
forum need to advise Jane Hinkley our Governance Support Officer (Phone 4743374) before 12 noon on the day prior to the meeting.

In addition to the public forum, Board members will be available to meet informally with members of the public between 4.30 and 5.30pm at the Events Centre on the day of the meeting.

Finally, we wish you all a safe and enjoyable festive season.


Board Contacts

Home

Work

Mobile

email

Gerard Collings (Chairperson),

4657604

4707494

0274848800

gerard.collings @xtra.co.nz

Alasdair Morrison (Deputy),

4822505

4822505

0274354384

info @calmarine.co.nz

Andy Barratt,

021890048


021890048

asbarratt @farmside.co.nz

Andrew Noone

4657157


0274301727

anoone @dcc.govt.nz

Geraldine Tait,

4822517


0212175492

gstait @clear.net.nz

Les Pullar,

4658138


0274358020

lesgwen.pullar @xtra.co.nz

Mark Brown,

4822011

4822011


blueskin @xtra.co.nz




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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media: voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff, Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

WARRINGTON SCHOOL (column)

WARRINGTON SCHOOL

by school staff and parents

There has been an outbreak of Steampunk fever around the school after
the seniors returned from camp with this highly contagious disease
caught in Oamaru. The symptoms are an interest in Victoriana Punk
apparel with the addition of sci­fi styled weaponry. There
has also been a mutation of the fever with the addition of wacky
wheeled vehicles whizzing around the school – thanks to thoughtful
adults who have kindly donated pushchairs, motor mowers and tools.

Otago to Otara collaboration has begun. Room 1 are blogging about
their recent activities after being encouraged by students from Bairds
Mainfreight Primary School in Otara who have heard about what we are
doing. The BMPS students created a video on how to blog and posted it
on their class blog for us. The BMPS class aim to use the skills of
room 1 students to install an Ubuntu computer in their classroom early
in 2011.

In the meantime the BMPS students are assisting our school with
learning how to blog, distance is proving no barrier to collaborative
learning in this digital age. Room 1 pupils are also now teaching the
staff how to blog and with the creation of the Warrington School blog
site http://warringtonprimaryschool.blogspot.com/.

Congratulations to students who represented Warrington school at the
senior athletics last month. Superb effort from Lola and Elsa who have
been entered into the Otago Athletics Championships.

The middle school teaching position has been advertised and we are
hoping to have someone appointed to this position by the end of
November.

Dates
2 December: BOT Meeting
15 December: End of year assembly 1.30pm
16 December: End of Term 4

20 November 2010

Waitati Edible Gardeners

Community Garden Year Three Progress Report

 

By Rosemary Penwarden


There've been strange goings-on in Waitati since this community garden started. Anyone driving up Mt Cargill Road a few Tuesday evenings ago might have noticed eight people bent over little holes in the ground or forking steaming silage into piles, reminiscent of 19th century Irish peasants. With a small difference – Irish peasants didn't set up lines of orange bailing twine at ankle height to keep the rows straight. Even bright orange bailing twine is not easy to see when your arms are full of steaming rotting hay. T'was an accidental Irish jig you may have seen, as we tripped, hopped or tumbled into the pungent steaming silage. Luckily, the salsa dancers among us are quick on their feet. 

 

Other unusual behaviour has been noted; suddenly, dried cow 'paddies' (Irish for 'pats?) are difficult to resist, and community gardeners ('commies'?) may be spotted scooping them into sacks in the most unexpected places.

 

After a slow start enough spoilt hay came our way thanks to Yung Ko and Laurie Henderson, and the strong easterlies dumped a generous helping of kelp on the beach, also gratefully received. Garlic was planted in August and is growing well; onions in October, outcome less certain. Most of the potatoes are in and the pumpkins, far too big for their window sills, will be in the ground by the time December's Blueskin News goes to print. Note to next year's 'commies' – DO NOT eat all your best potatoes. Keep some for seed!

 

We have broad beans coming along too and left some of the winter's green crop to re-seed. Globe artichokes are dotted along the far side of the garden - we hope to get a nibble from them next year.

 

Anyone is welcome to join us at 6:30 on a Tuesday evening - deft footwork is not compulsory.  

 

(Ring Derek on 4822831 or email derekonley@yahoo.com)

 


 

 

  

 

 

BLUESKIN RESILIENT COMMUNITIES TRUST

 
by Scott Willis
 
Blueskin Resilient Communities Trust (BRCT) was established in 2008 to assist groups and individuals in Blueskin Bay communities address the opportunities and vulnerabilities associated with climate change and peak oil. Currently its main community project is the Waitati Energy Project and Blueskin Power. It is also currently providing umbrella service to Waitati Edible Gardeners, Get-The-Train, and Blueskin Low Oil Commuting, and seeks opportunities to foster community spirit and grow community capacity. BRCT currently has only one employee (myself); there are volunteers who help oil the BRCT machine (more of a simple and effective bicycle really), volunteers and contractors who run the initiatives BRCT helps with, a strong and passionate community that generously lends its experience and assets, and of course BRCT trustees and officers (Lynnaire Johnston, Antony Deaker, Simon Sheppard, Ross Johnston, Tony Wilson and Gerry Carrington), and our new patron, Jeanette Fitzsimons.

 

BRCT is now in the process of planning a move to new premises at Waitati School early in the new year. We've been strongly supported by Mark and Rayna Dickson since 2009 with office space in the Old Waitati Stores, and we still get people coming in the door asking, 'Are you a shop? What do you do here?'. This is Blueskin's first ever community office and while we currently have great 'main street' presence, the move to new premises is part of a longer-term strategy to streamline functioning, strengthen collaborative partnerships, build greater efficiency and provide hub services. We're very excited to be relocating to a dynamic community/school hub (with Waitati School growing further with the relocation of Blueskin Play Centre), while having the opportunity to share resources and information with greater ease. I am looking forward to this exciting new stage for BRCT and I want to thank Mark and Rayna for helping establish BRCT's first community office.

 

At the date of writing, BRCT is working on strategic planning to provide clear direction for the short, mid and long term. Planning will culminate with a BRCT strategic workshop, with all trustees, officers and staff, on the weekend of 27-28 November at Waitati School.

 

Meanwhile, on behalf of the trust and in conjunction with the Waitati School PTA, Laurence Hay is working on a long overdue community telephone directory. The ultimate community resource, once complete this will be made available for all Blueskin communities not covered in other directories. Of course for civil defence purposes it helps to have a local directory, but it's even more valuable in making it easy for us to be more connected and aware of who is in our own neighbourhoods, and how to get in touch (or get connected if we're new to the community).

 

Over summer I'll be hosting Seth Gorrie in the BRCT office.  Seth is doing some research on community perspectives around Blueskin Power and will have the office to use if needed.

 

More information on the trust's vision, mission, objectives and activities is available on the Transition Waitati webpage: www.transitiontowns.org.nz/waitati or by contacting me on 03 4822048.



 

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Scott Willis <waitatienergy@gmail.com>
Date: 19 November 2010 17:27
Subject: BRCT column - December
To: Lynnaire Johnston <lynnaire@wordwizard.co.nz>, blueskin.input@gmail.com, Craig Marshall <blueskin.production@mac.com>


Dear all again,
Please find the BRCT column - Lynnaire, please edit if you see the need.
Best
Scott



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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media: voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff, Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

WAITATI ENERGY PROJECT: Blueskin Power – an integrated energy community.

 
by Scott Willis
 
Community Consultation
 
Community discussion on how best to include everyone and assess the most helpful community turbine information will be held on 30 November at the next Waitati Energy Project (WEP) meeting -- potentially before you read this. While we still have no word on our funding request for comprehensive community consultation there is a research project now under way that will provide an opportunity to uncover what important questions about the community turbine are still to be answered. Seth Gorrie, who many of you may remember from his work in Blueskin Bay last year, is working over the summer researching 'Community Perspectives around Blueskin Power'; so don't be surprised if he knocks on your door.
 
Blueskin Power
 
Initially Blueskin Power referred to the community turbine project. It has developed subsequently as a response to feedback at the last WEP meeting, and to the greater potential in integrating other energy work, to mean 'an integrated energy community'. It is already more than an idea as we have been working in an integrated way for a while, but what Blueskin Power does make explicit is the value of including small wind (such as Powerhouse Wind's Thinair turbine), solar installs, smart meters, insulation, intelligent design and more, in the vision encapsulated by the community turbine. We are lucky that the distinct section of local grid we inhabit also expresses our wider Blueskin community. And the value to the community of integrated thinking has already been experienced (for example, in the 2009 WEP retrofit rollout) with further action in the pipeline. An even greater value, I believe, is available for the rest of the country, as we prove that an integrated approach to energy is also an excellent opportunity to promote and test green technology, and to demonstrate the effectiveness of collective action, while building a model for other communities.
 
So in November and December I'll be reporting on lessons learnt and seeking input from around NZ. On 24 November I'm presenting at the Otago Energy Research Centre Symposium in Dunedin. On 9 December I'm presenting at a Wellington 'Behavioural Innovators' Workshop'; and on 11 December I'm participating in an 'Energetics and Informatics' symposium in Whanganui.
 
Overseas student hosting opportunity
Then in February we have Xavier, a 20-year-old student in the European Business Management bachelors' degree programme, arriving from Belgium to spend 13 weeks with us looking at the business side of our project. Are you interested in hosting an overseas student? Xavier is a non-smoker, a friend of animals, loves music, and will happily fit in with a family interested in experiencing another culture. Xavier can contribute towards hosting costs. For more information contact Scott – see below.
 
Remember, more regular updates are sent out via the WEP update email, and you can contact me directly either at 03 4822048 / 0274888314 or at waitatienergy@gmail.com. Have a great Christmas and relaxing summer holidays and make the most of that sun.
 
 
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Scott Willis <waitatienergy@gmail.com>
Date: 19 November 2010 17:24
Subject: Waitati Energy Project: Column
 
 
Dear Lynnaire, Peter, Craig and Laurence,
Please find my WEP column for December. I'll leave it up to you to
select the photo you prefer - the one included with the column is a
map of the Waitati Sub-Station zone (and it it was in colour you could
see the 33kV, 22kV, etc wires), while the other shows a small chunk of
the community (with wires).
Best
Scott
 
--
Scott Willis
Project Manager
Waitati Energy Project (Blueskin Power)
03 4822048
0274888314
 
 
 
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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media: voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff, Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand. All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished. If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".
 
 
 

19 November 2010

WARRINGTON TAE KWON DO

by Meaghan Kelly

This last month at Warrington Tae Kwon Do has been fairly exciting.
Three members attended a grading at Port Chalmers -- the usual testing
mix of sparring, patterns, self defence demonstrations, and exercise,
exercise and more exercise. Congratulations to Christine Rainbow,
Imogen Corbett and Lucan Willis, who did themselves and all of us
proud by passing to a very high standard. Christine graded to yellow
belt, green tab, and Lucan and Imogen graded to green belt, blue tab –
halfway to black belt.

Also this month Paul Foley and I attended a poomsae (patterns) seminar
in Wellington with Master Ky-tu Dang, a Vietnamese-born, Danish tae
kwon do tenth dan. We spent three entire days learning about and
practising patterns the way they are performed and judged in
international competitions. It was exhausting physically and mentally
but extremely enjoyable, and it was great to see so many familiar and
new faces from all over New Zealand.

Tae kwon do continues over the school holidays with a short break of
around two weeks over Christmas and New Year (exact dates to be
decided), so please come in to Warrington Memorial Hall on a Monday or
Wednesday 6:00 to 7:30pm and give it a try. Great for fun, for
fitness, new skills and to meet great new people. First month is free
(and after that it is ridiculously cheap).

Contact Paul Foley 478 1113, Tim Bain 021-1672510 or Meaghan Kelly
027-8487913/4731199 for more information.

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Meaghan Kelly <the_scarletmanuka@hotmail.com>
Date: 18 November 2010 17:21
Subject: Warrington Taekwondo column for November
To: blueskin news <editors@blueskin.co.nz>


Hi. Here is the Warrington Tkd column for November


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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

18 November 2010

COMMUNITY GARDEN

COMMUNITY GARDEN
Year Three Progress Report

by Rosemary Penwarden

There've been strange goings-on in Waitati since this community garden
started. Anyone driving up Mt Cargill Road a couple of Tuesday
evenings ago might have noticed eight people bent over little holes in
the ground or forking steaming silage into piles, reminiscent of 19th
century Irish peasants, with a small difference – Irish peasants
didn't set up lines of orange bailing twine at ankle height to keep
the rows straight. Even bright orange bailing twine is not easy to see
when your arms are full of steaming, rotting hay. 'Twas an accidental
Irish jig you may have seen, as we tripped, hopped or tumbled into the
pungent silage. Luckily the salsa dancers among us are quick on their
feet.

Other unusual behaviour has been noted: Suddenly, dried cow 'paddies'
(Irish for 'pats?) are difficult to resist, and community gardeners
('commies'?) may be spotted scooping them into sacks in the most
unexpected places. After a slow start enough spoilt hay came our way,
thanks to Yung Ko and Laurie Henderson, and the strong easterlies
dumped a generous helping of kelp on the beach, also gratefully
received.

Garlic was planted in August and is growing well; onions in October,
outcome less certain. Most of the potatoes are in and the pumpkins,
far too big for their window sills, will be in the ground by the time
December's Blueskin News goes to print. Note to next year's 'commies'
– DO NOT eat all your best potatoes. Keep some for seed.

We have broad beans coming along too, and left some of the winter's
green crop to re-seed. Globe artichokes are dotted along the far side
of the garden -- we hope to get a nibble from them next year.

Anyone is welcome to join us at 6:30 on a Tuesday evening -- deft
footwork is not compulsory.

(Ring Derek on 482 2831 or email derekonley@yahoo.com)


---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Rosemary Penwarden <rose.p@ihug.co.nz>
Date: 17 November 2010 11:47
Subject: For December's Blueskin News
To: editors@blueskin.co.nz


Hi editors, here are two photos to go with the community garden
article - attached again for your convenience.

Thanks!

Rosemary Penwarden

C/- Counter Mail

Blueskin Bay Store

Waitati

Otago 9060

03 4822831

rose.p@ihug.co.nz


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Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

LOCAL BUSINESS PROFILE: Most Able Maiden

by Ara Nokomis

When I walk into a new home with the intention of enhancing it
specifically for you there are a few things I am opening to: I want to
know what bothers you when you enter your home after a hard day's
work. What is it you don't want to see or think about to have to do in
order for you to relax into your home? What are the things that create
chaos in your mind (and they are generally little things) that add up
to that mental block, inhibiting your relaxation in your own sanctuary
-- your home?

Cleaning for me entails many things: Order is what I do first, if
necessary, as this is the base for harmony -- a place for everything
and everything in its place. Then it's general surface cleaning
(including inside and outside of cupboard doors) of the kitchen,
lounge/dining areas, bedrooms, bathrooms, toilets, also the windows of
the kitchen, or any stunning or general viewing places, any entrance
doors/windows, skirting, door surrounds, mirrors (for a clear image of
oneself).

Generally, extra windows (inside and out), leather furniture
polishing, any specialist antique polishing, etc, require dedicated
sessions and call for extra time.  I like to schedule these as focus
sessions or seasonal tasks, as these are more specific needs.

I cater for the individual and what your specific needs are. If you
leave the dishes, I will see they are done, as I feel this an
important aspect for the overall sense of order and peace
for when you return home. If you are fighting a losing battle with
endless washing, I will help you get on top of this. Spider-webbing on
the outside of the house, high dusting, almost anything goes.

I have all my own equipment, and make my own cleaner from household
ingredients which is versatile and leaves a lovely atmosphere in your
home.

Visit my website -- www.mostablemaiden.co.nz

WAITATI OPEN ORCHARDS

WAITATI OPEN ORCHARDS
A growing branch of the Waitati Edible Gardens Group

by Jason Ross

Waitati Open Orchards (WOO) is a group of keen folk on a mission to
plant fruit trees in public spaces around Waitati for all to enjoy.
Email waitatiopenorchard@gmail.com to join our mailing list.

It's been a dry spring, but even our late planted trees are doing
well. Some of the WOO blokes put in some hard yards during November
growing mo's for Movember. Check out the Movember website and join the
Bio Mo Growers team next November!

December and January: Keep up the water to young trees if the usual
December drizzle fails to arrive! Keep up thinning of fruit to ensure
a quality crop. From mid-December you can start summer pruning of
established trees. Winter pruning has the effect of encouraging strong
growth of branches and trunk, so is good for young trees or where you
want replacement growth in older trees, whereas summer pruning slows
the tree's growth and encourages flowering and fruiting, so is used
for established vigorous trees only. It is especially good for keeping
espalier trees in shape, but I find it very useful for training all
fruit trees. It is also very useful for keeping gooseberries and
worcesterberries in an open shape.

Summer pruning of fruit trees consists mainly of shortening extraneous
new growth back to fruit spurs -- that is everything that isn't to be
a future branch. If there isn't room for fruit to form on a spur in
that part of the tree then cut the new growth right out. Older
branches can also be removed if desired. Summer pruning is great for
cutting out suckers (water shoots), especially in plums, because the
re-growth won't be so crazy as it can be after winter pruning.

Some folk like to cut out the blackcurrant branches with fruit on and
take them inside to pick the fruit off. This slightly different summer
pruning makes room for the developing new shoots which will bear fruit
next year, so cut the branches off nice and low. Similarly you can cut
raspberry canes to the ground once they have fruited, leaving room for
new growth. New shoots on raspberries are best thinned to the
strongest, well-spaced canes.

Other advantages of summer pruning are that cutting out unwanted new
growth allows light and air into the tree to ripen the fruit, there is
less chance of silverleaf disease during dry summer weather, and a
plant in active growth heals very quickly.

Contact us or look out for posters for our late January Summer Pruning
Workshop. See you there.

Jason Ross, 4822625. Waitatiopenorchard@gmail.com

03 November 2010

Constable warns trail riders

As summer approaches, Waikouaiti Police Constable Jon-Paul Tremain is
concerned that more of us will be riding trail bikes.

"With more people using the beach, public reserves and gravel back
roads to ride their trail bikes, I think it is timely to remind
everyone what their responsibilities and rules are," Jon said.

"The Land Transport Act 1998 says a 'road' includes a street, a
motorway, a beach, and a place to which the public have access,
whether as of right or not. Which in broad terms means if a vehicle
can be driven on it, then it could be defined as a road."

Jon explained that all vehicles being driven on a road must have a
current warrant of fitness and be licensed to be on the road, and all
drivers orriders of vehicles on a road must have a current New Zealand
Drivers licence suitable for the vehicle they are in control of.

In addition all driver and vehicle related offences that can be
committed on a road can be dealt with by police and the consequences
vary from the issuing of infringement notices to the impoundment of
vehicles and drivers or riders being put before the Court for
offending such as drink-driving or dangerous driving.

"Local police are going to monitor this issue during the summer
months," John warned. "I would strongly urge those riding their trail
bikes in these places to take care not to annoy or endanger other
members of the public. If children are going to use trail bikes in
these areas I recommend it is only done under strict adult
supervision."

Police will act on any information received regarding rider behaviour
and anyone caught committing offences or causing annoyance in public
places such as sports grounds or Dunedin City Council reserves, may
find themselves receiving trespass or infringement notices.

Jon has a reminder for the festive season. "The end of the year brings
its own pressures and temptations, set realistic goals for Christmas
time and always make suitable arrangements regarding transport if
consuming alcohol."

*road conditions: 0800 44 44 49

*Waikouaiti Police: 03 465 9127

*Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

*Emergencies: 111

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--
Ā ā Ē ē Ī ī Ō ō Ū ū
From blueskin.co.nz and 'Blueskin News' published by Blueskin Media:
voluntary/non-profit community publishers in Blueskin Bay (Seacliff,
Warrington, Evansdale, Waitati, Doctors Point), Dunedin, New Zealand.
All material sent to or published by us is "copyleft" in the public
domain and may be freely shared, archived, re-edited and republished.
If you want to credit the source it's "blueskin.co.nz".

02 November 2010

Latest Gallery on Blueskin exhibition

Gallery on Blueskin invites you to the opening of two shows this Friday night


"Return"

Paintings by Rachel Hirabayashi (until 21 November)


"Shellter"

New work by Blueskin Bay artist Karan Snow


Opening from 6pm: Drinks and nibbles

01 November 2010

Waitati Fire Brigade vs Warrington Surf Life Saving Club Inaugural Annual Softball Match

Two voluntary community service groups came head to head on Sunday 31
October at the
Inauugral Annual Waitati Voluntary Fire Brigade vs Warrington Surf
Life Saving Club Softball Match. The teams enjoyed near perfect
conditions at Warrington Domain following the opening day of the Surf
Club who now have their flags up for voluntary patrols for the next 20
weekends of summer noon - 5pm.

Few beach goers braved the waves today
apart fron the hardy life gaurds who swam the channel and brushed up
on their Life Guard skills for the season.

With 55 life guards on the Warrington patrol roster, the Fire Service
were outnumbered but still strong. Clearly the softball prowess was
held by the Fire Service but
the stamina and fitness of the younger life guards awarded victory to
the surf life savers after a bitter battle.

Charlotte Ibbotson, Warrington life-saving coordinator is pictured
shaking hands with trainee firefighter and softball captain Nick
Berends of Waitati Volunteer Fire Brigade.

Brent Bell, clearly a seasoned pitcher delivers the ball to Byron
Dodge (in red life guard jacket) and to Mark Buckley (Life Guard in
yellow shirt). Lance Ormsby is the Umpire and Rhys Bell is the Fire
Brigade catcher.

Photos by Pru Casey
Warrington Surf Life Saving Club