Elm Creek Farmer To Be Flown To Mystery Island This Fall

A farmer from Elm Creek has been chosen to participate in this year's Rescue On The Island fundraiser in support of STARS Air Ambulance.

Colin Penner, who also teaches at the University of Manitoba, will be one of six participants flown to a mystery island this September.

He won't be allowed off of the island until he reaches his fundraising goal of $50,000.

Penner says he's looking forward to the challenge.

"I've got high hopes," he said. "I imagine I'll be rescued, I've got a lot of people that are at home and they're supporting me and supporting the cause. I'm excited, it's not very often you get to go in a helicopter and have no idea what's going to happen. It's exciting and nerve-wracking all at the same time."

Penner hopes his good connections in the ag industry will help him reach his fundraising goal quickly.

He explained why he decided to take part in the event.

"I think STARS is a tremendous opportunity for everybody that lives in rural Manitoba," said Penner. "Typically it takes us far too long to get to the hospital in good situations and when it's an emergency event - minutes count. I think that STARS is a phenomenal tool for us to have as a farmers and rural communities. Anytime we can shave a few minutes off of a rescue time, I think that's crucial to survival."

The only two items that Penner will be allowed to bring with him onto the island are his cell phone and Leatherman.

Last year over $200,000 was raised during the event.

Donations can be made at https://foundation.stars.ca/rescueontheisland

Other participants include:
- Macdon Industries Vice President Gene Fraser
- AMM President Doug Dobrowolski
- Former Blue Bomber Rod Hill
- Steinbach Mayor Chris Goertzen
- President and CEO Jason Dubois of Len Dubois Trucking