Mike Sanford

* Mark McLean awarded Leader of the Year at Cooperative Business NZ Awards. * SBS Bank surpasses industry growth rates under McLean’s three-year leadership. * Recognition highlights transformational growth and focus on cooperative values. Mark McLean, Group Chief Executive of SBS Bank, has been honoured as Leader of the Year at the

* SEPSCT to acquire full stakes in OtagoNet, Lakeland Network, and PowerNet operations. * Deal strengthens local control of infrastructure for Southland and Otago communities. * Operations will remain unchanged, ensuring continuity for regional electricity consumers. Southland Power Trust (SEPSCT) has announced its plan to take full ownership of OtagoNet Joint Venture, Lakeland

* Surrey Park Grandstand will undergo earthquake strengthening for safety and community use. * Construction starts mid-November, with completion expected by May 2025. * Improvements include a new roof and compliance with 34 percent earthquake standards. The Surrey Park Grandstand in Invercargill is set to receive significant upgrades as part of an earthquake

* A 14,000 square metre expansion will support advanced engine maintenance in Christchurch. * The project will create 200 skilled jobs and boost New Zealand's aviation capabilities. * Expansion will enable eco-friendly maintenance for next-generation GTF engines by 2026. The expansion, covering 14,000 square metres, will allow the centre

* The $87 million museum project officially began with a ceremonial sod-turning event. * Community support drove the council’s decision to fund and prioritise the museum build. * The museum will combine tactile and immersive digital exhibits, opening in late 2026. The next phase of work on the Museum of Southland was

* Daniel Whitehouse claimed the Bluff Hill stage in the SBS Bank Tour of Southland. * Josh Burnett extended his lead despite challenges, including a crash involving his teammate. * Weather conditions are set to worsen for the next stage from Invercargill to Gore. Daniel Whitehouse (Quality Foods Southland) seized the spotlight on

* Sixty-five Invercargill students receive ILT scholarships for tertiary studies in 2025. * Each scholarship provides $2,000 annually, supporting academic growth over three years. * ILT celebrates funding over 900 scholarships, valuing more than $5 million to date. Sixty-five Invercargill students have been awarded ILT Tertiary Scholarships, recognising their potential and supporting

* Southern delegation delivered a petition with 34,000 signatures to Parliament today. * Campaign leaders urge the Government to fulfil promises for the new hospital build. * Retrofitting or downscaling the hospital would increase costs and delay completion. The Save Our Southern Hospital campaign made a bold statement in Wellington today, as