CHAMPS BACK HEAL AND PROTECT

We are delighted to announce some serious support for the project to rebuild the community centre in the tsunami ravaged village of Poutasi in Samoa . Project Heal and Protect will also raise funds to install a Tsunami warning system throughout the island.

Stars swing in behind Project Heal & Protect

Media Statement 22 October 2009

For immediate use

128 rugby and league stars and enthusiastic golfers will be swinging at the Miramar Golf Course next week (Wednesday 28 October) to raise funds for the Samoa tsunami relief effort.

Wellington businessmen, Ian Klinac, and Steven McLauchlan, (Wellington New World) have put the tournament together to raise funds for Project Heal and Protect. (Poloketi Toe Fa’alelei ma Puipuia)

"We could have sold enough teams to fill two golf courses; it’s been a very generous show of support by the people of Wellington,” Mr Klinac said.

Former All Black great 'Smokin' Joe Stanley will travel south for the event with sporting greats Monty Beetham, Frano Botica, Peter Fatialofa, Logan Swann, Stacey Jones, Olo Brown, Frank Bunce and Junior Tonu'u. They will be joined by Wellington heroes Alama Ieremia, Christian Cullen and Norm Hewitt.

Mr Klinac said as well as the stars who will be playing, exclusive sporting memorabilia is on the way from overseas.

“Tana Umaga, Filo Tiatia and Pita Alitini are sending 'limited edition' items to be auctioned.

“Michael Jones, Inga Tuigamala and David Tua have also pledged their support by donating pieces of memorabilia,” he said.

Pacific Blue Airlines have kindly sponsored the flights with the Abel Tasman Hotel, Wellington sponsoring the accommodation.

“The support we have had from so many Wellington companies to make this event happen at no cost has been overwhelming.”

The golf tournament starts at 12 noon. Spectators welcome.

All monies raised at the event will go the Project Heal and Protect Charitable Trust which is to rebuild the community centre at Poutasi Village and purchase and install tsunami warning sirens across Samoa.

Project Heal and Protect is the brainchild of Wellington telco support company Oceanic Group and Director Locky Mulholland, said he was over the moon with the generosity and support shown by Wellington businesses.

More information about Project Heal and Protect (Poloketi Toe Fa’alelei ma Puipuia) can be found at http://www.oclgroup.co.nz/project-heal-and-protect/ or you can ring on +64 4 384 7266 or email healandprotect@oclgroup.co.nz

Ends

For further information contact Chris Wikaira 027 45 22 472 or Tina Nixon 027 22 32 789