The Manuherekia Valleys Charitable Trust is calling for more people to help turn its dream of an Omakau Community Hub into a reality.

Committee members are working towards construction of a purpose-built, multi-use community facility on the Omakau Recreation Reserve, for the benefit of the township and surrounding communities.

Trust chair Andrew Paterson said progress was tracking well, including the signing of the trust deed, development of concept plans and pricing of the project now finalised. 

He is now keen to get more people involved who can help get the project over the line.

“We do need more people that are willing to go out and do the footwork with approaching people for sponsorship,” he said.

“The more people we can get involved, the better.”

He said the last committee meeting was “a bit thin on the ground”, so welcomed anyone with an interest to get in touch.

Central Otago District Council’s (CODC) property team provided an update on the hub project to the Vincent Community Board at its latest meeting, including how it was tracking and what steps it would take next.

The next steps include further development of the hub’s design plans and installing a fundraising thermometer at the proposed site to keep the community informed on funding progress.

A fundraising strategy would also be developed, along with plans to pursue fundraising initiatives. 

An updated design and the fundraising strategy will be presented to the community board for approval, and the trust will proceed with funding applications to external funders once all avenues of funding have been confirmed.

Andrew said the cost and design was estimated at $5.2 million, with $1.7M already secured thanks to the CODC and the Bob Turnbull Trust, which had given a grant of $600,000.

The Matakanui Combined Rugby Football Club has also pledged $80,000 to the project.

Several fundraising events have also been held.

“It means we are on track and onto the next phase of the Omakau Hub Project, and have a good gauge of the work ahead to make this fit for purpose facility a reality for the local community.”

The floor plan of the proposed Omakau Community Hub. IMAGE: Supplied

He said there were several fundraising activities planned with funding applications to be submitted to the Central Lakes Trust, Otago Community Trust and Lottery Grants Board.

“There will be an opportunity for businesses, groups and individuals to contribute to the project. The trust is very appreciative of any financial support or in-kind/volunteer work that people may be able to help with along the way.”

People can email the secretary on [email protected] if they are interested in supporting or joining the fundraising committee.

For more information about the Omakau Community Hub Project go to: Agenda of Vincent Community Board - Tuesday, 17 October 2023 (infocouncil.biz)