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Kawau Volunteer Coastguard is one step closer to replacing its current vessel after receiving $25,000 from Leigh Fish last month. But president Paul Steinkamp says the team still has a long way to go.
“Over the last 15 years our current vessel has saved many people who otherwise would not be here today and has also provided support for emergency services on Kawau Island,” Steinkamp says.
“It has been out in some significantly bad weather over that time and has completed more than 100 rescues a year. But it’s nearing the end of its life as a Coastguard vessel.”
Steinkamp estimates that it will cost close to $1.2 million to replace.
“The new surveyed vessel will be built to Maritime New Zealand safety standards with a full set of electronic navigation and radar equipment, as well as equipment such as stretcher, oxygen, and various first aid equipment that you would expect for a first responder.”
So far, the volunteers have raised $350,000, which has been matched dollar-for-dollar by a Coastguard NZ commitment.
As well as Leigh Fish and the Rodney Health Charitable Trust, donations and support have come from Rotary, New World, Masons Contracting and Masons Containers.
Steinkamp says the target over the next 12 to 18 months is to achieve another $350,000 from the community and then lastly, monies from the sale of the current boat.
“We will also be approaching various charitable organisations with the help of Coastguard NZ.
“We are very grateful to Leigh Fish for their community spirit and support, and hope their donation will act as an example to other local businesses who might like to also support such an important local service.”
Significant contributors will be offered signage on the boat or a corporate team building event.
“Another item that people might like to think about is the naming rights for the boat.”
For more information on how to support Kawau Coastguard, contact Paul Steinkamp at paul.steinkamp@coastguard.nz
