Rivergate Marina Assists South Pacific Communities

In the wake of devastating Tropical Cyclone Pam in 2015 and later Tatiana in 2016, New Caledonia, Fiji and the islands of the South Pacific were all ove the headlines.

While most communities have since recovered, many are still without access to some of life’s basic necessities, such as clean drinking water, clothing and school supplies.

Members of the yachting community were ken to help, and Captain John Crupi, skipper of Dorothea III, reached out to his Australian contacts, Geoff Majer of Major Yacht Services at Sydney Superyacht Marina, Rivergate Marina & Shipyard in Brisbane and Carrie Carter, Director of Carter Marine Agencies in Cairns.

As a result of this effort, donations of water containers, crew uniforms, clothing, bedding, books, toys and sporting equipment were collected and transported to Cairns. The goods were then forwarded to the Pacific, thanks to the assistance of Chloe from Noumea Ocean and the tireless work of Sea Mercy in Fiji.

Geoff Majer said the objective of the mission was to help the island people who are so generous to the superyacht industry in their hospitality and friendliness. “The South Pacific is a key region for our industry. We rely on the local people in many ways and this is about giving back.

“We were enthusiastic to supply office products, school supplies and books,” said Chintan Ghandi, sales and marketing manager at Jaybel Office Choice in Brisbane.

Andrew Cannon, General Manager at Rivergate acted as a conduit and collection centre for the initiative. “We have worked with YachtAid Global in the past and are always eager to lend our support in any way we can.” Carrie Carter agreed. 

“Every little bit helps. The superyacht fraternity works together to help those iconic island areas that offer so much to the industry. Superyacht owners and charter guests love to explore this idyllic region and as a return for that experience, of course they are going to assist as they can easily access these areas.”