Next Saturday afternoon offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance for you to meet our locally born and bred gold medallist, Finn Butcher, get your photo with him, shake his hand, touch his medal and just celebrate the amazing success of one of our sons. Finn has hardly been home since Paris, but he will be here next Saturday and at 2pm, he will paddle down the Manuherekia River accompanied by members of the Central Otago Whitewater Club who have been by his side since he was a kid paddling these same waters.  They will get out just under the Shaky Bridge and the paddlers will form a Guard of Honour for Finn with their paddles as he emerges on to the Linger and Die.  Finn will then walk along toward Centennial Park (the old pool site), giving a chance for you to get up close and personal.  What a moment of inspiration to see (how he put it) “just a kid from Alex” who went on to be the best in the world at something he started out doing right here. There will then be a Civic Reception at Centennial Park where you can hear speeches from Finn and others, including an International Olympic Committee representative who is travelling here to honour Finn. This is a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet our first ever gold medallist and hear a wee bit about what his journey has been.  I look forward to seeing you there.

After 27 years of championing adult education through Central Otago REAP manager Bernie Lepper is stepping down.Her final week was marked with a celebratory afternoon tea and cake at Alexandra Community House with colleagues and board members attending yesterday.REAP chairman Doug White said Bernie’s leadership was exemplary.“Bernie has not only successfully lead our REAP . . . she has served on its national body [for six years], mentored and supported other REAP's throughout the country and has just completed, with two co-authors, a REAP handbook …a wonderful guide for other REAPs,’’ Doug said.“[Central] is her turangawaewae. “Her time growing up at Earnscleugh, in the senior management at Dunstan High School, her time as mayoress and the membership of local organisations has meant she has a wonderful appreciation of existing and emerging education needs in Central and the ability to mobilise capable people to meet these needs.’’Bernie had wonderful people skills and had developed a great culture within a team across Central Otago, he said.“Bernie has managed her complex and quickly changing role with high level managerial skills and provided excellent support and guidance to the trustees.“Doug said his biking stories would never match Bernie’s.“Her husband Tony deserves a medal from the Governor General keeping up with her, but he's already got one,”Bernie thanked colleagues, friends and all who had contributed to making Central Otago REAP a success, she said the manager role kept on changing and new exciting challenges enticed her to stay on. PHOTO: The Central AppBernie told The Central App she felt really good about leaving, with handover going smoothly to new manager Kellie Weatherston, who has a background in early childhood education. Education was Bernie’s passion and she believed that through learning, people could change the course of their lives.“It’s the littlest thing that can be transformational for someone . . . perhaps getting their drivers licence, or improving literacy, ” Bernie said.  Watch part of Bernie’s farewell speech here (four minutes). VIDEO: The Central AppRecent projects she was proud of included the Drive My Life Programme, working to meet the needs of new migrants, and the handbook for other REAPs.When Bernie started at Central Otago REAP there were five staff, now almost three decades later, the organisation had grown to 30 people working in different locations across Central.Central Otago District Council staff past and present, teachers, current Central Otago REAP staff and other community members enjoyed speeches, drinks and a cake aptly named ‘Thyme to smell the roses’ as part of Bernie’s send off. PHOTO: THe Central AppIn June 2023 Bernie was awarded a Queen’s Service Medal for services to the community and education in the King’s Birthday honours list. Husband Tony was made a member of the Order of New Zealand Merit (ONZM) in 2020. Prior to her time at Central Otago REAP, she was assistant principal at Dunstan High School, and taught geography and social studies at both DHS and Cromwell College.She enjoyed being part of Alexandra Community House from when the build was initiated in 2007 and during her time as chairperson from 2013.Bernie was heavily involved in the design and construction of the venue, a community hub housing 16 social services agencies, local arts and crafts and used by 150 community groups. “I really believed in the project . . . it was the first of its kind with social service agencies all being together.Bernie stepped down from the chairperson role in July 2022 after serving three terms in the position. She was also a trustee of the Central Lakes Trust from 2010 to 2019.Bernie at the end of the Sound-to-Sound bike race, from Queen Charlotte to Milford, around 1,500km over nine days in 2022. PHOTO: SuppliedStaying fit by spending time on her bike was something she would continue, especially as a newly purchased gravel bike was waiting at home for her. She and her husband, former Central Otago mayor Tony Lepper, have done bikepacking overseas including in Australia, South Korea, Cambodia, The Balkans and the United Kingdom.Her plans for retirement are firstly a three week holiday and bike packing trip to Australia encompassing a wedding too, then some relaxation as summer and Christmas arrive.Spending time with her three grandchildren, who are aged one, three and five was something she was looking forward to.“I’m going to enjoy a good break.”Read more: Central residents invited to help celebrate learningRead more: Connections keep local woman motivatedRead more: Social services in Central Otago beyond capacity

Former Royal New Zealand Ballet dancer Mary ‘Dawn’ Russell died in Alexandra on October 2, aged 86 years.Loving mother of Lee (Alexandra), Rebecca (Tauranga) and Anna (Italy), and proud grandmother of Hunter, Moss, and Maggie, Dawn began her years in Dunedin, and attended Arthur Street School.As well as a dancer, she led an interesting life as a teacher, an entertainer and was a generous hostess and friend to many.Her dream was always to study ballet and she finally persuaded her mother to agree. Naturally talented, she sailed through her exams and was awarded a scholarship with the Royal New Zealand Ballet, and toured with the company.Dawn Russell performing with the Royal New Zealand Ballet in her younger years. PHOTO: SuppliedGood friend of 30 years Esme Kilgour, who spoke at her funeral, said she understood Dawn even danced with Sir Jon Trimmer - and along with his wife, became lifelong friends.Establishing a ballet school in Alexandra in her 20s, at the request of former artist the late Elizabeth Stevens - who wanted someone to teach her children, Dawn used to bus from Dunedin and then back to Roxburgh to give lessons, before heading home again.The Stevens family introduced her to her future husband Bruce, who was studying architecture.“Dawn’s life, from what I have gleaned over the years, was one of high achievement, hard work, generous hospitality and friendship,” Esme said.Travelling by boat to go to Sydney for her overseas experience, Dawn auditioned for the main role in Alice In Wonderland at a pantomime, which she was successful at, and was also a good actress on the stage as well.In her role of Alice in Alice in Wonderland at a Sydney Pantomime. PHOTO: SuppliedShe then continued on to London which took five weeks via sea, and married her husband in Tayaran where he was working at the time.They returned to Auckland to start a family, where each of the three girls were born, and Dawn took to sewing to supplement the family income.Several years later they moved to Alexandra where she took over Fay McKay’s ballet school, and Dawn choreographed and acted in many shows for the Alexandra Musical Society. At one stage she put on a concert to raise money for Greenpeace.After the marriage ended after 16 years, Dawn started Alexandra’s first wine bar ‘The Dandelion’ along Limerick St.“It was a wonderful place, small and welcoming with good food and great music,” Esme said.Dawn always exuded a warm welcome to anyone visiting her home, and her Christmas dinners always included people whose families were far away.“She worked hard at any job she took on - nothing was beneath her and all was tackled with a broad smile,” she said.In her later years she enjoyed the companionship of friends in Tai Chi, book group, mahjong, The Poetry Party and the Shakespeare group.“No matter how difficult things were, we could always have a glass of wine and laugh,” Esme said.

After decades of guardianship of the Manorburn Recreation Reserve, a small group of dedicated volunteers are stepping back to let the Central Otago District Council take the reins.Community stalwarts Dr Barrie Wills and Bert Kemp were part of a group of dedicated volunteers who were on a subcommittee of the Vincent Community Board (VCB). The subcommittee - which spent about 30 years making improvements to the reserve’s recreational and aesthetic value - was formed by a group of residents as a result of concerns that the Council of the day might dispose of the reserve near Alexandra.The subcommittee officially wound up at the VCB’s September meeting as it had served its purpose, - particularly as the Council was now taking a more active oversight of the reserve leaving the group “comfortable’’ with handing the delegation back to the CODC.On Thursday last week, Council began the process of gathering input to draw up a draft reserve management plan for the Manorburn Recreation Reserve. A reserve management plan is what enables things to be able to happen on a reserve, whether it be infrastructure, planting or different types of recreational use. Reflecting on his and Bert’s various achievements while guardians of the reserve, Dr Barrie said the pair had seen a lot of changes - the introduction of walking/cycling trails - and challenges - weed control and dumping of rubbish other items.It had been ‘’heartening’’ to see the renewed interest in planting natives on the reserve, he said.The group had done some planting and collaborated with the local wilding conifer control group to remove many of the pines growing out there."All going well in another decade or two we may see a valuable community reserve dominated by indigenous plants, attracting native birds and sheltering threatened herpetofauna. And a nice place for locals to visit for passive recreation," Dr Barrie said.Many hours of voluntary input from committee members, other locals and businesses over years had been so typical of Central Otago communities - very giving of their time, skills and labour to maintain and improve their environment at negligible cost to Territorial Local Authorities, he said.  Last month the community board resolved to notify its intention to prepare a reserve management plan with an accompanying report stating there would be $30,000 in the reserve’s fund at the end of the financial year.  Funding for future projects would be undertaken through the 2025/34 Long-term Plan process.Feedback for the process is open on the CODC Let's Talk website 

Last month Minister of Health Shane Reti and Minister for Infrastructure Chris Bishop announced the cost of the planned Dunedin Hospital redevelopment had ballooned to $3billion and would either need to be reduced, or done in stages. The shock announcement saw tens of thousands of people take to the streets in protest, angry at broken promises and the implications of what a smaller build would mean not only for Dunedin, but the wider Otago region. In Central Otago, residents live with the impacts of a stretched health system every day. Limited access to mental health and other key services, a maternity unit that was promised but yet to materialise and a lack of an emergency department coupled with isolated communities, long commutes to Dunedin - or further afield - for specialist care, dangerous winter road conditions and a burgeoning population adding more pressure to already stretched resources means Central Otago residents know first hand the impacts of a stretched health service. So is placing all of our eggs in the Dunedin Hospital basket the answer to the region's health woes? The Central App spoke with leaders from both Dunstan and Maniototo Hospitals about the impacts of the Ministers’ proposal on Central Otago. Dunstan HospitalCommunity-owned Dunstan Hospital in Clyde. PHOTO: The Central App Dunstan Hospital based in Clyde is a community-owned facility operated by Central Otago Health Services Ltd (COHSL).The hospital includes a 24 acute bed inpatient ward, including a three bed High Dependency Unit, and provides secondary health services to more than 25,000 people living in the wider Central Otago and Wanaka regions.In the last financial year, Dunstan Hospital has experienced an increase in demand across the majority of its services. Patient admissions increased 17 per cent; the number of afterhours patients treated grew 38 per cent; chemotherapy and infusion treatments 17.5 per cent; CT scans 1.6 per cent and outpatient encounters 1.3 per cent. Patient Transfers in the COHSL vehicle between Clyde and Dunedin had increased 9.6 per cent. Not all services had experienced growth, with district nursing visits and equipment loans reducing by 6.5 and 6 per cent respectively.Central Otago Health Services Ltd chief executive Hayley Anderson. PHOTO: Supplied Central Otago Health Services Ltd (COHSL) chief executive Hayley Anderson said the majority of patients were elderly medical, complex palliative care, and rehabilitation with 85 per cent receiving the entirety of their care at Dunstan Hospital. COHSL had a “strong and supportive’’ relationship with their Dunedin colleagues and staff were in daily communication regarding the flow of patients in and out of the region. The same applied to Lakes Hospital, Hayley said. There were times the flow of patients in both directions was under pressure due todemand and it was important when patients required the services of Dunedin Hospital they were available.  “We cannot, for example, offer surgery as we have no theatre, we do not have an Intensive Care Unit, we have CT but not MRI,’’ she said. COHSL would like to see appropriate services divested from Dunedin to Central Otago - along with the required operational funding - so people could access those services “closer to home”.  “This would be in keeping with the Rural Health Strategy,’’ she said. The region’s population growth meant opportunities were evolving and health leaders in the region were no strangers to finding innovative solutions – on Monday, in collaboration with COHSL, Wanaka GPs, St John and Ka Ora Telecare, the Wanaka Acute Overnight Care service opened. The service will see an overnight nurse service linked to senior doctor support at Dunstan Hospital to meet an overnight gap in service availability. “We could be offering more in terms of outpatient support to our community however we need the contract volumes and the specialist staff to achieve this,’’ Hayley said. Maniototo HospitalIn 2019, after years of hard work and fundraising by the community, the revamped Maniototo Hospital opened, costing a cool $7million. Overseen by Maniototo Health Services Ltd (MHSL), the facility has 25 aged residential care beds along with six medical beds and an emergency department. MHSL also provides a range of health services across the Maniototo.Maniototo Health Services Ltd general manager Tracey Kubala. PHOTO: SuppliedGeneral manager Tracey Kubala said population growth in the district – both in new families and retirees – as well as its popularity as a holiday destination had placed pressure on services. MHSL had experienced approximately a 50 per cent increase in demand for services such as physiotherapy and occupational therapy, while aged residential care had shown “consistent high demand’’ along with community nursing and Meals on Wheels, she said. Patient referrals to Dunedin Hospital were usually for emergency or critical care and the community hospital was able to admit and manage “more stable conditions’’. “As such we have not had an issue with having access to services, however transporting to outpatient or specialist services is another issue,’’ Tracey said. However, downgrading the Dunedin Hospital build could have flow-on effects to Central Otago. “I can see there being a higher demand for Rural Health Service Providers to be providing more services with less funding.   “We are about our communities, and we are already fighting for every dollar we receive to ensure that we can meet the needs of our populations. Maniototo is no different,’’ Tracey said. “We are quite isolated as a community and the costs involved in running the hospital are higher due to this. We struggle to access services for our community that are readily available in Urban areas. We believe rural residents should have equitable access to all the services their urban counterparts have.’’ Rural hospitals needed to be valued and funded in such a way they could support our main hospitals to provide services, Tracey said. “The plan has always been to have equitable access to services wherever you are in New Zealand, it is a basic human right. So let’s look at our models of care and rather than seeing Rural Hospitals as the poor cousin fund us to support service delivery equitably.’’Next week: Central Otago mayor Tim Cadogan gives his perspective Do you have a story you would like to share?  Contact us at [email protected]

As summer looms closer, authorities are urging people to ensure they are adequately equipped when heading out on the region's lakes and rivers.Central Otago police are warning people of the dangers of using inflatable boats without being adequately equipped, following an incident on Lake Wakatipu last week.Alexandra Police Senior Constable Graham Perkins said two 18-year-old females were found cold and wet near Glenorchy last weekend, after their blow up raft deflated.The girls planned to paddle two nautical miles from Geordie’s Creek to Twenty Five Mile Creek with only one life jacket between them and no food or water.Starting their lake journey at 5:45pm, they failed to show up by 11:30pm, so their parents called police.Land Search and Rescue, Coastguard Queenstown and two Otago Rescue Helicopters were all deployed to look for them, and they were located washed up amongst bushes 2km north in the early hours of the morning.“People need to be aware that their stupidity and inexperience is putting emergency services under pressure and themselves at risk,” Snr Const Perkins said.Police said it was important that people took some form of waterproof communication or a bag to put phones inside, and registered personal locator beacons were an even better option.Snr Const Perkins said the females had purchased their blowup raft from K-Mart.Many teenagers were oblivious to the dangers of using inflatable lilos and dinghies on Southern Lakes and rivers over summer, without wearing the appropriate clothing and life jackets in particular, he said.Changing weather conditions also made the inflatable toys dangerous - particularly in high winds, when they can be swept away very quickly.The Harbourmaster team will be patrolling Lake Dunstan as well as other Central Otago lakes and rivers over summer on the vessel Kaitiaki. PHOTO: SuppliedOtago Regional Council (ORC) harbourmaster Steve Rushbrook urged water users - whether a boatie planning to cross a bar, a keen paddle boarder or kayaker heading out on an Otago lake or river- to take the time to do a thorough check of their vessel and gear before heading off.“Before going out, prep your boat, safety and communication equipment, check the weather conditions and know the rules,” he said.“For those new to boating, please stop, think, and find out about basic boating safety rules to protect you and your loved ones. Be safe, it’s about enjoying our amazing environment and coming home safe at the end of the day. If in doubt, don’t go out”.“No matter if you’re on a power boat, jet ski or kayak, remembering the boating safety code is integral.”The Boating Safety Code reinforces five key messages:Wear your lifejacketTake two waterproof ways to call for helpCheck the marine weather forecastAvoid alcohol – booze and boats don’t mixBe a responsible skipper

Mark Twain said there are only two types of speakers in the world; one, the nervous, and two, liars.Although 35 students from Central primary schools were nervous, they bravely spoke from the heart in the first ever Dunstan Kāhui Ako speech competition held in Alexandra yesterday.Dunstan Kāhui Ako across school lead Rachel O’Connell said the competition aimed to provide another experience for students to come together and compete against their peers, in an event that wasn’t sport.“It takes a lot of practice and preparation to get up in front of everyone, they were heartfelt and expressive and did a great job,” Rachel said.A wide range of topics from the Olympics, cooking, national pride, gender equality, to animal testing and the use of social media were covered.Some students chose to include a pepeha (or mihi introduction) in te reo Māori.The judging panel for the younger children (Year 6 and below) was speech and drama teacher Heather Harries, primary school teacher Judy Cambell, and Dave Ramsey, who has been involved with adjudicating for the Lions club and Junior Chamber International NZ (the Jaycees).Participating schools were Alexandra Primary School, St Gerard’s School, The Terrace School, Clyde School, Omakau School and Dunstan High School.In the youngest group the prizes were first The Terrace School pupil Seb Dwyer, second Clyde School pupil Claudia McNally and third St Gerard’s School pupil Lucy Lake. PHOTO: The Central AppWatch a clip from Seb’s winning speech on the Olympics here. VIDEO: The Central AppThe next age group (Year 4-6) was won by Alexandra Primary School 10-year-old Naziah Kavanagh who spoke about how she couldn’t live without te reo Māori. Watch Naziah’s passionate performance. VIDEO: The Central AppSecond place was awarded to St Gerard’s pupil Ashna Joseph (10) who covered the importance of positivity. Clyde School’s Year 4 pupil Beau Mitchell placed third after his talk titled “Just imagine if…” focused on environmental issues.Judge Heather Harries said the quality of the work was exceptional, calling the initiative fantastic and next level.“It takes a lot to stand up here… what you've just done is courageous. Well done to you all and the mums and dads at home.“It was tough [judging], everybody was amazing, everyone that stood up did themselves seriously, seriously proud.”Pictured are Year 4-6 entrants (from left, front row) Walter Driesen (11), Isabelle Gwatkin (10), Emma Bartlett (9), Sophie McCurdie (10), Layla Wilson (9), Ashna Joseph (10), Naziah Kavanagh (10), Beau Mitchell (9) and Sophia Hinsen (11) and in the back row judges Judy Cambell, Dave Ramsey and Heather Harries.St Gerard’s School pupil Walter Driesen urged everyone to spend more time in nature in his speech. PHOTO: The Central AppSpeakers were marked out of 100 points on content (speech structure and merit of ideas), delivery (voice and general delivery), and overall effectiveness.For the afternoon sessions, tamariki aged year seven to ten the three judges were David Whitney, Simon Lewis, Anne Conder.Winners in Year 7-8, from first to third respectively were Alexandra Primary School’s Grace Foulds, Cohen Brown, of St Gerard’s School and Elise Breuk from The Terrace School.. Pictured are (from left) Year 7-8 winners Cohen Brown, Grace Foulds and Elise Breuk. PHOTO: Rachel O’ConnellYear 9-10 award winners were from Dunstan High School; students were (from left) second placed Lochy Hawkins, third Adeline Ball and winner Alice Bell . PHOTO: Rachel O’ConnellWinners from each of the four year groups were presented with prizes, and certificates and spot prizes were handed out too. Primary schools held their own competition initially, and then the top finalists made it through to yesterday’s final held at the Alexandra Bridge Club on Boundary Road. Rachel thanked the two judging panels for their help and Alexandra Paper Plus for sponsoring the prizes. Each year group had a time limit for their speeches, spoke for 1-2 minutes, year four to six and year seven and eight spoke for 2-4 minutes, and the final group year nine and ten spoke for up to five minutes.Whānau and friends The Central App spoke to were impressed by the calibre of the speech writing, stage presence and confidence portrayed by those in the final. The Dunstan Kāhui Ako is a collaborative community of learners including 2000 pupils and approximately 155 educators from nine Early Childhood Centres, eight Primary Schools and one High School.

The Central App has an interim editor Shannon Thomson during Alexia Anderson’s maternity leave.She hit the ground running, covering a plane fire over the weekend in Cromwell, and readers may have already seen her byline popping up. Shannon brings a wealth of experience as a journalist, photographer and editor as former Central Otago bureau chief for the Otago Daily Times and The News - Central Otago and Wanaka.Having lived in Cromwell previously, and her children attending Cromwell College and Dunstan High School - and with whānau residing in Clyde - Shannon has knowledge of the district and strong ties to Central.“There is an element of coming full circle, as I was employed by The Central App as a journalist when I returned to the industry six years ago.“I’m passionate about our community, its people, places and what matters to them.‘’Leading a team to deliver reliable and balanced news, tell cracking yarns and share the stories that resonate and matter to our readers is something I love to do.”Outside of her editorial role Shannon is a mum of two (her son Asher is in his final year of high school, while her daughter Charlize has just returned to Central Otago after two years overseas), she volunteers with not for profit organisation Red Frogs and enjoys spending time at the lake and beach as well as getting out in nature for walks.Shannon said anyone wanting to contact her about The Central App’s news can email [email protected]

The next generation of Central’s trail runners will be competing for a $2500 prize for their school on Saturday (October 19) in the Clyde Classic School Cup.A new running event in the historic township, the Clyde Classic has room for everyone aged five and over, and the School Cup is a fun mini adventure for Central tamariki to lace up their shoes for.Race director Tom Heath said entries ($15 per child) were open online until October 18, and in person on race day too (from 7am). The School Cup  is a 3.5km race at 10.30am, where students, from year one to eight, will gain points for their school if they finish in the top three places for their year. The school with the most points will be announced at prize giving and win a $2500 prize, sponsored by Contact Energy.Tom said the winning school would hopefully use the money on sports or health and wellbeing activities, perhaps towards swimming lessons and upgrades to school sports grounds.“The School Cup is all about fun! Having a mass start of all the kids is going to create an amazing atmosphere, no one will know who's in who's age group so the competitive aspect will disappear in the first 20 metres so they can focus on running with friends or whoever's around them.” Older children who would like a challenge can enter the 5km race but five - 14 year olds will need to be supervised by an adult out on the course.Tom said they still need a few more marshalls for the kids race.“Anyone keen to lend a hand can use the contact us form LINK: https://clydeclassic.co.nz/elementor-page-280/ or drop Clyde Classic a message on Facebook or Instagram.”The Clyde Classic 5 km course map. PHOTO: SuppliedAs a dad of young ones, Tom’s top tip is to get organised early.“Get there early, speaking from personal experience of trying to organise two kids and myself for the start line of the Otago Central Rail Trail parkrun, it really pays to have registered online prior to the event and have outfits and shoes laid out the night before. “There's coffee and ice cream available at the event plus two amazing playgrounds to keep the kids busy before it's race time.”Race day photos will be available on a ‘'pay what you want’' basis, making the memories accessible to everyone.Schools participating in the School Cup are Alexandra Primary School Clyde School, The Terrace School and St Gerard’s School. If you are from a different school you can enter as in the other school category and run as an individual. Runners need to bring sturdy footwear as most of the run is off road and their own drink bottle.For people over 16 there are 5, 10 and 21.1km races. Walkers can enter the 5 and 10km options only. Bicycles, prams, buggies and animals are not permitted.  All races start and finish at Clyde School, with 25 per cent of entry fees going to the school to support local educational programs and facilities, ensuring that every stride taken on the course contributes to enhancing the learning experience for students.Read more: New Central sports events supported by funding

Flood water can cause severe damage to your home, personal belongings, and indoor environment. Even just an inch of water can ruin carpeting, wallboard, appliances, and furniture. More extensive flooding can impact expensive systems like heating, air conditioning, roofing, sewage systems, utilities and foundations. Cleaning up after a flood is a time-consuming and difficult task, but following these essential steps will help you sanitise and restore your home effectively.Wear personal protective equipment (PPE)Floodwaters often contain harmful contaminants such as sewage, chemicals, and sharp objects. Always wear appropriate PPE, such as heavy-duty waterproof gloves, boots, and face masks, when handling flooded areas and items.Document the damage before cleaningBefore you start cleaning, it's important to document the damage. Take clear photos of water-damaged carpets, furniture, and belongings. If you're moving items outside, cover them with plastic to protect them until a loss adjuster can inspect them.Remove contaminated mudFlood water can contain many contaminants and lots of mud. Shovel out as much mud as possible from hard surfaces.Then, use a garden sprayer or hose to wash away the remaining mud. Once again always wear protective gear, including gloves, masks, and gumboots, when dealing with contaminated items.Check if the carpet be salvagedWhether or not you can save the carpet depends on the type of water and the extent of the damage:Grey Water: Water from within the home, such as rainwater entering through windows or the roof, which may collect dirt and dust along the way. Carpets exposed to grey water can typically be salvaged. Clean Water: Is any water that comes from uncontaminated sources such as taps or a hot water cylinder and poses no immediate health risks, making it easier to clean up and restore affected areasContaminated Water: Water that enters the home from external sources, such as roads, paddocks, or gardens, may contain sewage, harmful bacteria, chemicals, or fertilisers. If an entire room or the whole house has been flooded with this contaminated water, it is best to discard the carpet. However, if only a small area (approximately one square metre) is wet, there may be a chance to salvage the carpet. In this case, roll up the carpet and leave it outside for collection, while placing smaller items in bin liners. Remember to cut out a sample of the carpet and underlay, seal it in a bag, and keep it for the Loss Adjuster’s inspection.Clean and disinfect thoroughlyAfter removing any water and debris, begin cleaning and disinfecting all surfaces. If appropriate, hose out the floors and spray diluted bleach onto concrete or wooden surfaces, especially around skirting boards.For furniture and painted surfaces, any standard household cleaning spray can be used.For all areas:Scrub surfaces with hot water and a heavy-duty cleaner.Disinfect surfaces using a solution of ¼ cup (50ml) of chlorine bleach per 5 litres of water, or a disinfectant product specifically designed to kill germs.Immerse glass, porcelain, china, plastic dinnerware, and enamelware in a disinfecting solution of 2 tablespoons of chlorine bleach per 4 litres of hot water for 10 minutes, and then air dry (do not use a towel).Contact your insurance brokerIf your insurance covers flood damage, contact your broker immediately. They will arrange for a loss adjuster to inspect the property. While you clean, continue to document everything with photos and videos, as these records will be essential for insurance claims, disaster assistance applications, and tax deductions.By following these steps and keeping in close contact with your insurance broker, you can ensure a more efficient and thorough cleanup process after a flood.

Government ministers and Otago Regional councillors have met behind closed doors to find a way forward in the lead up to the Land and Water Regional Plan decision.The meeting with Minister for the Environment Penny Simmonds and Minister of Agriculture Todd McClay took place in Dunedin last Friday.Councillors attended in person and by zoom however regional council chair Gretchen Robertson and Cr Bryan Scott were unable to attend due to personal matters.Dunstan ward councillor Gary Kelliher told The Central App the Ministers were interested in why the Regional Council was still determined to notify its Land and Regional Water Plan (LRWP).While no final decision will be made until October 23, the regional council has been split 7-5 up until now in support of the plan still being publicly notified, despite the Ministers trying to dissuade them otherwise.Cr Kelliher along with fellow Dunstan ward councillor Michael Laws, Moeraki councillor Kevin Malcolm, Kate Wilson, of Molyneux and former chair Andrew Noone, of the Dunedin ward, were advocating to pause the plan.Cr Kelliher said it was clear from the meeting the Government’s recent offer to be involved in initial planning in the new National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management, was only on the table if the plan was paused, “and they were keen for us to do that ASAP,” he said. The changes in the new policy framework were going to be substantial, “and they want the red tape taken away from farmers”, he said.Regional councils were substantially growing in staff numbers and tied up in regulations and enforcement, which was becoming increasingly unmanageable for the rural sector, Cr Kelliher said.“The environment must be protected but we want production back as well.”Queenstown-based Alexa Forbes representing the ORC in the Dunstan ward, is still in favour of the Land and Water Regional Plan being notified next week. SUPPLIEDDunstan ward councillor Alexa Forbes, who was a strong advocate for the LRWP to be notified, said despite the new offer on the table from the Ministers, her position remained the same.“Because I haven’t heard any argument that would move it at this point, but I’m open to any new discussion,” she said.Cr Kelliher said the meeting went for just over an hour, and showed the integrity of the Government, “and that they want the best for the ORC, and they don’t want to burden the ratepayers with the massive amount of changes that are coming.”The Central App approached Minister Simmonds for comment however there was no response at time of publication.

Future wahine toa (strong/brave women) were inspired by the leadership journeys of some of the nations top women yesterday.Three time Rugby World Cup winner and former Black Ferns captain Dame Farah Palmer, Rural Women New Zealand president Gill Naylor, Central Lakes Trust (CLT) chief executive Barbara Bridger and Horticulture New Zealand regional representative - Otago and Canterbury Chelsea Donnelly all spoke to a group of pupils at a special Dunstan High School (DHS) leadership breakfast.The women spoke about their background, current roles, and obstacles they had overcome.Common themes across the panellists were imposter syndrome, balancing the needs of whānau and motherhood with a career focus, their leadership approach, the value of role models, investing in yourself and being open to seize opportunities.Dame Farah - who is current New Zealand Rugby Board deputy chair, New Zealand Māori Rugby Board chair and a member of the Sport New Zealand Board - said she still pinches herself to be in these positions.Watch Dame Farah on leadership here (30 seconds). VIDEO: The Central App She shared anecdotes from her high school years including writing a letter to get a girls cricket team started, playing netball, being the board of trustees representative and how she “said yes to a whole bunch of opportunities”. “I would describe myself as a quiet leader… I do things behind the scenes, rather than out the front, but when you are in a crowd of people who are all six foot tall, ex-locks and they are all ‘who’s got the loudest voice’, that's how they get leadership roles… you have to try to figure out how you can stand out in that way,’’ Dame Farah said.“I choose my moments to speak and I wait for the noise to go down and then I’ll say something that I feel is really important or really pointed.”Talking to smaller groups, or influential people was another way to get ideas across the line, she said.“How the heck did I get here, a little girl from Piopio? “And here I am… and I have to check myself, and go ‘‘you deserve to be here you’re doing your best, you’re getting out there and you might not be making magnificent changes all the time but you’re doing little things on a day-to-day basis which are bringing about change’’,’’ she said.“You do have to gee yourself up . . . I’ll do a karakia, or I’ll go into a little private room and do a haka to get myself ready to go into battle.’’Rural Women New Zealand president Gill Naylor, who farmed in Becks for 38 years, said it was a privilege to talk about her path to leadership to the leaders of tomorrow.She said a Central Lakes Trust leadership programme she completed was the best thing she’d done.Her current role had led to international travel opportunities which were invaluable learning experiences. Speaking at the Dunstan High School's leadership breakfast were (from left) Rural Women New Zealand president Gill Naylor, former Black Ferns captain Dame Farah Palmer, Horticulture New Zealand regional representative - Otago and Canterbury Chelsea Donnelly, and Central Lakes Trust chief executive Barbara Bridger. PHOTO: The Central App CLT chief executive Barbara Bridger said she believed women need to be good role models for their children.“I think it is vitally important to teach our sons and daughters that women are equal to men.“If a couple chooses to have a family, then the role of raising children can be shared, and it should be a conscious decision to work out what’s best for the family and not an automatic default that women give up their jobs and stay at home.”Dunstan High School pupils, staff and speakers at the Dunstan High School leadership breakfast. PHOTO: The Central App  Barbara shared her three mantras in life: “You can do anything, if you put your mind to it, you can be who you want to be, and you are in control of your own destiny.”The panel answered questions from the floor about past mentors and leaders they have looked up to, and how to tackle self doubt.DHS pupil Coco Lahood-Robinson said listening to the speakers made her want to back herself and get out there and achieve more.“Being from a small town, you can still do anything,” Coco said.Fellow pupil Grace Begg thanked the women for their time and contribution on behalf of the audience.DHS girls first XV co-coach Fiona King is a former Black Fern and was in the winning 1998 and 2002 World Cup teams with Dame Farah. She got a chance to catch up with her friend during the visit. PHOTO: The Central App.Read more: DHS girls rugby team nabs third title

The secret’s out - it has been a not-so-hidden gem in the community since it was opened last year but now the Roxburgh Pool Punawai Ora is gaining national recognition.The community pool won gold in the Designers Institute of New Zealand Best Design Awards on Friday night. The pool was entered in the private, public and institutional spaces/private development - up to $3million category. Teviot Ward councillor Sally Feinerman said for a community of 700 people in Roxburgh and 1200 in Teviot Valley winning gold was an exceptional outcome.“It shows that a small community can build something that is worthy of national recognition.“Taking out the gold is a really big deal.“The project wouldn’t have happened without the architect Hierarchy and [project managers] Inovo, who gave us help to get the project off the ground… They really wanted us to get this pool too.”Swimmers take a dip at Roxburgh Pool Punawai Ora last season. PHOTO: Lightforge - Dennis Radermacher Sally said for the members of the pool committee it was a great outcome to win the award alongside delivering the pool complex facility for the community to enjoy.“First of December we’ll be opening for the season, and there will be a working bee in November to make sure everything is tidied up.”Hierarchy Group design director Chris Wheeler said they were thrilled.“A heartfelt thank you goes out to our client, consultants, and everyone who has played a part in making [this achievement] possible. “The judges comments were that the revitalised pool was “an architectural gem that blends sustainability and design”.“This community-driven project showcases collaboration and innovation in revitalising a vital community landmark. “The undulating form of the building, with its vibrant ochre panels, creates a striking visual form that encapsulates a welcoming and inclusive space.”An aerial view of the Roxburgh Pool alongside the Mata-Au (Clutha) River. PHOTO: Lightforge - Dennis RadermacherChris said in May they were planning to put the project forward in other design industry awards this year and next. Next month the pool is in the running for Architectural Designers New Zealand (ADNZ) architecture awards, winners will be announced at a gala dinner in Rotorua on Friday November 1. Local firm Breen Construction, together with Coombes Aquatics built the new 25m lane pool, learn to swim and toddlers pool, replacing the 89-year facility that was decommissioned on the same site.New changing rooms, office space and a plant room were included in the long-awaited pool project.The Roxburgh Pool committee has worked hard over the past 16 years navigating numerous finance, planning and design challenges to successfully fundraise the $2.7 million needed for the project.Read more: Roxburgh Pool entered in architecture awardsRead more: Roxburgh Pool a new reality after 16 years

Cromwellians are being invited to have their say on the Cromwell they want to see.The Cromwell and Districts Community Trust’s Community Plan asks residents to imagine a future where Cromwell is a healthy, closely connected, safe and healthy place to live - and what could that actually look like?Community plans are developed from community input and feedback, provide a collective vision and set of recommended actions that the community can independently work away at.Turning people’s vision into action is the subject of a workshop being held in Cromwell on Monday night.Organised by the Cromwell and Districts Community Trust, and supported by the Central Otago District Council (CODC), the workshop will help the Trust explore what is important to the growing Cromwell community. Council community development advisor Rebecca Williams applauded the Trust and community for taking the initiative and banding together with their views and vision for the future.“We are excited to be working behind the scenes to support the Trust with this initiative and are looking forward to seeing the results,” she said. During the course of the past decade, Cromwell had experienced significant growth and change and to keep it thriving, the community needed insights and expertise from different people. The workshop was an opportunity for residents, businesses and community groups to collaborate on creating a bright future for the district and keep Cromwell moving, Trust chair Ali Ballantine said.“We didn’t want just another meeting. This is an opportunity for everyone in our community, from all walks of life, to turn conversations into positive action,’’ she said.“Traditionally, projects are then selected, resources are sought to make them happen. “This will take a different workshop approach, starting with "this is what we want“ and focusing on how we can leverage the resources, knowledge, skills, and networks already present within our community to achieve these goals.” The workshop is being held at the Cromwell Primary School hall at 6pm on Monday, October 21.Register your attendance at [email protected]

They say blood is thicker than water and those words couldn’t be more true for Central Otago mayor Tim Cadogan when he first announced he was stepping down.When asked who had surprised him the most with their comments upon announcement of his resignation, Mayor Tim said it was his brother Bryan.“I have had a huge number of emails, texts and other forms of messages with very kind wishes and thoughts. It’s been very humbling. One I loved in particular though was a person who said they would be sad to see me go after I spoke so well at the Dunedin Hospital rally, was actually my brother Bryan, which gave me a grin.” Clutha District mayor - and Mayor Tim’s brother - Bryan Cadogan is also serving his final term.On September 30, Mayor Tim announced his resignation via Facebook live, and come October 30, Central Otago district councillors will be naming their new leader.He said Central Otago had not had anyone resign before their time was up before. “I believe our first mayor, Bill McIntosh stood down at election time, but not a year out as I have done. No previous mayor has had an LTP (Long Term Plan) in the election year either though.”While there was no “aha’’ moment for when he decided his time was up, Mayor Tim made it clear in recent weeks that since the Long Term Plan had been moved out to 2025, he needed to start thinking about how that would be better led by someone committed to it in the next election.“From the outset, we always thought three terms was about the right amount of time for me.”He said while those thoughts were simmering around in his mind, the job offer as local government engagement officer at Taumata Arowai came up.His decision to leave within 12 months of the next local government election - held on October 12 - also meant the district was saved the $100,000 cost for a by-election to be held, so the timing was right, he said.Mayor Tim said he was looking forward to immersing himself in city life in Wellington with his wife Linda, and had already booked two gigs to live concerts, which he planned to balance with more yoga - a recent love of his.“I’m looking forward to being by the sea for a while, I’ve got good friends who have offered to take me sea fishing which I love. I’m going to read a lot more, particularly when the weather keeps us inside, which I suspect will be a lot,’’ he said.“I’m going to play more guitar, properly get into yoga, go to every art exhibition that’s on, ride on buses and trains to explore different parts of the area. I’m going to keep myself busy, that’s for sure.“I’ll need to, because I love this place and leaving is going to be bloody hard, so best to be busy to avoid thinking too much of what we have left behind.”And of course, family will always be close to his heart.  His advice to the next mayor will be the same thing his late mother said to Bryan, who then passed on to him in 2016 when he was first elected - three years after she died.“Analyse every political decision you make, question and consider if your decisions can fully withstand moral scrutiny, and once you have formulated your decision, knowing it is morally the right thing to do, only you can defeat yourself”.

Two serious assaults in Ranfurly kept police busy over the past week, with one incident needing assistance from units in Mosgiel, Dunedin, as well as Alexandra.Senior Constable Graham Perkins said on Monday night police heard second hand information about a domestic incident in the town, between a male and a female.Because of the seriousness of the incident, four units were dispatched and the male was arrested and taken to Queenstown where bail was opposed.He was only charged with breaching bail but police inquiries were continuing, after the female victim was reluctant to press charges or receive any medical treatment for her injuries.On Friday night police attended another serious incident in Ranfurly where a male was arrested at a workplace on two charges including assault and sexual assault on two females.He was transported to Dunedin where bail was also opposed and would appear in court within the next week.On the same night, Alexandra police were called to the Millers Flat Tavern where a Balclutha man was causing a disturbance.Snr Const Perkins said he was arrested for disorderly behaviour and transported back to Balclutha with assistance from Gore Police.Last Thursday, a cannabis grower was identified by police at a rural address in Omakau, after looking for a female who had a warrant out for her arrest.Snr Const Perkins said three days later police were called to a burglary at the same address, where the offender had broken into the sleepout where she had been staying, and taken a television and sound system.He said the female smashed her way into the sleepout after being evicted by the owner.Both tenant and homeowner faced separate charges and would appear in the Alexandra District Court this week.

A mishap playing in a squash tournament led to a breast cancer diagnosis for an Alexandra woman and her message to people today is if it feels different get it checked.Susan Heal (49) said after getting hit on the boob 13 years ago she had a bruise that didn’t go away so she went to her doctor.“The GP checked it, then within a fortnight I went to Dunedin for a scan.“That was 28 December 2011, I was diagnosed officially on 6 January 2012.”Susan said at her biopsy appointment the attitude of health staff changed instantly.“We knew then that it wasn’t good news.”She had surgery on February 9 and a 284 gram, grade III tumour and two lymph nodes were removed after a nine centimetre long cut was made on her right breast.“Initially, they didn’t take me seriously as [breast cancer] was seen as a young ladies problem.”She was 36 when diagnosed, and faced six rounds of chemotherapy and then six rounds of radiation.Susan on the day her chemotherapy finished. PHOTO: Supplied “I worked all the way through it… and I had amazing friends support me, they never let me feel sorry for myself.“I remember still trying to play squash, I got a wig and took it off during a tournament as it got too hot, that shocked my opposition.”Susan said the Cancer Society helped her pay for the wig, which she still has today.“It was blonde and straight, like Jennifer Anniston, something I could never have.”For her husband at the time that was the point when her diagnosis hit home.“He really struggled when I cut my hair off… that was when it all became real.”She stayed in Daffodil House in Dunedin during her cancer treatment and said the support from providers such the Cancer Society, Breast Cancer Foundation New Zealand and Look Good Feel Better was amazing. During the year of her treatment and the period immediately after, which she described as a “traumatic 18 months” she made close to 100 trips to Dunedin.“With [each trip] there was the stress of having a day off, wondering what the results are going to be.”An error during her radiation treatment resulted in 40 per cent of one of her lungs being burnt by radiation.“It took a lot to get over it and accept that I couldn't do as much as what everyone else does.”These days she enjoys running and mountain biking throughout Central Otago and every year she goes for a check up and some nerves bubble back up when thinking about the results.“There is still an element of doubt, you hear of a lot of people where [cancer] has come back. If I’ve got a sore back, I think is it in my bones?”“As time goes on, it’s not as significant any more… but it was probably five years for my body to come right afterwards.”October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.Breast Cancer Foundation NZ’s Pink Ribbon street appeal is on Friday and Saturday. Central Otago residents are being encouraged to get behind Breast Cancer Awareness month this October. PHOTO: SUPPLIED More than 500 volunteers will be collecting throughout Otago to raise funds for breast cancer research, education and patient support programmes.Fundraising events of all sizes are being run across the district in connection with the breast cancer awareness month.Cromwell woman Anthea Lawrence, who had breast cancer last year, organised a 5km walk from the Cromwell Boat Club, around the lake to Old Cromwell Town on October 13. Participants wore pink outfits and raised $1,184 for breast cancer research, education and patient support. Pink ribbon street appeal Alexandra coordinator Kate Snape said they were two volunteers short for a 3-5pm spot on Friday. To help email [email protected]  Breast Cancer Foundation chief executive Ah-Leen Rayner said the funds raised will make a difference in making sure breast cancer patients can get the support they need, New Zealanders can learn about the importance of early detection, and research is carried out to find better treatments. Every year about 240 women in the Southern region are diagnosed with breast cancer. If diagnosed early, the survival rate for breast cancer is 92 per cent. BCFNZ is urging all women to be ‘’breast aware’’ to give themselves the best chance of surviving breast cancer – that means getting to know the normal look and feel of their breasts, regularly touching and looking for any changes, and getting changes checked by a GP as soon as possible. Donations can be made to volunteer collectors across the country, at www.pinkribbonappeal.co.nz or by texting PINK (2447) to donate $3.Read more: Cromwell sign to glow pink this October

The booming tourism industry in Lakes/Central Otago has significantly influenced the local real estate market over the past few years, particularly in hotspots like Queenstown Lakes, Wanaka, and Cromwell.With an influx of visitors drawn to the region's natural beauty, wineries, ski fields, the annual Alexandra Blossom Festival, bike trails, and outdoor activities, demand for short-term accommodations like Airbnb has surged.This in turn, has increased property values, making Central Otago a competitive market for investors and second-home buyers.Rising property prices have also pushed locals out of the housing market, creating concerns about affordability and availability of seasonal and long-term rentals.Another factor for the property market will be the proposed gold mine in Tarras by Santana Minerals, which introduces a potential game-changer for Central Otago’s economy and real estate market.If approved, the mine could attract a wave of workers and industry professionals to the area, potentially increasing demand for housing among potential buyers.This demand for property could further strain an already tight housing market, especially as the region balances tourism growth, seasonal worker accommodation, and the needs of local residents.However, it has also spurred the development of new housing and infrastructure projects, potentially easing some of the current shortages.Additionally, Ngāi Tahu has recently announced plans to develop The Pines area adjacent to the Alexandra Golf Course.Alongside this, several other developers are planning residential and rural subdivisions, including the old William Hill Winery site.These developments are expected to sustain Central Otago’s growth and provide buyers with more location options for building their homes.

After a decade of protecting Lake Dunstan, the Lake Dunstan Charitable Trust will move into hibernation this summer. The move comes after trustees decided to step down with nobody new to replace them.Originally the Guardians of Lake Dunstan, the group was successful at lobbying and tightening up regulations of Lake Dunstan, using $1million in Government Jobs for Nature funding to tidy up the lake shore.Their work prompted new resource consent obligations on Contact Energy, which operates the Clyde Dam - with much of the work focused on the Kawarau Arm of the lake, from the Cromwell Heritage Precinct to Bannockburn.For years silt and driftwood had clogged the Kawarau Arm and combined with invasive weeds, made it difficult for boats to use the area.The Trust's Bridge to Bridge project focused on restoring native species and improving recreational access/use from Lowburn Bridge to Deadman’s bridge.Former chairman Duncan Faulkner said the Trust put the call out for new trustees recently however nobody had come forward and as a result would have to wind up operations for now.That also meant this year’s annual spring clean, which would’ve prepared the lake edge for this coming summer, was also cancelled. The clean up had been happening since 2010, but relied on new volunteers to help.A lakeside clean up at McNulty Inlet in Cromwell. PHOTI: SUPPLIEDDuncan said the trustees had fulfilled their five-year commitment and now with the Jobs for Nature funding finished, it was a perfect time for them to step back.“The hard work’s been done really. The commitment to LINZ (Toitū Te Whenua - Land Information New Zealand) was a four-year project, so naturally we wanted to see that through to completion.”All of the trustees were from professional backgrounds and had different skills to offer to the Trust, so were able to make change quite quickly, he said.But with no new fresh blood to step up and take over, the group would go into hibernation for a year.He said the trustees all had family and work commitments that were now more of a priority.Looking back over the past few years, Duncan said there had been some surprising challenges within the community.When the 12,000 natives were planted around the lake shore, some of them began to be ripped out and go missing and initially the Trust couldn’t understand why.Then they realised it was certain “retirees” who were upset about the potential of losing their lake views, and the Rural Fire Service got involved.The logic from the residents was the trees were a fire risk, but Duncan said the fire service told them they’d done a really good job of the plantings with a good choice of species.After negotiations between the fire service and affected residents, the Trust replaced some plantings in areas in front of those properties with other species that were less of a risk.“In reality we just saw it as Tall Poppy Syndrome, which is a shame really,” he said.Contact Energy began its Kawarau Arm beautification project in 2023 to co-design improvements to the Old Cromwell area, as part of its revised 2019-2024 Landscape and Visual Amenity Management Plan.Further engagement has been underway with Linz, the Central Otago District Council and local iwi.Read more about this in our follow-up news story next week.Read more: Old Cromwell beachfront on the cards