NZ Deer Cullers 50th Reunion

The reunion in Tuatapere, March 11-12-13, was a success on every level. In attendance around 160 people. I had a great time talking to everyone and interviewed several people over the weekend, for the Frank Erceg Project, and also for the upcoming article on the Deer Cullers 50th for NZ Outdoor Hunting magazine. To date, is to be published in their June/July issue. Will confirm this closer to time. Here are a some photos from the weekend.

   Saturday, we lunched at John & Helen O Brien's, Lake Hauroko. As you can see by the photo, lots of very interesting things to look at.

And on my way to the reunion...my bike took a beating, so I left it outside Pitches Store in Ophir.

Lake Monowai

Monowai River

On Sunday, we made a quick trip down to the bottom of the South Island, a few miles south of Tuatapere.

We passed through Mossburn, the venison processing capital of New Zealand, and at the diner, they make a mean cappuccino.

The cake was cut on the Saturday night by the president Dave Pratt. 

Bus trip into Lillburn Valley on the Saturday.

Outside the crib of the late Jock Murdoch

The woolshed built by Archie Clarke, on road to Lake Huaroko. Archie was an Internal Affairs culler. His historic hut built in 1941 named after him, still stands in Fiordland National Park.

It was a highlight to finally meet Allan Duncan, top tally deer culler, expert marksman of his era, a fine hunter and he went on to become a pilot in the venison export industry. 

Found this photo on the memorabilia table. Uncle Vic fourth from left, and Ron Scott whom I meet at the reunion. 

Old cullers sharing memories, I sat and shared a jug of beer with L to R: Stan Hammond, Fran Scott and friend and Ron Scott, as he is now.

On left, President of NZDC Inc. Dave Pratt, chatting with mates at the reunion.

Had a great time chatting with Alby Lewis, he knew Frank and we talked a bit about some of those times.

The NZDC Inc. Commemorative Badge.