New book - Cannibals, Crocodiles and Cassowaries
Now in his 70s, Ross Lockyer spent much of his life living and working in the forestry and logging industry in remote locations in the Pacific and Asia (Papua New Guinea, Irian Jaya/West Papua, Borneo, Sumatra, Burma and more). With a gung-ho approach to life (and his own safety), Ross threw himself into his work and immersed himself in the local culture and communities wherever he went, learning the languages and customs that helped him fit in and do his job. He had many hair-raising adventures and close scrapes, and he encountered many amazing people wherever he went. This book is about Ross's time in pre-independence Papua New Guinea (1967-73) and captures a particular time in history when real adventure was still possible, and a young man's attitude made those adventures happen. His retelling is as fresh as if it happened yesterday and there is never a dull moment. The book includes some 60 coloured photographs from Ross's vast collection, which richly illustrate his writing.
Sample review from Brent.
A thoroughly enjoyable read written in a warm intimate kiwi style (often humorous) that really draws you in to Ross’s experiences. At times I felt like I was there with him facing the myriad of challenges, joys, hardships and fun of a kiwi bushman's life in late 60’s PNG. What’s so great about this story is that it’s equal part personal experience, PNG people & culture, environment and nature and Ross’s work life in forestry. It’s told from the kiwi bloke adventurer perspective in language that’s easily relatable - although very informative, it doesn’t come off as academic ‘study’ of PNG. On the contrary it strikes a great blend of personal recounts, observation and information based on the context of the events. This is an inspiring tale, especially in a modern age where we’re overly tempted to take the easy route and live vicariously through digital domains such as social media - this will light a spark in every youngster to get out there and LIVE!
Riddle Alert! Who’s Up for Some Brain-Busting Fun?
4-letter word, always done tomorrow,
We’re out of tea, the ultimate sorrow!
Without the eye, you owe me some money,
No sugar no nectar no sweetness no honey,
4-letter word, if by chance you choose,
You can never win, you can only lose!
What is the 4-letter word?
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Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.
When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?
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82.4% Yes
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14.9% No
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2.7% Other - I'll share below
Live Q&A: Garden maintenance with Crewcut
This Wednesday, we're having another Neighbourly Q&A session. This time with John Bracewell from Crewcut.
John Bracewell, former Black Caps coach turned Franchisee Development Manager and currently the face of Crewcut’s #Movember campaign, knows a thing or two about keeping the grass looking sharp—whether it’s on a cricket pitch or in your backyard!
As a seasoned Crewcut franchisee, John is excited to answer your lawn and gardening questions. After years of perfecting the greens on the field, he's ready to share tips on how to knock your garden out of the park. Let's just say he’s as passionate about lush lawns as he is about a good game of cricket!
John is happy to answer questions about lawn mowing, tree/hedge trimming, tidying your garden, ride on mowing, you name it! He'll be online on Wednesday, 27th of November to answer them all.
Share your question below now ⬇️