East Coast farming fraternity goes above and beyond as record beating Cancer Society fundraiser tops $65,000.

Generosity shown by farmers at an annual East Coast fundraiser has given one of the country’s most cherished charities a big boost.

Raising more than $65,000 on the day, the 2025 Matawhero Daffodil Day Stock Drive looks set to top the $70,000 mark, making it the biggest in the event’s 27-year history, with all proceeds going back to the Cancer Society’s operations in the local community.

Gisborne-based PGG Wrightson sheep and beef representative Chris Hurlston says it is a true community event that brings the best out of local farmers and businesses.

“This year we had 377 sheep donated, plus a couple of feeder calves. Everyone gets solidly in behind the event, whether that be farmers donating livestock, carriers providing their services for free, the auctioneer team leading the event, or the ANZ Bank behind the scenes. On top of that, buyers on the day are prepared to go above and beyond, often paying over the odds to support such a worthwhile cause.

“One particular highlight was a single vendor who donated 50 sheep.

“It is inspiring to see such generosity from so many people in the local farming community,” says Chris.

Shay Podjursky, events coordinator for the Gisborne East Coast Cancer Society, was humbled by the result.

“What a phenomenal contribution.

“Holding the job title I do, I understand deeply the impact that this donation makes to our services year after year. We are incredibly grateful for 27 years of continued support from all those who chip in to make it such an impactful day. There really aren’t ways to say ‘thank you’ enough times.

“Funds from this auction stay local, for us to help our people. It allows us to provide support to those with cancer, such as our massage therapy, counselling services, and assistance getting to treatment. It also means we can continue offering education campaigns to the community, such as the SunSmart Schools programme,” she says.

Visit the Cancer Society website here, or follow the East Coast branch on facebook here. 

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