NEWS FROM THE REPUBLIC Gourmet wild meals

There are not many places on this planet were you can go to the pub and eat gourmet tucker for free.

But of course you can in the Republic with the annual Whanga Wild Food Cook Off, which was held in the school holidays.

The rules are simple: kill/ gather/hunt and then cook.

Kitchens in the Republic ruled and wannabe masterchefs created tasty dishes with venison, trout, pheasant, turkey, duck, pork and blackberries. With bragging rights up for grabs discerning judges Grace Jury, Sam Lourie and Red Gordon had their work cut out picking winners. Thanks to the judges for a top job. No huhu grubs this year which was a bonus. Thanks also to the Whanga Pub which hosts and organise this event. It is a lot of fun and the standard improves each year.

A big congratulations to our local legend Maeve McLelland who won the Pilmer Plate award this year. This award is given out by Equestrian Sports NZ and covers all horse events in New Zealand. The Pilmer Plate is an Equestrian Sports Volunteer Lifetime Award awarded to a volunteer who, throughout their career, has exemplified the highest ideals of good sportsmanship through commitment, dedication and the pursuit of excellence.

Congratulations also to new mums Rochelle Herlihy and Tina Kingi who completed the Daily News Half Marathon at beginning of October.

Another future Whanga Dean Cup player has arrived in the Republic. Congratulations to Davie Gower and Paige Adams on the birth of Hamish Duke Gower. Belated congratulations also to Kenneth Murphy on the birth of his son Levi. Another Murphy to take the paddock for the Men in Black.

Also congratulations to us all on the birth 30 years ago of the Republic. Make sure you come and help us celebrate on January 19. It’s always a good day out.

Citizens of our Republic have been very busy and productive of late with several deserving special mention. Congratulations go to Republic President John and first lady Pat on being the inaugural winners of the Stratford District Council’s outstanding citizens award. Everyone knows how much they have done and still do not only for the Whanga community.

Also congratulations to the Whanga Hotel, Anita Williams, Sam Pease and Glen Law Building who all were nominated for this year’s Stratford Press Romeo Awards.

Well done to Darryn Pease who made the Central Ross Brown Rugby team at the beginning of August in the annual tournament .

Our netball teams Queen Bees and Whanga Wasps have both been doing battle at the netball courts during the winter with varying degrees of success. They are out there doing it and that’s what counts. Thanks to those who do all the organising and the Whanga Hotel for their support.

Congratulations to local school teacher Alistair on his recent wedding to Laura. All held at the Kohuratahi Hall, complete with laughter, a few tears and of course a big green tractor!

The cabaret was another roaring success, starting with the auction then lots of dancing and rehydration — a great fundraiser for the Marco school. Many thanks to all those who organised and helped in anyway.

■ Next Republic meeting is Thursday, November 15 at 7.30pm at Whanga Hall.