Fundraising for surf lifesaving clubs
FIVE Otago surf lifesaving clubs will soon receive important equipment and related funds, thanks to a $25,000 donation by a Dunedin business.
The Harbour Fish ‘‘Oyster Bash’’ and an associated auction at Vault 21 restaurant in the Octagon, in midMarch, helped raise funds for the St Clair, St Kilda, Brighton, Warrington and Kaka Point clubs.
Harbour Fish manager Aaron Cooper, of Dunedin, a former lifeguard at Warrington, said Otago surf lifesavers had had a ‘‘big summer’’, and he had wanted to show support.
The bash had been running annually for about six years, at several venues, and had previously supported other charities, he said.
Vault 21 owner Andre Shi, who surfs regularly at St Clair Beach, said he had also been keen to provide support for surf lifesavers this year.
Surf LifeSaving New Zealand southern region (South Island) manager Stu Bryce, of Christchurch, praised the event organisers and supporters.
‘‘It’s really good that other people in the community are thinking about what the [lifesaving] groups have done.
‘‘It’s a great effort by the community to step up’’ and to help ensure there would be ‘‘lifeguards between the flags’’ next summer.
There would be more money for flippers, rescue tubes, radios and firstaid kits.