School raises $7000 with relay

A joint effort of 57 Stratford High School students and supporting staff members saw $7000 fundraised for this year's Taranaki Relay For Life.

Relay For Life co-ordinator for the school, Daniel Wood, says last year, including the registration fees, the team raised over six thousand dollars. "This year we've exceeded that to seven thousand, which we're stoked with".

Daniel says the level of individual fundraising by the team members has been exceptional, "which obviously reflects the willingness of the community to support us in supporting the Taranaki Cancer Society, with the funds staying in our region to aid our people".

A sports day barbecue and school disco also helped contribute funds for the efforts.

Daniel says in order to participate students had to meet a personal fundraising goal of thirty dollars, which the majority of the team exceeded, "with several making outstanding efforts to raise over $300 each".

Debbie McKinlay, president of the Taranaki Cancer Society, says she is "blown away" by Stratford High School's fundraising efforts. "It is wonderful to see a school so committed to the event and see young people so enthusiastic about helping their community".

The students and staff braved one of the wettest 24-hour events, though Daniel says it certainly wasn't the worst weather in the school's memory of over five years of participation in the event.

Daniel says the school is grateful to Education Services for the use of their marquee, "one of several that helped keep us dry", and also to Mountain Motors for helping the school get the team and their gear to the raceway and back over the weekend. "Everyone had a fantastic time and we look forward to entering in it again next year."