Planned approach to home support needed

The New Zealand Home Health Association (NZHHA) agrees with the conclusions of a recent study that an overhaul of elderly care is needed, and is calling for a more planned approach to services.
For full story click title above.

Minister disappointed at pig code delay

Agriculture Minister David Carter is disappointed that a threat of legal action by the Pork Industry Board has delayed the release of a new code of welfare for pigs.
“It is frustrating that this has happened just days before the draft code was to be released for public consultation.
“Earlier this year I asked the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) to review the code urgently so it could release a draft for consultation by the end of the year.
“NAWAC has advised me that it was on track to do this, but an unprecedented threat of legal action over the release of the draft code for public consultation has derailed the process.
“This is disappointing as I realise there is a high level of public concern over the issue of pig welfare.”
Mr Carter says he agrees NAWAC should protect itself from threatened litigation and he accepts that the best course of action is for the Committee to consult further with the Pork Industry Board before releasing the draft for public consultation.
“This draft code needs to be out urgently. The industry and NAWAC need to work together to make it happen,” says Mr Carter.

Stress reducing Xmas tips from Relationship Services

1. Make time to relax with those you love.

2. Christmas is a season, not just one day. Spread the celebrations out.

3. Ask for help. Offer help. Share the load

4. Try and put longstanding disagreements aside for the day and enjoy yourselves.

5. If things do get tense, take a deep breath, change the subject or walk away.

6. Steer clear of disagreements when you drink.

7. Use a little self-control so you don't say or do something hurtful.

8. Make it fun for the kids, and it will be easier for you.

9. Lighten the financial pressure on your relationship. Set a dollar limit for gifts and food.

10. Take time out as well as time off, allow some time just for you.
For more ideas and tips click the Title above to go to the Relationship Services website

National Health Board members announced

Seven of the 10 new National Health Board (NHB) members announced recently are doctors and nurses.

Establishing a National Health Board was announced recently as part of a drive to improve frontline health services and better supervise the $10 billion of public health funding the 21 DHBs spend on hospitals and primary health care.
The appointed members of the inaugural Board are:
Dr Virginia Hope (Deputy Chair) is a public health physician and Programme Leader for the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) at the National Centre for Biosecurity and Infectious Disease. She was formerly a Medical Officer of Health in Auckland and an elected member of the Auckland District Health Board, and is currently an elected member of Capital and Coast DHB.
(Source New Zealand Rural General Practice Network newsletter).

Women underpaid - Pay and employment equity report released

The Government has finally released details of its pay and employment equity investigations which confirm that women in the public sector are significantly underpaid and discriminated against, revealed the CTU today. According to the information sent to the CTU gender pay gaps in the public service range from 3 percent up to 35 percent, from 18-24 percent in Crown research institutes, and in public health one District Health Board reported that women earned on average 69 percent of men's full-time equivalent earnings.
Click title to view full media release.

Employment Court Decision on disability support worker pay

The Service and Food Workers Union Nga Ringa Tota has welcomed another decision by the Employment Court that has confirmed the right of disability support workers to be paid the minimum wage of $12.50 for every hour on duty during sleepovers. The case involved disability support worker Phil Dickson. He works at an IHC community house that is home to five service users with intellectual disabilities. As part of his job Mr Dickson does 'sleepover' shifts from 10pm to 7am for which he's paid $34. This amounts to $3.77 an hour, less than a third of the minimum adult wage of $12.50 an hour.
Click Title above to view full media release

Electricity Act a travesty of natural justice claims DEUN

Electricity Act a travesty of natural justice - column by Molly Melhuish - Domestic Energy Users Network

"The Electricity Industry Bill is a travesty of natural justice. It excludes domestic consumers, who pay nearly half the electricity industry revenues, from any role in the Electricity Authority that is to govern the industry.

This Bill is more brash than Brash. Its neoliberal philosophy comes directly from the Commerce Act 1986 and State Owned Enterprises Act 1986.
The vision of those laws is that industry maximizes its profits and regulates itself. The consumer is protected only by whatever competition may emerge."
More .... To read full article click title above.

Road Safety Trust

RWNZ is interested to note that while its application for funding to put up billboards bearing the 20kmh past a school bus safety message failed to meet the Road Safety Trust's "innovative" threshold criteria , the Trust gave funding to itself for its driver distraction campaign to put a safety message on tracksuits worn by referees at the Air New Zealand Cup and Heartland Championship competitions this winter.  So no-one's ever worn a tracksuit with a slogan on it before?  Yeah right!

Road Safety Trust

Community groups including Rural Women New Zealand are demanding to know why they cannot get grants from the Crown-owned Road Safety Trust, despite it having more than $10 million in savings.

The independent trust is funded by a portion of profits from the sale of personalised plates and one of its aims is to hand out money for community safety initiatives.
The trust has been spending money on its own national campaign to reduce driver distraction and has rejected 14 applications from community groups for the year to June because they did not meet its criteria.
Among those rejected were the organisations Rural Women and Safekids.
Rural Women asked for money to create signs to remind drivers of the speed limit when passing school buses.
One of its national councillors, Jacky Stafford, believes the initiative should have been supported.
"This trust says that they will do specific road safety projects - this is a specific project ... Surely keeping our kids safe on roads has to be a top priority."
Road Safety Trust chair Yvonne Sharp says it gives out grants only for innovative projects but is now signalling that funding criteria will be reviewed.
"What we fund is innovation and, very unfortunately, none of the applications we got actually complied with that funding criteria.
"I think that circumstances always change and I think that I'll be recommending to the trust that we look very closely at the criteria."
Transport Minister Steven Joyce told Morning Report he will talk to the trust about why it is not paying out money to community groups and whether it is doing another agency's job.

NCW oral submission on the Injury Prevention, Rehabilitation and Compensation Amendment Bill

Today the National Council of Women of New Zealand (NCWNZ) made an oral submission to the Transport and Industrial Relations Committee on the Submission on the Injury Prevention, Rehabilitation and Compensation Amendment Bill that highlights the negative impact that the changes will have on women.
For full media release, click the Title above.

Relay for Life - Wellington - 27-28 March 2010

The Cancer Society Wellington Division's eighth Relay For Life will be held at Frank Kitts Park, Jervois Quay, on 27th-28th March 2010. The waterfront park will once again become a marquee city and temporary home to over 1500 Relay participants and visitors over the weekend.
For further information click the Title above.

Irrigation NZ Inc - Conference and Expo - 26-28 April 2010

At Christchurch Convention Centre
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR IRRIGATION NZ CONFERENCE!

Irrigated Agriculture – NZ’s economic future and more…
The conference programme is set and full of current and challenging topics covering the key conference themes:

• Water – Managing NZ’s Greatest Asset

• Water Infrastructure – Future Proofing NZ’s Primary Industry

• Establishing Trust – The Key to Managing Our Own Destiny

• Optimising Demand Management

The conference is enhanced by several social functions designed to give you an opportunity to make connections and network with industry peers.
For more details of the conference, including the programme, sponsorship & exhibition opportunities and to register to attend visit Irrigation New Zealand’s website - www.irrigationnz.co.nz

National Climate Summary – Spring 2009: Extremely dry for much of the South Island

National Climate Centre update:

• Rainfall: Below normal rainfall over much of the South Island, especially Otago and the Lakes District, as well as eastern parts of Northland, Auckland and Coromandel. Very wet in southern Hawkes Bay and the Tararua District. Near normal spring rainfall elsewhere.

• Temperature: Near average temperatures in Northland, Coromandel, the Bay of Plenty and the Lakes District; a cooler than usual spring in most other regions.

• Sunshine: Sunny over much of the South Island, as well as for Waikato, Taupo, Bay of Plenty, Gisborne and Hawkes Bay. Very cloudy in the west from Taranaki to Wellington.

Mental health Twitter feeds launched

Two new Twitter feeds devoted to information on mental health in New Zealand have been launched.
The Mental Health Foundation and the Like Minds, Like Mine programme intend to use Twitter to make an important contribution towards improving distribution of research and information on mental health.
“The huge increase in popularity of social networking sites like Twitter is rapidly changing the way we access information,” says Judi Clements, chief executive of the Mental Health Foundation. “We have access to a wealth of quality data. Social networking platforms give us a vital opportunity to reach a wider audience and distribute information in this up-to-the-minute environment.”
The Twitter feeds are just part of the Foundation and Like Minds’ recent social media approach. Both have developed Facebook groups in recent months and the Foundation now has a blog www.mentalhealth.org.nz/blog/
The Mental Health Foundation’s Twitter feed can be found at www.twitter.com/mentalhealthnz
Like Minds’ Twitter feed can be found at http://twitter.com/NZLikeMinds

Ministry of Women's Affairs CEO Shenagh Gleisner moves on

Ministry of Women's Affairs CEO for the last six years, Shenagh Gleisner, announced in the Department's Panui  magazine that her term is coming to an end in February 2010.  She will be staying on a few extra months, until mid year, to effect the handover to a new Chief Executive.

Solar energy - check out your house's potential

Solarview, a free web-based tool from NIWA, helps you get the most out of your house.
NIWA have designed and built a do-it-yourself tool that tells you how much sunlight your home receives at different times of the year. This helps you work out whether solar power is a viable option for your energy needs.
All you need to tell the web-based tool is your address, which direction your roof faces, and what the angle of your roof is. The software already knows the terrain around your home and factors any hills and valleys into the data.
NIWA's system uses Google Maps to find your latitude and longitude based on the address of your home. It combines this with topographical data and many years of climate data from the climate stations throughout New Zealand to give a month-by-month calculation of how much available solar energy will hit your roof throughout the year.
This bright idea was created by NIWA scientist Ben Liley. He sees that for people to make solar power work for them, they need good information that is specific to their situation.
A homeowner, or their solar energy specialist, can use this information to determine what savings installation of solar panels or solar water heating would be likely to give. The tool can also help determine which part of a roof is best for solar energy given the unique surroundings and situation of the home.
On average, New Zealand receives about 2000 hours of bright sunshine each year. In energy terms, New Zealand's solar energy resource is about four kilowatt hours per square metre, per day. To put that into perspective, if every New Zealand home had a three kilowatt solar panel array, they would collectively generate enough power in a year to satisfy over a quarter of New Zealand's annual residential electricity needs.
Solar radiation is an abundant energy source which is free, non-polluting, and renewable. In New Zealand, many homes are exposed to 20 to 30 times more energy from the sun annually than they use in electricity or gas, but this energy source isn’t often made use of. A well designed and installed solar water heating system will heat 50 -75% of your hot water every year.
To find out more visit:
http://www.niwa.solarview.co.nz/
http://www.eeca.govt.nz/efficient-and-renewable-energy/renewable-energy/solar-energy-in-nz

Families Commission research on fathers

Plunket is welcoming Families Commission research that shows Kiwi fathers are keen to spend more time with their children.
The research, from two reports, includes interviews with over 1700 men, including single fathers, step-fathers, teenage parents, and foster dads.
It confirms fathers in New Zealand think they are doing a good job, and could do an even better one if they just had a little more time.
Plunket National Parenting and Community Development Manager Claire Rumble says the findings underpin Plunket’s awareness of the importance of the role of fathers, and of engaging them.
“Plunket has a real awareness of including fathers in the family and has been working to do so with what it offers for years now,” she says.
“Fathers play differently with children than other family members do, and children become more secure and curious about the world when they get time with their dads. And we are all aiming for happy children, happy families and happy communities.”
Plunket offers a Dads for Dads parenting education programme in eight centres, helps organise support groups for fathers where there is demand, and provides tailored resources and programmes for fathers.
Plunket also works actively in partnership with other organisations, including as part of the Families Commission fathering network.

Red Cross Samoa Appeal To Close On 31 December

New Zealand Red Cross would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to those people who have contributed so generously to the Samoa Earthquake and Tsunami Appeal fund. The appeal has reached nearly $3 million dollars, and combined with funds collected by other Red Cross National Societies and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the needs identified by Red Cross in Samoa can be met with the monies raised.  For full media release click on the title above.

Summer Weather from NIWA

NIWA has issues its summer forecast for the average conditions over the next three months, to February 2010.
The El Niño in the equatorial Pacific has strengthened during October and November, and is expected to persist at moderate intensity through the summer of 2010 before weakening during the autumn.

Mean sea level pressures are likely to be higher than normal to the north of the country and lower than normal to the south, resulting in stronger than normal south-westerlies over New Zealand.
Summer rainfall totals are likely to be in the normal or below normal range in the north and east of the North Island, and in Nelson-Marlborough, but near normal in other regions.
Temperatures for the coming 3-month period (December, January and February combined) are likely to be below average or average in all regions.
Rivers flows and soil moistures are likely to be in the below normal or normal ranges in all regions.

Good Farm Stories from the Greens

The Green Party has launched a website featuring farmers and growers using sustainable farm practices. The “Good Farm Stories” website is http://www.goodfarmstories.org.nz/.

Recognised Seasonal Employers - Changes to Insurance & IRD

Recognised Seasonal Employers please note, from 30 November, medical insurance is compulsory for RSE workers. Employers will be required to arrange, but not necessarily pay for, acceptable medical insurance. You can find details of the amended policy in Circular 2009/18. Also from the end of November, the IRD and Immigration New Zealand are offering a "joind up" service for issuing IRD numbers to RSE workers. The application to work for an RSE has been revised to allow an applicant to apply for an IRD number at the same time. For more information go to www.ird.govt.nz.

Fonterra farmer share application period opens December 7

Fonterra’s farmer shareholders will get their first opportunity from next week to invest additional capital in their Co-operative following capital structure changes approved at the annual meeting in mid November.
At the annual meeting, the shareholder vote was overwhelmingly in favour of raising the maximum level of share ownership to 120 per cent of farmers’ current or expected production for the season. Farmers are already required to own Fonterra shares in proportion to their milk production (with one share required for each kilogram of milksolids produced per season) and the change means all farmers can now hold up to 20 per cent additional “dry” shares not covered by their production. All shares will be eligible for dividend payments based on Fonterra’s profitability, providing more of a financial incentive for farmers to own dry shares.

Instant Biosecurity Fine Raised to $400

The instant biosecurity fine is to be doubled to $400 after the Biosecurity Amendment Bill passed its final reading in Parliament last night.
“The bill represents a major step towards improving border processing, while cracking down on travellers who deliberately flout our biosecurity laws,” Biosecurity Minister David Carter said.
“This is an important change to biosecurity at our border and sends a clear message about how seriously the Government takes New Zealand’s biosecurity protection.
“Travellers not declaring or disposing of products such as fruit and meat upon arrival pose a significant threat to New Zealand’s economic, environmental, and social well-being.
“The doubling of the instant fine for not making such a declaration is an appropriate reflection of the seriousness of this offence, and will increase awareness of New Zealand’s strict biosecurity measures.
As well as raising the instant biosecurity fine from $200 to $400, the bill also increases the maximum penalty for conviction in Court for the same offence from $400 to $1000.

National Council of Women - new website

The redeveloped website for the National Council of Women of New Zealand is now live and can be viewed at http://ncwnz.org.nz/
It includes a discussion forum on hot topics for you to have your say.

Fair Electricity Bill? Your feedback wanted

DEUN is running a poll on its website www.issues.co.nz/fairelectricity and wants to know:  "What was your highest monthly power bill this winter, and what was your main heating source?"
DEUN is particularly keen to get some data from rural households.
DEUN is also keen to find whether dial-up is an obstacle to reaching the issues website. Please let DEUN know in the comment box on the website if it took a particularly long time to access the site.

Great tunes for a great cause

The Salvation Army's new Christmas CD - "It's a Wrap 2" - is available at Countdown, Foodtown and Woolworths stores, and for a $5 donation! "We had such great success last year with our first Christmas CD going 'double miraculous platinum' (selling almost 40,000 copies) that we just had to do it again!" says the Salvation Army's Territorial Public Relations Secretary, Major Robert Ross.
“It’s a Wrap 2” features 15 very different Christmas tracks – by the Sallies’ own musicians, plus brilliant vocalist Bella Kalolo, barbershop quartet Musical Island Boys and jazz group Otis.

Curtain Donations Needed - Christchurch

Community Energy Action Charitable Trust is appealing to households replacing curtains to donate the old ones to the Curtain Bank. The Curtain Bank, a Community Energy Action project, fits recycled thermal and lined curtains in the homes of low income households to minimise heat loss from windows. However, without donations from the public the Curtain Bank cannot provide this assistance.
This winter has been the most successful ever in the Curtain Bank’s 15 year history. The Curtain Bank fitted curtains to 1470 windows in the homes of 342 households on low incomes. The amount of fabric fitted, more than 4600m2 would fit 10 netball courts.

The Curtain Bank has now closed for clients over summer, reopening again after Easter 2010. Curtains can still be dropped off at Community Energy Action, 198 Armagh St (back of the Orion building).
CEA can be contacted on phone 03 374 5698 or www.cea.conz.

Nearly Half of Kiwis Affected by Mental Illness

It is one of society's most delicate issues, but research released yesterday shows that nearly half of all Kiwis have in some way been affected by mental illness. The independent study was commissioned by Movember, a charity which encourages men to grow moustaches during November to help raise awareness and funds in support of men's health. Money raised by Movember will be donated to the Mental Health Foundation of NZ for its 'Out of the Blue' depression awareness campaign and to the Cancer Society of New Zealand in support of prostate cancer.  Click title above to view full media release.

Write your volunteering story and be in to win!

IHC has launched a new website for volunteers with a competition for stories about volunteering. To mark International Volunteer Day (5 December) people with intellectual disabilities and volunteers are being encouraged to write in with their stories. The best stories will be featured on the new website www.volunteer4IHC.org.nz and prizes include a 2009 Hewlett Packard laptop sponsored by Datacom Systems, Wellington, and a Sony Digital Cybershot W Series digital camera with starter kit and carry bag. The website features personal accounts of friends and friendships and is designed to raise the profile of IHC's volunteer programme. The site is for existing volunteers and people who want to get to know someone with an intellectual disability.

Ice cream could lick chemo side-effects

Clinical trials are under way for New Zealand-developed medical ice cream.
An innovative new medical ice cream developed by Fonterra and the University of Auckland has shown early promise for combating some of the unpleasant side-effects of chemotherapy.
The ice cream, known as ReCharge, has started Phase 2 clinical trials in New Zealand to assess its effectiveness against chemotherapy induced diarrhoea and anaemia.
But the "dessert with a difference" could also reduce weight loss and damage to the immune system during chemotherapy.
Oncology centres at Whangarei, Auckland, Waikato, Palmerston North, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin and Invercargill are taking part in the trial. (Taranaki Daily News)  Click Title to view more.

Rates of mother and infant mortality in New Zealand

The Perinatal and Maternal Mortality Review Committee, a ministerial committee responsible for reviewing maternal and perinatal deaths (born between 20 weeks gestation and 28 days of age), announced the release of their third report to the Minister of Health today.
This highly anticipated report presents one measure of the quality and safety of New Zealand’s maternity services. Click Title above to view full report.

Fair Deal for School Support Staff Rally - Sat 28 November

Saturday 28 November.  NZEI support staff, teachers, principals and community supporters are taking to the streets of Auckland calling for a fair deal for school support staff. Meet in Queen Elizabeth Square, downtown Auckland at 11.30am. March up Queen St leaving at 12noon.  Rally at Myers Park 1pm with free bbq.

Road Safety / School Bus Safety - Summary of Submissions on Safer Journeys 2020 released

Click the Title above to link to the summary of 1500 submissions received by the Ministry of Transport on its Safer Journeys 2020 document.
Rural issues include:  Page 24 comments on the question of whether there should be an exemption for rural youth if the driving age were raised; Page 28 creating more speed zones on high risk rural roads; Page 37/38 Supporting the roll out of strongly enforced variable speed limits around schools and address the issue of rural school bus safety; Investigate options to improve safety around rural schools and school buses.  -  The RWNZ concerns are specifically mentioned in regards to the latter.

Roll Over Protection for Quad Bikes - ATV Safety

Click on the title above for an interesting blog on ROPs for quad bikes.  Do they work?  Should they be mandatory?

National Bovine TB pest management strategy

The Animal Health Board (AHB) National Bovine Tuberculosis (Tb) pest management strategy has been reviewed and an amendment proposal is currently open for submissions.
You can access the full discussion paper or a summary by clicking the Title above.
Submissions are due on Monday, 30 November.

International Volunteer Day - 5 December

This special day is marked around the world to celebrate and acknowledge the immense contribution made by volunteers across all sectors of the community. International Volunteer Day will be officially marked on Saturday 5 December. However because it is a weekend day many celebrations will take place on a weekday just before or after 5 December.

Community Irrigaton Fund - Ope for 2010-11 Funding Round

The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry’s Community Irrigation Fund (CIF) is now open for applications for the 2010/11 funding round. Applications close on Monday 22 February 2010 and all potential parties are encouraged to apply. The fund provides grants to promoters of community water storage and/or irrigation schemes for generating investor and community support. Applicants need to have completed a feasibility study for the irrigation scheme before applying. The CIF also provides funding for local government-led water strategies. More information and the application forms can be found on the MAF website link: www.maf.govt.nz/mafnet/rural-nz/cif/ or by contacting Loretta Dobbs, CIF Project Adviser on phone: 04 894 0632 or email: CIFund@maf.govt.nz

2010 Golden Lamb Awards (Glammies)

It’s time to start thinking about your entry into the 2010 Golden Lamb Awards aka ‘The Glammies’, with the final showcased at the Upper Clutha A & P Show in Wanaka, Friday 12th and Saturday 13th March 2010. Entries from around the country will seeking to be named producer of New Zealand’s most tender, tasty lamb.
For an entry form or more information contact Kim Doran at Beef + Lamb New Zealand on Freephone 0800 733 466 or email kim@beeflambnz.co.nz or visit the competitions link on www.beeflambnz.co.nz Supported by Meat & Wool New Zealand levies.

RWNZ ERWA finalist at Style Christchurch

Wow!  RWNZ member and Enterprising Rural Woman Award 2009 finalist, Beverley Forrester, was selected to be part of Style Christchurch last week, where New Zealand's top 12 designers showed their garments.  To view the clip on You Tube click the title above.  Beverley's pure wool Beverley Riverina collection was on the catwalk immediately after Annah Stretton and before Zambesi.  Congratulations Beverley, the sky is the limit!

Who Cares for the Carers?

Families that care for a family member with mental illness need support in order to help them to do the best job they can do, according to a report released today.
The Families Commission has released the Who Cares for People with Schizophrenia: Family carers' health, circumstances and adjustment report. Research author Dr Sunny Collings from Otago University, Wellington says the study of a representative sample of carers says shows family carers of people with recent-onset schizophrenia are an important element of care arrangements, providing part of the foundations on which the mental health system is built.
“Caregivers make an enormous contribution, which isn’t always recognised. The report shows that their contribution is enhanced when they have support. Those who were more positive about their role as a caregiver tended to have good social support, and a range of coping strategies. They were also more often involved in other caring roles, such as parenting children,” says Dr Collings.
“Support for carers was most likely to come from friends, spouses, children and siblings of the carer. Those caregivers who were receiving specific support from NGO and health agencies, reported fewer positive experiences of care-giving. This might be because people who are having a difficult time are the ones more likely to get involved with support agencies.”
Coping strategies were developed by trial and error rather than through formal information or training.
Caregivers had good health but were more likely to experience mental health problems themselves than the general population, which they were not always being given assistance for.
“Although family carers are vulnerable to psychological distress they are also generally resilient and capable of noticing the positive features of their situations, as well as the challenges,” said Sunny Collings.
The report found that overall, satisfaction with mental health services was high. However Māori and Pacific caregivers had lower rates of satisfaction with health services, calling into question responsiveness of the mental health system to some groups.
Three-quarters of carers considered they did not get a ‘fair deal’ from society in respect of their role, with half considering that the Government should shoulder more responsibility.
Generally carers held the view that they enjoyed benefits from filling the carer role – particularly those who saw the family-care role as ‘natural’.
Families Commission Chief Executive Paul Curry said the issues in the report raise an important question about how professionals and family carers can function effectively alongside each other.

Real Art Roadshow

Fiona Campbell, New Zealand’s youngest major arts philanthropist and director of the Real Art Roadshow, has won the Supreme Award at the 12th National Business Review’s Sponsorship of the Arts Awards.
The Real Art Roadshow visits schools for free and comprises one of New Zealand’s largest traveling art exhibitions. The exhibition is housed in two huge trucks that each unfold to form two 78 square metre ‘galleries’. Each ‘gallery’ displays over 60 pieces of original art by a cross-section of established and emerging New Zealand artists, including Don Binney, Seung Yul Oh, Robyn Kahukiwa, Pat Hanly and Fiona Pardington.
The two collections of outstanding New Zealand art have toured over 200 secondary schools nationwide during 2008 and 2009 and were open to the public during school holidays – with over 100,000 visitors in all.

Real Art Roadshow will continue touring for the next eight years.
For information about the Real Art Roadshow visit www.realartroadshow.co.nz

Ploughing Money into Child Cancer - South Island Tractor Convoy

A convoy of vintage and classic tractors will be travelling the length of the South Island early next year in a bid to raise funds for Child Cancer.
The South Island Tractor Trek for Cancer Kids 2010 has already attracted close on 50 confirmed participants from throughout the country who will drive their old work horse across some of the South Island’s most spectacular back country roads. At least three of the tractors will be driven by women.
Each participant will fund their own trip and is expected to also find sponsors and donations for the Child Cancer Foundation.
The trek starts from Bluff on February 22, arriving back in Bluff on March 16. Most participants will complete the entire 2500km journey but a small number will join the group in Canterbury for the northern leg only.
Trek convener Maurice Short said the itinerary was aimed at keeping tractors off main roads where possible, taking in places such as Lake Onslow, Dansey’s Pass, Hakataramea Pass, Lees Valley, Hanmer Springs, Molesworth Station and Taylor Pass.
The tractors will travel at an average speed of 25km/hr.
All trek participants must be self-contained, meaning some will be towing caravans, others will have tents and one couple even plan to camp in a converted sheep pen on a trailer.

Howto Improve Rates of Childhood Immunisation

The Health Committee has initiated an inquiry into how to improve completion rates of childhood immunisation.
Many New Zealand children suffer measles, whooping cough, pneumococcal pneumonia and other relatively common infectious diseases despite immunisation being available at no charge. The mortality and related co-morbidity is high and could be prevented.
There is clear scientific evidence that the benefits of high levels of immunisation to the individual and to society outweigh the disadvantages (very rare, but sometimes severe side effects).
Our immunisation completion rates are far lower than in many other developed and underdeveloped countries (which have completion rates up to 95%), and there are significant inequities for many of our most vulnerable children. (Māori uptake in Auckland and Counties Manukau is 64%).
This inquiry specifically does not seek to recommend that immunisation be compulsory.
The terms of reference for this inquiry are as follows:
1. To collate current statistics for New Zealand children on timeliness of delivery and completion of immunisation, and how we compare internationally.
2. To assess how well the New Zealand Immunisation Register is working, and the effectiveness of utilisation.
3. To search relevant world literature for optimal methods of how to achieve timely and high immunisation completion rates.
4. To seek up-to-date information on community concerns, informed consent and conscientious objection issues.
5. To seek an analysis of benefits and disadvantages.
6. To define, and make recommendations as to what methods could be applied at minimal cost to improve immunisation in New Zealand,( bearing in mind the first 60% are easier to get, the next 20-30% require more effort, the next 5% lots of effort and around 5% are declines).

The committee will be advertising for submissions in the next few days.

Tips (and traps) when buying Xmas gifts - from SafeKids

Picking the right gift for the kids, family and friends can be quite challenging. This holiday and summer season, show that you love them by treating them with gifts which they can enjoy and at the same time, help protect from injuries at home, at play and on the road.
What to buy:
- A booster seat. Jazz it up and let their imagination run wild (tell them it’s a rocket ship or a fairy chariot!). Remember, kids are safer in a booster seat until they’re big enough to fit an adult seat belt properly. The easiest way to tell: If they’re under 148cm tall, they still need a booster seat.
- A cycle helmet. If Lance Armstrong needs one, your kid will too. Let them pick their own helmet and remember to be a role model (buy and use one yourself).
- Tools with safety locks. Nothing pleases dad more than a brand new power tool. Buy one with a safety lock, and protect curious little hands by storing them out of children’s sight and reach.
- A Portable Pool Fence. Owners of small or portable pools still need to comply with pool safety regulations. A portable/ flexible pool fence is a perfect gift to help enjoy the summer season safely.
- Smoke alarms. If you’ve visited a relative or a friend’s house and notice that they don’t have a smoke alarm, buy one as a present (don’t forget the batteries). What better gift than one that could save their lives in a fire.

What NOT to buy:
- Toys that are choking hazards. If a toy can fit inside the hole of a toilet roll, it is a potential choking hazard for babies and toddlers.
- Baby bath seats and rings. Bath seats and rings give a false sense of security, and using one can be dangerous. Babies can slip or get trapped underwater.
- Baby Walkers. They could fall against fires, down stairs and off decks if they use one. They could be burned by hot water from kettles or pots they shouldn’t have been able to reach, or poison themselves with medications and cleaning products parents thought were stored high enough.
For more information in keeping kids safe at home, at play and on the road, visit www.safekids.org.nz.

Meat & Wool New Zealand calls for director nominations

Nominations are sought for two farmer elected director positions on the Board of Meat & Wool New Zealand.
The positions are for the Western North Island and the Central South Island electorates, for a term of three years. Nominations close on Wednesday 20 January 2010.
Incumbent Central South Island Director, David Douglas has signalled that he intends to stand for re-election, while incumbent Western North Island Director, Ron Frew has notified the board he will not seek re-election.
Nominations must be submitted on the official form that can be obtained from the Returning Officer Warwick Lampp by calling the Election Hotline 0508 666 336. They must be received by 5pm on Wednesday 20 January 2010.
Voters in the two electorates are encouraged to check that they are on the electoral roll and this can be done by calling the Election Hotline. Farmers who are not registered need to fill out a voter registration form by 10 February 2010. This can be obtained from the Election Hotline 0508 666 336.
To be eligible to vote, a livestock farmer must have owned at least 250 sheep or goats or a combined total of these, or 50 beef cattle, or 100 dairy cattle, on 30 June 2009.
Election day is 10 March 2010.

Fonterra Annual Meeting Voting Results

Fonterra shareholders today voted overwhelmingly in favour of the first two steps of the Co-operative’s new capital structure at the Annual Meeting in Ashburton.

Shareholders passed two special resolutions in support of the first two capital structure steps, both of which required a 75% shareholder vote under the Co-operative’s constitution. Resolution 1 – Strengthening the Share Structure, received an 89% vote. Resolution 2 – Restricted Share Value also received an 89% vote.

Community Economic Development Conference

Waitakere, Auckland 9 to 11 February 2010

This inaugural New Zealand community economic development conference is aimed at people from not-for-profit organisations, government agencies and councils who wish to explore international best practice in the fields of community-led local economic development, social enterprises, social finances, asset transfer and enabling support mechanisms. The conference has attracted a wide range of international and New Zealand presenters who will challenge conventional approaches to community economic development, explore new ways of thinking, encourage entrepreneurship and inspire participants to engage in actions that will enhance communities well-being. Prior to the conference two specialist two day workshops will be run on Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) and Cultural Planning led by two leading overseas specialists. For further details and to register for the conference and workshops, go to: www.cedconf.org.nz .

National Not-For-Profit Sector Conference 11-12 March 2010

Waipuna Hotel, Auckland, 11-12 March 2010

This will offer key insights from world-class presenters and the collective wisdom of more than 300 other managers and board members from not-for-profit organisations around New Zealand. With key note presentations by international renown practitioners and authors Hildy Gottlieb (The Pollyana Principles) and Margaret Wheatley, ably supported by other high performing New Zealanders, this will be a great opportunity to not only sharpen your skills, but also to gather inspiration and ideas for use within your organisation. Early bird registrations are available till 1 December 2009 with all the details available at: www.nfpconference.co.nz.

White Ribbon Day - 25 November

Show you're against violence towards women.  The Families Commission is promoting White Ribbon Day on 25 November.  For further information go to http://www.whiteribbon.org.nz/.

NCWNZ new website/online discussion forum

The National Council of Women of NZ has a new website, which will include an online discussion forum - on the topic of domestic violence and violence towards women.  Our EO Noeline Holt will be attending the lanch of the new website at Parliament Buildings on 26 Nov 09.  White ribbon day is 25 November, a day to show you're against violence towards women.

Costume &Textile Conference - Lower Hutt

TheNewDowse (Lower Hutt, nr Wellngton) will be hosting the 9th annual Costume &Textile Conference in partnership with the New Zealand Costume Textile Association. The theme of the conference is Hanging by a Thread - tales of disaster & survival, and it will take place on 12 and 13 of June in the Little Theatre. For more information call Rachel Healy 04 560 1477, Mob: 027 687 4226 or go to http://www.newdowse.org.nz/.

Rural General Practce Network Conference

The New Zealand Rural General Practice Network conference will be held in Christchurch next year at the city’s Convention Centre from March 11 – 14. Next year’s theme is “Rural Health – No.8 Wired”.  For more information go to http://www.conference.co.nz/

2010 International Gambling Conference

2010 International Gambling Conference —The Implications of Technology for Policy, Practice and Research


This is on 24-26 February 2010, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Auckland and organised by: Gambling and Addictions Research Centre, AUT University, Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand, and Hapai Te Hauora Tapui. You can read full conference details at: http://www.aut.ac.nz/research/research-institutes/niphmhr/gambling-and-addictions-research-centre/conferences-and-other-events.

Promote Positive Parenting - Families Commission

The Families Commission says that the review of the section 59 law change shows that it is time for Kiwis to start concentrating on how best to promote positive parenting and safe, nurturing families.  For full media release click the heading for this post.

Foundation for Arable Research Dates

Visit the FAR website events page at http://far.org.nz/event and use the new calendar to check out upcoming events in your region or nationally. Contact the FAR office on 03 325 6353 for additional information on any of the events listed.  Or for more information contact Shirley Went 03 325 6333.

TechSoup - free software for charities

Did you know TechSoup New Zealand provides donated software from companies such as Microsoft to eligible New Zealand Charities, voluntary and community groups with charitable status. Via this program you can get all the latest Microsoft products. For more information go to http://www.techsoup.net.nz/.

Website to check 111 listings

There is a website where you can check and confirm your address for the emergency services.

Just go to www.myaddress.co.nz

A Vote for Cynthia - the musical

A Vote for Cynthia - the Musical Touring 2010

Helen Moulder’s popular solo show A Vote for Cynthia – the musical will be on the road again in 2010 and Helen is looking for individuals and groups to host the performances. The following are the approximate dates she’ll be in your area. Taranaki, March 27 – 31; West Coast, April 7 – 20; Canterbury, April 21 - 31; Otago & Southland, May 1 – 31. If you’d like to find out more, email Helen on hmoulder@xtra.co.nz or call 0274 987 580.

Taranaki Road Safety Day Invitation to attend

RWNZ has received an invitation to the Roadsafe Taranaki "School Bus Safety Project" mini-conference planned for 26th November, 10-12noon, at New Plymouth Club. This event will present the findings of recent research, undertaken by local school children, to identify safety issues relating to travel involving schools buses along with their suggestions for improving safety.

After the main presentations there will be opportunities for those who attend to visit the display stands of each school and speak to each school group invidually.

For further information contact Channa Perry, Safe Community Programme Manager, New Plymouth Injury Safe (NPiS), Health Promotion Unit, Taranaki District Health Board, Phone DDI 06 753 7777 ext.8792, Email npis@tdhb.org.nz