Thoughts of the Week

Strait talk
Re: “Ferry project financing under consideration”
Why should the ratepayers of Marlborough have to back a loan for ferry infrastructure?  One hundred and ten million is a hell of a noose to put on the ratepayer when the local people are only a small percentage of the ferry users.
—Alister Nicholson

Projections from as far back as 2013 show we stand to lose $46 million a year in visitor spending alone if Picton’s part in strait ferry crossings isn’t secured. See how scary that $110 million loan is when you’re losing almost half that amount every year anyway.
—Aaron Goodwin

To Crafar’s credit
Re: “Living Legend’s lasting legacy”
Great stuff, Norm; you deserve all the praise. You work tirelessly for your company, your community and the less fortunate within that community. And let’s not forget your wife who has been the glue that has held you together.
—Graeme Gill

The quiet achiever – thanks for your services to Marlborough and beyond. You’re a top man, Norm.
—Steve Black

He has always helped a lot of people without having to tell everybody how wonderful he is.
—Megan Solomon

One of life’s “good bastards” for sure.
—Paul Power

Well done, Norm and Shona!
— Tui MacDonald

Holistic question
Re: “Cancer care comes closer”
While it’s wonderful to see a clinic like this closer for people needing treatment in the Top of the South, what it doesn’t address is the systemic issue of living in a region dominated by one crop at scale that uses intensive chemicals. When are we going to redesign this beautiful region with the health of the community at the centre over international trade?
—Catherine Van Der Meulen