Coastguard Queenstown Receives $10,000 Donation in Memory of Local Advocate

Coastguard Queenstown has received a generous donation of $10,000 from the Hugo Charitable Trust, established by Maryanne Green in memory of her father, philanthropist Hugh Green. The contribution was made possible through a nomination by Scotty and Emma Billman, owners of the Central Otago Motor Group, who were invited to select a local charity to support due to their longstanding commitment to community safety.

The Billmans chose to direct the funds towards Coastguard Queenstown in honour of their close friend, Rick Murrell, who tragically lost his life while fishing on July 20, 2023, in Fiordland. “Choosing Coastguard felt like a fitting way to honour him — he loved the water and valued community service,” Scotty Billman expressed. “We’re proud to support an organisation that plays such an important role in keeping people safe on the lake.”

Donation Enhances Community Safety Efforts

Outgoing Coastguard president Johnny Quinn emphasized the significance of the donation, stating it would bolster the organisation’s ongoing mission to ensure safety on local waterways. This support will help provide volunteers with the necessary resources to respond effectively in emergencies. “We’re incredibly grateful for this generous contribution and deeply touched that Scotty and Emma chose Coastguard Queenstown in honour of Rick,” Quinn remarked.

Quinn has recently been elected to the Coastguard New Zealand board, marking a significant step for the local organisation as it gains representation at the national level. He expressed excitement about the opportunity to influence maritime safety across New Zealand. “It’s been an incredible privilege to lead Coastguard Queenstown, and I’m eager to bring the experience and insights from our region to the national stage,” he added.

Leadership Transition and Future Goals

With Quinn’s new role, Phil Blakely will take over as president of Coastguard Queenstown. Blakely expressed his honour in assuming this responsibility, stating, “I look forward to working with our dedicated volunteers and the wider community to continue keeping our waterways safe by having a highly-skilled group of volunteers and promoting water safety in our region.”

The donation from the Hugo Charitable Trust not only highlights the Billmans’ commitment to community safety but also serves as a poignant reminder of Murrell’s legacy. Coastguard Queenstown remains dedicated to its mission, ensuring that safety on the water continues to be a priority for all who enjoy the beautiful waterways of the region.