WARRINGTON SCHOOL: OGG scythers

WARRINGTON SCHOOL: Bouldering wall

WARRINGTON SCHOOL

by Nathan Parker, Principal

Warrington School students Naomi Ashby-Ryan and Ruby Harris have just won the 'Outlook for Someday', national short film competition award for their film Free Market, Free World.  The theme for the award was 'sustainability', so the girls chose to focus on the Warrington market.  This and other Warrington short films will be screened at the end-of-year concert.

Warrington School was the recipient of a national award for Open Culture at the NZ Open Source Awards evening in Wellington.  The school received the award for being pioneers in the use of open source software, creating school documentation on WikiEducator, and its use of Creative Commons licensed materials including Blueskin Bay FM.  Incidentally the use of open source software by Warrington saves the school and the Ministry of Education around $3000.

Blueskin Bay FM radio station 88.2 and web site blueskinbayfm.co.nz based at Warrington School is on a drive to begin scheduling shows. Presently running 24/7 on random repeats, volunteers are being rustled up to assist with running a community radio station. We are also searching for local musicians who are happy for us to play their material. 

At the end of 2011 the school playground redevelopment began – court netting, sandpit, rebound and bouldering walls. Unfortunately, boys in big toys and a soft sub-layer ended up with a court munted.  A year later the court is flat but still awaiting final clearance before artificial turf is laid. We are still waiting for a few 'munts' to dry out.  In the meantime access is restricted to the new bouldering wall and sandpit.   

Finally, if Waitati can have the Wedgies then Warrington can have the OGGs -- the Okahau Glebe Gardeners, who have established a community garden in the school glebe (paddock).  It's presently growing potatoes and there is a core of gardeners planning to grow pumpkins and beans over the summer.

If you are interested in joining in on some OGG-ing or BBFM-ing please be in touch through the school office.  Thanks,

WAITATI OPEN ORCHARDS

by Hilary Rowley and Jason Ross

The Waitati Open Orchards (WOO) group did a weeding/mulching party around some of the fruit trees a couple of weekends ago. The trees look great -- lots of healthy growth and baby fruits. It's cool that the new walkway will be passing the Orokonui riverside patch of fruit trees. That will be a great place for a browsing picnic in the not-too-distant future.

Once again the WOO news deadline looms. I was going to write a bit about strawberries, as I have just eaten the first of the season from our garden. I got sick of trying to find the strawberries amongst the cursed convolvulous, so I dug them all up, and planted them in buckets and boxes in some pure horse poo and sawdust. They are looking better than I have ever seen them, and taste delicious!  I may just leave them there for a couple of years until I can transplant them into a nice new strawberry patch with no invaders.  Jason has saved me from having to write more about orchards and fruit-growing by sending the following perfectly timed little bulletin.  Thanks Jason, I will leave the rest of this month's newsletter to you.
 
Early Summer in the Orchard
 
It is a beautiful time of year out in the orchard. We enjoyed some good conversation and garden tip sharing recently when we were out working in the Waitati Open Orchards. Here are a few tips for timely activities for early summer in the orchard:

• It is worth doing a quick pull-up of the weeds that have taken hold in the spring flush in the mulch under your trees and bushes -- before they become monsters!
• Thin the fruit that has set, apples to about two fruits per cluster, take the centre 'king' out first. My big 'Wilson's Early' plum set so much fruit last year I just shook it to thin the fruit.
• Thin new shoots on raspberries of both summer and autumn varieties.
• Summer pruning can start now; this is good for vigorous, established plants, encouraging them to fruit. Take out young crowding growth that is not needed for new branches. Great for gooseberries, and over-vigorous fruit trees, such as those out-of-control plums!
• Prep your strawberry beds with pine needles over compost.  When they start running, ruthlessly take out any runners you don't want for new plants; you'll get a lot more fruit.
• Cover your fruit with bird netting.  Consider covering the lot from a permanent perimeter fence that can then contain chickens in the winter to weed and fertilise the area for you.
• Chop and drop the dynamic accumulator, nitrogen-fixing, ground cover and companion herbs, such as sweet cicely and comfrey, under your fruits. This feeds the soil, keeps weeds at bay.
• Make a mix of vegetable and herb seeds and scatter them into gaps in the fruit, vegetable and even the ornamental garden. It is a pleasure to harvest the succession of abundance that follows. Try: daikon, rocket, mizuna, lettuce, carrot, silver beet, coriander, dandelion, miners' lettuce, red Russian kale, flat leaf parsley….

A fantastic book new to Dunedin public libraries is The Holistic Orchard by Michael Phillips. This book includes many well-tested methods for fruit growing. I like his emphasis on soil fertility through use of woody material and companion plants, including dandelion (which is delicious at this time of year) to feed soil fungi and in turn your fruit plants. His principles are sound but he comes from a different bioregion so his variety recommendations are not all suited to us.  This is a very in-depth book. For a more accessible book I regularly reference How to Make a Forest Garden by Patrick Whitefield. This is more climatically suitable and delves into all aspects of a permaculture food forest.

Christmas Brunch at the River Bank

by Rosemary Penwarden

Come and join us on Christmas morning, from 11am onwards, at the river bank, Orokonui Road, beside the WOO fruit trees. Bring festive food and drink. We can't confirm yet whether we will be graced by Her Majesty's presence, but last year we got our photos in the ODT and were treated to a stirring royal Christmas message. Everyone welcome, including relatives.

WAIKOUAITI COAST COMMUNITY BOARD

by Gerard Collings, Chair

With the festive season almost now upon us I would like to take the opportunity to extend the Waikouaiti Coast Community Board's best wishes to you all.   We trust the holiday season will be a safe and happy one.   I'd further like to extend our thanks to all the volunteers, community groups  and organisations within our area; your contribution to the wellbeing and social fabric of our community should never be underestimated.   Merry Christmas and a happy New Year to all.

At our November meeting the Board considered a funding application from the Warrington reserve group for the formation of a new parking area.  The Board were please to be able to allocate $2,400 to this project. Community groups are reminded that funding application forms are available through the Dunedin City Council's website.

The Board have been in discussion with the Waitati Hall committee and DCC staff to consider the use of the hall toilets for the general public during daylight hours.  DCC staff have raised a number of operational issues that require further discussion; it does, however, appear that the limitations of the existing infrastructure is likely to mean that this extended use is not feasible.

Both the Board and DCC staff expressed disappointment at the initial reinstatement work to the grass verge of the new Harvey Street footpath.  Staff advise that they have raised the matter with the contractor who was instructed to reinstate to an acceptable standard. 

As part of the annual plan process, over the next month the Board will be considering our initial presentation to the DCC with regard to their preparation of the draft annual plan 2013-14.  Every year the Board has the opportunity to make a presentation to the Council late in January prior to Council adopting the draft plan for public consultation. I would like to hear from community groups or individuals with concerns, issues, and/or projects relevant to the draft annual plan so that the Board may consider raising those matters at an early stage in the process. 

Copies of DCC documents out for consultation are available from the Council office and through Council's website http://www.dunedin.govt.nz/council-online/currently-consulting-on

The Board's next meeting is at 5:30pm 30 January 2013 at the Karitane Hall.  Members of the public are welcome to speak at the Board's public forum, however those wishing to do so need to advise Wendy Collard, our Governance Support Officer (ph 4743374), before 12 noon on the day prior to the meeting.  

Remember, you can view the Board's meeting agendas, reports and minutes at either the Waikouaiti or Blueskin libraries or through the DCC's website at http://www.dunedin.govt.nz/your-council/council-minutes

Members of the Board are only too happy to hear (by phone or email) from members of the community about any issues within our area.

 

Board Contacts	Home	Work	Mobile	email
The Board				wccb.public@dcc.govt.nz
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,	4822833

Energy healer opens practice in Warrington

By Naomi Miller

I was born in Dunedin, and have been away 55 years. The sense of homecoming and acceptance I have experienced since moving to Warrington in 2011 has really touched me.

Energy healing and balancing is an ancient science that has been practised among many cultures. In my four years training I have learned techniques which enable me to focus on the vitality and healthy flow of the energy field that surrounds your body. It is possible through working within this field to recharge, balance and free up stagnant blocks that can impact on your health and wellbeing. This can assist with many conditions including recovery from grief, pain management, healing from injuries and post-operative support.

Energy healing is recognised internationally as a gentle and complementary method which can be experienced safely alongside existing traditional healing modalities.

The human body is an instrument that is perfectly designed to experience physical vitality, peace and joy. When this instrument is out of tune, life and all its gifts cannot be enjoyed to its full potential. Observing my clients reclaim their own physical and emotional balance, focus and enthusiasm for life is a truly rewarding experience for me.

For an appointment or any more information contact Naomi Miller,  graduate of the Healing Energies Foundation of New Zealand. Phone 4822 372 or 027 485 1027, or email naomi_miller@xtra.co.nz  

WAITATI VOLUNTEER FIRE BRIGADE

by Deanne Burrell

 

The countdown has now started to the Christmas and New Year holiday period.  We want to see everybody having a safe and joyous time but would like to remind people of a few rules that need to be adhered to if you are planning outdoor fires.  We don't like to spoil people's fun but if we are called to an outdoor fire and the correct procedures have not been followed then we are required to extinguish the fire.

 

Currently it is a RESTRICTED SEASON.  Restricted season means that no fire may be lit in the open air without a permit.  A permit is required for all outdoor burning, other than gas barbecues and incinerators, at any time of the year.  All new permit applications must be applied for at least two weeks prior to the event and are subject to a site safety inspection. No fires are permitted on beaches and no fires are allowed to remain alight after dark except those specifically issued for bonfires at New Year, Guy Fawkes or significant community celebrations.

 

Camping and outdoor activities are often a great way to spend your leisure time but they have their own set of unique fire risks that should not be underestimated. However, some common-sense preparation can ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

 

Caravanning

Caravans are smaller and more confined than a house so the fire risks can be potentially more hazardous. It is essential that you install a smoke alarm to give early warning of a fire and follow these precautions to reduce your risks:

• On a caravan site, find out what the fire-fighting arrangements are.
• Never leave children alone in a caravan -- they are particularly vulnerable.
• A fully-charged water or dry powder fire extinguisher should be located in the caravan near an exit door and a fire blanket should be adjacent to the cooking area.  Keep a torch handy for emergencies -- never use candles.
• Make sure everyone knows how to operate escape windows and doors.
• Keep gas cylinders outside the caravan unless a special ventilated compartment is provided.

Fire Safety in the Countryside

Every year fire is responsible for the destruction of thousands of acres of countryside, open spaces and wildlife habitat. Many of these fires are started deliberately but by following a few simple precautions and showing a little extra care, many others could be prevented:

• Dispose of smoking materials properly and make sure they are completely extinguished.
• Don't leave camp fires or barbecues unattended, and extinguish them properly after use.
• Clear away bottles, glasses and any broken glass to prevent them magnifying the sun's rays and starting a fire.
• Explain to children the dangers of playing with lighted fires.
• If fire breaks out, call the Fire and Rescue Service immediately. When specifying your location, mention any landmarks -- perhaps a church or pub -- and if phoning from a phone box, stay nearby so you can direct the fire appliances to the scene.
• Don't attempt to fight the fire yourself unless it is very small -- grass and crop fires can travel very quickly.

Camping

Every year, many people are injured from fire whilst camping. The following fire safety precautions will help ensure you don't become one of them:

•  Allow at least 6 metres (18 feet) spacing between tents.
• Never use candles in or near tent -- always use a torch.
• Discourage smoking -- especially in smaller tents.
• Do not use cooking equipment in smaller tents.
• Ensure everyone knows the location of the nearest telephone and, if applicable, nearest fire point in case of emergency.

Cooking

• Keep cookers away from the tent entrance.
• Make certain the cooker is stable, away from draughts and in an area where it will not get knocked over.
• Keep flammables (including long grass) away from the cooking area.
• Avoid using liquid fuel appliances if at all possible.
• Change disposable gas cylinders only when they are completely empty.

Finally the brigade would like to wish Hugh Brown all the very best of  luck and every success when he competes next year as one of eight NZ Alpine skiers in the 2013 World Winter Games.  Hugh we hope you have a wonderful time and fulfil your dreams in South Korea.

 

THE WAITATI VOLUNTEER FIRE BRIGADE WOULD LIKE TO WISH ALL RESIDENTS OF THE BLUESKIN BAY COMMUNITY

A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY, SAFE, AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR

WARRINGTON SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB

by Pru Casey

If you are ready for the beach, Warrington Surf Life Saving Club (WSLSC) is ready for you!

Nippers meet at Warrington Beach at 10am on Sundays, and if you would like to come along and find out what we do just join us on the beach and then back at the club house for a hot shower and sausage sizzle lunch at 12 noon; all welcome, $1 per sausage, free cuppa for mums and dads.

Coming up – Warrington will be host to several surf carnivals again this year, with the first being an IRB racing event on Saturday 1 December. Come down and watch – racing starts at 9am.

On Sunday 2 December the nippers will be competing at St Clair at a surf carnival – it may be shifted to Warrington if the waves on the South Coast get too big. Sunday 16 December is the day the club travels to Kaka Point to compete in the surf carnival hosted annually there. A wonderful weekend away with families.  Look for us in our bright yellow tent.

Swim between the flags at Warrington Beach on weekends from 24 November until 3 March and every day between 11am and 7pm in the school holidays. We have a full-day holiday programme for 12–16 year olds weekly in the school holidays for fitness, surf and rescue boat training. Join up now! No charge for the teenage holiday programme – just join the club for $25. Email warringtonslsc@xtra.co.nz to register.

CPR and first aid training gained at Warrington were proved of worth last week when two of our local life guards, Arthur Ibbotson and Angus McKenzie, were first on the scene at St Clair beach and were able to successfully administer life-saving first aid to a collapsed runner. WSLSC is very proud of the capabilities of our young life guards. Well done Arthur and Angus!

One of our accomplished local life guards recently competed in the World Championships in Adelaide.  Carina Doyle returned last week from Rescue 2012 with five silver and two bronze medals. The U20 NZ team were narrowly edged out of first place by the Aussies – but the margin was small. Sean Doyle was in Adelaide watching daughter Carina and the team and was able to send live results as they came to hand.

Jandal Day – the Surf Life Saving annual appeal is Friday 7 December and you will see the life guards out in their yellow shirts raising funds to keep patrols on the beaches for the summer. In it for life! Warrington Surf Life Saving Club warringtonslsc@xtra.co.nz

 

Review of Dunedin City District Plan

DCC media release

The Dunedin City Council (DCC) has begun its first comprehensive review of the Dunedin City District Plan and is inviting Dunedin residents to take part.  Now the Spatial Plan is finalised, it is timely to develop the second generation Dunedin City District Plan (2GP), prepared under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA). City Development Manager Dr Anna Johnson says, "The Spatial Plan allowed the community to have input into the overall vision and strategic directions for the city, but the District Plan is where the regulatory policies and rules are set - what people can do or build on their land and how land can be subdivided."

While some sections of Dunedin's plan have been reviewed in the last few years, such as the Hazardous Substances, Earthworks, and Transportation provisions and the Stadium and Harbourside Plan Changes, many parts of it date back to the 1990s. The review will fix the parts of the current Plan that are not clear or working properly, recognise the changes to land use and development within Dunedin, and align the Plan with changes in national policy guidance.

Mayor Dave Cull says, "It's important that those groups with an interest in specific areas have the opportunity to feed into this process. We are tapping into various communities, including those who use the Plan often, in different ways, to ensure we develop a new Plan which truly reflects the community's needs and vision for our city as set out in the Spatial Plan."  A great deal of research and analysis has already been done to identify what might need to be changed with the current Plan and to develop some options for doing things differently. This includes an analysis of the feedback people have given us on the District Plan over the years, as well as what is being done in other parts of New Zealand.  A series of short issues and options papers and an online questionnaire that will inform the development of the 2GP is available at www.dunedin.govt.nz/2gp. Workshops, both community and stakeholder, will also be held over the next few months.

District Plans are, by nature, very detailed, technical documents and some of the issues and options we have put out reflect different technical solutions, which will be mainly of interest to people who are regular plan users such as developers and people with a planning, legal, or design background. A summary paper, called 'How proposed changes to the District Plan might affect home or land owners in urban areas', is also available for those with a more

general interest in the District Plan.

Dr Johnson says, "The issues and options phase of consultation will finish in early March next year. Following this, our real hard work will commence, with the collation and integration of the feedback into the drafting of the second generation District Plan. We are hoping to notify a draft District Plan by February 2014, which will be followed by a formal submissions and hearings process."

For more information:

Dave Cull                  Dr Anna Johnson

Mayor of Dunedin      City Development Manager

Phone 0274 346 917  Phone 474 3874