RSE dinner undimmed by power cut

A mid-event power cut did little to dim spirits at the Seddon RSE workers’ dinner, held at the Awatere Community Hub on Saturday.

Now in its second year, the event is organised by a dedicated team of volunteers determined to recognise and celebrate the contribution made by Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) workers in the region.

“Without the hard work of all the men here, who leave their homes and families, the vineyards simply wouldn’t operate,” explained Karen Lauder, a member of the organising committee.

The event was the brainchild of Seddon Mini Mart owner Rosie Chandra.

“It was a conversation with Charmaine Hammond and Tonya Hawley that led to the first one last year,” she shared. “From there, we found sponsors and others to help, and the event just grew and grew. Steve Pellett and Paul McNabb were both quick to jump in, as were Paul McIntyre and Saneeta Kumar, and here we are for our second year.

“My love for these boys is huge. I want to make this place (Seddon) a home for them. Tonight is our way of extending thanks for their efforts.”

Good showing
Rosie joked she had been reminding the workers daily about the barbecue dinner. She estimated almost all RSE workers living in the Seddon area attended, with about 350 meals served on the night.

Rosie, Charmaine and Paul McNabb delivered speeches, while Reverend John Phillipps said grace in both Bislama and English before the meal.

Justin Terry, who works for Vinefirst and was invited to speak by Rosie, thanked her for everything she does for members of the community, prompting an emotional response from the event organiser.

Paul acknowledged Vinefirst pastoral carer Tanya, “Thank you for your dedication to making this event a success.”

Rosie reserved a special thank you for Paul and Mel McNabb, who travelled from Kaikōura that morning to help with the event.