Rotary gift a new high for rescue chopper

Community services committee chairman John Roil, Hastings Karamu Rotary Club president Nick Story, and Hawke's Bay Rescue Helicopter Trust trustee Phil Hocquard at last night's celebration. Photo / Duncan Brown

Fundraising soared to new heights last night, with $94,000 given to the life-saving Hawke's Bay Rescue Helicopter Trust.

Held at 1024 restaurant last night, applause rang out as the Hastings Karamu Rotary Club presented a $94,000 cheque to the trust, operators of the Lowe Corporation Rescue Helicopter Service.

It was fitting that there was a record amount of funds raised at the trust's annual cocktail party event in April, as this year marks the 25th anniversary of the club's fundraising efforts for the trust.

Hastings Karamu Rotary Club president Nick Story said their $94,000 contribution was almost a 30 per cent increase from 2015, bringing the total contribution made by the club over the 25 years to over $1.2 million.

"We all know the critical role the Rescue Helicopter plays in our community and our members are passionate about ensuring it continues to fly high in the sky and provide its much-needed and greatly valued service," Mr Story said.

The Hawke's Bay Rescue Helicopter Trust general manager Ian Wilmot said the large contribution was significant, and they were incredibly grateful to the club for its ongoing support.

"Every year the Rescue Helicopter carries out approximately 300 missions which include rescue as well as transportation of patients so it plays a vital role in our community. Funding for the running costs of the helicopter is paramount as we need to raise $1.3 million every year so the club's contribution is greatly appreciated," Mr Wilmot said.

The cheque was not the only cause for celebration - the club also presented the prestigious Rotary Paul Harris Fellowship award to respected community figure Kevin Atkinson.

The award is Rotary's highest, and has only been given to two other Hawke's Bay residents since 2000. Mr Atkinson is chairman of Unison Networks Ltd, chairman of the Hawke's Bay District Health Board, and a director of the Hawke's Bay Rugby Union.