Fundraising for a new $2 million playground at Caroline Bay has received a $100,000 boost. Trust Aoraki has granted the CPlay committee its biggest single donation so far, in a welcome boost to the voluntary group’s fundraising efforts...

May 6, 2021. Claire Allison. Timaru Courier

Fundraising for a new $2 million playground at Caroline Bay has received a $100,000 boost.

Trust Aoraki has granted the CPlay committee its biggest single donation so far, in a welcome boost to the voluntary group’s fundraising efforts.

Trust community and compliance co-ordinator Linda Kenny said it had heard from the CPlay committee, and felt the project suited the trust’s philosophy of 100% local and helping the community, particularly families in the area.

“It’s great to be part of this community project.”

Trust chief operating officer Jason Williamson said that while it had venues in the Mackenzie district and North Canterbury, much of its funding came from Timaru, so it had a strong Timaru and South Canterbury focus.

“And it won’t just be the Timaru urban people using this facility will be everybody in South Canterbury, and people from outside of South Canterbury will be wanting to come and give it a go.”

CPlay committee member Owen Jackson said the committee was rapt with the donation.

“We’re so grateful the trust has chosen to support us, and support a place that allows the community to play, learn and connect.

“We’re hoping this will inspire other community groups to get in behind the project,” Mr Jackson said.

The committee has engaged Whanganui firm The Playground Centre to begin design work for a play space that will tell Timaru’s story and allow all children, including those with special needs or disabilities, to play.

Committee member Chris Fauth said the playground would also provide easy access for caregivers, including parents and grandparents.

If fundraising goes well, the committee hopes to be in a position to open the new playground early next year.

Trust Aoraki recently completed its biggest funding round to date, distributing a total of $625,717.

Other major grants were.

• The Fraser Park Community Trust, $100,000 to assist with the new multi-sport facility.
• The Temuka Historical Society, $75,000 to assist with restoration and strengthening of the historic museum building.

Other community groups to receive assistance were.

• Swimming New Zealand, for pool hire South Island Secondary School Championships.
• Cystic Fibrosis New Zealand, for materials for nebulisers.
• Te Aitarakihi Trust, for classroom relocation and refurbishment.
• Pleasant Point Football, for playing uniforms and equipment for junior teams.
• The Mackenzie Book and Art Society, for travel/accommodation for authors and artists.
• Twizel Kindergarten, to assist with procuring speaker for parenting seminar.
• The Geraldine Bowling Club, for children’s bowls, to assist with participation.