Central Lakes Trust (CLT) recently boosted charitable causes in the Central Lakes region by $741,500.

Mountain bikers of Alexandra (MOA) was granted $30,000 towards the creation of a pump track at the bike park in Alexandra.

“A pump track is a great way to improve technical skills,” MOA committee member Craig Ross said.

“Unlike a regular bike track, you build up speed by using the rollers and banked turns on the track, not by pedaling.”

Pump tracks serve a wide user group as they can be ridden by a variety of bikes as well as skateboards, scooters, inline skates and other sports equipment with wheels and rollers.

“By adding the pump track to the existing facilities at the bike park [it] will create a real community asset not only for locals, but also visitors to the area,” Craig said.

Among the 10 grants approved was $45,290, which went to Mint Charitable Trust to run its weekly programmes, community events and volunteer programmes.

Mint programme manager Charlotte Jackson said at Mint disability was not a limitation. 

“We are committed to working with individuals and families to build a community of acceptance, where everyone can thrive and contribute. ”

Mint works with organisations such as local sports organisations and youth groups to deliver their programmes within the community.

Mint programme participants take centre stage at the Mint end of year gig.  PHOTO: Mint Charitable Trust

“These adapted programmes enhance connection and a sense of belonging, support skill development and improve physical and mental wellbeing for those with intellectual disabilities,” Charlotte said.

Other CLT project grants for Central were $363,000 to Central Otago District Council for the Cromwell Community Hall, and $1970 to the Rotary Club of Cromwell for an automatic external defibrillator (AED) at the Bannockburn Hall.

This funding round closed out CLT’s financial year with a total of $8,737,700 grants approved. 

At the March board meeting, CLT set its grants budget for the 2024/25 financial year, from April 1, at $10.9 million.

CLT chair Linda Robertson said in an economy where everyone is feeling the pinch she was thankful a prudent investment strategy enables CLT to maintain a healthy grants budget.

“It is a privilege supporting the many organisations in our region that work to make our community a better place.”

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