Red Frogs has become even more mobile after securing funding for a purpose-built trailer to use around Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes over summer.

The Otago Community Trust has given the volunteer non-profit group $5,000, while two other grants were also secured for $15,000.

Red Frogs was granted the funding to continue its work in creating safe spaces at events, and reducing alcohol-related harm among young people across Otago.  

National media co-ordinator Shannon Thomson said the purpose-built trailer was currently being built, and would enable them to respond to events more quickly.

The patterns of behaviour in teenagers was changing, and Red Frogs recognised that sometimes they needed to change their setup and relocate to where the crowds gathered.

“It’s about responding to what’s happening on the streets. It means we can redeploy quicker.”

The new trailer would enable them to store burners on one side with storage on the other, for all of their marquees, etc, so the group can pack up fast when needed.

“We’re really excited, it’s such a simple thing but will have a big impact on what we do,” Shannon said.

Red Frogs has had a presence in Central Otago since 2015 when it started covering New Year’s Eve in Wānaka and the Alexandra Blossom Festival’s Friday night Mardi Gras.

They’ve always cooked pancakes on their own barbecues and given out water to those who needed it. Now they can do things without having to use their own gear, Shannon said.

The Otago Community Trust also gave out $18,000 to the Alexandra Mainland South BMX Assn Inc, Cromwell Cromwell Kids Fun Club Inc $1,262.00, Central Otago Hockey Assn $15,000.00, and the Curling Assn Inc $12,000 - in its latest funding round.

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