Chairman Martyn was with us, but is on light duties as he not only recovers from a knee injury but also a recent stroke. We look forward to Martyn returning to full health soon.
Fire Station
Phil Muldoon brought us up to speed with progress on the new station. Plans and finance are in place. Now waiting on the resource consent process.
It is very comforting to know that we have such a highly regarded 1st response team right here in Okareka should we need them.
Camps
Tod Atkinson has finished up in his role as host and maintenance man at the camps. We thank Tod for the great job he has done.
Jack Weston has taken over the hosting role following on from the excellent job brother Paddy did last summer.
Boyes Beach toilets & Acacia Road boat ramp
Rotorua Lakes Council have put these projects out for tender. Work expected to start in Feb.
Water Quality
LOCA has formally supported Lakes Water Quality Society’s submission to regional council on the Proposed Pest Management Plan. In particular the submission calls for”Every boat entering any of the Rotorua lakes to certify that the skipper has Checked, Flushed, Drained & Cleaned his boat, trailer& associated equipment”.
If adopted this may be seen by some as an added inconvenience. However it is vital if we are serious about preventing catfish and other pests entering our lakes.
Predator Free Okareka
Fifteen humane rat traps in safety tunnels have been deployed in October. We would like to see more backyard trapping happening to give our native birds a better chance.
These heavily subsidised rat and possum traps can be ordered simply by emailing predatorfreeokareka@gmail.com. We will deliver to you.
Dogs on the DOC track.
A number of residents have enquired about allowing dog access on the Boyes Beach -DOC camp track. DOC has reiterated its policy of no dogs on this track. This is unlikely to change in the foreseeable future.
Security
Over the last few months there have been a number of burglaries in the district. Please be security conscious and neighbourhood watchers.
There has also been a report of inappropriate soliciting behaviour displayed to a backpacker. Please lookout for each other and visitors to the area.
It is recommended that we report inappropriate behaviour like this to the Police.
Summer is nearly here
While we have had some cooler mornings recently with a couple of light frosts, lake water temp is increasing and the days are getting longer which means summer is on its way. Okareka is a great place to enjoy it.
Community Christmas - 6pm Friday 7th December at the Lake Okareka Hall
Colin Jackson
Acting Chairman for Martyn