The UFBA National Waterway Challenge is Off
23rd February 2011In support of the Canterbury relief efforts, the United Fire Brigades’ Association (UFBA) Board has opted to cancel the National Waterway Challenge, which was scheduled to be held in Carterton this weekend.
Given the developing circumstances in Christchurch, it was thought that volunteer personnel and equipment may be required for the continuing effort in the rescue and recovery.
“Already, some of the 150 firefighters who would have been involved in the Challenge have been seconded to the Christchurch operation, and we believe there may be more required there in the weeks to come,” says Ian Lindsay, UFBA President.
Many teams have contacted the UFBA saying they understand why the Challenge was cancelled, and agree with the Board’s decision.
Lindsay recognised the efforts by those brigades assisting in Christchurch: “This is the second time firefighters have responded to a major operation in Canterbury. Like all other New Zealanders, our members will be thinking about their colleagues who are obviously extended meeting the demands of the job.”
UFBA Events Manager Sarah Taylor advised participants of the following:
If teams have booked through Orbit Travel, there will be no cost to them and they don’t need to do anything. Participants who have booked their own travel, accommodation, or both need to contact the provider they’ve booked through directly.
Teams that were on the way to the Challenge but have had to turn back should send an expense claim to the UFBA office for any expense incurred.
There will be no cost to brigades, and Taylor recommended that participants continue to check the UFBA website for the latest information.