Communities come in all shapes and sizes. They gather for all kinds of reasons.
Here in Ashburton (or Ashy as the locals say it) is one such place – where not just one community meets, but a multiplicity of communities. This little building associated with St Matthew's Anglican Church plays host to many communities – not just the Malayalam community (Melbourne CSI Church) but to the Tai Chi group, those who love line dancing and even to Ashburton's landmark kebab food truck.
And to that list of hosting activities, it now hosts a geocache!
This church is unique in that it believes in keeping its doors open 24/7. This means that if you want to check out the artistic handiwork (in the form of a cross in timber and mosaic) by a local Ashwood lady who has since passed on, you may do so. There is also a healing shrine in one corner that anyone can visit. The banner is a one of a kind which was handmade in India some years ago. Or if you just want a quiet space to contemplate and reflect, this place can be yours – unless it’s already booked out by one of the other users of the place.
Now about this cache, if you can solve the poem below you’ll be able to turn this into a very quick find. Otherwise, you’ll have to find it the usual way. But do be mindful of the plants. Please replace the cache after you have signed it. And as per geocaching etiquette, please do share about your adventures but avoid leaving clues that could spoil other geocacher's fun.
This cache is right beside the footpath – but there are many creative ways to dispel the suspicion of muggles which involve being very preoccupied with one’s phone I have discovered. The minister is well aware of this cache, so don’t mind him. He helped me with the spot actually.
Ashy’s mates
by Cherryslice88
Knock knock
Who’s there I asked
While looking at the clock
It’s me Ashy
Your matey friend
Who’s really not very flashy
Come in my friend
Said I as I opened the door
Welcome and warm greetings I send
A cuppa or two?
I queried my friend Ashy
Who has one blue shoe
Why one you ask?
Cos the other is green
Like a masquerade mask
Say my friend,
Yes, please tea will do.
Also, would you an ear do lend?
Pray tell what you like
Black, white with sugar
With tea after your hike?
White one sugar
Fine for me today
A while I will linger
My eyes are all the wetter
For a tale I have to confide
About my lost Irish Setter
He loved his Setter
I knew this much I did
His Setter which used to find his sweater
Which often did get lost
Like some odd sock
Hanging off a ________
On summer’s day in Jan
Swinging in the breeze
Like a mad toucan
Come my good _______
Finish your tea and we will find
This Setter of yours with the tan.
A good story ends with joy
And this one too
What sweet relief ‘twas to find his dear boy
The tan Irish Setter
Who finds his often lost sweater