Back
2235 days ago

Sporting Scholarships of para athletes on offer

Annette Lambly-Robinson Reporter from Whangārei Leader

Breaking down financial barriers is the concept behind a sporting scholarship being offered by Parafed Northland to those living with a physical disability.

It's the first time in nearly a decade Parafed is able to offer a scholarship to its' members, however this time there are two up for grabs – one for those under-21 and one for those 21-and-over.

Parafed works with people throughout the Northland community who live with a physical disability to see them included and involved in sport and recreation for enjoyment, good health and competition.

Regardless of someone's age or ability Parafed believes Northlanders should have the chance to push themselves.

“The purpose of this scholarship is to help break down a financial barrier which may prevent a Parafed Northland member from furthering their sport,” says Parafed chairperson Vicki Meyer.

“The fund is not designed to cover the entirety of an individual’s sporting venture; it is simply about supporting them.”

Meyer explained the fund is only for those undertaking some form of regular sporting activity who have ambitions for their chosen sport/s.

“There are a lot of people in Northland with talent but sometimes financial circumstances can put a stop to them pursuing some opportunities.

“We want this money to help Northlanders. We are a small organisation who does a lot for our members and we want this to be a way we can help add value to their time with us.”

To be eligible for the scholarship you must live with a physical disability in Northland, be a paid member of Parafed Northland and be undertaking some form of regular sporting activity which requires you to apply for this scholarship.

The financial investment to each category for 2018 is $250 for the successful under-21 recipient and $500 for the successful recipient 21-and-over.

This scholarship revives the William Allan Johnson Memorial Fund which was previously handed out annually.

For full terms and conditions, or to apply, go to www.parafednorthland.co.nz.... Applications close October 31.

More messages from your neighbours
2 days ago

What workplace change would you like to see most?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

This coming Monday is Labour Day in New Zealand. This public holiday marks when the eight-hour workday and 48-hour workweek became law in 1899. The idea started with Samuel Parnell, a carpenter in Wellington, who in 1840 refused to work more than eight hours a day. Since skilled workers were in short supply, his employer had to agree.

As more skilled workers arrived, employers tried to change working conditions, but Parnell and others kept pushing for better rights. In 1890, Parnell led a Labour Day parade of 1,500 people to promote the eight-hour day. He passed away shortly after, and nine years later, Labour Day became an official public holiday.

Do you feel that we have reached the ideal in working environments yet? What rights are you passionate about relating to employment? Share your thoughts!

Image
14 days ago

Six tips for improving security around your home

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

1) Improve outdoor lighting
Ensure that streets, driveways, and front yards are well-lit. Motion-sensor lights around homes deter trespassers by reducing hiding spots and illuminating their movements.

2) Trim your trees
Overgrown shrubs and trees provide cover for intruders. Keeping them well-trimmed around windows and doors improves visibility and reduces potential hiding spots.

3) Secure Entry Points
Ensure doors, windows, and gates are always closed when you are away from the house. Upgrade to more secure locks, deadbolts, or even smart locks for added protection.

4) Add a security camera
Place security cameras in the main entry points to your home. Doorbell cameras are also relatively cheap and a great way to keep track of who is visiting your home when you aren't there.

5) Start a Neighborhood Watch Program
You could reach out to members on Neighbourly to form a group of neighbors who can regularly keep an eye out for suspicious activity and report it. You could also check with Neighbourhood Support to see what is existing in your area.

6) Introduce yourself to your neighbours
The closer you are to your neighbors, the more likely they’ll notice when something unusual or suspicious is happening around your property

Feel free to share anything that you do around your area to deter crime.

Image
7 days ago

What's your favourite recipe for gooseberry?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Love gooseberries? Share your favourite way to enjoy them. We're looking for our readers' favourite family recipes for this delicious crop. Send yours to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the magazine, you will receive a free copy of our December 2024 issue.

Image