Australasian and World RCRs Relocated from Christchurch to Wellington
2nd April 2011The Australasian and World Road Rescue Challenges - originally scheduled to take place in Christchurch - will now be hosted in Wellington from 14 to 17 July 2011.
With the earthquake striking only four months out from the event, the United Fire Brigades’ Association needed to act fast to secure a new venue. Wellington was the best alternative to host the anticipated 40 firefighter teams that will travel to New Zealand from around the world.
“With the circumstances in Christchurch, cancelling the event altogether would have been understandable,” says George Verry, UFBA Chief Executive Officer. “But it’s a great opportunity for New Zealand and we really wanted to stand by our commitment to the international fire community, so we immediately started looking for other options.”
Several cities were being considered, but Wellington won out because it has visitor appeal, all the amenities are in close proximity, and it’s the most convenient option for the UFBA staff - based just outside the city centre.
“We have a lot to do to get organised in a few short months. Holding the event in Wellington will allow our staff to have easy access to all the venues and should expedite the planning process.”
“We are grateful for the support we’ve continued to receive from our sponsors in this situation,” says Verry. “Holden, Holmatro, Chubb, Gore, and Packexe smash have been fantastic.”
Verry says a few locations within Wellington are being considered for the competitions, and he expects that a decision will be made in the next few weeks. Town Hall has already been confirmed as the venue for the post-competition prizegiving function.
Teams can now download all the registration documents here.