Notable news around Marlborough

Vote of confidence
The Marlborough Chamber of Commerce is lining up behind the Waitohi Ferry Redevelopment Project, issuing an endorsement for the $110 million financing proposal which Marlborough District Council has out for public consultation.

“From a business perspective, this is a critical infrastructure decision for our region,” the chamber stated in its announcement. “Marlborough’s economic strength relies heavily on efficient and reliable inter-island connections to support freight, supply chains, tourism, and day-to-day business operations.”

The proposal calls for Port Marlborough to borrow the $110 million, its fixed portion of the project budgeted at $531 million, and repay the loan from its revenue. Port, Council and Central Government officials cite no cost to local ratepayers.

The chamber’s position statement said that “financing certainty … helps secure the long-term future of ferry operations in Picton” which it deems “essential for business confidence, investment, and regional growth”.

Log onto haveyoursay.marlborough.govt.nz to provide input and read submitted responses.

Plucky ducks
Renewing its annual fundraising tradition, Life Education Trust Marlborough will send hundreds of rubber ducks downstream in Pollard Park on Sunday.

The Five Buck A Duck Derby will start at 9:30am by the playground, with Harold the Giraffe present. The race-winning duck will earn its ticketholder a $500 cash prize; first, at 11am, comes Corporate Duck Super Race.

Check lifeeducation.org.nz to learn about the trust.

Tips of the trades
Pasifika interested in building careers – literally, in the construction industry – can tap into training opportunities BCITO will detail during a 13 May event at Marlborough Youth Trust.

The evening session, called Trade Secrets, will bring together Pasifika employers, apprentices and training advisors to share their experiences and information.
RSVP on the tradesecrets.nz site.

Turning another leaf
Another autumn, another fall of leaves – and a familiar advisory about keeping streetscapes clear.

Council notes that Marlburians are responsible for leaf drops from their properties’ trees onto public property to prevent blockages of gutters and drains.

If the reverse happens – or you notice other issues on footpaths, roads and gullies – contact Marlborough Roads.

Email [email protected] to report public property issues.