Posted on 10 November 2023
The year’s NBS Rescue Helicopter Appeal has raised over $90,000 for the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter Trust.
The success of the appeal is thanks to the contributions from individuals, schools, businesses both big and small and the community who all recognise the importance of the rescue helicopter service and the life-saving work of the crew.
NBS branch teams played a central role in the success of the appeal having organised various fundraising activities, including quiz nights, a bingo night, a raffle, firewood sales, and sausage sizzles. Their enthusiasm for the cause which saw the teams deck out their branches in red, black and gold, raised over $10,000 of the total.
Other key contributors were Gibbons, who donated funds and the Roadside Grazing team in Murchison, who raised over $1,000 by donating proceeds from every cup of coffee sold during the month of October.
For the second year running, the community got behind the appeal by participating in the #NBS10for10 push-up challenge. All Black Ethan Blackadder, former professional boxer Shane Cameron, professional cyclist George Bennett, Jack Tame and people from all walks of life took up the challenge, completing their 10 press ups in the name of the NBS Rescue Helicopter Appeal.
Tony Cadigan, Chief Executive of NBS, expressed his delight at the success of the appeal, stating:
We are proud of the community's response to the NBS Rescue Helicopter Appeal. The funds raised will enable the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter service to continue their vital work, saving lives and providing critical medical assistance to those in need."
Paula Muddle, General Manager of the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter Trust, extended her gratitude to everyone who got involved and supported the appeal. She said, "We are incredibly grateful for the support we have received from our community. The funds raised will directly contribute to the life-saving work of our dedicated helicopter crew. Thank you for making a difference."