Otago Daily Times

Sewage, Scholarships & Smooth Pedals: A Fabulous Fable from South Dunedin!

From sewage woes to pedal power, discover the quirky happenings in South Dunedin that make local news an adventure!

In the quirky streets of South Dunedin, heavy rains have brought not only a flood of concerns but a literal flood of sewage onto the roads, turning some local businesses into unwilling water features. The latest downpour has had residents raising their eyebrows and their noses at the unpleasant sight, sparking discussions about the urgent need for improved infrastructure. Locals are rallying their voices, demanding accountability and action from the council, as big rains seem to make the sewage system throw in the towel more often than not. It’s a dunk tank of worry that no one ordered!

In brighter news, the weather doesn’t seem to have dampened the spirits of our community! A recent get-together organized by local organizations aimed at relieving 'weather stress' brought residents together to share laughs and local banter. United under a warm, albeit damp, tent, locals exchanged stories of personal drownings—of both things lost in floods and overzealous attempts at leaving home for a sunny outing. Sometimes a little laughter is just what the doctor ordered, especially when the doc is your friendly neighborhood newspaper!

In a push for local empowerment, University of Otago students, in partnership with Ignite Consultants, are putting their strengths together to promote scholarships for future scholars. This not-for-profit initiative is not only about facilitating financial support but about building connections and fostering growth in the community. With brains and hearts combined, these students are a shining example of how our youth can tackle local challenges while absorbing knowledge deeper than the local puddles!

And speaking of local heroes, the pedal-power show put on by Brendon “Maysie” May is one for the books! He peddled for eight hours straight at Strathallan Corner in Timaru last Friday, buoying his community’s spirits and raising funds for a good cause. Maysie’s impressive endurance not only helped churn out a worthy cause, but his zeal led to fun post-event chats about what you can accomplish with willpower and a bicycle.

Did you know South Dunedin is one of the most flood-prone areas in New Zealand, often dealing with the consequences of heavy rain? And as for Brendon May, his eight-hour sustainable cycling marathon isn't just charity work; it fit snugly into the broader movement of Kiwis prioritizing health and fitness while giving back. Talk about a win-win for heart, body, and community! Keep pedalling on, South Dunedin!