Reporter’s Diary (Press, 2 March 1985)

A new fishing anecdote was shared by Mrs Lois Siepkes, involving a fly-fisherman who, after a day spent at a remote high-country loch, encountered a sheep while walking back to his car. The sheep, startled from its slumber, ran away, inadvertently taking the fly hook with it, resulting in the angler losing his line. Mrs Siepkes expressed concern for the shearer who might later encounter the hook while working with the sheep. In a separate note, a casual survey revealed that two young individuals were unfamiliar with the "Dambusters," the famous World War II mission to destroy the Ruhr dams in Germany. Their lack of knowledge reflected a generational gap regarding historical events, although a report on the mission was included in the current issue. The matter of tourist safety arose following a theft involving Swiss tourists Chris Lienhard and Vreni Helstein, who had approximately £3000 worth of belongings stolen from their car parked near the St James walkway in Lewis Pass. Mr Lienhard remained philosophical about the theft but highlighted the need for tourists to be warned about potential break-ins when their vehicles are unguarded during tramping. Meanwhile, the local railway scene spotlighted the heritage steam locomotive Ab6oB, named Passchendaele, which is undergoing restoration. Profits from two special excursion train trips from Christchurch Station were aimed at improving the locomotive, which serves as a memorial to railwaymen lost in World War I. While the first trip to Kaikoura was nearly fully booked, there were still tickets available for the excursion to Arthur’s Pass the following day. In Hokitika, the business association planned to celebrate St Patrick's Day on 14 March, three days ahead of the actual date, with various festivities and themed activities. Streets would be closed for the festivities, and local establishments would offer green beer and special baked goods. There was speculation that some green beer might still be available on the official St Patrick’s Day itself. On the political front, the ANZUS debate in Australia faced confusion as Senator Jim Short clarified that a letter mentioned by leader Andrew Peacock had been misattributed to him rather than Prime Minister Bob Hawke. A remark from the Labour benches met his explanation with derision. Lastly, the Canterbury Aged People's Welfare Council continued its initiative to engage elderly residents, offering scenic drives and afternoon tea outings in a mini-bus. The council appealed for community support to provide afternoon tea for the participants. In a lighter note, a story from Sydney's "gay mardi gras" presented a humorous encounter between a transvestite and a young man, illustrating unexpected connections within the diverse community.

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