Notable news from around Marlborough

Power trust
In a close election with low participation, ratepayers filled the three open seats on the Marlborough Lines Trust’s governing board.

Incumbent Trustees Domenic Romano and Lynette Rayner took the top two spots with 2,200 and 1,945 votes, respectively. Khalid Suleiman edged out Nicki Stretch, 1,922-1,896, for the spot vacated by Ian Martella. Tanya Pouwhere received 1,556 votes.

Returning Officer Brenda Munro reported a turnout of 13.84% with around seven in eight ballots cast online versus by mail.

Hospice haul
Marlborough Hospice announced that the Hospice Vehicle Display raised $10,050.30 for the palliative care organisation.
The classic car showcase took place 15 March.

Invasive plant
Council officials have their eyes peeled for African feather grass after a discovery of the invasive pest plant found at Cloudy Bay Business Park.

Biosecurity Officer Brent Holmes said machinery passing through the area may have brought the weed here, as it “can easily spread when seeds are carried on vehicles or equipment”.

“It’s vital we catch any new infestations early,” he continued, “so we’re asking everyone to be vigilant and report any suspected sightings to Council.”
Call 03 520 7400 or email [email protected] with a photo.

Coastguard buoyed
Local members of Rural Women New Zealand raised $1,255 for Coastguard Marlborough, presenting a cheque on 26 March.

“Coastguards spoke on their work and then allowed members to look on their rescue boat,” RWNZ’s Glenda Robb described.