Renewed efforts to highlight the value of the godwits

September 14th, 2015
[by David Armstrong]

The late Pauline Samways (photo by Dave Samways)

The Friends of Motueka Estuary (FOME) are bouncing back from mourning the loss of foundation member Pauline Samways with renewed efforts to highlight the importance of the Motueka godwits (kuaka).

Pauline Samways passed away a few weeks ago after a long battle with cancer. As a highly respected local ornithologist she was "an inspiration and pivotal instigator of much of what we do for the godwits, and her loss with be significant to the group both emotionally and professionally", says FOME spokeswoman Dana Wensley.

Dana has built a website which she hopes will be the 'go to' point for the godwits, and be a means of connecting with the community, not just about the annual festival to celebrate the arrival of the godwits but also about the need to preserve the sand-spit.

Pauline's health issues meant the celebration event did not take place this spring, and most of the godwits have already arrived. But the group is planning a celebration on November 15th or 29th.

Activities will include an essay competition and quiz for the schools as Pauline instigated. Other details will be published on the .

On 2nd November to 14th November FOME will be running a display in the Motueka Library. This will contain Pauline's photos and educational material of life on the estuary with a focus on the godwits.

"Pauline's legacy to us is huge, and her husband has delivered her photos and work so it is quite large footsteps to follow," says Dana.

FOME has a new active member, Fay Bolt, who has written a beautiful e-book on birds of the estuary. St Peter Chanel School is keen to be involved some more. They wrote the book 'Never Ending Summer'.

Dana says Hamihi Duncan, Head of Maori Studies at Motueka High School, is also keen. He was involved with the farewell in March and his input is significant since FOME want to involve local iwi if possible.

Beth Bryant, a founding member along with Pauline, is continuing on to provide all her knowledge and support. This year she is putting together an exciting range of children's activities for the day and well as providing advice and assistance with everything else.

Beth reported that the first godwits flew in the Friday before Pauline's funeral, which was very fitting.

FOME would welcome any new members or people who would like to help with the godwits celebration. They can be contacted through the new website, .

>> , to be added to the page. [If this link doesn't work, use this form instead]

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