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The Rodney Life Education Trust trailer, believed to be the oldest of the organisation’s 44-strong fleet, was vandalised recently, but there was an unexpected upside.
The charitable trust, well known for its mascot Harold the Giraffe, spreads messages about leading healthy lives to students nationwide. As well as nutrition and the body, the lessons tackle issues such as alcohol, drugs, bullying and stress.
Its mobile classroom is kept in the grounds of Kingsway School in Red Beach. Life Education Trust Rodney chair, John Davies says sometime over the weekend of September 28 and 29, thieves stripped off all the lighting for indicators, brakes and sidelights.
“They took every external light they could reach – even the lights for the number plate,” John says. “It’s simply a mean spirited, nasty act against a charity.”
Repairs, estimated to cost around $700-$800, were covered by insurance.
However, John says that following Hibiscus Matters’ story about the incident, which was posted on Facebook soon after the theft occurred, a couple of locals stepped forward to help.
Eddie Grooten, managing director of Dad’s Pies in Silverdale, gave a donation of $750 and a private individual gave a further $500.
“The incident really angered people and prompted this generous response,” John says. “We are very grateful for the support.”
John says that the money will go towards much-needed repairs on the ageing trailer’s suspension.
These are essential if the vehicle is to pass its next WOF, and are expected to cost around $2500.
If anyone has any information that could lead to the people responsible for the vandalism, contact Orewa Police.
