Loo-py idea impresses judges

BY CLAIRE CONNELL

A holidaying Dutchman who created an environmentally friendly toilet and bath setup was one of many who sculptured sandcastle masterpieces at Whites Bay for the More FM Sandcastle Competition and Beach Dig.

The annual event attracted over 150 entries for the sandcastle competition yesterday.

Toilet creator Ruben Duinmeijer, of the Netherlands, in Marlborough for several months to manage Copper Beach Backpackers, said the competition made Whites Bay "just that little more special".

He and 10 friends arrived at 10am to begin work on an environmentally friendly toilet and bath creation.

The toilet was not placed but judges said it was a standout. A tuatara, a giant hand, a turtle and a lifesaving boat also attracted attention.

Mr Duinmeijer said the idea was when the toilet was used the contents would travel to the bath.

While not everyone would be as keen as Mr Duinmeijer to utilise the creation, he simply looked at it as "recycling".

Third time winner John Somers of Blenheim took out the title for best non-family creation, with his sculpture Lion Pride.

The Westpac banker arrived at Whites Bay at 8am to begin work on his sand art.

Regularly on hand with a water spritzer as well as a bucketful of tools, John said his key tips were "lots of water and lots of time". Mr Somers said he regularly comes out to Whites Bay with his family – wife Laura and 13-year-old son George.

Blenheim resident Kendyl McLean came out with a group of friends to take part in the competition.

"It's just something to do on a nice day – it's something for all the family."

The Gibney family of Blenheim spent about an hour creating a bumper car in the sand.

Brothers James, 10 and Joe, 9, said the best part of the day was making the car and playing at the beach.

Marine life was on the agenda for Phil Poyle and girlfriend Jenner Halcrow, who created four dolphins out of sand "just for fun".

More pictures page 14

- The Marlborough Express