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| A group of supporters in front of '417' |
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| Rob Jenkins and DG Howard say 'a job well done' |
Today we gathered at Wellington Free Headquarters in Wellington for one thing. To celebrate the collaboration of all Zone 7b Districts in joining together to purchase an Ambulance for the Island of Taveuni. Members from the Petone Club as well as CEO Alan O'Beirne, Marketing Manager Ross Cameron, Ambulance Services Manager Rob Jenkins gathered to view the handover. Keys were exchanged for the cheque, but more importantly, appreciation was shown by both Wgtn Free and Rotary for the benefits of working together. Alan acknowledged the work of Rotary in the community and was proud that Wellington Free was part of this wonderful project - stating this was another step in cementing the relationship between the two community serving groups. It was only in July of last year that RI President Ray Klinginsmith was presenting a 'new' ambulance to the fleet as a result of a long term project from the Wellington based Clubs.
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| CEO Allan accepts payment in exchange for the keys! |
Its vehicle sign was '417' and it was originally assigned to Porirua Station in October 2001. It spent nearly 6 years responding to 111 calls. Rob estimated it had attended to in excess of 25,000 sick and injured Wellingtonians during its operational life - quite a distinguished career you might say. In 2007 the vehicle was retired from front line duty and was assigned to the community outreach programme, visiting schools. In 2009 417 was assigned to the new 'event medical unit' and went from visiting schools to attending rock concerts and the Rugby Sevens!And so now '417' is ready for it's next tour of duty - Taveuni Island. As Rob says, it will continue to provide years of reliable ambulance service.
I acknowledge the support provided by the other five Districts in making this possible - and thanks to Michael, AG Scott and Presidnet Pam from Petone.
Truly this has been a project that has
built communities and bridged continents!
