Masterton and Featherston Fire Stations have raised a combined $7,224 for Leukaemia and Blood Cancer New Zealand as part of an annual nationwide fundraiser by fire stations that also includes the twentieth annual Sky Tower challenge.
This event involves firefighters climbing over 50 stories of stairs in the iconic Auckland building while wearing their full firefighting gear and equipment.
Senior firefighter Niamh McNamara said the Featherston Fire Station has got in behind the fundraiser and climb for several years, and is sending a group of six to Auckland for the arduous event.
“Various members in the brigade have had family members who have used the services of Leukaemia and Blood Cancer New Zealand,” McNamara said.
“We know the amazing work that they do, and we just really support it.
“For the firefighters, there is also that competitive element to climbing the tower.”
The Wairarapa brigades have staged a number of fundraising events, including sausage sizzles and a pub quiz, that McNamara said have gone well.
The local knitting club also donated a knitted dragon that was auctioned off for $500.
Six firefighters from Masterton Fire Station will also be participating in the Sky Tower challenge, including volunteer firefighter Alicia Lenz, who said it’s a great cause and a good opportunity to do some training.
“We have been going to our friends and family, who have been quite generous,” she said.
“We are also looking at sitting outside some business with donation buckets.”
Currently, a total of $1.2 million has been raised by fire brigades nationwide.
The Sky Tower challenge is being held on Saturday, May 18.
