Four courageous UK rhino conservation supporters just took fundraising to breathtaking new heights! Despite actually being afraid of heights, they strapped themselves to the wings of a vintage biplane to raise awareness and funds for the orphaned rhinos at Care for Wild!
United Kingdom (09 August 2026) – While Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary’s team has been working on the ground in South Africa to stabilise its newest rescued orphaned rhino, the organisation’s UK team and a group of extraordinary supporters recently took to the skies for a bold and unforgettable fundraising challenge.
Care for Wild is one of the world’s largest orphaned rhino sanctuaries and a globally recognised conservation organisation. Through its UK giving route, supporters abroad can help fund rhino rescue, rehabilitation, rewilding, protection, biodiversity conservation and community impact.
Recently, four of those supporters, Pat Nunn, Ashleigh Bourne, Luc Janssens and Zand Elphinstone strapped themselves to the wings of a 1940s biplane for a thrilling (and terrifying!) 10-minute flight – all to raise awareness for the orphaned rhinos who are so often flown to safety at Care for Wild after their mothers are killed by poachers.
According to the organisation, what made their achievement even more remarkable was that every single one of them is terrified of heights!
Imagine that. Confronting your greatest fear, and in such a dramatic way, speaks volumes about their dedication to protecting these precious animals and safeguarding the future of our environment.
And what’s more amazing, together they raised over £10,000 for Care for Wild! That’s a staggering R218,330 in South African rands that will go towards rescues, rehabilitation, protection and anti-poaching efforts, as well as community projects.
The Care for Wild SA team expressed its immense gratitude to thrill seekers Pat, Ashleigh, Luc and Zand, as well as to Anthony Watts for organising the event, and to the UK Fundraising Lead, Karen Nunn, for bringing this incredible fundraiser to life.
“To each of you, thank you. Your courage, determination and generosity mean more than words can express. Even from thousands of kilometres away, we feel your love and support.”
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