North Otago Legends

Interview With Ele Ludermann

The highs and the lows have never stopped Ele Ludemann but the tough times have defined her and made her stronger. Ele is open and honest with Gary and I on the podcast and also shares her involvement within the community. Chatting with Ele today was good for the soul and helps you appreciate the many blessings we take for granted.

Interview With John MacDonald

How many people in their eighties can still play tennis three times per week? Well John MacDonald can and he still hits a few winners. John also talks about changes in the district after WW2 and what a young lad had to do to earn one shilling and what that would buy in town.

Interview With Russell Goodsir

Today we interviewed Russell Goodsir and recorded some important history of our district. Russell helped build the rail bridge across the Waitaki and worked on the Benmore dam. He has built the retaining walls around Oamaru and laid thousands of pavers for St Kevins drive. On top of all this he was a New Zealand tug-of-war champion and a keen fisherman. 

Interview With Graeme Clark (Clarkie The Sparkie)

If an event is happening in Oamaru there is every chance that Graeme Clark is involved behind the scenes somewhere. From Victorian heritage celebrations to the Penguin Club. Clarkie is the Chair of the ‘Whitestone Civic Trust’ that does a lot of great work preserving our heritage buildings for future generations. Find out what his favourite heritage building is and why.

Interview With Adair Craik

Heart of gold is how I would describe Adair Craik. Adair is a multi talented sports women and business leader in North Otago. She is not afraid to roll up her sleeves and get things done. A big part of her business is focused on non-profit organizations and a big part of her spare time is helping the next generation of athletics have all the opportunities available to them.

Interview With Jock Webster

Scientist, farmer, director, trustee and QSM, Jock Webster is a busy man in our community. In today’s podcast we talk about the many benefits that irrigation has brought to North Otago and the humble sunflower that has helped create a successful business. Jock is a family man and has passed onto his children a legacy that continues to bless the community.

Interview With Derek Beveridge

It’s Sergeant Beveridge.
Many young people have uttered the words ‘It’s Sergeant Beveridge’ over the last 36 years, some because they were on the wrong side of the law and others because it was Derek who believed in them and was there when they needed someone they could trust. Derek has helped more teenagers than he cares to remember, and North Otago is glad he did. Thanks Derek. 

Interview With Al Bell

Ko te joker e pai ana ki te ora (The joker who enjoys life)
He calls himself the class clown or joker but in truth Al Bell just loves life and doesn’t take it too seriously. Today’s podcast was a laugh and if Mr Bell taught you over the years you’ll know why. Al shares about teaching in the district and opens up about his art and why it’s a passion.  

Interview With Kristy Jennings

From ‘Beauty Queen’ to ‘Godzone’ 
Kristy Jennings (Wilson) shares with us where life can take you when you say yes. A truly remarkable story of opportunities and persistence, overcoming fears and pushing yourself to the limit. Kristy is humble in her achievements and still a proud North Otago girl.

Interview With Barry Wilson

A Businessman, hunter, and good bloke.
Today we set out to chat with Barry Wilson about hunting in North Otago but got so much more. Barry shares some history of the district when recounting his first job and we found out what it takes to create a wetland for the community to enjoy.