Gumboot Friday

The Gumboot Friday at Soldiers Memorial Park, organised by Harcourts, and led by

Michelle Rhodes, was organised in just 5 days. The lives of many people in Whitianga have

been touched in some way by depression and loneliness that requires counselling and long

term commitment to finding your way back. I Am Hope is the charity for young people

behind Gumboot Friday. Mike King, Founder and Patron, openly shares his own journey

with depression and gives his life top this cause of helping young people. Harcourts, with

Michelle at the helm of the Gumboot Friday team, decided to connect the community and

have a grand party and fund raising ‘do’ at the Memorial Park – auction, sausage sizzle, gum

boot relays, races and throwing, raffles, and picnic style atmosphere. Dynamic auctioneer,

Steve Bridson was Master of Ceremonies adding his own hilarity and persuasive

energy getting people to spend their money in a good cause. Michelle did not relent on her

determination and goodwill until all aspects of the event were ready to go. In the end, it

worked. This event raised over $2,500 in just a few hours from the community. Well done

Dayle Candy and your Harcourts team for sharing your skills in organising experience

and positive will with everyone. The need for young people to get counselling and find

a way through depression needs continuing highlighting. I Am Hope has a lot of support

in Mercury Bay. Thank you to Alan Hopping for the auction item of a helicopter ride, and to the local cafes and businesses who gifted vouchers.