International charity Mercy Ships has named Ethan Kennett as the winner of the 2019 Most Deserving Tradie competition.
The 28-year-old carpenter from Levin has won a weekend package for two valued at more than $1000. This includes two night’s accommodation at Sea Urchin Cottage in Kaiaua and travelling there in style with free use of a new Holden Colorado ute.
The competition recognises National Tradies Day on September 20 and celebrates the contributions which trades professionals make to society, including those working in the transport industry.
The New Zealand-based competition was created by Mercy Ships in recognition of hard-working Kiwi tradies at home and those currently volunteering on the hospital ship Africa Mercy in Senegal, West Africa where life-saving surgeries are carried out.
Mercy Ships NZ communications manager Sharon Walls says without the skills and support of volunteer tradies, the charity could not provide free surgeries and healthcare to people living in poverty.
“It is our volunteer trades people who ensure the ship has a constant flow of power, clean running water, and efficient air-conditioning which allows the surgical teams to provide hope and healing to those people who most need it,” she says.
Kennett, a fully qualified carpenter for Crowe Construction & Associates Ltd, says he was surprised to win as his mother Anthea Hale had entered his details.
“I’m really stoked and would like to thank the sponsors for this great prize package,” he says.
*Go to mercyships.org.nz/tradies-unsung-heroes for more information about volunteering on the Africa Mercy.
