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Outward Bound Report	20/09/2011
I was very privileged and surprised to receive a scholarship to attend an 8 day Outward Bound Masters Discovery Course. I really didn’t know much about Outward Bound except that it would be very physical, so I was unaware of what I was getting myself into. I knew the more physically fit I was before I went to Anakiwa the better off I would be so I began running to build my fitness. I was pleased I had done this because it helped me cope with the physical challenges that lay ahead. On the 3rd September I arrived at Picton Ferry Terminal to meet the other 13 people in my watch (MacKenzie 561) and our instructors Tim and Jim – wonderful young men who spent the week teaching and guiding us to work as a unit. After introductions, we were asked to get out of our jeans, into warm clothing and good footwear. From there we stowed our luggage onto the launch and boarded a 40ft cutter, then learned to row and sail for the rest of the afternoon. We then put our luggage in our 14 bed watch and were asked to get into our PT (physical training) gear and meet back on the wharf in 10 minutes. From there, we rowed the cutter to it’s mooring 100mtrs off the wharf and had to jump out and swim back to shore. This was my introduction to Outward Bound. From there, it was one activity after another with not a lot of time to think (except when trying to get to sleep at night!) Over the course of a week, I learned to row, sail, rock climb a 40 metre natural schist rockface, sea kayak, roll my kayak and safely wet exit from it, do a 20 metre high ropes confidence course, tramp up a mountain, spend 2 nights in the bush alone, run the “Outward Bound Marathon” – 12 kms in under 2 hours along the Queen Charlotte track, sleep in weird and wonderful places but not necessarily comfortable places, as well as many other tasks involving working effectively together as a team. My biggest challenges were swimming and dipping in the freezing cold ocean. With my team’s support I was able to accomplish the swims with team members swimming close to me so I could hold their shoulder when I needed to. I learned to wear more layers of clothing as it would take me approximately 2 hours to warm up every time I was in the ocean. I was also challenged by not having a bed to sleep on for 5 of the nights on Outward Bound. The ground became harder the more I slept on it. I really appreciated my comfortable bed when I got home. The thing I enjoyed most was the opportunity to meet 13 other wonderful people as well as 2 special instructors and get to know them very well over the week. At many times I had to fully trust one or two members of my watch with my life as I carried out some of the activities. For example, when rock climbing, one person was belaying and the other was a back-up safety person while I climbed. If they had not done their job correctly, it would have put my safety at risk and vice versa when I was belaying for someone else. So trust was built within our watch and that built great unity amongst us. It was a privilege to be part of such a great group of people, everybody having something to contribute to the group, whether it be humour, strength, organisational skills or encouragement. Outward Bound claims that you will be impelled into experiences that are physically, mentally and emotionally challenging. They intend to push your limits, take you outside your comfort zone and help you conquer your fears. This was certainly my experience and I can take what I have learned back to my home and work place. My attitude to taking on a task or challenge that I feel I may not be capable of is now different. I am able to tackle any task given to me, whether it be individually or with the help of others around me. I would like to thank Outward Bound and Camp Quality NZ very much for providing this opportunity for me to attend the course. I probably would not have considered doing this otherwise. But I would now highly recommend the course and encourage people to attend if the opportunity comes their way. It is a great course that will extend you as a person and develop you into a stronger, more confident character.
Debra Maheno

An Interview with Madeline Pierard

18/10/2011

Leading young Kiwi Soprano, Madeleine Pierard, now based in London, has just completed a tour 'down under' with the NZ Symphony Orchestra.

Madeleine, a former CQNZ camper, has fully recovered from B-Cell Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, has nothing but praise for the work of Camp Quality NZ and the great benefit she experienced from the annual summer camps in particular.

Madeleine, who attended her first camp as an eight year old back in 1989, now enjoys a full and active life and apart from her singing, lists boxing, Kung Fu and kickboxing as three of her favourite pursuits.

She also describes the summer camps she attended as "some of the most wonderful in my life. They were the ultimate spirit lifter."

We are pleased to share her response to a Q & A she participated in during her busy tour here recently.

1. How did you first become involved with Camp Quality NZ and at what age?
I was first involved with Camp Quality as a camper through the recommendation of the Wellington Hospital paediatric oncology unit (I think). I was eight years old when I first attended the camp.

2. From your experience, what do you believe are the benefits of Camp Quality NZ? How do they make a difference to children living with cancer?
The benefits of Camp Quality were significant - Here I was, one of a group of children who had been through a similarly harrowing experience - some often worse - who were able to just be kids for a while and enjoy experiences that we would never have been given otherwise, such as hot air balloon riding. It developed a sense of community for me - a sense of sharing experience and
therefore making the recovery easier. I treasured my time at the camp and of course, the people, who are as special in my memory as they were then.

3. What type of cancer were you diagnosed with? And what is your state of health now?
I had B-Cell Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. I was diagnosed in 1988 and received intensive treatment, mostly in isolation, in Napier and Wellington over two years. My health now is fantastic - I'm fit, strong as an ox and making the most of being alive, I suppose. I am one of the lucky ones - I haven't had any appearance of cancer since I was out of remission.

4. What do you recall as the most difficult or challenging aspect of being a child growing up with cancer?
Being away from my family was DEFINITELY the most challenging aspect. All the uncomfortable and often excruciating hospital treatments became routine after a while, even the really nasty ones, so they became easier to deal with. But I know now that the duration of my treatment was far, far more difficult for my family and I missed them terribly. Isolation was the most horrific time. I was never allowed to see or hug my Mum unless she was wearing a mask and gown. Some of my siblings had recurring colds so I didn't see them for months.

5. How old were you when you first went to camp and how many camps did you attend?
I think I first attended in 1990 - the final year of the Wellington area Camp Quality at El Rancho in Waikanae. So - whatever year that was . I was eight, I think, and I attended camp until 1993, when I was 12 years old.

6. Were Mum and Dad ever concerned about you leaving home and attending camp at such a young age?
Not to my knowledge. I suspect they were relieved that people who understood the implications and effects of cancer on children were taking the initiative and helping us through in such a wonderful way. It would have been important to them for me to realise I wasn't a freak - there were other children suffering and sharing these experiences together always helps us come to terms with trauma more quickly. They were very happy for me to go - though I admit I found it hard to leave them so soon after Christmas each year. That feeling disappeared as soon as I arrived at Camp though, of course!

7. Have you kept in contact with any other campers, companions or volunteers?
Since the arrival of Facebook, I have 'found' a couple of companions and campers but at that age, and before email and social networking made communications easier, I unfortunately didn't keep in touch, which is something I really regret. I was never really much of a pen pal either! Terrible.

8. What is your favourite memory of Camp Quality NZ?
Well, the people and the community spirit made us all feel incredibly special. That was a huge thing. But in terms of camp activities - oh that's a hard one - I have so many! The helicopter rides were a definite highlight. I found the hot air balloon a little scary and loud for my little ears... but it was still fabulously exciting. My favourite things were perhaps the great outdoor activities –
camp fires, making damper bread, riding in motorbike sidecars, the swimming pool... it was all amazing to be honest. Chocolate making and meal times were a close second.

9. Have you got a message you would like to share with parents or caregivers of children living with cancer of the wonderful experience of a Camp Quality Summer Camp?
I can honestly say that in my experience, Camp Quality was the most effective catalyst when it came to recovering from the trauma of suffering from cancer, both for my family and me. My parents, who definitely weren't in a position to provide those kind of unique and remarkable activities were utterly grateful for the help and in the knowledge that I was able to enjoy myself in such a wonderfully caring environment. It was a godsend for them. For myself, I felt like I was the luckiest kid alive - not something you expect from someone with cancer! I still hold some of the experiences during my time at Camp Quality as some of the most wonderful in my life. I loved my companions, I adored the camp spirit and of course, the fantastic activities. I can't believe how much we used to pack in to only five days! Now, as an adult, I don't ever think back to my time with cancer as a traumatic one and I strongly believe that it is Camp Quality that had enabled me to change my outlook as a youngster, mainly by attaching the memory of such positive experiences to such hideous ones. I am indebted to Camp Quality NZ for this. It is the ultimate spirit-lifter.

10. Finally Madeleine, a little bit about yourself - how old are you, where has your singing taken you, where are you currently based and for how long, and any plans of returning to New Zealand?
I am 29 now and for the past six years, I've been living in London studying and working as an opera singer. I am in the middle of a two-year contract as a Jette Parker Young Artist at The Royal Opera in Covent Garden, where I debuted in December last year. It could be said to be the most coveted position to be in for a young opera singer. I hadn't always intended to sing. All my childhood, and most likely stemming from my experiences during my illness, I had decided to study medicine. My family are all musicians - it was a normal part of our life, but it wasn't really what I wanted to do as a career. I studied piano and went to university in Wellington studying both musical composition and biomedical science - keeping my options open! Music won, and a few years later I started singing. It happened rather late and surprisingly quickly, but I've always had a pretty good drive when it comes to work (I'm often in overdrive, actually...) and I grasped every opportunity that came my way. Now, six years later, it's paid off amazingly well! No time to rest on my laurels though, alas. This job is an extremely high-pressure one and even though I have the luxury of a stable job whilst at The Royal Opera, the reality is that most of the time, we're freelancing and the
competition is unbelievable. I also have to look after myself very well - nowadays, opera singers have to keep incredibly fit (I do a lot of boxing, Kung Fu and kickboxing... perhaps more than some singers, but that's another one of my passions). More is expected of us on stage and off - limited funding means companies are scrambling for audiences - productions are more impressive and rehearsal periods shorter, so we have to be incredibly careful with our health. If freelance singers get a sore throat and can't sing, we won't get paid that month! I'm also very homesick. I don't know when I'll return to NZ to live. It's difficult to maintain the quantity of singing work in a small country (though the standard is equally high, I think!) so it may not be for a while, but my heart is there, for sure. Having said all of that, the work is incredibly rewarding. Performing at this level is exhilarating - I'm working with world-famous singers every day, many of whom I've been listening to since I was tiny. I guess you could say I'm living the dream. The job involves a lot of travel. Singers are renowned for living permanently out of a suitcase and it can be lonely at times, but I've sung in The Royal Opera House, The Royal Festival Hall and in exciting locations such as The Forbidden City in Beijing, The Basilica of St Peter in the Vatican City, St Marks in Venice, both with choirs and as a soloist. Recently, I toured with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra in their Odes To Joy tour. This was an incredible experience - singing in New Zealand during the Rugby World Cup made me so proud to be a Kiwi. Along with performing with an entirely Kiwi group of musicians who are all making waves overseas, the highlight was our concert in Christchurch at the CBS Canterbury Arena : we had an audience of 2000 people listening to the most uplifting music. It was highly emotional for all of us. That's what makes this such a wonderful job - bringing joy to people who may be suffering, or distracting them from the difficulties of their lives, even temporarily. It is amazing when people come up to me after a performance and say how moving it was. That's what it's all about, really.

Wellington/Central Districts Winter Camp 2011

07/10/2011

A coach filled with excited campers and companions headed to Turoa Ski Resort, for a weekend of fun on the snow as part of our annual Winter Camp programme. Enroute we stopped in Foxton, where we were hosted by the local St John Youth Group for dinner and games, while our driver took a rest break. One of our campers was very lucky, walking away with a fantastic prize of an iPod - what a great way to start the trip!

With bellies full, it was off to Ohakune. Staying at the awesome Venture Lodge right in the heart of Ohakune, we settled in for a good night's sleep - well, most of us did! 4am the first of our campers were out of bed and eager to get up the mountain to play in the snow. At a more reasonable hour we boarded our mountain transport. With blue sky and the sun shining, and an awesome view of the white mountain became clearer as we got closer, it was obvious we were in for a great day.

We were met by our host Anna, from RAL, who arranged for our equipment to be issued and our lessons to be booked. It was fantastic to see everyone having such a great time!

It didn't take long to see many of our campers zooming around the beginner's area, easily identified in their bright red Camp Quality Ski Jackets. Once our formal lessons were over we were on our own - races and jumps! It was a great time and a fantastic day was had by all.

Later in the day we held our snowman-making competition, and for some it was onto the sleds for races down the special racing track.

After a long day on the mountain we boarded our transport back to our lodge where we were presented with a fabulous roast dinner, a feast fit for any hungry camper! Following dinner, a hot soak in the hot tub for some, card games for others, sleep for most, and general blobbing out for the rest.

Funnily enough, our campers were not up so early on Sunday morning, many still weary from their day in the sun on the snow. Sadly, we couldn't go up on Sunday as planned as the weather forecast was not in our favour. But our trusty staff had a back-up plan, so it was off to the Army Museum for a guided tour of our impressive military history, which everyone really enjoyed.

With group photos done, we headed to a local park where we had a picnic lunch, and then some gumboot throwing in Taihape at the official Throwing Range!

Homeward bound, we managed to squeeze in swimming and waterslide adventures at the Levin indoor pool. We arrived back at out drop off points with everyone safe and sound, already talking about meeting up again soon and the excitement of Summer Camp to come!

Outward Bound Report	22/09/2011
Experience life, experience Outward Bound!!!! If you want the holiday of a lifetime, go to Fiji. If you want to challenge yourself physically, mentally and emotionally, again and again and again, go to Outward Bound!!!! When I arrived at Anakiwa on the morning of the 5th June 2011, I had no idea what I was in for! Within a few short hours I had met the other 13 people who made up Kupe Watch 558, we had learned each others names and become instant friends. Playing childlike games, embarrassing yourself in front of others and being face down in the mud seems to bring people together! For those of you who don’t know, Outward Bound is based in Anakiwa, a small community in the Marlborough Sounds about 30 minutes water taxi from Picton. There they are fortunate enough to have water on their doorstep, mountains close by and picturesque scenery whichever way you look. It certainly was beautiful and lulled you into a false sense of security as you didn’t know day to day what was coming next. Time passes in a strange way at Outward Bound, it seems to go by so slowly but so quickly all the same. Outward Bound has a philosophy to ‘make the most of daylight’, so from dawn to dusk you are kept busy if not challenged. Into three short weeks they pack in an array of small and large activities set to test your limits, break you down and build you back up again……all to prove ‘there is more in you’. Part of Outward Bound’s power is that you don’t know what is coming next, so I won’t ruin the surprise for any future attendees. But activities include tramping, kayaking, a sea scheme, a half marathon, being at one with nature, giving back to your community, setting personal goals/challenges and regular physical activity just to name a few. Add into that mix being in the company of 13 ex-strangers 24/7, making one pot gastronomic delights on the camp stove and eating yourself silly at the Outward Bound base camp…..let me tell you, the food is amazing and the cobb loaves of bread and desserts are sensational! That’s enough about the food. So what did I learn at Outward Bound? I learned a lot of new things and also reminded myself of strengths and skills I had maybe forgotten I had. I reminded myself I work well in a team environment and am a real people person. Although I am pint sized, I can be an effective leader. I already knew that I like my creature comforts and the luxuries of home, but I learned that I can cope quite happily without these and they alone don’t make life enjoyable. Who would have thought that I could cope with one shower every three days? I revisited the importance of friends and family. When life is hard, these people can support you. When life is good, these people will share the glow and laughter with you, value them, they are life’s true gold! I learned that quite often knowledge from a situation or experience cannot be gleaned until you can look back at it with the clarity of hindsight. Suffering through hours of tramping doesn’t seem to be of any relevance at the time. But looking back I can see that no matter how trying a situation, if you remain positive, look for support and keep moving forward, you will reach your goals, one small step at a time. I learned that life is magical. It is difficult to accurately describe the beauty of a pod of dolphins swimming majestically, yet powerfully beside your boat….they touch you in such an emotionally human way that leads you to believe they knew they were putting on a show and they enjoyed it as much as we did. I learned that life is short and you should really live every day. An amazing poem was read to us entitled The Bank of Time - about the value of time. That the true value of time cannot be appreciated until that time is lost. It is long, so I will try to capture the sentiments briefly for you here. The value of a year cannot be felt any more than by a student who has to repeat a year at University. The value of a month cannot be felt any more than by a mother of a premature baby. The value of a second cannot be felt any more than by the person who came second in a race. On that note, I urge you to fill your days with challenge and delight and to make the most of your life, you only get one shot, use it wisely, there is more in you! I am extremely grateful to Camp Quality and my Outward Bound scholarship provider for giving me this amazing opportunity…..if you get the chance to live an Outward Bound experience, jump at it and grab hold with both hand as you are in for the ride of your life.
Amy Powell

Waikato/BOP Winter Mini Camp 2011	08/09/2011
Minicamp this year was held the weekend of August 19th to 21st. Our 2 buses, one from Go Bus Hamilton and one from Bethlehem Coachlines Tauranga, safely delivered our 33 campers, plus their companions and the staff to the shores of Lake Rotorua where Kawarau Jets were waiting to give everyone a ride on the lake. After everyone was kitted out with their protective coats, it was off with a roar to give all a thrilling time out on and around the lake. Sitting back on shore it was fantastic to see the mile wide smiles on the faces of them all when they were delivered safely back to the jetty. Even those that managed to get a little wet were grinning like mad. After a quick afternoon tea, we were back on the buses to Lake Taupo Christian Camp, which was our base for the weekend. We were all pleased to arrive before dark, and were very happy for the wonderful warm greeting and meal that was awaiting us. Following a safety briefing by the staff from LTCC it was time to settle into our rooms and get some sleep to be ready for the Saturday’s adventures! We were up early to a frosty but beautiful Saturday morning for a filling breakfast, before heading off towards the slopes of Mt Ruapehu. Our tour guide on one bus was the owner of Bethlehem Coachlines who had travelled down especially to support his daughter Chrissy as it was her first time driving for us. Neil gave a great geography and history lesson to all on board. As we rounded the bend we got our first real view of the mountains. There were many gasps of amazement at the sheer beauty of what was in front of us, as we could see Ruapehu, Tongariro, Ngaruahoe and for one short line of sight Mt Egmont as well! After a brief stop by the Chateau, our buses headed past the waiting lines of traffic (the car park was full), and we made our way to Happy Valley. Once there the younger campers had much fun sliding down slopes on toboggans and slides. The older campers were given the opportunity to have a ski lesson and it was fantastic to see those that started with much trepidation taking the plunge and mastering the slopes! After a fun filled few hours with a lunch break at the buses, it was off to Tokaanu Thermal Pools to have a relaxing and warming soak. Then back to camp to be greeted by the team who had prepared another fabulous meal, before everyone took the opportunity to finish their day by watching movies in the rec room. On Sunday, we were up early again for a warming breakfast on another cold but beautiful sunny day, before packing up and heading for Taupo. There we boarded the Chris Jolly Supercat and headed out onto Lake Taupo. Our skipper took us to have a look at fantastic carvings in a rock face before driving a little further away, where once we had purchased angling licences, the campers were able to try their luck fishing. It was with much delight that one of our newest male campers followed not long after by one of the girls managed to catch a trout! After being taught the humane way to kill these fish, one of the crew members took them and cooked them so that everyone could sample the catch. Back on shore and it was time to load the buses for the trips back to families and home. This was a truly fantastic weekend, with spectacular weather and scenery. A fun filled mini-camp, which will be remembered by all those that attended. We could not have done it without the huge effort put in by Peter Dix our camp manager, and the fantastic support team that ensured we all stayed safe and well. Thank you so much to all the local Taupo and surrounding district teams that helped to create the fun and laughter for the children of Camp Quality Waikato/BOP.
Fi Hammond

Auckland/Northland Junior Mini Camp 15 - 17 July 2011	16/08/2011
Thirty-five campers with their Companions and Staff were hosted by the Whangamata Surf Lifesaving Club for the weekend. Dinner on the way down was provided by the Hauraki Lioness at the Hauraki Plains Golf Club. Saturday saw us off to Waihi for a ride on the Goldfields train before taking over the Waihi Subway for lunch. We had a tour of the Martha Mine before heading to Athenree for a dip in the Hot Pools. In the evening, we enjoyed a traditional kiwi BBQ in our Underwater theme attire followed by a bit of karaoke. Sunday dawned fine and still, ideal conditions for playing on the beach, going for rides in IRBs provided by the Coastguard and the Surf Club, having rides in classic cars and a fire engine. After lunch, it was back on the bus to Ngatea were we enjoyed a “Spot the features” competition at the Ngatea Water Gardens while having a quick snack before we headed for home. It was a bit strange having to get the sunblock out in the middle of winter!
Bruce Bell

Auckland/Northland Senior Mini Camp 29 - 31 July 2011	16/08/2011
This year, twenty-one campers with Companions and staff went to Camp Adair, a YMCA camp located next to the Hunua Ranges. Friday night was spent under the floodlights on a rope course. Cool fun in the cool of the evening. On Saturday we tackled a rope and pole team-building course and a giant swing. Quite scary for some and a challenge for all. After lunch, we went down the road to Lockwood Road Farm where about twenty off-road vehicles and their drivers from the Counties 4-wheeler Club were keen to get us dirty. We donned overalls which was just as well as it was mud pie time. If the vehicle you were in did not splatter you with mud, another passing by would ! The vehicles were an even shade of brown afterwards and the field, once green and grassy, was like porridge. On Sunday, we enjoyed more rope challenges and bit of abseiling before setting off to Mt. Smart Stadium to watch the Warriors play the Raiders. Stacey Jones had arranged for us, along with our families, to attend the game – a great way to finish the camp. Thanks, Stacey!
Bruce Bell

Charity Auction has a stunning Outcome	20/07/2011
When RE/Max Country in Cambridge decided to run a Charity Auction in support of Camp Quality Waikato/Bay of Plenty little did they dream of what lay ahead. Under the guidance of Gill and Steve Petersen, they set to work approaching local businesses and many others much further afield, to provide items suitable to auction. The level of support was astounding. RE/Max Country’s Principal and owner, Ian Watson, personally sponsored the RE/Max balloon for flights. Local horse studs offered two service fees for their resident stallions, winery’s, hairstylists, retail outlets and garden centres chipped in. They used their connections to obtain flights and simulator experiences. As the momentum gathered Sky City Grand Hotel and Turere Retreat came to the party with accommodation packages. Fishing, shooting and hunting was also catered for and speed freaks had the opportunity for high speed Karting courtesy of Off Road NZ. Art works, (even Prime Minister John Key provided a signed doodle), clothing and flowers topped off the list. The Cambridge Town Hall was booked and the catering (prepared by the Prince Albert Hotel) and wine (supplied by Cloudy Bay and Pied Stilt) was left to the expertise of the Cambridge Lions Club to serve. The Waipa District Council assisted with lighting, sound and video. Posters appeared throughout Cambridge as RE/Max team members tapped on every business house door. By now Cambridge was buzzing with excitement and the tickets were selling well. With over 30 tables of 10 being sold the evening was set to be a resounding success. Saturday July 16th was clear and cold. The hall filled with dozens of local identities and others from further away. The Cambridge High School Kapa Haka group opened proceedings and generously donated their koha to the children. The scene was set with a moving address by Marie the mother of one of the Waikato/Bay of Plenty campers. She told of the journey taken by her daughter Brittany, as she battled with cancer from age two. Her story moved many to tears and most certainly contributed to the magnificent support that followed. The auctioneers, John Abbott (Palmerston North) and John Lamason (Tauranga), tore into their schedule with great enthusiasm and much humour. Dollars and cards flew. The evening was interspersed with supper, drink breaks and presentations but the real focus was on buying, buying, buying. At the conclusion of this wonderful evening and following donations from The Rodmor Trust of $20,000 and Cambridge Lions of $2000 the final tally was in the region of $52,000. This sum totally demolished the target sum of $15,000. This was an amazing result and certainly a tribute to the organisation of the RE/Max Country team. Regional Manager, Fiona Hammond, expressed her thanks to all for their hard work and support for children living with cancer. Her heart felt thanks go to the people of Cambridge who gave so generously in a time of wide spread recession in small town New Zealand. Everyone left with a feeling of satisfaction and happiness at being part of such an incredible evening.
Brian Hammond

Tauranga City TrustPower Awards

20/07/2011

Camp Quality Waikato/Bay of Plenty was again a nominee for the Health and Well Being award at the Bay of Plenty TrustPower Community Awards. After winning this award in 2010 Regional Manager, Fiona Hammond, was aware that the competition was increased this year. With a total of 84 entries the 2011 awards were the largest held to date in the Bay of Plenty. Many outstanding organisations were represented. Unfortunately this year Camp Quality was unplaced with Project Fullstop (a community group that provides food and support for needy families) taking the division and Homes of Hope the Supreme prize. Fi and her husband Brian were pleased to represent Camp Quality and to be a part of such a magnificent group of volunteers. They were delighted to hear from Tauranga Mayor, Stuart Crosby, of his support for our work.

Photograph: Fi and Brian with the Tauranga Mayor, Stuart Crosby and Travis from TrustPower.

Chris Rides Europe for Camp Quality

15/07/2011

Chris is a 27 year old New Zealander who has worked for the New Zealand Police for the past four years.

In February 2011 Chris was granted 15 months leave from the Police to travel around Asia and Europe.

After a few months backpacking through South East Asia, Chris decided that he would challenge himself by cycling around Europe to raise money to support children living with cancer, as this terrible illness has affected members of his family in recent times.

Chris has chosen to raise money for “Camp Quality” an organisation that has done a lot for Chris’s family members and who provide a great service to many New Zealand children and their families who are faced with cancer.

Chris is planning to cycle around Europe solo without any support team meaning he will carry all the gear he needs with him.

He has also decided to ride two of the 2011 Tour De France mountain stages and through the Swiss Alps.

Chris will ride through seven countries covering over 4771km.

The trip will take him 79 days with 56 riding days averaging 85km per riding day.

http://www.chrisrideseurope.com/

Sovereign Sunshine - helping bring fun, hope and happiness to children living with cancer

20/06/2011

Rain and cold weather didn’t stop the Sovereign Sunshine team from warmly supporting Camp Quality. On their recent Sunshine Day, with fantastic culinary support from local restaurant The Quarry, they served up over 200 cups of scrumptious soup – the aroma of roast tomato and capsicum, kumara and bacon, and roast pumpkin was delicious. All the funds raised from their hamper raffles and winter soup warmers were matched by Sovereign, and given to Camp Quality ($2,887), as well as the donation received from your votes ($3,200).

Thanks to Sovereign Sunshine and everyone who supported us.

A special thank you	09/05/2011
Having fun at the recent Night Glow event of the Trust House Balloons Over Wairarapa, Camp Quality Wellington/Central Districts region volunteers rattled buckets to raise funds for their next Camp in January 2012.
Fay Partington

2011 TrustPower Dunedin Community Awards	09/05/2011
Competition was tough for this year's Dunedin Awards, with 67 voluntary organisations nominated. The winner in the Health and Well Being Section was Camp Quality South Congratulations!

Christchurch - Summer Camp 2011

07/05/2011

Sunday morning dawned windy and warm and we headed off early to the Antarctic Centre the pick-up place for campers. Eight campers and one companion flew in from Nelson in time to see the penguins being fed and ride the Haglunds. After lunch it was off to Living Springs and the pool - a welcome relief from the 34o temperatures!
Monday morning arts and crafts included stone carving,

wood kits, chocolate making, masks and beadwork. Then there was a trip to town for flights on the DC3 - four flights later all campers and companions had viewed Christchurch from on high. Monday evening was camp concert with each bunkroom doing an item and the “talent” on show was amazing.
Tuesday morning we travelled to Springfield to do jet boating, 4WD driving and helicopter rides. An action packed morning careering over the Waimak riverbed in 4WD’s and skimming across the braided shallows of the gorge in jet boats (360o spins!) ensured most people were drenched and when heavy rain set in at lunchtime no one seemed to mind. After lunch two Garden City Helicopters provided everyone the opportunity to see the gorge and surrounding countryside from above – while those waiting were treated to demonstrations of sheep shearing and sheep dogs at work. Everyone was ready for a quiet night at the movies once we got back to Springs!
Wednesday morning dawned fine and clear and staff were up early preparing for our very own Amazing Race. Eleven teams of mixed ages and abilities had all sorts of challenges to complete (gumboot throwing, face painting companions, finding a needle in the haystack to name a few), utilising the facilities of Living Springs, the agility of staff and some creative accounting on the part of scorers! Wednesday evening saw everyone dress up for a formal dinner and eleven campers who were attending their last camp were acknowledged – a seat at the ‘top table’ and a standing ovation! Dallas Seymour (CQ Ambassador) joined us to present the awards for the Amazing Race – everyone received a certificate though the girls would have you believe that the best part was getting a hug from Dallas! An evening swim followed ensuring everyone went to bed tired.
On Thursday morning we were jolted awake by a 5.1 aftershock at 6.03am! Arts and crafts morning was punctuated by further shakes but most were too busy to notice. Everyone dressed up for party night, including nurses from CHOC –a 25th cake cut by Frank Mitchell and our youngest camper was followed by the very popular disco - everyone was having such a great time that it was 10pm before time was called. The tradition of a late night swim saw most campers, companions and staff (fully-clothed of course) in the pool!
Friday began with companions doing the big pack while campers were entertained by a couple of clowns and then it was off to the Commodore Hotel for lunch before “getting up close and personal” with the wildlife at Orana Park.
Lots of memories to share, to be proud of, to inspire … thanks to the generous support of Lions Clubs, local businesses and craftspeople from our community.

South - Summer Camp 2011

07/05/2011

Our 2011 Camp was held at the Lakeside Christian Campsite, Kelvin Heights Queenstown. Sunday dawned bright and clear and after breakfast we were into Arts and Crafts. The afternoon saw us outdoors taking part in egg and spoon races, catch the egg competition, (some eggs were left uncooked but no-one knew which) 3 legged races, wheelbarrow races, sack races and blindfold challenges. To see a determined 5 year old trying to “wheelbarrow” a 16 stone student (and managing to) defied belief. We finished with a swim at the local swimming pool; a brilliant facility. The evening programme was a “movie night” with ice creams and pop corn provided.
After breakfast on Monday it was onto the buses and off to Arrowtown, where we started with a walk through the historic gold mining area of this iconic and beautiful small town and then a visit to the Remarkable Lollyshop where the whole team were shown the shop wares and each camper was given a bag of their favourite sweets. We then proceeded to the Arrowtown Museum where we were given a taste of what it was like to be a school pupil back at the turn of the 19th /20th century. Later to great excitement and anticipation, each camper was given instruction on the skill of gold-panning. Some of the gold prospectors were more successful than others with a few finding small amounts of gold “colour”. A BBQ style lunch was provided by the local lions club and was gratefully enjoyed in the shade of Arrowtown’s ancient trees. On returning to camp it was time for a visit to Lake Wakatipu for a swim. After the evening meal we met Julie and Dallas Seymour, our CQ ambassadors and we were entertained by Jonathan Usher, the magician. He successfully pulled rabbits from hats, eggs from ears, and water from goodness knows where. The campers were well and truly entertained.
Tuesday after an early lunch we went down to the lakeside for a camp photo shoot (or so the campers thought) but they were met by the boats and people from Kawarau River Jet boats, who got everyone into life jackets and took the whole group about 9 kilometres down the Kawarau gorge river. This was great fun and the campers were sorry when we headed back towards Queenstown, but again what they did not know was that we were going to unload from the jet boats straight into the SS Earnslaw for a trip across the lake for an afternoon at Walter Peak station. The people at this iconic old sheep station and homestead pulled out all the stops and laid on a walk round the deer pens, sheep pens, the cattle pens with the highland cattle and a sheep dog working a mob of sheep for shearing. Next there was a beautiful afternoon tea with sandwiches, scones and jam, cake and drinks before a sheep shearing demonstration.
Wednesday was more of an in-camp day, and after breakfast we started our skit practices. Lunch was a lakeside picnic organised by the Balfour Lions Club. Most of the bread involved went to the ducks on the lake, but the campers enjoyed this. Unfortunately we had to farewell our ambassadors, Dallas, Julie and their children. They had all got on extremely well with everyone involved over the two days that we were lucky enough to have them with us. In the afternoon the campers were given the chance to ride in a double Decker bus and then with their companions were taken up on the Gondola for several Luge rides.
Thursday was our penultimate day and of course preparation time for concert night. We had a visit from our local National MP, Jacqui Dean who spent some time amongst the campers and companions. The Concert was a huge success, with an abundance of well thought out acts and skits being performed.
We were delighted to welcome 202F Lions District DG Donald Boyd and his wife Mary, VDG Lynette Batt. 202J Lions District VDG Robert Naismith and his wife Beryl.
Friday was the unhappiest day of the week. Most of the morning was spent taking down bunk decorations and packing up. By 11 o’clock the buses were lined up ready to depart, but as usual, campers were making every excuse under the sun, not to be ready to go! At 11:20 am the buses finally pulled out with the staff all in attendance, waving them goodbye.

Rotary Club of Dunedin Wine Auction to raise funds for Camp Quality South	28/04/2011
The Rotary Club of Dunedin recently held a Wine Auction, with wine donated from all around New Zealand. The Club kindly chose Camp Quality South to be a major beneficiary and hope to sponsor 5 or 6 children attending Camp Quality South in 2012. About 100 people attended the Auction and were very cleverly “encouraged” to bid on the wine by well known Dunedin Auctioneer Warwick Grimmer. Our very own Regional Manager (Tom MacDonald) helped with the final total with his winning bid on a magnum of Two Paddocks Pinot Noir, signed buy vineyard owner Sam Neil A very big thank you to the Youth Committee of the Rotary Club of Dunedin for organising this event.
Gail Higgs

Camp Quality has a “Dune Rider experience”	26/04/2011
21 Campers and their Companions and supporters from Camp Quality Auckland/Northland got to see some of Northland's best attractions thanks to the “Dune Rider” company. After spending Saturday 16th travelling from Auckland to Paihia we had a quite evening in anticipation of an early start the next day. On Sunday April 17th 21 campers from Camp Quality Auckland/ Northland region were treated to an Experience of a lifetime by Dune Rider Unique Tours Ltd. After being collected from our overnight accommodation at 7.30am we went to see the Kauri Trees in the forest, wow, lots of amazingly big Kauris heading straight up into the forest canopy. Everyone got to hug a Kauri. From here it was off to Taipa Resort for morning tea (donated by the owners of the resort) and to collect a packed picnic lunch for everyone. Wonderful people and great homemade food. On to the Cape where the campers planted native trees on the headland, courtesy of Wayne who manages the planting programme. A short walk to the Lighthouse we were very lucky and had a clear day so everyone got to see the great views out to the Three Kings, and the convergence of the Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea which creates a unique wave pattern. Lunch time and off to Tapotupotu Bay for a swim and lunch; this beautiful sandy beach provided a great place to swim in the clear blue Pacific, with some good surf for the body surfers. After eating the wholesome and plentiful picnic lunches we boarded the Dune Rider to head off to the sand dunes at Te Paki Stream for Sand Boarding. Great fun and everyone wanted to have just one more go. On to 90 Mile Beach and we had a short stop for another swim, this time in the Tasman Sea. It’s not every day you get to swim in two different Oceans. All back on the Dune Rider to travel down 90 Mile Beach, on the way we were privileged to come across two groups of wild horses. Back onto the road and onto Mangonui where the best fish and chip shop in New Zealand sits out over the harbour. There is no better place to stop for dinner than here, we all were treated to a great dinner of Blue Nose and chips. Back to Camp and though we are running a bit behind schedule no one is complaining, we arrive back at Bay of Islands Holiday Park for dessert and a DVD. Sunday and after packing up we are off to Action World in Paihia for the morning where everyone had lots of fun on the unique activities before heading back to Auckland. Another great weekend camp for the Auckland/Northland region campers!
Geoff Barnett

Auckland Golf Day Raises $30,000 for Camp Quality Christchurch

12/04/2011

Several of Auckland’s sporting greats and corporates dug deep recently to support the people of Christchurch and Camp Quality in particular.

The Christchurch Earthquake Swindle Charity Golf Day at Titirangi Golf Club, organised by the Purple Heart Foundation (www.purpleheart.net.nz), was to help rebuild two charities affected by the earthquake; Camp Quality and Ronald McDonald House in Christchurch.

Among the 120 golfers taking part were sports celebrities John Hart, Andy Haden, Bryan Williams, Awen Guttenbeil and Camp Quality Ambassador Stacey Jones.

The day, topped off by a well-supported auction, raised $30,000 to help Camp Quality Christchurch brighten the lives of its families recovering from the earthquake.

Purple Heart Foundation founder Mark Little says The Christchurch Earthquake Swindle was a way to assist those who had been affected by the quake. “I wanted to provide practical support to help families rebuild their lives and it was fantastic to see the generosity of people.”

Black Tie Dinner Raises $60,000 for Camp Quality Auckland/Northland

12/04/2011

A Gala Black Tie Dinner and Auction has ensured the Auckland/Northland region of Camp Quality NZ can continue with its goal of providing quality entertainment and recreational activities for young children living with cancer.

The John Andrew Ford and Mazda Charity Black Tie Dinner and Auction, attended by 200 guests, raised $60,000 for Camp Quality Auckland/Northland.

Camp Quality Auckland/Northland Regional Manager John Green says the dinner was a huge success. “We are very grateful to John Andrew Ford and Mazda for hosting the Black Tie Dinner and Auction, helping to raise an incredible amount for Camp Quality Auckland/Northland. It was a remarkable evening thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended.”

Mr Green says that each year the Auckland/Northland region has around 150 children as active campers, with between 80 and 90 attending the Summer Camp. The region has a team of more than 250 volunteer companions who provide one on one support to the campers and a team of around 30 volunteer staff who help make camp a safe and fun environment.

“The annual cost of providing the activities in the Auckland/Northland region is $100,000, which includes the hire of venues, transport costs, materials consumed at camp and other camp related material,” he says.

This is the second year that John Andrew Ford and Mazda have supported the work of Camp Quality Auckland/Northland with an annual Gala Dinner and Charity Auction at their dealership.

Auckland Summer Camp 2011	26/03/2011
Day 1 For the past six odd years our summer camp has started with a track day at Pukekohe put on by the Kids in Cars organisation; this is the day Campers families bring their children to camp and also stay to enjoy some interaction with the Camp Quality helpers, especially the companion who will support their child for the coming week. In 2011 the venue for this day changed to the new Hampton Downs track. It was a great start to the week. Day 2 Our day commenced with the Juniors travelling to a farm after breakfast, where a “tent city” had been erected on a paddock bordering a private beach. The Juniors enjoyed various “Kiwiana” farm and beach activities before being joined by the Seniors who had stayed at Wesley and completed the first two rotations of electives. Lunch was enjoyed at the farm by all, with the Juniors returning to Wesley for a swim in the pool and quiet time before having a PJ party after dinner. Meanwhile the Seniors got to ride around the farm in Hummers, which were brought to the farm by a local business, they also enjoyed some “Kiwiana” games and activities including a beach walk and camp fire songs after a BBQ dinner. A team of Fire Dancers come out to provide a show on the beach, more camp fire songs and activities followed and the night was spent under canvas for the Seniors. Day 3 The seniors were up early at the canvas city for breakfast before packing up and heading back to Wesley. The Juniors travelled to Motat for another “Kiwiana” themed day with rides on trams and other activities. The Seniors arrived back at Wesley mid morning and hit the showers before having lunch. The afternoon comprised the third rotation of their electives. Kiwiana movies they had made were shown, followed by the ever popular pool time. The Juniors returned to camp mid afternoon and everyone got ready for the annual “Black Tie Dinner”. We hosted various VIP’s including members of the Freemasons and Lodges including the Grand Master Ray Laurance, The head of Starship oncology Jane Skeen and others including a team from KIC. This was another great night with all the Campers and their Companions entering the dining room in pairs, being announced and proceeding to have a photo taken before being seated. The evening finished with a pub quiz. Day 4 Off to Rainbows end, another great day with rides aplenty, screeches, screams, laughter and lots of smiles. Back to camp for a talent quest after dinner, where again we were treated to the amazing talents of the campers and companions alike. Day 5 Thursday already - The day started early with those who could making the effort to get up for early rides in the RE/MAX hot air balloon. Lots and lots of tired campers (and companions staff and volunteers), the week has been very busy so thank goodness we are having a quiet day on camp. Arts and crafts for all, ukulele lessons for the Juniors and building of props for the disco for the Seniors. 9.30 am we had a very special visitor arrive, John Key our Prime Minister arrived to visit and see the Campers at their various activities. This is the first ever visit by an incumbent Prime Minister to any Camp Quality Camp. This was an unequalled success, John Key spent time in the arts and crafts room, on the floor with all the paint and other mess, chatting to the campers and then went to the music area to hear a song the juniors had spent the morning practicing, he even got into a jock of the day suit before returning to receive gifts from some of the littlest campers. What a great visit, thoroughly enjoyed by everyone. The rest of the day everyone put a great effort into decorating an area outside the dining room for the annual disco, this year an alfresco event where the “Kiwiana” theme continued with a team rowing a cardboard Waka onto the dance floor. Great kiwi music and dancing followed. Day 6 The last day, and we had a great number of people who hadn’t made it to the RE/MAX hot air balloon on Thursday get up early for a ride before breakfast, this was followed by a morning of fun “Top Town” games, run by a couple of year 13 students from St Kentigern College. Stacey Jones spent the morning with several of the teams that formed for the games. Lots of new and challenging activities culminating in the inevitable water fight (wet areas strictly enforced). No one knows whether to be sad it is all coming to an end or glad that we will be able to go home with lots of great memories. 85 Campers went home happy tired and full of stories to tell their families.
Geoff Barnett

Waikato/Bay of Plenty - Summer Camp 2011	23/03/2011
Our Summer Camp in the second week of January had the hottest weather that we have experienced for quite some time and saw many bottles and cups of fluid refilled. Saturday early afternoon saw the arrival of staff and volunteers. Kim our trainer came to bring the two separate training groups together and re energise us all into CQ Camp readiness. Sunday morning and off on buses to meet with families and take charge of their gifts to us…their children The programme committee had decided for a HIGH OCTANE camp and this was certainly delivered with a mixture of tried and true together with new and challenging. The range of activities started with the Stu Robertson from Corporate Challenge joining us at Lake Rotoma and running some great fun filled team games, truly enjoyed by one and all. From there the activities included, jet boat, Jet Ski and hovercraft rides. Plus the added attraction of having the NZ wake boarding champion give us an unexpected display. The rest of the week included, African Drummers, surfing lessons, high rope adventure courses, a Burma trail in the bush (loved the glow worms), inflatable games (giant foosball, bull riding, jousting and boxing with giant gloves). Twilight luge was a huge success and hearing the “we are Camp Quality “chant coming up the chairlift was VERY inspirational. Agro ventures and the Agro dome show, Off Road NZ, with 4 wheel safari tours, monster truck rides and clay bird shooting and archery all provided loads of thrills and laughter. Having hangi for dinner followed by a performance from one of Rotorua’s leading Maori Cultural groups was truly fabulous for our Kiwiana camp theme. The culture group held all of us spellbound from the moment they entered. Their interaction with the campers and companions was just fabulous. Our electives for a more sedate side of camp were tried and true to please everyone. They ranged from arts and crafts to model making, archery, pistol shooting, abseiling, kayaking and horse riding. Again all of these were enjoyed by campers and companions. Concert night: With a theme like Kiwiana I knew it was going to be interesting to view the costumes. I was amazed at how many Fred Dagg’s we have in NZ now. The range of costumes proved that a lot of thought and effort had taken place as what was shown encompasses all the great Kiwi icons; marmite, jandals, buzzy bees, All Blacks, an Ohakune carrot and last but by no means least a PAVLOVA! It was a pleasure to have our Regional Trustee John Wyatt and some of the regions Freemason along to experience the fun of concert night. After much hilarity from the skits, everyone boogied the evening away with a local band until it was time for camp curfew at 11pm. Friday morning and all too quickly, time to take our charges and deliver them back to their families with the promise to meet again at Reunion day.
Fi Hammond

Wellington/Central Districts - Summer Camp 2011	07/03/2011
In January 2011, fifty-eight children went to St Marys College in Stratford, to enjoy all the fun, laughter and friendships that Camp Quality is famous for. After a windy first night away from home, the real fun began when campers and their companions spent their first full day ‘down on the farm’ in Toko, the home of John and Roslyn Weir. After watching sheep dog trials, local Lions Clubs helped to provide the children with lots of great entertainment including a giant waterslide, 4x4 rides, a rifle shooting range, petting zoo, trolley carts, horse-riding, and some great tucker! Fonterra finished off a great day out, arriving with ice creams, milk and sticker packs for every camper, and children of all ages checked out the newly painted tanker. Later that evening, after a rest, Heliview treated campers to a helicopter flight high above Stratford – an awesome end to a fun-filled first day! A “top town” style sports day is a well-loved tradition, and campers and companions, wearing the appropriate team colours, battled it out for first place. There was great rivalry but the Blue crew were the clear winners in the end. Another highlight is theme day, and 150 “Pirates” spent an afternoon with treasure maps in hand looking for lost treasure. Their pirate adventure was complete with coconut palm islands, an oversized Polly Parrot, and even a pirate ship - custom built by Scott Gardner, with materials donated by the Johnson Family Farm (a very special "thankyou" to them!) The crew of the “Fighting Five” with victorious, banking the most loot and reaping bags of “pirate booty” as reward. The fun continued in New Plymouth with a visit to Brooklyn Zoo, a special tour through Puke Ariki museum and library, and time to play and climb at New Plymouth YMCA. An evening at the “Pirate” themed light festival at Pukekura Park was spectacular, and many campers believed it had all been created especially for Camp! Electives are an opportunity for the campers to choose between dam dropping, plaster crafts, art, or a trip to the local salon for hair and nails. Wheels of most any kind are always a favourite, and the Mustang Club members shared their beautiful cars with lots of smiling kids, big and small. Finally, on the last evening, no camp would be complete without dressing up for a night at the disco! On the final morning, it was a soggy finish to a great week. A very special balloon release, and the lowering of the camp flag marked the end of another amazing year at camp, with plenty of hugs before tired happy campers and their faithful companions boarded the buses for home.
Fay Partington

Kids in Cars Annual Track Day

02/02/2011

The annual KIC - Camp Quality Track Day has grown from around five cars six years ago to a full on event held at
Pukekohe Park Raceway, where KIC hold car and truck shows, offer race car hot laps, exotic and road car laps plus truck ride laps.

KIC also provide children's carnival rides and static displays and open this up to the general public to help raise funds towards the children's camps.

KIC is very much like Camp Quality where is it run solely by volunteers and survives by way of supporters donations.

Prime Minister happy to clown around with Camp Quality youngsters at Auckland/Northland Summer Camp	20/01/2011
Prime Minister John Key put a smile on the faces of 85 children living with cancer at the Camp Quality Auckland/Northland Summer Camp at Wesley College, Paerata recently. The Prime Minister spent almost two hours at the Auckland/Northland Camp talking with the youngsters, posing for photographs and engaging with the campers. Nothing seemed off limits for the Prime Minister during his visit to the summer camp, even getting into a clown suit, he was happy to play the part. Camp Quality NZ Chairman Ivan Lawson also at the camp on the day of the Prime Minister’s visit says he proved a “big hit with all the youngsters. His involvement with the campers bought endless smiles and laughter and the children were still buzzing long after he left. We were thrilled to have Mr Key join us at our Auckland/Northland Summer Camp and have the opportunity to learn more about Camp Quality.” Photograph: Prime Minister John Key with a group of youngsters during his recent visit to Camp Quality Auckland/Northland Summer Camp.
Lindenberg & Partners

The Dream and New Zealand - The Beginning	11/01/2011
Born in England and migrating to America where she and husband Brian spent a number of years, Brian who had become a minister for the Community of Christ, accepted a posting to Sydney, Australia in 1982. Before leaving America, Vera whilst on an internal flight, read in a magazine an article titled “We Have To Do Something for Teddi” She read for the first time the plight of children diagnosed with cancer and the efforts of Teddi’s family to provide her with some respite from the isolation her illness had caused by setting up a camp for children like her. The article made such an impression on Vera that she tracked down Teddi’s family and asked father Gary what he had found was the most valuable thing Teddi had gained from attending the camp to be told “I heard her laugh again for the first time since diagnosis and that was music to my heart” Although invited by Gary to attend the next camp, Vera had to decline due to her pending shift to Australia but she resolved to become a volunteer for a children’s cancer support organisation once she had settled in Sydney. Settled into their new home in January 1983, Vera set about becoming a volunteer and having located a children’s hospital went on a visit with a newfound Australian friend to meet with the head of the children’s oncology ward to whom she asked the question “Where can we volunteer” only to be told that she was wasting his time. It was pointed out that there was no program offering camps for children with cancer and that Australian children did not need one and that Vera had no experience at all in working with children with cancer. Feeling quite deflated Vera and her friend took a short time for their determination to return and decided to mount an approach to another children’s hospital and targeted the Prince of Wales Children’s Hospital in Randwick [now known as the Sydney Children’s Hospital] where the reception was quite the opposite and all in the Oncology Ward were taken by the concept of an organized volunteer program camp. With this encouragement Vera embarked on a frenzied period of organisation, suffering many setbacks on the way, but finally prevailing with the first organized camp seven months later. During that time whilst on a visit to the Hospital to see the children some of who were to attend that first camp, and being concerned that the children were getting too excited asked a doctor if that was a concern, to which he replied, "No." “It is true that no one can affect the quantity of anyone’s life, but anyone can affect the quality” Without realising it, the doctor had given Vera the idea for the name of Camp Quality. Those of you who know the great Camp Quality organisation now existing in New Zealand may not know that we battled opposition in order to establish the programme. Wilton Boyle from Auckland flew to Sydney to experience a week on a camp and then invited me to Auckland to help set up this programme. To our dismay, and for reasons we never fully understood, a well known oncology doctor in Auckland publicly denounced us and said the programme was definitely not needed. On my third day in Auckland after visiting with this doctor, he was interviewed on television and advised parents and doctors to have nothing to do with Camp Quality. Ironically this was a repeat of what had happened in Australia so I was not daunted. I had already seen the benefit to children in Australia and this made me more determined. On my forth day I made some telephone contacts with a hospital south of Auckland and Wilton and I traveled there to meet with the head of oncology. This doctor’s response was the opposite of our Auckland doctor. He encouraged us to do what we could to offer this love and support to children with cancer. From there we traveled to New Plymouth where we arranged to meet with Lions member Mike Brooks at his home. It was after midnight when we finally went to bed after hearing Mike say that he would promote our programme to Lions and felt sure they would support us. By the fifth day, Camp Quality NZ was born. The story since then has been one that the Lions can be proud of. Lion’s members Frank Mitchell and Kevin Whall took the programme to heart and spent thousands of hours establishing a Board, registering the programme. They invited me to join the NZ National Board and they followed the guidelines from Camp Quality International to the letter. While I know I had the support of so many Lions leaders, these two men became my mentors in New Zealand and I had every confidence that our guidelines would be honoured. Every Lions Club was involved in some fundraising efforts and it is thanks to the Lions Clubs of New Zealand that the children with cancer can be given some respite from their treatment. Over the years I travelled to New Zealand five times to set up new camps and conduct committee training workshops, many more times for Board meetings and to speak at a Lions International Conference. My husband Brian conducted many Companion Training workshops. Each time that we visited we were greeted with kindness by Lions members and I will be forever grateful for this support. Lions, you can all be proud of the work you have done for the children with cancer. I am proud of my association with you and commend you all for your wonderful work. Don’t stop now! Keep it up! Sadly there are many more children for you to reach. God bless you all.
Vera Entwistle

Camp Quality New Zealand The First 25 Years 1985-2010	11/01/2011
The Camp Quality New Zealand 25th Anniversary was a very special milestone that we were pleased and proud to celebrate. The commitment and support we received from the Freemasons Roskill Foundation to help us produce a record of the first 25 years is sincerely appreciated.
J Carter

New Zealander of the Year Awards 2011	03/12/2010
Thirty four inspirational Kiwi’s and ten community groups from all across the country have been named as semi finalists in the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards 2011 to be presented at a gala awards presentation at the Hyatt Regency Auckland on 2 February 2011. The semi-finalists were selected from hundreds of New Zealanders nominated by leaders from politics, education, business and local communities, as well as by colleagues, friends and families of the nominees. All have been judged to be making extraordinary contributions to their local communities, the country, and often also to the world at large. The three finalists in each award category will be announced on Monday 13th December. Mitre 10 Community of the Year Acknowledges groups working together up and down the country to build stronger communities. The 10 semi-finalists include: North Island – Aotea Family Support Group (Great Barrier Island), Eltham Community (Taranaki), Howick Community (Howick, Auckland), Napier Family Centre (Napier), StarJam Charitable Trust (Central Auckland) and Sunshine Service Bus (Gisborne). South Island – Camp Quality NZ (Christchurch), Christchurch Charity Hospital (Christchurch), Project Lyttelton (Canterbury) and the Gibbston Community Association (Queenstown).
Grant McCabe, National Awards Manager, New Zealander of the Year Awards

Corporate Challenge support	22/11/2010
Waikato/Bay of Plenty region have been extremely grateful to have been able to meet Stu Robertson and his team from Corporate Challenge, who provide fun team building days that end with some of our campers receiving brand new bikes. It is wonderful to see the smiles on the faces when the bicycles are given out. Thanks Stu to your team, from ours.
Fiona Hammond Regional Manager Waikato/BOP

Jubilee Ball to Mark Camp Quality 25th Anniversary Celebrations in Waikato/Bay of Plenty	19/11/2010
The Waikato/Bay of Plenty region of Camp Quality marked the Camp Quality 25th Anniversary with a Jubilee Ball at Waikato Stadium on Saturday November 13th. Approximately 100 people enjoyed a fantastic night of celebration. It was a great way to bring back long time campers, volunteers and supporters. Having the ball at the Waikato Stadium certainly raised Camp Quality's profile, thanks go to the team that worked with us to make the evening a success. Fiona Hammond, Waikato/Bay of Plenty Regional Manager, says "We saw this as a great opportunity to reunite and celebrate and if the smiles on faces was anything to go by then we achieved our goal. One of the most lasting memories will be that parents were able to party with their children in a totally safe and caring environment."
CQ Waikato/Bay of Plenty

Auckland/Northland Picnic & Fun Day in the Park	16/11/2010
Camp Quality Auckland/Northland celebrated 25 years of Camp Quality at the Tahaki Reserve in Mt. Eden, Auckland. Just on three hundred people –campers, companions, staff and supporters from the 80’s to the present day met on Sunday November 14 for a day of fun and fellowship. Drumline entertained us with some awesome drum work, Limit Break showed us some cool moves and we practiced the Zumba. Richard Hanley, a fearsome pirate, challenged the campers before we all took part in a tug of war. Josh Lees and the Dirty Dozen Band provided us with great music during the day while we played on bouncy castles, rode a surfboard, showed how strong we were with a giant hammer then rested to have our faces and arms painted. Our thanks to Matt and Dayna from Studio 2 who were the MC’s for the day, Kids in Cars and the Bombay, Bucklands Beach, Clevedon and Drury & District Lions Clubs for assisting with the catering.
CQ Auckland/Northland

25th Anniversary Dinner

15/11/2010

Saturday 16th October 2010 saw Camp Quality New Zealand celebrating their 25th Anniversary with a memorable dinner in Christchurch with support from the Copthorne Hotel Commodore, Christchurch Airport and the Andrew Simms Mitsubishi Charitable Trust.

Vera Entwistle returned to be the special guest after helping to establish the organisation in this country. Other guests included the Hon Kate Wilkinson, Minister of Labour, representatives of The Cancer Society of New Zealand, Child Cancer, Canteen, Camp Quality sponsors, Board and Regional representatives and Camp Quality Ambassadors Stacey Jones, and Dallas and Julie Seymour.

At the dinner a Camp Quality Life Membership Award was presented to Tom Patterson of the Copthorne Hotel Commodore. Tom is a past CQNZ Board member and the Commodore Hotel is a long term supporter of Camp Quality both at national level and at regional (Christchurch) level.

“Our organisation had been looking forward to this special celebration for quite some time and the Commodore ensured that everything was perfect for the occasion and helped to make it for us, an extremely memorable celebration,” says Ivan Lawson, Chairman of Camp Quality NZ.

Uzabus ... going the extra mile	29/10/2010
The UZABUS FLEET Coaches have taken approximately 70 children and 70 companions from the Wellington/Central Districts region to their annual summer camps for the last three years and will do so again in 2011. They enjoy a week of exciting events together. Helping to raise the Camp Quality profile, in association with Awesome Art and 3M, Uzabus are proudly sporting our logo on their entire fleet. Have you spotted them yet?
CQ Wellington/Central Districts

Truck Show to mark Camp Quality 25th Anniversary Celebrations in Christchurch	08/10/2010
The revving of truck engines and screeching of tyres at Ruapuna Raceway was heard for miles around last month – all in the aid of a good cause. The Christchurch region of Camp Quality NZ staged a Truck Show and Picnic at Ruapuna Raceway on Sunday September 19 to mark the 25th anniversary of Camp Quality providing summer camps and year-round support to children living with cancer and their families in New Zealand. There were hot laps in the trucks, fast cars and trikes as well as a ‘Show ‘n’ Shine’ competition with trophies going to the winners of the categories Distance Travelled, Best Fleet, Judges Choice and the Supreme Winner which was voted for by the campers.
CQ Christchurch

Camp Quality Auckland/Northland held their 25th Anniversary Masquerade Ball in the Pukekohe Town Hall on September 18	27/09/2010
Two hundred and twenty five people attended in all types of costume creating a kaleidoscope of variety and colour. The Sunset Coast Band provided the music with an auction for Camp Quality raising $7,000. The Pukekohe community supported the event; the Council, local Lions Clubs, schools and artists to make it a great success and all for a good cause.
CQ Auckland/Northland

Wellington/Central Districts - Winter Camp	20/09/2010
The middle of August saw Campers and Companions from Wellington/Central Districts head up the Central Plateau region to hit the slopes of Mt Ruapehu. Saturday morning dawned with low cloud and strong winds. With the mountain being closed, we piled on the bus and headed for Taupo. We toured the prawn farm and learnt about having seven wives, one of which will eventually eat you. Undeterred, we then headed to the pools to do our own impersonation of prawns – just without the cannibalism tendencies. The trip back to Raetihi answered the age-old question of how many males does it take to put diesel in a bus (five). Sunday morning the forecast was better so we packed up, dressed up and headed up the mountain. Those new to the snow headed for a lesson; the experienced skiers and boarders headed up and down the mountain. The weather was pretty miserable but there was enough snow for those of us wanting to ski/board to do so and those of us that got sick of falling over managed to find enough snow to have the obligatory snow-ball fight. Tired, wet and with new bumps and bruises, we returned down the mountain and back home for a well-earned sleep.
CQ Wellington/Central Districts

South Region - Living Billboard marking Camp Quality 25th Anniversary Celebrations	20/09/2010
Four young Dunedin volunteers in their twenties spent three days and nights on a stage in the Octagon – all in the name of charity. From 9th to 12th September the four, along with their support crew, created a ‘Living Billboard’ and participated in a range of challenges like taking a plunge in a pool of ice, as part of an awareness and fundraising event by Camp Quality South to mark the 25th Anniversary of Camp Quality in New Zealand. CQ South Regional Trustee Wayne Collie pictured taking his icy plunge.
CQ South

Auckland/Northland Region Junior Mini Camp	10/08/2010
2 - 4 July Peter Snell Youth Village, Whangaparaoa Pirate Theme Our Juniors became fearsome pirates for the weekend with swords, patches, parrots, earrings and "Arrhs" in abundance. The first day was spent making pirate costumes and banners before conquering the adventure course, absailing and target practice with air rifles. Later in the day we made bivouacs – shelter after the ship wreck - before dinner and a treasure hunt theme Burma Trail, where everyone found the lost gold treasure. On the Sunday, we cooked pikelets on hobo stoves, then the rain forced us indoors where we had team challenges followed by a “pirate fashion parade before heading back to Auckland
CQ Auckland/Northland

Auckland/Northland Region Senior Mini Camp	10/08/2010
15 - 18 July Christian Youth Camp, Ngaruawahia The first day was spent in the dark Black Water Rafting, at Waitomo Caves with "The Legendary Black Water Rafting Company,” amazing people who gave us a great day. Plenty of water and just as much fun. Back to camp to recuperate for the next days activities on camp; BMX bikes, mini-golf, archery, flying fox and confidence course. The weather was variable but the program went on regardless. In the evening the Campers had great fun paint-balling the Companions before we all moved indoors to watch the All Blacks thrash the South Africans, while a few of the Ladies spent a relaxing evening in the large spa pool this camp has. An early start the next day brought us back to Auckland where we had a “Grand Prix experience” at Formula E (electric go carts), 160 Laps of fast and furious fun, followed by lunch and ice cream, (all provided by the wonderful people at Formula E) before the campers were picked up by their families.
CQ Auckland/Northland

Outward Bound Scholarships

16/07/2010

In January Outward Bound offered Camp Quality scholarship places on two Discovery Courses. It became very clear that Outward Bound and Camp Quality had the potential to work perfectly for each other. Outward Bound’s aim is to build relationships with community organisations whose mission aligns with that of Outward Bound and to support them in helping their community. Outward Bound’s mission being “better people, better communities, better world.”

Adventure and discovery on Outward Bound (by Bec Whiting)
I recently had the opportunity to attend an eight-day Discovery Course with Outward Bound (thanks to Camp Quality and the Outward Bound Trust). It was a fantastic opportunity to challenge myself both mentally and physically. As well as an opportunity to reflect and decide on what is important to me and what I want to achieve.
Outward Bound has been running courses at Anakiwa (near Picton) since 1962. Their courses are about personal and social development through learning in the outdoors.
I met some wonderful people. I challenged myself. I supported others to achieve more than they thought they could. I learnt a lot about myself and learnt some lessons I will take with me beyond Outward Bound. It was a wonderful experience and it is difficult to fully explain. In a way, my journey is only just beginning.
Thank you to Camp Quality and the Outward Bound Trust for offering me (and Jeremy from Christchurch) this experience. I think it has given us self-awareness and skills that we will be able to put to good use in the future with Camp Quality.

'We are all better than we know. If only we can come to discover this, we may never again settle for anything less'. (Kurt Hahn, Outward Bound founder)

Hi, my name is Jeremy; I’ve been involved in Camp Quality for a number of years now. I had the opportunity to go on an Outward Bound Discovery Course back in May. Wow. It was incredible, I never even knew I had it in me, and fully believed it was only for young people. Well I am young at heart and need to be challenged out of my comfy life. So I did it, Camp Quality offered me the opportunity and I took it. You really need to take a chance and give it a go. Ralph Waldo Emerson said “What lies beneath us and what lies ahead of us are tiny matters, compared to what lies within us”. Push your boundaries, get free from yourself, jump into the unknown. There is no better way than through Outward Bound.
Take the challenge, I dare you.
Jeremy Adams

World Rally Champions help Andrew Simms European raise thousands of dollars for Camp Quality NZ	10/05/2010
Over $17,000 was raised for children’s cancer charity, Camp Quality, last week when international rally drivers attended an exclusive event at Andrew Simms European to celebrate the New Zealand arrival of the 2010 World Rally Championship (WRC). The French themed ticket only event featured a live interview by Brian Kelly with six times world rally champion Sébastien Loeb and Spanish rally driver, Danni Sordo. Albert Llovera, the only paraplegic in the WRC, also attended and was interviewed live on stage. Andrew Simms Mitsubishi’s own rally team was also present & Chris was interviewed on stage. A range of autographed rally memorabilia was auctioned including Red Bull model Citroen rally cars and special edition Citroen WRC team t-shirts, autographed by Sébastien Loeb. One of the highest bids of the night was for a day with the Andrew Simms Mitsubishi rally team, which went for $1200. Andrew Simms says: `The event was a great success. It was an honour to be able to host some of the greatest rally drivers of our time, and to share that experience with our guests. I am also very proud of the efforts that went into raising an impressive donation for children’s charity, Camp Quality. It is fantastic to know that we have been able to support a really good cause as well as celebrating the WRC in New Zealand.’
By Andrew Simms European

Purple Heart Foundation	04/05/2010
Why Purple Heart? It is known as the "Badge of Military Merit" and also the Purple Heart is the last Bead a child is given as part of the Beads of Courage program when they have finished their treatment for cancer. So to me the name is very fitting as the courage shown by many should inspire us to help. Last June, our daughter Claudia was diagnosed with cancer. Over the last few months, we have watched our beautiful, tough and tenacious four-year-old battle her way through the removal of a kidney, chemotherapy, radiation, blood tests, x-rays and ultrasounds with a real steely determination. It has been a hard journey for us all, for Claudia foremost, for her mother Carolyn, her sister Charlotte, both our families, friends and work colleagues. The only way for all of us to get through this has been one day at a time. This eye opening and life changing experience is one I would never wish on anyone else. We have however been blessed with support from family and friends which has made this year a lot easier and without their help we would not have been able to continue with a normal life for Charlotte and continued to keep everything as normal as possible in our home and work life. It has really been amazing how giving people are with their time and genuine thoughts and trying to find ways to help. This experience has made me realise that I have lived a very privileged life and feel I now know I want to give something back. I have started this website in the hope that each year we can raise some money for a charity and help others to live their dream of having a normal life. This year I wanted to help a charity that was for children and where pretty much all of the money raised will go towards helping children who are living with cancer to have some fun. I have been involved in sport in some way or another all my life so was looking for something that had a recreational theme and was for children. So when I came across Geoff Barnett from the Auckland/Northland region of Camp Quality I was sold. In the last year the Purple Heart Foundation has raised: The Prize Draw - $15,000.00 Jims 320km Challenge - $ 5,006.00 The 100K Purple Heart Challenge - $40,000.00 Golf Day - $24,065.00 Other Fundraising Efforts - $ 6,000.00 TOTAL - $90,071.00 Visit www.purpleheart.net.nz for further information.
Mark Little - Oct 2009

Payroll Giving - a way for you to help Camp Quality NZ

21/04/2010

IRD's rules around donations have changed. Employees can now donate a portion of their pay to a worthy cause - like Camp Quality New Zealand - and get immediate tax credits in return.
This is an easy way for employees to help us in our work and get recognition for their generosity and kindness in very tangible way, through reduced tax. For every dollar they donate they'll receive a third back as a tax credit in the same pay period.
Under this regime employees no longer need to wait to the end of the tax year to get their tax benefits.

For more detailed information visit:
http://www.ird.govt.nz/income-tax-individual/tax-credits/payroll-giving/

Postie Bike Challenge

31/03/2010

The 6-day challenge, which started in the far North on Friday, March 26, saw the nine riders cover 1,600km down the west coast of the North Island (SH3), at about 70 km/ph, with special stages along the way. They rode Honda CT110 bikes, the type formerly used for postal deliveries in rural Australia and New Zealand.
The Friday saw the riders’ race along 90 mile beach before reaching Kaitaia around mid-day where they stopped at a local Blue Wing Honda dealership for lunch, some photos and to rally for donations. They then headed on to Hokianga, finishing the first stage at Opononi.
On Saturday they continued south through Waipoua Forest to Dargaville, stopping at the Kauri Museum at Matakohe for lunch, and then riding on to Warkworth where they spent the night.

After a mid-day stop in Manukau on Sunday (March 28) the riders headed for Hampton Downs where they had been invited to be part of the fifth and final round of the 2010 Castrol Power 1 New Zealand Road Race Championships. During their stay the motorcycle enthusiasts had the chance to do a hot lap on the Postie Bikes.
After an over-night stay at Waingaro Hot Springs the adventurers headed to Honda Otorohanga on Monday, March 29 for lunch and then passed through Te Kuiti en route to New Plymouth and Palmerston North before finishing in Wellington on May 31.

Thank you to Glenn Groves who made this idea a reality and invited Camp Quality along for the ride.

Thanks also to Blue Wing Honda and our Camp Quality volunteers who assisted with support for the Challenge at the different stages along the way.

Wellington/Central Districts 25th Celebration	27/03/2010
Wellington/Central Districts celebrated the Camp Quality 25th Anniversary with their own very special "mini camp" day recently. See the full story on our 25th Celebrations page

Auckland/Northland - Camp Quality 25th Anniversary - John Andrew Mazda – Charity Black Tie Dinner & Auction	25/03/2010
See the full story on our 25th Celebration page

Auckland/Northland region January 2010 Camp news	24/03/2010
The venue for this year’s summer camp was Wesley College, Paerata 16th – 23rd January. This was a week later than normal owing to Pukekohe race track being pre booked. This “Family Day” being the start of camp, was once again a huge success thanks to Nigel Karl and his team of helpers from “Kids in Cars” who organised the day and to the Lions Clubs that support us each year. Although there were fewer trucks, owing to being a Saturday, there were plenty of big rigs for rides and on show. We were entertained at lunchtime by “Racing” Ray Williams and Shane Van Gisbergen racing E carts plus three Harvard’s from the War Birds swooping in giving a fifteen minute air show. This Family Day has become a highlight on our Camp Quality Calendar. On Tuesday night we had a very formal “25th Anniversary Black Tie Dinner” with tables dressed and a formal entrance where all were announced on arrival. Our guest for the evening was Dr Jane Skeen – Specialist Medical Officer, Paediatric Haematology/Oncology and her husband who stayed on after dinner to be entertained by the “Brown Leathers”. The theme for Thursday night this year was Heroes. It is amazing the costumes that appear on these nights. Music as always was provided by the Police DJ Lenny Johnstone. We are so appreciative of the willingness of the 202K Lions Club members, Freemasons and Lodge members and their wives, 234 signing in for kitchen duties. The seven day program was completed with only the Thursday and Friday morning program being slightly altered, moving indoors owing to rain.
John Green, Regional Manager

Waikato/BOP region January 2010 Camp news	24/03/2010
The start of 25 years of Camp Quality celebrations began for our region with our Summer Camp held at St Peter’s Collegiate near Cambridge. We had a total of 50 campers from over the Waikato/BOP Region and extended a warm welcome to five from the Gisborne area. With staff and companions already primed with the theme for “Silver Camp” it was set to be a camp with a combination of tried and tested electives and activities which were new ideas for our region. This was the first time that we had separate Senior and Junior activities and it proved to be worthwhile. Our camp began with an afternoon of games for team building and ended with our Thursday evening concert night as being proof that we do get it right. From the roar of motorbikes and classic cars, to ten pin bowling, kayaking and having wheelchair athletes come to share their skills, the activities offered something for everyone. Camp Quality Ambassador Stacey Jones and his family were a welcome addition to the camp for the Thursday afternoon, and it was a pity that we couldn’t have them to stay for our Concert night. Concert night was a night of fun and hilarity tinged with sadness as we bade farewell to three long time campers. It was also a moment of extreme pride as Life Membership was awarded to two of our fabulous nurses, Ellyn Dean and Jolene Proffit. The evening featured a diverse range of silver themed costumes which campers and companions alike had obviously worked hard on. They looked particularly effective under the laser and strobe lighting as everyone partied well into the night The support given by local Lion’s and Freemasons in the kitchen area was very much appreciated by all. We are now preparing for our mini camp to be held in Rotorua in September, along with a 25year celebration ball to be held in Hamilton in November.
Fiona Hammond, Regional Manager

Wellington/CD region January 2010 Camp news	24/03/2010
Taranaki lays it on for Camp Quality kids For 61 Camp Quality children from the Wellington Central districts, Taranaki recently provided a summer camp like no other. Leaving memories of hospitals and treatment behind, the children came anticipating all the fun, laughter and friendships that camp is famous for. Campers and companions arrived well prepared for their six-day stay at St Mary’s College in Stratford. Upon arrival they were greeted by a collection of staff taking part in this years’ camp theme, “Heroes and Villains”. The staff team of dedicated volunteers had spent the past twelve months preparing for this year’s camp. The real fun began that evening as the Heliview helicopter arrived and campers and their companions thoroughly enjoyed flying over Stratford - a wonderful start to an exciting time away from home. Ice-creams, surfing, swimming, IRB surf life-saving club boat rides, jet skis, abseiling and digging in the sand made for a great day out at Opunake beach, and after a rest, could only be topped with an exclusive fireworks display provided by Kairanga Lions. A “top town” style sports day is a well-loved tradition, and campers and companions, dressed in their team colours, battled it out for first place. There was great rivalry but teams were also rewarded for their displays of camaraderie and good sportsmanship. Another highlight is theme day, and the Mayor and Stratford Youth Council were well prepared for one hundred & fifty “Heroes and Villains”, providing afternoon tea, complete with a special duck race in the Stratford river. The fun continued with rides at Fun Ho Toy Museum, making furry friends at Stoney Oaks Wildlife Park, and getting lost in the Maze Maize, and a visit to Stratford Speedway for an evening of speed, spills and thrills. Electives are an opportunity for the campers to choose between dam dropping, plaster crafts, art, puppet making, or a trip to the local salon for hair and nails. Wheels are always a favourite, and the Mustang Club members shared their beautiful cars with lots of smiling kids, big and small. The last evening of camp would not be complete without dressing up for a night at the disco! After packing on the final morning, campers were treated to more wheels, with motorbike rides for all. A very special balloon release and the lowering of the camp flag marked the end of another amazing year at camp. Again the local support from individuals, businesses, and service clubs was very generous and quite simply overwhelming. The team extends sincere thanks especially to the Taranaki Chamber of Commerce and their members for welcoming us into their hearts and communities, and for helping us provide such fabulous memories for our campers.
Tony & Helen Clifford, Regional Manager

Christchurch region January 2010 Camp news	24/03/2010
Held in the 3rd week of January at Living Springs, at the head of Lyttelton Harbour, the Companions came into Camp on Saturday 16th and were able to prepare the bunkrooms for the arrival of their Campers the following day. After a boisterous and stormy night it was over to the Christchurch Railway station to meet the Campers and their families on a cool and damp morning. As a first the whole group of 50 Campers, their Companions and the Committee boarded the train to be taken through the tunnel to Lyttelton – the first ride on a train for some – and then a short cruise on the harbour prior to being transported to Living Springs for lunch and settling in. The Camp theme for 2010 was LIGHTS. CAMERA, ACTION and that is what the following week was all about, activities aplenty starting with a marshmallow roast and continuing with arts and crafts, using the Living Springs facilities – air rifle shooting, archery, monorail, flying fox, mini golf and trampoline. Also on the programme was a Fair Ground morning where we had a bouncy castle, mini jeeps, horse riding, rides on Harley Davidson’s, candy floss, ice creams and quad bike trailer rides and a day trip into the city for ice skating and rock climbing at an indoor complex, the generous people at the Airport Commodore Hotel providing a scrumptious BBQ lunch between the two activities. Every day the swimming pool and water slide were just as popular as ever and the entertainment in the evenings ranged from dancing, films and a quiz night and as for the PARTY NIGHT the imagination of all was a joy to behold with many resorting to yesteryear in their costume choice. The final day was spoiled a trifle by the weather, Camp spent the day at the Ferrymead Heritage Park and despite the weather all enjoyed the vintage exhibitions of machinery, houses businesses and the like, with the local Ferrymead Lions spoiling us with an excellent lunch and then afternoon tea when the parents had arrived to take their children back home. A big THANKS to the 14 Lions Clubs in all who provided manpower to look after all of our needs for each meal, the resident Living Springs staff, particularly those in the kitchen were excellent and could not do enough to make our stay as enjoyable as it has ever been at their excellent complex.
Ivan Lawson, Acting Regional Manager

South region January 2010 Camp news	24/03/2010
Once again, Camp Quality South conducted an exciting and fun filled camp at Oamaru from the 4th to the 10th of January. We had 28 children (campers) and 28 young companions to be their buddies. The program committee had excelled themselves once again and one and all had a wonderful time. Amongst the more interesting things we got up to was a visit to McRae’s gold mine, canoeing and sailing at McKerrow’s ponds, Swimming, both in the Waianakarua River and in the Oamaru aquatic centre, a visit to the newly refurbished Opera House and making soap-on-a-rope at the soap factory in Oamaru. As well as the external visits we had a full range of activities for the campers within the camp bounds, with lots of arts and crafts, indoor and out door games and entertainment of various forms for the evenings. It would have been difficult to find a happier group of children anywhere in New Zealand when on concert night, they were given free reign to dress-up in costume and perform skits to entertain the invited guests, staff and each other. The only limitation to their skits was that they had to follow the camp theme of “Super Hero’s”. The imagination of the kids was awesome! And a superb time was had by all including two District Governors of Lions, two Vice District Governors and two past District Governors. We had our own kitchen, kitchen staff and a wonderful team of helpers from local service groups. To this end we ate like kings and I am sure finished the week a bit heavier than we started. The food as always at camp was designed to be wholesome, tasty, nutritious, which it was but it was also well prepared and presented so that even the smaller children enjoyed their (5 per day) rations. CQ South committee in party dress I have never before seen so much fruit and vegetables consumed by small children. Fantastic! Everyone on Committee for Camp Quality South attended this year’s camp which meant that we had about 20 hands-on helpers at any one time. This was hugely beneficial as it meant that laundry, room cleaning, and general house cleaning was up to the mark and I can confidently say we handed the school accommodation back cleaner than it was when we moved in. In conclusion I can put my hand on my heart and say “We gave 28 children affected by cancer an exciting, safe, fun filled week” and I would like to think that we also gave their parents a welcome break and a respite if only for a few days. My heart goes out to those same families, and all I can think at the moment is – Your Children are Awesome and to see them in the river, swimming, no-one would believe they had a worry in the world. My committee and I look forward to seeing them all again at the families reunion day in May and at Queenstown for CQS 2011.
Tom MacDonald, Regional Manager

Off road vehicles promoting CQ at the Festival of Speed in Whitianga on April 10th & 11th

23/03/2010

Offroad racing team offers a 200 km/h ride in an unlimited-class offroad racing truck is on offer at the 2010 Whitianga Festival of Speed as the Baker Offroad Racing Team raises funds for Camp Quality.

The team is offering a unique opportunity to sit alongside champion offroad race driver Gary Baker in an actual championship race at the festival on April 10.

No other type of motorsport in New Zealand offers a member of the public the chance to take part in an actual race simply by being the successful bidder for a “Ride of Your Life” and signing an indemnity on race day.

“Offroad racing is the most exciting, spectacular type of motorsport there is. Every time I fire up the truck’s big V8 engine I’m just flooded with adrenalin, and the feeling of racing in total comfort across rough terrain at speeds that would destroy regular trucks is just amazing,” says Bay of Plenty-based driver Gary Baker.

“Now we want to share that experience with people, and it’s all in support of children living with cancer – I can’t think of a better reason to go racing!” The proud father of two young daughters, Baker says the project is about “giving something back”.

“Every parent thinks ‘what if’ – and families who find themselves affected by child cancer need all the help they can get. So if we can help Camp Quality add a little bit to quality of life for these kids then it’s a very worthwhile project. If we can scare the pants off a few auction winners in the process and get them hooked on adrenalin, so much the better!”

The ride opportunity is “live” on TradeMe and searchable under the title ‘Camp Quality Ride of Your Life’.

Two other teams have offered rides in support. All three drivers now involved in the project are current or recent champions: Aucklander Anthony Hewitt is the New Zealand production class champion in his massive red Dodge Ram 1500 4WD; Clive Thornton of Whakatane is the winner of the sport’s toughest race, the two-day, 1000 km Asset Finance Taupo 1000.

Race helmets and overalls are supplied for each ride, and auction winners receive a team T shirt and cap and have their photograph taken with their “ride”.

Like Baker’s Nissan Navara, Hewitt’s Dodge and the Southern Cross of Thornton are all V8 powered.

“These rides are the ultimate race experience. There is nothing like offroad racing, and no other way to get an authentic race ride in New Zealand motorsport without buying a car and doing it yourself!”

Wellington/Central Districts regional website	22/02/2010
Our Camp Quality Wellington/Central Districts website is now live and can be found at: www.campqualitycentral.org.nz

7th annual John Andrew Ford & Mazda K.I.C. Family track day for Camp Quality	22/02/2010
The 7th annual John Andrew Ford & Mazda K.I.C. Family track day for Camp Quality was a huge success. Saturday 16th January 2010 started as any normal day....with one twist....we were gearing up for our biggest ever Camp Quality turn out. At nine thirty we were greeted with an endless wave of blue CQ shirts, which just kept coming over the main track crossing at Pukekohe.......around 500 family members and Camp Quality staff. KIC started the day at 10.00am with the arrival of the truck convoy...what a sight that was to see –KIC wishes to say sorry to anyone who got caught up in the traffic jam from the Telstra Centre to Pukekohe Park raceway! The drivers were pumped the kids were rearing to go, so off we went..... The selection of cars this year was incredible...ranging from an amazing model A (Thanks to John Andrew Ford) to a Ferrari 360—plus all the huge range of muscle cars , race cars and the trucks...and not to forget the Denny Hulme supercar ....... KIC runs road car and race car grids, each grid loads up with the kids and companions into all cars and the driver give them a three lap spin around the circuit...all under pace car and police supervision....with one grid exception, the race cars— no pace car but helmets and belts a must.... KIC celebrity drivers for 2010 were, James ―Huggie Urquhart, ―Racing Ray Williams, Pete ― Kaos Ward and Shane Van Gisbergen, these boys had a blast...not to mention that Gissey had dads Ute, so he had to make sure that the XR6 Ute made some smoke with a couple of mandatory donuts! The lunchtime entertainment was something to watch,with Ray & Shane thrown into the E cart from Formula E, seeing both drivers shooting down the main straight and throwing them into a power slide, gave the viewing public something to talk about the power of these battery powered go-carts.. Paul Irwin thrilled the crowd with this V8 blown XB Ford Fairmont.. lots of smoke, Paul said he would finish with a bang, and a bang he did......... Blew both rear tyres..... Just when we thought the lunchtime entertainment was over—out roared the Denny Hulme supercar—giving two lucky punters a ride of their lives..... KIC doesn't just do things on the ground, so at 1.30pm on the dot, three War-birds swooped in and thrilled the crowd with a fifteen minute air show. KIC wishes to thank all the companies that supplied fun rides and entertainment for these very special kids for the day. Camp Quality is a non-profit organisation (all volunteers) that gives children living with cancer, aged from 5-16, a week long camp; a week of fun filled enjoyment. The KIC track day is traditionally the first day of the Auckland/Northland region’s week long camp and includes the children's families in the day’s fun at the track. KIC is a group of Kiwis’ that fund raise during the course of the year, to put on this free day out for Camp Quality.
Nigel Karl

Stacey serves lunch at the 2010 Auckland/Northland Camp	22/02/2010
Camp Quality Ambassador Stacey Jones serving lunch at the Auckland/Northland regions January camp visit to Rainbows End.

Freemasons Overwhelm Camp Quality Waikato/BOP	08/11/2009
Sunday 8th November was a milestone day for Camp Quality and the Freemasons of the Bay of Plenty, Geyserland and Waikato Lodges. For two years the Freemasons in this area have been very proactive in their support for the children of Camp Quality. Supported by their National Benevolent Committee they have donated $23,500 in each of those years. This has been a significant achievement but this year saw a major advance on previous efforts. Coordinated by Mike Cooke, Benevolence Officer B.O.P., and widely supported by the lodges of this region, a number of fund raising events have been held. These include auctions, raffles and charity dinners. As can be seen in the photo a monumental sum of $27,000 was handed to Fiona Hammond the Regional Manager of Camp Quality Waikato-Bay of Plenty. District Grand Masters Ross Rex (B.O.P.); Paul Sutcliffe (Waikato) and Tom Becker (Geyserland) presented the cheques on behalf of their Lodges. In receiving the donation, Fi commented on the strength of the relationship between the organisations and sincerely thanked them on behalf of all the children who will benefit at Summer Camp 2010. The Freemasons of the Hairini Lodge provided afternoon tea for members of the CQ Committee and the many Lodge members who had travelled some distance for this presentation.
Fi Hammond

A Quality Sub with Stacey	24/08/2009
Kiwi rugby league legend Stacey Jones may have announced he is not renewing his contract with the Warriors next year, but he still has plenty to keep him busy with his Subway business and role as Camp Quality NZ Ambassador. Stacey recently hosted a group of six Camp Quality children at the Avondale Subway franchise he and wife Rachelle bought last year. The Camp Quality children, who enjoyed sharing lunch and having photos taken with the halfback at the Rosebank Rd branch, left with a surprise gift of a rugby league ball fully signed by the Warriors. The children from left to right are; Liberty Taylor, Bianca Gaensicke, Tui McLeod, Ryan Godfrey, James Eastwood and Heath Beggs.
J Carter

Camp Quality Welcomes Freemasons Support	21/08/2009
Auckland/Northland Camp Quality Regional Manager John Green says the ongoing support of the Freemasons has been invaluable. “Not only have the Freemasons executive officers been coming to our summer camp over the last three years, each year they present a cheque which we greatly appreciate,” he says. “This support goes a long way in allowing us to deliver our camps and programmes at no cost to families and ensure campers have the best time possible.” The generosity of the Freemasons this year has been no exception. “Our summer camp in January was greatly aided by the group of Auckland and Northland lodge members who helped in the kitchen by washing dishes, serving meals and cleaning up afterwards,” says John. They also presented Camp Quality with a $20,000 donation from the St Benedicts St Group Lodges and the Freemasons Charity. “Our camps are run totally by volunteers and funded totally by donations. The Freemasons support in both areas is always greatly appreciated at our Auckland/Northland camp,” says John. John also recalls a discussion he had with the executive group at the 2008 summer camp that resulted in the donation of a much welcomed Ezy-up marquee. “I explained that we had nothing to show the public that the Freemasons supported Camp Quality,” says John. “They had a five minute meeting and asked what Camp Quality needed. I asked for a 6x3m Ezy-up to act as a base and place of shelter when we set up at various locations. They replied that we would have it for the 2009 camp - and we did. “We now have something that proudly shows the Freemasons logo and ‘Donated by the Freemasons’ printed on it,” he says. “Wherever you find us, you will find that Ezy-up,” he says. Camp Quality Chairman Jim Grierson says, “It’s wonderful to have the continued support of the Freemasons and we hope we can develop our relationship with Freemasons across the country. The generosity shown by the Freemasons in supporting Camp Quality is greatly appreciated.”
J Carter

CQ Kids visit the Comedy Festival	09/05/2008
On a wonderfully rainy Auckland day an intrepid group of CQ derdoers ambled along to join in the fun of the Auckland Comedy Festival and see the show by Men of Steel. We made our way through a multitude of raindrops to score front row seats and after being made to don white garbage bags we were witness to three mad Aussie chefs animating two cookie cutters, a host of kitchen utensils and more food then you could...well...eat in a wild puppet extravaganza that featured burner spaceships, popping popcorn, watermelon dismemberment, much food squishing and throwing and the rise of a great broccoli forest! Thank goodness for the white garbage bags as food was flung far and wide! The show was a hilarious delight and as our group made it's wet way for some McDonalds lunch, we all laughed and chattered wildly about what we'd just witnessed! An excellent adventure for sure! Me thinks some of the kids might be planning to share their new food animating lessons at the dinner table at home...
Smaily Selmani

Unilever sponsors the kids into Rainbows End	15/04/2008
The rides were full of smiling faces and an unexpected visit from Stacey Jones was enjoyed by the Auckland/Northland campers and companions during April. The team from the Unilever Social Club once again provided an exciting and entertaining reunion event for the Camp Quality Campers and their families. More than 300 people turned up outside the Rainbows End gates to be met by Stacey Jones and let in to enjoy a day of fun, food and ice cream. Even the bad weather couldn't keep the kids off the rides. Thanks Unilever for your tremendous support AGAIN!
Ann Webster

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