Outbid, Outdid and Outstanding
On the evening of Saturday, 26 August 2017, the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) held its 15th annual benefit auction at Protea Hotel Fire and Ice by Marriott Cape Town in Tamboerskloof. A total of R256 000 was raised from auctioned goods and getaway experiences, all sponsored to assist the marine conservation organisation with its biggest yearly fundraising event.
Guests were welcomed by the talented Parklands College Jazz Band, led by Dean Flanagan, while local radio personality, Guy McDonald led the evening’s proceedings as the esteemed Master of Ceremonies. Andrew James of Michael James Organisation facilitated a high-spirited bidding session and encouraged bidders to raise their paddles for seabird conservation. Each year, SANCCOB’s benefit auction raises critical funding to financially aid its seabird operations. On average, SANCCOB admits 2 500 ill, injured, oiled and abandoned seabirds to its three seabird centres in South Africa, many of which are endangered African penguins.
SANCCOB’s Executive Director, Dr Stephen van der Spuy, says, “Each year, our benefit auction yields substantial funding thanks to a wide variety of generous sponsors and kind-hearted bidders. We enjoy the opportunity to spend time with our guests and also welcome new supporters and corporate partners to get involved in conservation in a unique and fun way.
Van der Spuy continues, “It has been a busy year for SANCCOB. We have acquired a new seabird centre in Port Elizabeth and also commenced major construction of a new seabird hospital in Table View. We are overwhelmed by the generosity of sponsors and event supporters, who remain loyal to our cause.”
In 2018, SANCCOB will celebrate 50 years of treating African penguins and other seabirds and all its efforts are enabled by donations. Funds generated from events such as the annual benefit auction is critical for the organisation to meet its financial needs of running three seabird centres. A new seabird hospital building project is the newest fundraising drive for SANCCOB and there is still a shortfall of funding before construction is complete in December.
A special ‘Thank you’ to all sponsors and supporters listed here below for contributing to the success of SANCCOB’s 2017 Benefit Auction.
