FROM THE NEWS DESK

There were certainly many events around the Matamata-Piako district at the weekend, including the J.Swap Contractors Ltd Matamata Breeders’ Stakes and its Fashion in the Field event. Hats off to the organisers who managed to stage a great day in the sun for many visitors who came from all around the North Island to either bet and watch races, or take part in the fashion event. While there is much to celebrate and be thankful for what appears to be a late summer, a few letters to the paper this week have put a spot light on other issues close to peoples’ hearts. The development of the new civic centre and the Matamata-Piako District Council’s decision not to consult over its annual plan are two matters. The council has the ability to decide not to consult if it feels the annual plan does not defer significantly from its longterm plan. While this may be the case, constituents still have the ability to lobby their local councillor on any issues they feel important.

Lawrence Gullery