February 22nd, 2011, just before 1pm, the devastating quake hit Christchurch. SeniorNet Mac Incorporated, Christchurch was having a meeting when it happened and there was an immediate move to get outside. Joe Adams told me that within minutes the liquefaction was appearing through the grass.
Almost three years later the devastation is still clear throughout the centre of the city, but things are moving - at least in some places. At the very least, a large-scale rebuilding of hundreds of kilometres of damaged sewer-lines is taking place - there are many not-so-visible problems that have to be solved alongside the very visible issues.
Also moving very positively is the most active Mac group in the country, the Apple-centric group of 'aged 50 or better' SeniorNet Mac members. Founded in December 2000 by Allan Rutherford and several others, with the assistance of Murray Wood, then owner of Magnum Mac and Natcoll, and co-owner of Christchurch Television. Wood was on the board of Renaissance Corporation after he sold Magnum Mac (which became Yoobee) and Natcoll to the then-Apple distributor, but tragically lost his life in the CTV building collapse during the aforementioned February quake. Murray was a foundation member of the society, supplying its first Learning Centre Macs, and was patron from 2001.
SeniorNet Mac Christchurch started with two priorities: monthly social engagement for all members, and a fixed space as a Learning Centre.
Founder and now vice president Allan Rutherford received a Civic Award from Mayor Bob Parker in 2010 for services to Adult Education and Computer Literacy. He had realised straight away that it was the social element that would knit the group together. Therefore, ever since, very social meetings have been held on the 4th Tuesday of every month, excluding December and January, from 1.15pm to 3pm. This time bracket was picked so the many grandparents involved can pick grandchildren up from schools if need be. Guest speakers entertain each meeting - they are usually professionals and subjects can cover a wide variety of topics not necessarily Apple-related. Recently, Police dog handlers presented a session, and in mid year cinematographer Gerard Smyth had the honour, as did Rachel McNutt from Canterbury/West Coast Air Rescue Trust.