Turoa safety claims challenged

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 10, Issue 478, 23 March 1993, Page 6

Turoa safety claims challenged

Turoa saffe? • How many years have I been reading now that Turoa Ski resort's evacuation and safety plan isn't finished yet, but nearing completion? Is there no requirement on Turoa, in its lease with the Department of Conservation to supply an up-to-date safety plan? If so, why hasn't the issue been forced and how long ago was the old plan done? My guess would be quite some time, making it totally useless to use in an emergency. Mr Grimwade, don't be complacent in your

statement that there 's been no major ' avalanches or deaths at Turoa since you've been there. Granted Turoa has had a reasonable record to date but perhaps more good luck than good management. You may be forced to eat those words as a new ski season unfolds soon. As to the five search and rescues you mention that "we found them all" that was with the help of DoC, Police, RARO, the local search

and rescue organisation and cost to the tax payer. Be responsible and a realist and don't pass the buck to the District Council regarding the evacuation plan of the road. You control the road in the winter, you supply the plan. What good are 3,000 plus skiers stranded at 5,000 feet altitude anyway? As to safety, well, let me tell you, you are already losing skiers to Whakapapa because

skiers perceive vou lack

it.

David

James,

wanganui.

Beauty pageant • I feel I owe it to the people of Raetihi to inform them that the establishing committee of the Raetihi Beauty pageant has been dissolved. It is evident to everyone through recent letters to the editor of the Bulletin that conflict has developed between the committee and contestants. I could try and explain all the problems and feel that everyone deserves an

explanation, but I would rather deal personally with anyone wishing to take the matter up further. Myself and the committee have tried our best to iron out controversy and understood the fears and communication problems that are inevitable in such situations. It has been to no avail. In a situation like this, there are no rights or wrongs in my eyes. I just want to keep the dignity of our pageant and feel, in the best interest of us all, that the 1993 pageant gets handed over to a new committee.

Trudy and Estelle are free to enter the Miss Taupo pageant on their own. Trudy has been awarded her prize of $250 to pay for her entry fee and accommodation. Estelle is to find her own sponsor. I wish both girls all the best and know that both girls have learnt a lot, if not about life in the fast lane, then about themselves. I want to thank Raetihi businessmen, the 78 contestants, their families and friends and every sporting organisation in Raetihi.

Donna

McGrath

on behalf of pageant committee Second beauty defends pageant • As Runner-up Miss Raetihi I would like to convey my sincere thanks to Donna McGrath, Karen Harrison and everybody who was involved with organising the Miss Raetihi pageant 1992. I appreciate the fact that these people put a lot of their free time, effort and resources into it. I feel this fact has been over-looked by a number of people in our community. The day itself was a huge success bringing everyone together. I feel every single contestant was a winner and they not only looked their best but showed the variety of talent in Raetihi. I'm sure there were some proud parents out there. One thing that saddens me a great deal is the unqualified criticism that has been directed against the committee and the_ pageant. It appears to me that if a person wishes to object to the way the pageant is being run, why hide behind a nom-de-plume? Like any other organisation the public have their chance to air their views or grievances through the proper channels: ie the committee. As 1992 was the first year of the pageant, it was expected there would be a few hiccups in some areas that would need improving. But the cruel and unfair accusations and criticism that has been aimed at the pageant has been detrimental to

the contestants, sponsors and the township of Raetihi. To all the girls who are thinking of entering future pageants, go for it. As well as gaining in confidence and self esteem you will get a lot of fun and enjoyment out of it. Don't let misleading letters affect your decision on entering this pageant. This is an annual event that Raetihi needs. As a town we're supposed to stick together, so let's do it.

Estelle

Jenkins,

Miss Runner-up Raetihi. Night Classes • Do the people in this area realize what Ruapehu College has to offer for night classes? Advertising is kept to a minimum with little indication of what can be done at the classes. The one that interests me, and I have been going for a number of years, is woodwork and metalwork, and last week only two people took part in spite of the fact there are 12 enrolments. Unless more people take part the class will be closed. Both the metalwork and woodwork rooms are fully equipped and all machinery and tools are available for our use and Laurie Knight is an excellent tutor. There is almost no limit to the projects that can be tackled. Over the years I have seen all of the following either made or repaired: Metal work; lawn mower, motor bike, car engine and chainsaw repairs, welding, many items from pony club, electric fence standards, garden tool repairs and a motorised radio aerial. Woodwork; doublebed, tables, cabinets, wood-boxes, toys, tapestry-making frame, picture frames, children's safety gate, chess board and book cases are but a few of the newly-made items. In the repair line chairs and stools are high on the list, plus toys, saucepan and jug lids - the list is endless. Woodturning is another option. With many people struggling to make ends meet surely $20 for the year is a cheap investTurn to page 13

Letter. From page 6 ment for doing odd repairs or making the children's toys for next Christmas. Think about j it, take action, with day- j light saving over by the j time you read this, the I evenings will be longer. j See you tonight (Tuesday ' 7pm) at the Metalwork j and Woodwork room.

Evelyn

Cooper.