Drivethrough mass vaccination at freezing works

A SOUTH Otago business is chipping in to help the fight against Covid19.

Silver Fern Farms Finegand freezing works, near Balclutha, has organised a drivethrough mass vaccination event at its car park on Saturday.

Plant manager Silvio Tenci said Silver Fern Farms saw the benefit in having as much of the population vaccinated as possible, following its experiences during lockdown.

‘‘As a business we’ve successfully navigated through two Level 4 lockdowns. Given we’re embedded in the local community down here, we see a clear benefit in not only having as many of our staff as possible vaccinated, but also the wider population in which they live with their families.’’

He said the event was open to everyone on a firstcomefirstserved basis, and no priority was being given to the firm’s workers.

Medical staff and volunteers from Te Kaika medical practice in Dunedin would conduct the vaccinations, with the support of Silver Fern Farms staff and infrastructure.

‘‘We were very impressed with Te Kaika’s recent Edgar Centre event serving the Pasifika community, and that inspired us to ask for their help.

‘‘They’ve been amazing to work with throughout.’’

He said local provider Clutha Health First had also been considered, but was limited in its capacity.

‘‘It’s just the sheer volume we’re targeting. We’d like to see all 1000 of our vaccines administered on Saturday.’’

The event will take place at Finegand’s Yorston Rd car park, from 9am to 4pm.