The Gordon Nelson Rescue Equipment Trust was set up as a direct response to the tragedy that claimed the lives of Gordon Nelson and Frederick Ruff  in April 2014. In 2023 the trustees made the decision to transfer the funds into the care of the Eastern Bay Community Foundation, in order to grow and continue the fund, ensuring voluntary organisations in the Opotiki District who save lives, are able to utilise grants to keep their communication and life- saving equipment up to date and in good working order. 

Further donations to this fund are encouraged and welcomed.