Ferrybank project receives $1m pledge

Plans to develop the Ferrybank into Hamilton’s premier river destination took a step closer to reality today (2 March) with the announcement of a $1m pledge from the Donny Charitable Trust.

The pledge is being made available through Momentum Waikato Community Foundation, which links philanthropic donors with charitable causes.

Hamilton Mayor Julie Hardaker describes Donny Charitable Trust’s pledge of a donation as ‘incredibly generous’ and says it will make a real difference to the implementation of the Ferrybank project, which is a key component of the Hamilton City River Plan.

“This donation illustrates the value of partnerships and shows how working together will deliver great outcomes for Hamilton,” she says. “Knowing philanthropic organisations have confidence in this project also illustrates the value the river holds for the people who live in our city.”

Donny Trust Chair Barry Paterson says the donation is being made in honour of the legacy of Frank and Germaine Donny. The Donny Trust wanted to be one of the first organisations to support the development of the Ferrybank project.


Mayor Julie Hardaker with Momentum Waikato / Donny Trust trustees, from left, Jon Tanner and Annabel Cotton, and Barry Paterson (Donny Trust Chair). Photo courtesy of Hamilton City Council

Mr Paterson says the project captured the Trust’s imagination because of the “fresh approach to creating a dynamic river edge, with great public accessibility.”

Momentum Waikato Chair Leonard Gardener says it applauds Donny Trust’s decision to support the River Plan and the development of the Ferrybank and he is delighted that the trust chose to work with the foundation.

“We hope that others will follow the example of the Donny Trust and speak with us to explore the benefits and opportunities that lead to greater community impact,” he says.

More information is available on the Momentum Waikato website.