Braided Rivers Community Trust
About Us
The Braided Rivers Community Trust (BRCT) was reconstituted from the Ashburton Licensing Trust (ALT) on 12th July 2021. Over recent years the ALT had been transitioning from its traditional activities of operating businesses in the hospitality industry in the Ashburton district, to a model where it operates predominantly as a landlord.
From 2011-2016 ALT sold their hospitality businesses they owned with the exception of the Devon Tavern. BRCT still owns two other properties, who are now leased out to private operators. The profits from the operation/lease of these properties along with other investments are used to make grants in the local community.
With these changes in mind the Braided Rivers Community Trust’s board has been working through a process of looking to the future and has developed Investment and Granting policies to support the needs in our community.
The broad strategy is to diversify the Braided Rivers Community Trust’s investment base so that it is no longer so reliant on hospitality property in Ashburton but contains a broader range of investments.
The Trust has begun investing its surplus cash into Equity and Bond investments managed by Jarden.
Braided Rivers Community Trust Properties
- Devon Tavern, 116 Victoria Street, Ashburton
- Tinwald Tavern, 103-107 Archibald Street, Ashburton (private operators)
- Alehouse Building, 245 Burnett Street, Ashburton (private operators)
BRCT Trustees
We are pleased to welcome our newly elected and returning Trustees to the BRCT. Each brings valuable experience, strong local connections, and a shared commitment to supporting the people and organisations of our community.
Together, the Board looks forward to continuing the Trust’s work: supporting local initiatives, strengthening community wellbeing, and ensuring thoughtful stewardship of funds for both current and future generations.
We thank our Trustees for their willingness to serve and look ahead with confidence as we continue to invest in a strong and connected Mid Canterbury community.
Gerard (Ged) Rushton - Chair BRCT
With a lifelong connection to Mid Canterbury, Gerard Rushton has spent over 40 years supporting local sports, business, and community initiatives. As a trustee of the Braided Rivers Trust, he combines governance expertise with a practical understanding of the needs of local groups. Gerard has chaired the MCRU Board, contributed nationally through rugby administration, and currently leads the Meningitis Foundation Aotearoa NZ. His focus is on strengthening community connections and ensuring the Trust’s legacy thrives.
“We are thrilled to welcome Gerard Rushton as Chair of the Braided Rivers Trust for the next three years, confident that his leadership and dedication will guide the Trust in serving our community.”
Chantelle Quinn
Chantelle has been a trustee of the Braided Rivers Community Trust since 2019. A local business owner with strong ties to Mid Canterbury, she brings a community-focused approach supported by ongoing governance training through the Institute of Directors. Chantelle is passionate about ethical decision-making and supporting local organisations, with a strong focus on creating positive outcomes for future generations.
"We’re delighted to have Chantelle Quinn re-elected to the Braided Rivers Community Trust Board and look forward to her continued contribution."
The Braided Rivers Community Trust Trustees are made up from six locals, who must be elected every three years.
If elected to the Trust you will also automatically (unless you decline to do so) become involved with the Lion Foundation’s Regional Grants Committee (RGC). The Lion Foundation Regional Grants Committee ensures that all profits derived from the proceeds of Lion Foundation gaming machines operated in the Mid Canterbury area are made to the various organisations, clubs events etc in accordance with the Lion Foundation 2008 Trust deed and RGC Committee policy but always subject to Government policy as specified in the Gambling Act 2003. No fees are paid to members for their contributions to RGC activities.