Auckland Deaf Society newsletter: May 2009

Some of the items featured in Auckland Deaf Society’s May 2009 newsletter:

Dennis Nathan, Patron of Auckland Deaf Society is featured in this month’s newsletter. He recounts his involvement with ‘Friends of the Deaf’ in the 1940s. They began fundraising via quick raffles to purchase premises where Deaf people could meet. Dennis recalls walking up and down K’Road wearing a sandwich board advertising the raffle tickets.
Judith and Farrell Cunniffe celebrate their 50th Golden Wedding anniversary.
Julie-Anne manages to catch a 75.3kg striped marlin.

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NZSL story – Taonga source: John Schischka

Fishing Fails: The Infamous ‘Crap Fishing of the Year’ Toilet Seat Trophy

Ever wondered about the meaning behind Auckland Deaf Fishing’s infamous ‘Crap Fishing of the Year’ toilet seat trophy? John Schischka reveals the story behind the quirky frog addition and hilariously recounts why Susan Hamilton, Doug Croskery, and Jonathan Anton earned the not-so-coveted award. From epic fishing fails to unforgettable moments, watch to find out what went wrong!

NZSL story – Taonga source: Doug Croskery

Doug’s Legendary Snapper Catch at Whangaparāoa

Doug won the Heaviest Snapper of the Year in 2005 with a 3.62kg catch, but his personal best came in 2006 with a massive 6.34kg snapper. He recalls the day clearly – a fishing trip out on Whangaparāoa where, after trying a few spots, they decided to try one more. That final stop paid off. Doug hauled in three huge fish that barely fit into his chilly box. The Deaf crew was amazed! Once weighed on land, the biggest snapper came in at 6.34kg. It was his best ‘fishing year’. Doug’s record stood unbeaten until 2019, when John caught a 6.50kg snapper.

NZSL story – Taonga source: Jonathan Anton

The ‘Crap Fishing’ Winner Who Let the Marlin Go!

Jonathan, proud winner of the ADS ‘Crap Fishing of the Year’ award in 2000 (and also the winner of the 'Best Man Angler of the Year' award in 2005!), looks back on his time with the club as full of laughs, good company, and weekend adventures. There were all sorts of fish, plenty of challenges and one unforgettable marlin! It happened on a charter boat where everyone took 30-minute turns on the rod. Jonathan just happened to be up when the marlin struck. Over an hour later, after a wild battle, he finally reeled it in. But seeing the marlin up close, he made the call to tag and release. No need for a trophy on the wall!

NZSL story – Taonga source: Colleen Norris

Why Auckland Deaf Netball Chose the Elephant as Its Mascot

Colleen shares the story behind the elephant mascot used by the Auckland Deaf netball team. The team often wore tops with an elephant symbol or brought an elephant soft toy to their games. She explains how the idea came about and why the elephant became a special symbol for the team.

NZSL story – Taonga source: Colleen Norris

A Night to Remember: ADS Netball Club’s Burlesque Fundraiser

Colleen shares a lively memory from 1976, when the Auckland Deaf Society netball club celebrated its first birthday with a fundraising event. To make the night more exciting, Doreen Powell suggested a burlesque-themed evening. The team went all in, with costumes and cheeky performances, and at one point, someone’s shoes even flew off mid-act. Colleen dressed as a red and white striped prostitute and remembers the night as brilliant and full of laughter.

NZSL story – Taonga source: Colleen Norris

From “Basketball” to Netball

Colleen started playing netball at the School for the Deaf, though it was still called basketball at the time. The term “netball” was just beginning to be used. After leaving school, she joined a hearing club where the old name stuck. When Jan Howard moved to Auckland from Australia, they agreed to put out an advertisement to form a Deaf team. The response was strong. Auckland’s team wore handmade uniforms. Teams also formed in Palmerston North and Christchurch, competing in the Deaf Sports Convention. Colleen later played in multiple Trans-Tasman Games and recalls the hard training, especially all the running.

NZSL story – Taonga source: Cecilia Waitohi

Hooked on the Spot!

Cecilia never planned to become a fisher. She just tagged along with her husband, William Waitohi, when the ADS Fishing Club was revived. Armed with a big book and no expectations, she settled in for a relaxing day – until William handed her a rod. One cast later, she was hooked! The book forgotten; the fish biting. The real surprise came when the Coastguard pulled up to their tiny boat and politely informed them they were fishing in a marine reserve. “What’s a marine reserve?” Cecilia asked, mortified.

NZSL story – Taonga source: Richard Hay

The Ultimate Boat for Deaf Fishers: Richard’s Journey from 5.5m to 43ft!

Richard shares the story of his first 5.5m boat, a favourite among the Auckland Deaf Fishing Club, with trips all over Auckland. But the real upgrade came later – a massive 43-foot ex-Navy longboat, perfect for overnight trips with space to sleep six comfortably. With its panoramic windows offering clear views in every direction, it was an ideal boat for Deaf fishers!