Already supporters of the Ashburton Fire Museum and Hato Hone St John, Ian and Rosalyn wanted to support another cause close to their hearts.
They gave an undisclosed sum to be used for the establishment of the Advance Ashburton Environment Fund.
Applications can come from organisations and individuals undertaking conservation, protection, restoration, regeneration, management, biodiversity, research and education.
When the Moores were looking to gift money, they thought Advance Ashburton Community Foundation would be the perfect fit.
"The money stays in the Mid Canterbury community and that was important to us," Ian said.
Farming is in the Moores’ blood, so providing the foundation funding was a natural choice for them.
Rosalyn was born in Rakaia with farming connections through her mother’s side. Ian was born into a farming family from Orton before the family moved to Willowby. His parents bought a sheep and cropping farm there which Ian and Rosalyn took over in 1976.
As caretakers of their land for more than 50 years, Ian and Rosalyn appreciated the need for farmers to ensure sustainability for future generations.
"Watching the growth of Advance Ashburton and attending functions over the years opened our eyes to a way we could support our community," Rosalyn said.
And it would be good to see the benefits of the donation in their lifetime.
“When we heard that Advance Ashburton planned to set up an environment fund, we knew that this would align with our wishes. We hope that this fund will allow successful applicants, young or old, to further their knowledge to benefit our environment for society in the future,” Ian said.
"By making the gift to Advance Ashburton we can assist a wide spectrum of people," Ian said.
Funding given to the foundation is invested and the interest used to provide grants. The amount of funds to be distributed is known at the end of each financial year.
Advance Ashburton Community Foundation executive officer Carolyn Clough was grateful for the Moores’ generosity, and welcomed the establishment of the new fund.
It would be open for applications from April 1, 2025.
"We had identified a gap in funding for the environment," Clough said.
• To find out more about the Advance Ashburton Environment Fund contact Advance Ashburton on 307-5902, office@advanceashburton.org.nz or call into the office at Somerset House Level 2/161 Burnett St, Ashburton.
