The Rotary Club of Half Moon Bay is stepping up to help save lives in the event of a medical emergency.

The club has donated two vital defibrillators to be installed at Half Moon Bay Marina, which were funded through its fun Bangers to Bluff charity car rally fundraiser.

A defibrillator is a medical device that delivers an electric shock to a person’s heart to restore a normal heartbeat during cardiac arrest or a dangerous arrhythmia.

Club president Marie Raos and past-president Martin Duffy recently met at the location of one of the newly-installed defibrillators to celebrate the vital contribution to public safety.

“These defibrillators could make all the difference in an emergency,” Raos says.

“Thanks to the success of Bangers to Bluff, we can invest in projects that directly benefit the community.”

Duffy, who’s long championed the club’s service initiatives, emphasises the importance of the fundraiser’s impact.

“Bangers to Bluff is not just about the journey. It’s about giving back.

“This donation ensures boaties, marina visitors, and locals have access to life-saving equipment when it matters most.”

The club says while there are several defibrillators already installed at the marina, they’re available only during business hours.

“These two new units are accessible 24/7, providing crucial emergency support at any time of day or night.

“They’ve been installed in high-traffic areas for quick access. One is between Ara-Tai Café and Cinnamon Café and the other on the toilet block near the boat haul-out area.”

Meanwhile, Half Moon Bay couple Paul and Penny Sutherland are heading south in their trusty Ford Fairmont Ghia as part of the Bangers to Bluff rally under the name ‘the Mad Mexicans’.

The annual event travels through New Zealand using roads less travelled, Half Moon Bay Rotary says.

“Their car is one of 16 in the rally that will be auctioned in Invercargill with funds raised going to Multiple Sclerosis NZ and the Rotary Club of Half Moon Bay to support local projects.

“It is not a race as it takes 12 days to complete the route.

“Restricted to 16 cars, it gives the participants, who come from all over New Zealand, an opportunity to meet others and enjoy their company, particularly at the happy hour at day’s end.”

People can support the ‘Mad Mexicans’ as part of the Bangers to Bluff charity car rally online at www.givealittle.co.nz/event/bangers-to-bluff-2025 until April 5.

For more information on the Rotary Club of Half Moon Bay’s projects or to get involved, visit the club’s website at www.rotaryhalfmoonbay.club or email smaclaren@gmail.com.