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Two Invercargill Airport firefighters are preparing to tackle the Firefighter Sky Tower Challenge again this year, raising funds for Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand.
Invercargill Airport crew chief Corey Diack and Invercargill Airport senior firefighter Jed Martin will climb the 1,103 steps of Sky Tower in full firefighting gear on May 23.
The annual challenge, now in its 22nd year, is a major fundraiser for blood cancer support services.
Creative fundraising push
This year the pair have launched a light-hearted fundraising campaign featuring 1980s-style family portrait photos and humorous social media content.
“We wanted to do something that would actually grab people’s attention,” Corey says.
“There’s a lot of great causes out there, so we figured if we could make people laugh, we might also encourage them to get behind us.”
Jed says the approach is designed to maximise support.
“We’re definitely putting ourselves out there this year. It’s a bit of fun, but ultimately it’s about raising as much as we can and supporting a really important cause.”
Airport backing effort
Invercargill Airport chief executive Stuart Harris says the airport is proud to support the initiative.
“Corey and Jed represent the very best of our team – not just in their professionalism on the job, but in their willingness to go above and beyond for the community.”
“This challenge is incredibly demanding, and the fact they are putting themselves out there in such a creative way to raise awareness and funds speaks volumes about their character.”
Community support sought
Despite the humour, Corey says the focus remains on helping others.
“At the end of the day, it’s about doing our bit.
“If we can raise awareness, get people talking, and bring in some donations along the way, then it’s all worth it.”
The public is being encouraged to support the pair through donations and by following their campaign ahead of the climb.
