Clive Bibby: Country Calendar – a jewel in the crown

As a semi retired farmer used to long days and sleepless nights looking after the livestock and crops grown on the property, recent episodes of the Country Calendar TV programme show just why we keep coming back for more hardship and heartache when the easy thing to do would be to take time out and enjoy watching the All Blacks on the other channel.

Of course I am speaking metaphorically but most of us are committed to doing both. However, it takes more than a rugby match to convince people like me that time is up.

Clive Bibby: Rib tickling yarns

Perhaps it is no surprise that, having been a farmer for most of my life, I would appreciate the earthy comments made by rural folk on matters such as what goes on in the corridors where the highest level decisions are made that affect us all. 

I have always had the greatest admiration for those who battle the elements and the bank manager at the same time yet never expect a simple " thank you" from those who benefit from their labours - which is just about the whole population of this blessed country.