Shipwreck Relief Auction raises $32,000

16 May 2008

Shipwreck Relief Auction raises $32,000 to help grieving families

The NZ Federation of Commercial Fishermen last night raised over $32,000 at it’s annual charity auction in Wellington.

“We’re thrilled to have raised so much for the Shipwreck Relief Society” says Pete Dawson, chief executive of the NZ Federation of Commercial Fishermen.

The Shipwreck Relief Society assists grieving families, who have lost family members at sea through commercial activities.

“It is very emotional for everyone involved when we’re able to help out those families in need.

“The marine environment is a very unforgiving one.  Fishermen risk their own lives regularly to provide seafood for New Zealanders and to rescue people who have got out of their depth.  Sadly sometimes commercial fishermen’s lives are lost,” said Mr Dawson.

The Shipwreck Relief Auction took place as part of the three day New Zealand Seafood Industry Conference held at Te Papa Museum. The conference celebrates 50 years of the NZ Federation of Commercial Fishermen.

Over 200 Seafood Industry Conference delegates attended last nights Shipwreck Relief Auction, organised by the NZ Federation of Commercial Fishermen.

Held at Shed 22, Macs Brewery Bar, delegates indulged in parcels of fish and chips and bid on assorted items ranging from a blue pearl necklace, to coils of fishing rope

“The Seafood Industry Conference has bought the industry together.  This positive community feeling was reflected in the amount raised. It’s an incredible amount – almost twice the amount raised last year.”

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