As a tribute to Pat’s dedication and vision, contributions have continued to flow in and the bank balance is now a healthy $105,000, with targets of another $100,000 by 2012. To help this along the Trust has appointed Queenstown local Sarah Swale as Operations Manager.

Sarah has extensive experience working with charities, including aiding in the establishment of the Sir Peter Blake Trust. She also grew up in Queenstown and has long been aware of the enormous contribution Pat offered to the region.

“I feel really lucky to be able to help further the work that Pat did to give rural areas the health care they deserve,” she said, “And it’s very fitting that I have two small children growing up in Gibbston Valley who will benefit from this great legacy.”

Sarah is excited about several fundraising opportunities for the Trust that will help make the $100,000 a reality.