Balfour School children were treated to the first reading of Linzi Keens book "Syd and Max Ride Around the Mountains" recently.  The book is based on Linzi & Jeff's son Syd and his friend Max biking on the new cycle trail in Northern Southland and tells the story of their adventure.  

Linzi also sketched all of the illustrations that were coloured by her Mum.

The children really enjoyed the book and had heaps of ideas for Syd and Max's next adventure! 
Congratulations Linzi ~ I know how much time and effort you have put into making this story come to life and you have done a brilliant job!

If you would like to purchase a copy this book please visit  http://sydandmaxbooks.com/.  

Rochelle

From the moment I first started my photography journey, I was determined to be the best I could.  Becoming a qualified member of the NZIPP (NZ Institute of Professional Photographers) was always in my sights and I am so proud to say I have made it!   

What does this mean?  A panel of judges have viewed a print submission and agreed my work is of a high professional standard.  I am now a master builder of photography if you like.  This qualification is not given for life, you must continue to show professional development and achievement in print awards thus giving my clients the assurance that when hiring me they are hiring a professional.

The process of applying for my Q was worse than any exam I have ever sat ~ the waiting was almost unbearable, I am so invested in being a part of this industry.  So I am very excited to share my submission with you and I would like to thank my clients who trust me to capture their moments . . .

A while back I entered a photo in a competition for the first edition of a new magazine being put out that celebrates the life and culture of Southland.  My photo was chosen as one of 4 winning images to be printed in the magazine.

I took this photo during harvest in March of this year.  My husband had just started harvesting a new paddock, and I asked him  to go around the edge and come back through middle for me.  This particular paddock is on a rolling hill, so I crouched down to remove any distractions in the horizon and got this shot

Here it is in the magazine

The magazine truly does capture the essence of what this province is all about. Here is a sneak peak from the recipe section featuring Matt, Head Chef at the Moth Restaurant in Mandeville with photographs taken by me.

Here are some photos from the launch at the Ascot Park Hotel, Invercargill on Friday night.

If you would like a copy of the magazine for at home, or for your clients to read in the waiting room you can get one from the outlets featured below, or you visit www.thelife.co.nz.

As is the case in many small rural communities, we have a great group of volunteer firefighters who give up their time to serve their community, so it is always great to see their contribution recognised.  Last night Stephen Black was awarded his Gold Star for 25 years service to the brigade and he has also recently taken over as Chief Fire Officer.  As my husband is  a volunteer we went along to the evening and I took my camera to capture this great milestone.

Stephen and Maree were pipped onto the stage by Peter Dillon, through a guard of honour from the Balfour Brigade.

Congratulations Stephen on your Gold Star!  It was a fantastic celebration of your service.