BB patrol
Reports of a BB gun being waved around in public saw police officers called to Solway in Masterton on Wednesday afternoon. Police confirmed the gun had not been fired and there were no reports of injuries. Police officers spoke with those involved.
Goat cull
The Remutaka Hill Road may be closed between 9.30am-10.30am on Monday as part of the Department of Conservation’s [DOC] goat control mission. “This operation aims to reduce the risk of feral goats causing an accident on the road,” DOC stated. “This aerial operation can only be completed in good weather, so we are unable to provide specific road closure dates.” DOC said people should avoid travelling on the Remutaka Hill Rd during these times to avoid delays. The Remutaka Forest operation is part of DOC Wairarapa’s annual goat control programme, and is also undertaken in the Aorangi Forest Park, Tararua Forest Park, and Rewa Bush.
End of an era
After 57 years with the paper, Bush Telegraph editor Steve Carle is stepping down to take on a new role as the editor of the Whanganui Midweek. “My thanks go to readers, advertisers and the many contributors over the years that have made the Bush Telegraph the most-read media in the Tararua district.” Carle said he has a “deep affection” for the people of Tararua and the district. He said he began with the Bush Telegraph at 10 years old, sweeping around the printing press for half a crown [25 cents] per week. Carle said Leanne Warr will be the new editor of the Bush Telegraph.
Half-price fees
The SPCA is offering half-price adoption fees as it struggles with an onslaught of animals. The SPCA said the discount will be available from tomorrow until Friday, June 2. Across the nation, the SPCA has 20 per cent more animals in its care than at the same time last year, and centres are feeling overwhelmed by the numbers needing their help. In the past six months, almost 11,000 kittens came into SPCA’s care nationally. SPCA interim chief executive Robyn Kiddle said the SPCA only has limited resources “we can only bring in those vulnerable and injured animals where there is a safe capacity to do so”.