Council congratulates Barnes

Southland athlete Sarah Barnes has reached another pinnacle in her sporting career by being selected in Rowing New Zealand's elite squad for the world championships in Poland in August.

Barnes was selected in the women's quadruple scull and is moving to Cambridge to train with Harriet Austin, Louise Trappitt and Genevieve Armstrong, under coach Dick Tonks.

The resource management planner was farewelled by her Southland District Council workmates on Friday.

Chief executive David Adamson said her selection was well deserved as she was a hard worker and dedicated to her sport, whether it be rowing or netball. Barnes had been in the Southern Sting netball team previously.

"We will miss her but wish her every success in rowing," Mr Adamson said.

"Sarah certainly contributed to our organisation and it's sad to see a productive and valuable member of our staff leave.

"She is an outstanding sportswoman."

Barnes said she would miss the Council and Southland.

"But I am excited at the opportunities rowing for New Zealand will provide, such as going to Europe for the Worlds for two months.

 "There's a lot of work to be done, but I'm looking forward to seeing what I can do in training."

Barnes joins two other Southlanders in the 23-person squad, with Nathan Cohen combining with Matthew Trott in the men's heavy double scully and Storm Uru racing with Peter Taylor in the lightweight double scull.