Twister blows sand competition

Winner of the adult category, a beautifully crafted hibiscus flower by Debbie Hodgsen and Linky Te Whata.

Mangawhai’s tornado took a toll on an annual fundraiser, with turnout to the popular Sensational Sandsational competition much lower than normal. However, contestants still produced some creative and original sculptures including a beautiful hibiscus flower, a lifelike hippo, a variety of crafted turtles and a giant ‘poopsy’. Held at Mangawhai Heads Surf Beach on the rescheduled date of February 2, organisers Mangawhai’s Barfoot & Thompson and Mangawhai Lions say all proceeds will be donated to the Mangawhai tornado fund.

Sand comp organisers, from left, tractor operator Mark Bygrave, Lions members Chris Dixon and Gail Leach, Barfoot & Thompson husband-wife duo Marlene and Dennis Emsley with branch manager John Davy (blue shirt), and Lions Clive Hebben and Hilary Green.