Olympic medallist revisits home
Every week the South Waikato News delves into its archives to see what was making the news 10, 25 and 50 years ago. This week we found stories on plans for a water park, individuals performing well at the Street Rodders National championships, and the arr
10 years ago, January 23, 2002, Olympian backs plans for Putaruru water park
Former Putaruru woman and Olympic marathon medallist Lorraine Moller said she was going to drink as much water as she could on a return visit to her home town last week.
Lorraine said the water feature was a real asset to the town and would help the town flourish.
‘‘It’s going to come into its own and people will realise what a special place it is.
‘‘I think that, as the world gets more polluted, places that offer clean air, clean water and a friendly community become more and more precious.’’ While she was in town Lorraine met South Waikato Mayor Gordon Blake, Councillor Norm Barker, director of community services Sue Arthur and Pride in Putaruru manager Mel Embling to discuss the proposed Putaruru Water Park.
‘‘The water park will bring new energy to the town,’’ Lorraine said. 25 years ago, February 3, 1987, Street rodders reap rewards
Tokoroa members of the Street Rodders Incorporated reaped the rewards at the Street Rodders National championships held in Hamilton on January 24 and 25.
Nelson Scantier, who was tipped to do well at the championships, lived up to expectations by winning two titles with his 1934 Chev.
Scantier took out the prizes for best commercial delivery vehicle, and the open class best upholstery.
As Scantier is an upholstery by trade, the latter came as no surprise! John and Jennifer Beale, however, were very surprised and ‘‘very pleased’’ when their 1934 Ford Sedan was nominated third order’s choice overall. 50 years ago, June 14, 1962 Winter is here
After one of the longest summers or many years, winter made its impact on Tokoroa during the weekend.
On Sunday there was a sheet of heavy frost over the ground and ice formed, literally, on the inside of windows on the sheltered sides of houses.
Monday gave every indication that the frost was even more severe.
Heavy ice and hoar formed on the panes of cars left outside overnight.
Unfortunately, it is impossible to find the frost intensity. Forest Products’ thermometers broke down under the sudden strain.