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The presentation of a cheque for $8000 to the HBC Youth Centre on March 22 was a big plus for the centre, but also for the wider community as it came with a special announcement from Ōrewa Lions Club.
The money was the $4000 proceeds of Ōrewa Lions’ 40th Big Dig, held in January, which the Lions doubled from their own funds and by sausage sizzling over summer. The HBC Youth Centre’s Suzanne Booth says it will be used to provide electronics, sports and café equipment upgrades, as well as work on vehicles and the youth centre’s building.
The Big Dig involves 500 or more children digging in the sand for prizes on Ōrewa Beach, with all funds raised going to local charities and Lions’ community projects.
Immediately after the 40th Big Dig, Ōrewa Lions predicted that it would be their last, as it is a huge effort for volunteers to put on, with relatively little money raised (HM January 23).
However, since then there has been a change of heart. Ōrewa Lions project coordinator, Helen Roderick, says when an event has been going for 40 years, it becomes more than just a fundraiser.
“Everyone enjoys it, and although we don’t get a lot of money from it, we have decided to keep it going for the community,” she says. “We think that’s the right thing to do for all involved and look forward to holding the next Big Dig in 2024.”
