$40,000 raised for Cape Coast erosion group

CAITLIN NOBES | Thursday, October 14, 2010 9:49

PICTURE PERFECT: A Richard Brimer photograph, held up to the crowd by Neville Bawden, was one of many prestigious items being auctioned to support the coastal-erosion lobby group's plans for a series

More than $40,000 was raised to support Cape Coast erosion lobby group WOW at last night's fundraising auction.

The group was raising money to develop plans for protective groynes along the coast.

An artwork by Dick Frizzell got the top bid of the night with an unknown bidder paying $12,750 for the privilege of displaying the beach scene created for the event. Photographs by Richard Brimer, artwork by Martin Poppellwell, award-winning wines and other local prizes went under the hammer.

Otis Frizzell's graffiti portrait of Richie McCaw got a lot of interest as he created it on the night. It sold for more than $3000.

Auction organiser Emma Hagen said about 250 people had been expected to attend so the 350 who turned out, despite the nasty weather, exceeded expectations.

Elephant Hill donated the venue, wine and staff for the night, and donations of items for auction came right up to the last minute. A final tally had not been done but $40,000 to $50,000 was raised.

"The support behind the cause has been amazing, way beyond what we expected," Ms Hagen said.

Paul Holmes was master of ceremonies, auctioneer Simon Tremain gave his time and wine expert Yvonne Lorkin helped auction off the wine.

Ms Hagen wasn't sure another auction was on the cards but the fundraising committee was considering other events, including a music festival.

WOW spokesman Keith Newman said he was blown away by the support: "Now we have a resource that we can use wisely to make sure the Cape Coast is protected."

The money would help WOW finalise plans and prepare reports and legal advice for a resource-consent application.