New Rural Communities Trust Chair

New Rural Communities Trust Chair

14 November 2001 For Immediate Release New Rural Communities Trust Chair

The Rural Community Trust's recent annual general meeting confirmed Denis Hazlett as Chair. The retiring general manager of Pyne Gould Guinness, Mr Hazlett brings a lifetime of experience working with both rural communities and the corporate sector.

Mr Hazlett replaces Denis Marshall, QSO who will shortly take up a position with the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association in London. Mr Marshall has served on the Trust for two years.

The AGM also confirmed member representative trustees, re-electing Charlie Graham, of National Bank and electing Jane Bryden, of TransPower. Neil McKechnie, a trustee for 3 years, retired as representative from Farmers Mutual Group.

The Rural Communities Trust was established to give a measure of financial assistance to groups, families and individuals in rural areas who by virtue of their isolation would otherwise be disadvantaged.

In his annual report Mr Marshall highlighted a recent survey by Rural Women New Zealand which identified the lack of access to health services for rural people because of cost, availability and travel problems. Mr Marshall said the trust plays an important role in rural communities and continues to receive many more applications than it could fund. He welcomed Denis Hazlett's appointment as chairman and believed the trust was in capable hands and was now in a position to receive even more support from its members.

During the year ended 30 June 2001 the Trust made grants 14 families and 18 community groups, totalling $17,081.

For more information: Denis Hazlett Tel (03) 327 9444 or 025 321 292 Denis Marshall Tel 025 434 717

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