Last year the group raised $11,000 for Leukaemia and Blood Cancer New Zealand by climbing the 1103 steps to the top while wearing about 15-20kg of firefighting gear.
Lake Hawea volunteer Amie Capell completed the course nine years ago in about 18 minutes, but she has the advantage of a steady training method this time around.
"I’ve been going on a fair few walks on hills with a child on my back. He’s 16 kilos, and 18 kilos all up with a backpack."
The fire brigade will be hosting a quiz night at the Lake Hawea Community Centre tonight, where all proceeds will go towards the cause — as the group has fundraised enough to cover its flights and accommodation.
The brigade tried to send competitors to Auckland every year for the event, and Ms Capell said the local community had been supportive in helping to raise money.
"We are just a really good group that gets on well and it is good camaraderie I think. It is supporting a good cause and the community here gets behind it well too."
She said the event was not only supporting a good cause but it helped the brigade’s fitness and mental health too.
‘‘The stair machine at Snap Fitness Wānaka has been well utilised by our members in preparation given the lack of high-rise buildings in the area.’’
This year Ms Capell has entered in the "Firefighter of Steel" division, which will require her to carry heavier cylinders than the last time.
But she had not committed to another year, just yet.
"I will be in the masters section next year.’’
Also in the crew are Sam Hensley, Lily Graham, Teresa Cotter, Africa Barker, Benn Cash, John Cooper, Phoenix Cooper and Lorne Capell.
Anyone can enter teams of up to six in tonight’s quiz, for $10 per head. The quiz starts at 7pm at the Lake Hawea Community Centre. Doors open at 6.15pm.
