Plett bid to raise funds for firefighters
FROM a coffee table book to bumper stickers, Plettenberg Bay residents have come up with a number of innovative ways to raise funds for their firefighters.
A group, spearheaded by local KWIKSPAR owner Duncan Brown, has already raised more than R200 000 to buy equipment for what they say is a woefully under-funded operation.
Using a dormant NPO called the Plett People’s Purse, the group of businessmen yesterday launched a car bumper sticker, to be sold for R20, sporting the words #SoundtheCall.
A glossy coffee table book that will feature photographs of the devastation caused when fires ripped through the holiday town late last week is also in the offing.
“The committee that has been formed has identified as one of its prime objectives to concentrate on the needs of the firefighters, the real heroes over the past tragic days, to purchase and upgrade much-needed firefighting equipment and supplies,” Brown said.
He said many of the firefighters were volunteers who went out to fight fires in “slops and takkies”.
Brown said the aim was to raise about R1-million while also looking at preventative measures.
“We want to bring experts in to do a survey and give advice on preventative measures,” he said.
“They can train us and advise on fire breaks. We are looking to the future and this will continue [the fundraising].”
Those wanting to submit photographs for publication in the coffee table book can e-mail Brown on Duncan@duncanbrown.co.za