As P&O Cruises’ Arcadia was sailing from the UK to Australia on her current world voyage, onboard news services were dominated by Australia’s summer bushfire emergency.
Captain Ashley Cook and the ship’s Chief Engineer, Chris Greatorex, decided something must be done to support the volunteer firefighters risking their own lives to save others and protect wildlife and property.
Arcadia’s guests embraced the idea enthusiastically and over the course of the first half of the world voyage raised a stunning £8845 — or nearly AUD$16,400.
John Parnaby, Chief Superintendent of the New South Wales Rural Service (RFS), visited Arcadia in Sydney for the presentation of the donation.
Captain Wesley Dunlop, who took over from Captain Ashley Cook in Auckland, said he was honoured to present the donation on behalf of Arcadia’s guests and crew.
“Australia’s terrible summer of bushfires had a powerful effect on our guests and, knowing that they were on their way to Australia, they wanted to help,” Captain Dunlop said.
“We couldn’t think of a better organisation to support than the NSW Rural Fire Service and their volunteers who risked all to protect their communities.”
Guests happily contributed to various fundraising events including an auction and a raffle which enjoyed the patronage of ‘royalty’.
“The raffle draw was held during our ship’s crossing of the equator ceremony with the winning tickets drawn by King Neptune himself!” said Arcadia’s Entertainment Manager Nick Cosslett.
Caption: On board Arcadia (left to right) Arcadia Human Resources Manager Orla McCreesh, Chief Engineer Chris Greatorex, Captain Wesley Dunlop , RFS Chief Superintendent John Parnaby and Hotel General Manager Alasdair Ross.
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