Supporting Kawau

Representatives from OPAK, the Volunteer Coastguard, Camp Bentzon and Kawau Emergency Rescue Trust, with Cr Penny Webster and Rodney Local Board member Greg Sayers.

Three worthy initiatives close to the hearts of Kawau islanders have benefited from a share of  $18,000 raised from the sell-out Music in the Gardens concert held in February.This year, the Volunteer Coastguard, Camp Bentzon and Kawau Emergency Rescue Trust all received an equal share.

Councillor Penny Webster presented the cheques at the Kawau Boating Club last month.

“I love handing out cash,” Cr Webster said. “Especially when its not ratepayers’ cash! This is another great example of our local community raising money for good causes.”

The event is organised by Organisations Passionate About Kawau ( OPAK) and will help Camp Bentzon provide two new sailing dinghies for the 2000 children that attend the camp every year.

The funds received by the island’s Emergency Rescue Trust will go towards training locals in first aid and ensure enough equipment is available to help in an emergency.

Event organiser Lin Pardey is already planning next year’s event, which will be held on February 18.