A plan for a mobile communications and management centre by North Otago Search and Rescue has been given a major boost with a $20,000 grant from the Meridian Energy Waitaki Community Fund.
The grant is the biggest in the latest round made from the fund and marks the start of major fundraising by North Otago SAR for the truck-based, mobile centre.
The aim is to build and outfit a vehicle as a mobile headquarters, not only for search and rescue throughout North Otago, but for other uses ranging from road safety to events.
North Otago SAR chairman Tony Wood said discussions had also been held with the Waitaki District Council about the mobile centre being used for Civil Defence.
The grant is subject to all funds being raised for the project and some other conditions, including it being available to Omarama SAR and for searches in the Waitaki Valley.
The vehicle, which could cost up to $150,000, would be fitted out with a communications room with radios, a management room and other equipment to ensure it has a broad range of uses.
"The first grant is a catalyst to start fundraising in earnest. It will provide the momentum and enthusiasm for fundraising next year," Mr Wood said.
The $20,000 grant is one of more than $80,000 distributed in the latest round from the Meridian fund, administered by a panel of company and community representatives. Included was $8000 to the Omarama Residents Association to help buy a radio transmitter to replace damaged equipment on Cloud Hill.
Association committee member Richard Subtil said the community had been unable to tune into any national stations for about a year after the transmitter was damaged by a storm.
Fund chairman Neal Barclay said the nine projects supported would deliver direct benefit to the wider Waitaki community.
Meridian established the fund to support long-term sustainable community development, with about $1.7 million distributed in the last five years.
Other grants were:
Duntroon School $18,142 (shade sail, seating and toilet for its pool); Lower Waitaki Golf Club $10,000 (new rough mower); Kurow Bowling Club $6500 (new greens roller); Haldon Correspondence Unit $6000 (notebook computers for pupils); Ikawai Community Hall $5400 (replace temporary with permanent fencing); Papakaio Community Group $3991 (defibrillator); Lower Waitaki Playcentre $3000 (new vinyl flooring).
