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Scott Simpson Coromandel MP |
I'm very glad my recent trip in an ambulance was just for dramatic effect. I was stretchered into a function by Katikati St John Ambulance staff to launch a fundraising campaign for their new building.
They need to raise $800,000 for a desperately-needed new ambulance station. At the launch we heard about their exciting and ambitious plans for Project 365, as it's known, and how they plan to raise the money in the next 365 days.
The building, near the fire station, will also serve as a base for civil defence. It'll be a modern home for a busy modern service. While my trip in the ambulance was staged, it's a clear reminder of how important this service is.
Katikati St John serves the township and surrounding areas. It's reassuring to thousands of people that highly trained ambulance crews are in Katikati if we need them in a medical emergency.
Katikati is a community where things get done, and where locals actively work to improve and promote their town and its causes.
So I wasn't surprised when fundraising organisers told me donations began to come in before the official fundraising launch.
In all of our communities in the Coromandel electorate we rely on friends and neighbours –and Katikati residents are proving this once again, by stepping up to help St John.
Those tasked with raising the money for the ambulance station have lots of plans. I wish them well. St John Ambulance is a fine organisation, staffed by skilled and dedicated people, many of whom are volunteers. They do excellent work and thoroughly deserve our support.
September countdown
Representing Coromandel in our Parliament is a privilege. It's a role I take very seriously and never for granted.
Time goes quickly and since being elected in 2011, I've worked hard every day to ensure Coromandel has a strong voice in Parliament and government.
With the September General Election looming closer and closer, and Parliament rising on July 31, I'll be working harder than ever to earn the privilege of once again representing Coromandel in the 51st elected Parliament.
Please never hesitate to get in touch if you have ideas or thoughts you'd like to share with me, or if you have an issue I may be able to assist with.