$10,000 For The Breast Cancer Research Trust

20 September 2006

Wanakafest Raises More Than $10,000 For The Breast Cancer Research Trust

Wanakafest has raised more than $10,000 for its chosen charity, the Breast Cancer Research Trust, thanks to the success of the events over the past few days.

The World’s Longest Bra Chain attempt fell short of the record 115,000, but Wanakafest’s chain still managed to stretch almost 5km, with 7485 bras. Bras flooded into Wanaka from Britain, the United States and from all over New Zealand in the lead up to the event. Unfortunately, 1000 bras collected by the BBC’s Radio North Hampton did not arrive in time for the final tally.

Thanks to the donations made by people sending in bras, celebrity bras auctioned on Trade Me, community fundraisers and an art auction held at the Wanakafest site on Sunday, $10, 424.20 was raised for breast cancer research.

Wanakafest manager Kerry Quin said she was thrilled with how the community got behind the fundraiser: “We have had so much support – not only from Wanaka locals, but also from throughout New Zealand. It’s great to be able to give money to such a worthy cause.”

Wanakafest organisers are still finalising what will happen to the bras that were collected.

During the festival, which began last Wednesday, events drew large crowds, including many people from outside of Wanaka. Kiwi band Rhombus put on a great show at the Shooters Big Band Friday, and the Polar Plunge was yet-again a favourite with the spectators on Saturday. The Mountain Rail Jam on Sunday night and the spectacular display of fireworks that followed, were also highlights.

“Wanakafest has been a huge success again this year. We had so many people coming down to the festival site to enjoy a wide range of events. There was something for everyone,” Quin said.

The festival concludes tonight with the popular Passion for Fashion show, where local retailers and local designers display the latest fashion at the Lake Wanaka Centre. Bras that have been decorated by the public will also be modelled, and auctioned off, with the money going to the Breast Cancer Research Trust.

September 18, 2006

ENDS

© Scoop Media