Local emergency services have benefitted from funds raised from this year’s Wānaka A&P Foundation Winter Crop Competition.

Organised by the Rotary Club of Wānaka and sponsored by the Wānaka A&P Foundation, the 2025 competition, held in June, raised a total of $57,000.

Half that amount - $28,500 - has been donated to the Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter Trust, while the remaining $28,500 has been shared equally between the Tarras, Lake Hāwea, and Luggate fire brigades, which each received $9,500.

The brigades plan to use their funding for vital new equipment; the Wānaka and Luggate brigades will purchase generators to strengthen emergency resilience, and the Hāwea brigade will acquire a specialist mountain rescue stretcher.

Rotary Club of Wānaka President Marie Fitchett said the funds reflected the generosity and community spirit behind the competition.

“The support will help the Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter Trust continue its life-saving work across the lower South Island,” she said.

“Rotary is also delighted to support the great work our first responders do in the Upper Clutha.”

Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter Trust secretary/manager Vivienne Seaton said she was grateful for everyone involved and the donation would have a lasting impact.

“The support directly contributes to better patient outcomes through advanced training and new medical equipment,” she said.

“Our crews respond to over 2,000 missions every year across the lower South Island, and the backing of our rural communities ensures this world-class service remains available to anyone in need, 24/7.”

The Wānaka A&P Foundation is funded by the Upper Clutha A&P Society, and society chair Keith Cooper said the competition continues to bring people together for a good cause.

“It brings farmers together in a spirit of camaraderie and friendly rivalry while also raising funds for essential community services aligned with the purpose of the A&P Society” he said.

PHOTO: Supplied