On January 22nd 2015 the new equipment garage was officially opened celebrated with a BBQ and drinks after Summer Runners.
President Bill Hunter welcomed everyone to the event. Special mention of welcome to present Life Members, representatives of Versatile Homes and Buildings Blenheim, Smart Alliances, Simcox Construction, Rick May and ITM, Marlborough District Council, Scouts and Guides.
Project Convenor then gave a brief history of storage of equipment at members homes etc and the Committee thought it was time we had everything together. Now the trailer is parked in the garage, loaded with only the equipment we need for individual events and returned. Club records will also be stored in shelving provided.
The garage was opened debt free with the assistance of sponsors plus:
>Marlborough District Council grant $10,000 plus accrued interest given to the Club when we existed the old building of Marlborough Civil Defence.
> Redwood Trust $5,000.
>Pelorus Trust $5,000.
Sponsors of the garage are:-
>Versatile Homes and Buildings, Blenheim
> Simcox Construction – for the drainage and soak pit
>Smart Alliances – Kenneth Leach for the ground testing and soak pit design
>Rick May & ITM for Brackets and timber for shelves inside the Garage
Other helpers who went above and beyond :
> Other users of Churchward Park for their co-operation.
> Stephen Folster at APL properties – always helpful and approachable, told me who to approach at council about the waiver of the building consent fees
> Lynne Reeves at the Council who organised the consent fee wavier – no problem at all, an e mail did the trick, easiest thing I’ve had to organise at the council.
> Paul Gunningham – organising Simcox for the drainage etc
> Allison Blackmore for all her sterling effort with funding etc.
> Those involved with working bees at the Garage. Bill, Julie, Peter, Paul, Cameron, Megan, Allister Leach
> All club members who have participated in Marshalling for events to help with funding (e.g. Marlborough Marathon)
The Marlborough Harrier Club committee for having the faith to just do it.
This facility is well positioned and will be a valuable asset to the Club.
