The concept of 'Paying It Forward' is second nature to this remarkable tight knit community of Picton.
Nicci Fitzgerald owner/operator of Piwaka Lodge, High Street, Picton is well known for her goodwill toward those suffering and in need within community. It is her compassion and conviction that propels her forward into being a source of 'provision' for those struggling severely, who are also, at times "the forgotten" in society.
Ripples of trauma residue are seen and felt deeply within small communities, a place where the locals know one another by name. This is a collective response to those events we have zero control over. We pull together, we make a difference where we can. We pay it forward.
Recognizing the need to support and show appreciation for our First Responders, Nicci swiftly inspired the quick action networking plan. It resulted in an outpouring of koha from local businesses, individuals, groups and business owners and as far as Christchurch. The goal was to show loving support to our volunteers and First Responders who were present at the fateful crash site in Koromiko earlier this month. Gift boxes and baskets were delivered as a surprise. A group of Kapa Haka students from Queen Charlotte College, led by David Collins, graced us with a powerful Haka, and heartfelt Waiata.
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Our brave, our 'First Responders', include our very own volunteer team at Picton Fire Brigade and the St John Ambulance team who experienced first hand the devastating carnage left behind from the now deemed "worst road accident in 20 years" in Marlborough. A crash that resulted in seven fatalities and two serious injuries, one of the surviving victims still in critical condition. Our thoughts go out to all of the loved ones of the victims, and those who have been deeply effected by the ordeal.
This blog post is a tribute to the 'Humans of Picton' who are doing for us, what we cannot do for ourselves. They are mostly volunteers, and belong to the Picton Fire Brigade, St Johns Ambulance crew and local Police. These are our First Responders - our heroes. Their stories will never be told in full to those of us who sit in the comfort of our homes, unaware of the selfless mahi these men and women donate, throughout the year.
We hope that this outpouring of love and support for you, our 'heroes' will uplift, envelop and support you each, in the inevitable ripple effect of trauma. We pray that you will find the courage, resilience and comfort from those you love and need in this time.
Picton Fire Brigade celebrated their 150th Birthday in June this year. It is timely for us each to recognise the need for more volunteers. Will it be you? Would you like to know more? Please have a chat with the senior volunteers or contact them on Facebook. Check out their website for training nights. Get involved!
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| A stunning cake donated by our local artisan ..... celebrating the upcoming Picton Fire Brigades 150yr Anniversary |
Our local Fire Chief .. welcomes you to follow their social media pages for upcoming initiatives and events that could interest you.
Thankyou Kapa Haka group from Queen Charlotte College who attended alongside David Collins to gift us with a stirring Haka and heartfelt Waiata.
A huge thankyou to all, who make a difference through simple kindness and generosity. You know who you are. Do not tire from your efforts. You are appreciated. Keep looking for opportunity to raise one another up. Communities thrive on kindness.
For further fundraising efforts for St Johns and Picton Fire Brigade, check out this raffle.
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