Celebrating Robbie Burns
Marian Horsburg piped in the Haggis, Jim Tulloch addressed it, and whisky, donated by Philip Whearty, was passed around. It was all executed magnificently. Dinner, with accompanying haggis, over, Graham Wallace spoke eloquently about some of Robbie Burns' history and proposed a toast to his memory, Graeme Blick proposed a toast to the lassies, and Kay Phillips to the laddies. Bryan Waddle added his voice to the celebrations and Philip Whearty proposed the thanks. The speakers were magnificent and very entertaining and their offerings will appear in a future Update, as will the many photos that were taken on the night.
But wait, there's more ... Speeches over, Marion took up her bagpipes again and played some Scottish tunes while members danced the Waltz and the Gay Gordons. The evening finished with a rousing rendering of Auld Lang Syne. For those who need a translation - and there were very many occasions during the evening when many members did! - the phrase translates literally to 'old long since' in English and means something akin to 'times gone by'.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84.5% Yes
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14.1% No
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1.5% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Railing planters
To gain extra growing space, make and hang these easy-to-build planters on almost any wooden fence or deck railing. Use Resene FX Blackboard Paint so you can easily identify what plants are in each. Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.