14 June 2011

NZCT Contributes Towards The Greymouth Miners’ Memorial Centre

New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT) Chief Executive Mike Knell announced today that NZCT’s trustees have agreed in principle to contribute $800,000 towards the cost of building a Miners’ Memorial Centre in Greymouth.

Mr Knell confirmed that the funds will come from NZCT community equity and will not affect the level of funding forecast for distribution to grant recipients from other regions.

“NZCT is the largest funder of amateur sport in New Zealand, and our trustees were delighted that the memorial would have a sports focus,” says Mr Knell. “We want the people of the West Coast to know they have not been forgotten. The Miners’ Memorial Centre will provide on-going benefits to this community, while at the same time, recognising and respecting the miners who lost their lives. The events and sports centre will have a positive impact on the West Coast’s future generations.

“I’d like to acknowledge the NZCT venue operators who help us raise funds in their gaming lounges,” he says. “Without their hard work, NZCT would not be able to make such a significant contribution to this deserving project.”

The Miners’ Memorial Centre is expected to cost approximately $5.5 million. As well as the $800,000 from NZCT, the Government will be contributing $3.5m in the form of a Pike River Mine economic recovery package. The Grey District Council is currently in the process of consulting with the wider public on how it will raise funds to cover the shortfall – and what services and facilities the events and sports centre will provide.

Grey District Mayor, Tony Kokshoorn, welcomed today’s announcement of NZCT’s involvement:

“It not only takes us closer to the estimated contract price for the building but also, once again confirms the amazing support we have been given by wider New Zealand,” says Mayor Kokshoorn.

“I am absolutely enthusiastic about the project, and the social and economic benefits it will bring to our district and the wider region. No ratepayer funding will be needed for the project,” he says. “I would like to record heartfelt thanks to NZCT and look forward to working with the trust in the future.”
ENDS

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