May Haratua 2026
www.Eastbourneherald.co.nz
Ph: 027 253 2996
Counting it out for Leukaemia and Blood Cancer - 1102,1103, THE TOP
Two members of the Eastbourne Volunteer Fire Brigade have climbed the 1103 steps of the Sky Tower in Auckland for the third year in a row to help raise money for families dealing with leukaemia and blood cancer.
The Firefighter Sky Tower Challenge, now in its 22nd year, is a major fundraising event for Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand. This year’s climb on 23 May, involving hundreds of firefighters from around the country, permanent and volunteer crew alike, has raised more than 2.5 Million Dollars. Karamu Street couple Adam Midalia and Louise Cameron, who both have busy day jobs in the city, have been training hard for months. The Majestic Centre on the corner of Willis and Boulcott streets provides the perfect training option. “Twice up the Majestic is 50 floors – just one short of the Sky Tower climb,” says Adam. “It’s the best prep for the real thing we could have.”
greatly assisted by Firefighter Heike Fetting’s extraordinary baking skills. Heike has run a bake sale and sold large, made-to-order cakes for special occasions, with all the proceeds going to Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand. “I’ve done the Sky Tower challenge in the past. I’ve taken a break this year and decided to help the cause with my passion for baking. People pay for the ingredients and after receiving their cake make a donation,” she says.
Louise says she volunteers because it’s important to help the community. “Taking part in the stair climb is another way we can help people who really need it.” Louise holds the rank of Qualified Firefighter (QFF) and often helps lead the brigade’s regular training sessions on Monday nights. Adam has the same rank but is also a driver and pump operator, a crucial role on any fire truck. The Eastbourne brigade’s fundraising efforts have been
Kitchen upgrades made easy.
You can still contribute to helping people living with leukaemia and blood cancer by going to https:// firefighterschallenge.org – all funds raised go to Leukaemia and Blood Cancer NZ.