A Legacy Rooted in Community:

Strengthening the future of local healthcare in Central Otago and Upper Clutha. The Michael & Kate Sidey Charitable Trust Joins Dunstan’s Endowment Journey

At the Dunstan Hospital Foundation, we are committed to a simple but powerful idea: that every person in Central Otago deserves exceptional healthcare, close to home. To ensure we can support Dunstan Hospital not only today but for decades to come, we have begun building a long‑term Endowment Fund, a legacy investment designed to safeguard our region’s health future.

This month, we are honoured to share a milestone moment in that journey.

A Leadership Gift From the Michael & Kate Sidey Trust

The Michael & Kate Sidey Charitable Trust has joined us as one of the first major supporters of the Dunstan Endowment Fund. Their generosity and early belief in our mission reflects a deep commitment to improving the wellbeing of the communities across Central Otago.

This partnership represents more than a donation — it is a statement of confidence in the Foundation’s long‑term vision. By stepping forward at this early stage, the Trust has helped create momentum that will inspire others to join them in shaping a stronger, more resilient future for rural healthcare.

“Leadership gifts like this set the tone for what’s possible. The Sidey Trust’s commitment will continue to touch lives long into the future,”
Kayla Sargeant, Foundation Fundraising & Engagement Lead

Why an Endowment Fund Matters

Our region is growing, and with it, the need for sustainable, future‑focused funding to support local healthcare.

The Endowment Fund is designed to:

  • Create a permanent funding base for future hospital needs

  • Support major capital projects like the Oncology & Infusion Unit redevelopment

  • Fund specialist equipment and service development

  • Provide financial stability through both predictable and unexpected challenges

  • Ensure Dunstan Hospital continues to offer high-quality care close to home

An endowment is a gift that grows and keeps giving. It creates a lasting legacy for families, patients, and communities across generations.

A Legacy Rooted in Community

The Michael & Kate Sidey Trust has a long-standing history of supporting local initiatives focused on people, place, and community wellbeing. Their partnership with the Dunstan Hospital Foundation builds on that tradition.

By investing in our Endowment Fund, the Trust is helping ensure:

  • Rural health services remain accessible

  • Patients can receive specialist care without long-distance travel

  • Future generations have the same or better access to life-saving care

Their generosity is already influencing conversations with other philanthropic partners, setting a foundation for broader community investment.

A Heartfelt Thank You

We are incredibly grateful to Michael, Kate, and the trustees of the Sidey Trust for their confidence in the Foundation’s mission and their leadership in helping build a healthier future for Central Otago.

This partnership is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when local people choose to invest in local care.

Together, we’re building something that will last for generations.

Like to Learn More?

Previous
Previous

New Skin Lesion Service for Dunstan

Next
Next

Stories from the Front Line: Donny