Plans are afoot to memorialise New Zealand’s Captain Tom, Hamilton Logan with a tribute walk on what would have been his 100th birthday.

Hamilton, who sadly passed away last month, just 13 kilometres shy of his target 100 kilometres to raise money for lifesaving charities, will be celebrated by Hereworth School as a fondly remembered Old Boy. The school has plans to finish what Hamilton started, by locking up his 100 kilometres for his birthday on November 21st.

Earlier this year, the Hawke’s Bay farming and meat industry identity had launched his own ‘Second Chance at Life’ Fund with Hawke’s
Bay Foundation. Hamilton’s quest was to create a sustainable funding stream in perpetuity for three of his chosen charities: Hawke’s Bay’s Rescue Helicopter, Hato Hone St John and the Rural Support Trust.

Hawke’s Bay Rescue Helicopter Trust Chief Executive Andy Quayle was honoured to meet Hamilton when he visited the hangar almost three months ago.

“It was such a privilege to meet Hamilton, what an incredibly inspirational man whose vision for future generations of our community was to help give people a second chance at life. Through his legacy fund with Hawke’s Bay Foundation, our rescue helicopter service will benefit for years to come. What a magnificent legacy he has left for all of us, we truly appreciate it.”

Rural Support Trust Hawke’s Bay supports our rural heartland by providing practical support during difficult times. Area Coordinator
Jonathan Bell reflects on Hamilton’s indelible legacy.

“Hamilton Logan was a great supporter of the rural industries and communities in Hawke’s Bay. During his lifetime he experienced the highs and lows of farming and was aware of the physical and mental pressures that farming brings.

Hamilton was aware of the physical and mental pressures that farming brings. “He was a great supporter of the Rural Support Trust, and his legacy will live on not only in his fundraising efforts, but more so through his wisdom, knowledge, compassion and genuine empathy to rural people. As he said, “You only live once, and life is for living.”

For many, the idea of being philanthropic is achievable only through their wills once they’re gone, but choosing to give while Hamilton lived gave him a great source of joy. In his own words while he was alive, it helped keep him going.

“Life is the most precious possession we have. I get such a kick out of seeing people get some relief or benefit out of something I’ve done for them, and I want to celebrate that with them. If what I’m doing only saves one life, then it’s all been worthwhile.”

To help grow Hamilton’s ‘Second Chance At Life’ Fund for his chosen charities, please make a donation to: Hawke’s Bay Foundation – Our Funds