During May 2024, three individuals from Saint Clair Family Estate stepped outside of their comfort zones in support of Marlborough’s youth. Saint Clair family member Ayla Shaw, (granddaughter of founders Neal and Judy), Katie Bruce from the marketing team and grower Paul Eden all rose to the challenge of skydiving 10,000 ft with the team at Graeme Dingle Foundation (GDF) and Skydive Abel Tasman.
About Graeme Dingle
The Graeme Dingle Foundation is dedicated to supporting local youth through various programs designed to help people from 5 to 25 years old. The 'Transformational Journey' as GDF calls it, supports Marlborough Tamariki (children) and rangatahi (younger generation) to become more confident and resilient and find purpose and direction to live a fulfilling life. The 2024 Drop for Youth campaign raised an incredible total of $95,012 NZD for the youth of Marlborough. The team at GDF guarantee that 100 per cent of funds raised go right back into the local community, providing tools, techniques, and strategies to help young people cope with life’s challenges. This program also connects people with mentors or role models to guide them on their pathway to the future.
On the Day
The 2024 Drop for Youth took place on Saturday 25th May in Motueka, Nelson. 72 brave participants embarked in flights of four throughout the day, descending from 10,000 + feet with the team at Skydive Abel Tasman. The staff at GDF organised a brilliant day out, providing a classic kiwi sausage sizzle and refreshments for all participants. The atmosphere was bright and supportive with many skydiving for their first time.
About the Jumpers
Ayla Shaw (17) joined a team of Marlborough Girls College manutaki (leaders) to fundraise an outstanding $4,382 for the Graeme Dingle Foundation. As the Opawa manutaki, Ayla wanted to show her support towards youth in Marlborough, especially to those within her school.
Katie Bruce took the Drop for Youth on behalf of the team at Saint Clair family Estate. She alone raised a total of $1350. Katie comments, “As a former Marlborough student I have witnessed the positive impact the Graeme Dingle Foundation has on our community, I look forward to supporting them as much as possible this May.”
At the ripe age of 85, Paul Eden fundraised $1,986 in support of the Graeme Dingle Foundation before skydiving an impressive 10,000 ft. Paul’s formidable work in the community doesn’t stop with the Graeme Dingle Foundation, Paul is often spotted helping various charity organisations around the region, including the Marlborough Rotary Club.
Watch Pauls Skydive here:
*All images supplied by Graeme Dingle Foundation.
