After two and a half decades of publishing TCFF, we are honoured and blessed not only by the support of our readers, but also our industry in the main. With this in mind, we have decided to launch an annual TCFF Charity Initiative with the support of various local industries. In consultation with key role-players, TCFF will, together with the relevant donatee, identify deserved recipients of this initiative on an annual basis, and solicit support for the raising of funds with your help.
To kick-start this initiative, master bamboo rod builder Stephen Boshoff has played a large role in fomenting the ideas and principles that we now incorporate in this venture. His kind and selfless contribution of a purposely built rod to be sold by way of auction, is commendable and we would like to relay not only our thanks but on behalf of our entire industry as well. In giving back to the community, we, together with Stephen, have decided to donate the proceeds of this special Boshoff bamboo rod to the Red Cross Children’s Hospital Trust. The Children’s Hospital Trust is an independent, non-profit organisation established in 1994 to raise funds to support specific projects and programmes to help advance child healthcare through the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital. What sets this Trust apart from others, is the fact that every cent that is donated goes directly to the hospital and that no administrative or other fees are deducted. The critical project that will benefit is an upgrade to the emergency room, and well-known South African fly fisher and author, Dr Tom Sutcliffe (who is also a Red Cross trustee), underwrites the initiative and will oversee the allotment of the proceeds.
HOW TO BID: The rod Stephen Boshoff is building for this worthy charity is a once-off, special Boshoff hollowed bamboo, 7ft 3- or 4-wt, two-piece model with one tip. Bidding for the rod will start at R20,000 (less than half the rod’s worth) and the winning bid will be announced in our next issue. Bids can be made through our Facebook page or by e-mailing us at info@ completeflyfisherman.co.za. The Red Cross will provide a tax certificate for the winner of this charitable initiative.
HOW TO DONATE: You can also show your support by donating directly to The Children's Hospital Trust without being part of the bidding process. Simply choose an amount from the donation block above and complete the form. Please use the words "TCFF" together with your name as reference when you make the EFT payment. Your donation will be acknowledged in the next issue of TCFF as well as on our social media pages. If you prefer to remain anonymous, please advise us accordingly.