In leaps and bounds 15 brave leaders abseiled down B & W Rural’s nine-storey silo on Sunday to raise money for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.
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The inaugural Leaders Leap for Life in Moree raised $30,600 to ensure the flying emergency chopper would stay free for all.
Around $8000 from the total amount was raised through an auction and individual donations on the day.
Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service events coordinator Jeff Galbraith estimated a crowd of 500 attended.
“The leaders need recognition for their fundraising before the event, advertisement of the event and their participation on the day. They all supported one another and became fairly close after the experience,” he said.
B & W Rural not only hosted the event but also donated its owner Peter Birch for the leap and a drone for the auction.
The other auction item included an abseiling spot which was won by councillor John Tramby for his grandson Greg Fisher.
“I’m more worried about the stairs on the way up,” Cr Tramby said before he and Greg abseiled down.
Lisa Thomas from the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service and Mr Birch were the first to step down the silo, followed by Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall and Kenway and Clark’s chief financial officer Gemille Hayes.
“The toughest thing is the first step over the edge because its such an unnatural feeling to lean back over it; but don’t look down.
“The money we raise will keep them flying and free for everybody,” Mr Marshall said as he touched down.
Next up was GrainCorp’s customer manager for Northern NSW Rebeccah Shaw and Barwon LAC Superintendent Paul McDonald who kissed the ground as he landed.
Two television superstars were next to jump; Biggest Loser contestant Anna Winter and the NAB’s Luke Bell who dressed as Elvis Presley.
Tom Boyle and Josh McGregor battled each other to the bottom.
Namoi Sustainable Energy director Lachlan Skinner and McDonalds Narrabri licensee Rob McAlister encouraged each other down.
Second last were Cr Tramby and Greg Fisher.
Finally, Luigi Carpinteri from the Moree Solar Farm raised $1710, with the help of the Royal Social Club, on the day to also take on the massive feat.
Mayor Katrina Humphries, as MC on the day, described the service as a vital necessity.
“None of us known when, and hopefully we never have to find out but funds like this ensure the service remains free for all,” she said.
Mr Galbraith thanked all who participated and attended the day.
“We have to thank the Moree community for the ongoing support. A reason we held the leap here, apart from the amazing venue, was because of the support we do receive from Moree each and every year.”
