Local Broker Organizes Charity Lunch, Raises $11,500 for Community

A busy mortgage broker and devoted family woman, Rebeca Barnes has successfully organized a charity lunch that raised $11,500 for St John and the Queenstown Volunteer Fire Brigade. The event reflects her commitment to giving back to the community, a principle that has guided her throughout her life.

Originally from Queensland, Rebeca moved to Queenstown 23 years ago. Growing up in Rockhampton, she developed a passion for music early on, influenced by her grandmother, a performer who immigrated from England. Rebeca’s musical journey began with singing in school, and at just 17, she became a karaoke jockey at a local venue. Despite her youth, she impressed her employer enough to secure the job, marking the start of a diverse career.

Rebeca’s professional background is varied. After working in door-to-door insurance sales and managing a resort in Yeppoon, she seized an opportunity at Queenstown’s Rydges hotel in 2002. There, she met her future husband, Mark Barnes, while running karaoke at the hotel bar. Their relationship blossomed, and they soon started a family, welcoming their first child, Nikau, in 2009.

As her family grew, Rebeca transitioned into the banking sector, joining ASB in 2016 as an assistant manager. She made history as ASB’s first home ownership manager in the country. In 2022, seeking new challenges, she launched her own brokerage, Get It Mortgages, where she has since thrived, garnering a loyal client base.

Rebeca’s dedication to her community is evident in her numerous volunteer roles. She has been involved in initiatives such as Baskets of Blessing and serves as treasurer of the Fernhill Sunshine Bay Community Association. Recently inducted into Rotary, she also co-chairs the PTA at St Joseph’s School.

The idea for the charity lunch originated from Rebeca’s desire to create a similar event to a successful men’s luncheon. Collaborating with Lauren Ludlow from Soda, they organized the inaugural ladies’ lunch last year, which benefited Central Lakes Family Services. The recent event continues this tradition of supporting local causes while fostering connections among women in the community.

Reflecting on her motivations, Rebeca emphasizes the importance of community involvement. “Growing up, my mother and grandmother instilled in me the significance of giving back,” she said. “In a small community like Queenstown, what you do to create a supportive environment is crucial.”

Balancing her professional ambitions with family life, Rebeca states, “I want my business to succeed so I can prioritize my family.” Her husband, Mark, has been a steadfast partner throughout their 23 years together, and their children continue to inspire her commitment to community service. Their son, Nikau, even embarked on a fundraising trek around Lake Whakatipu last summer, showcasing the family’s shared values of charity and community spirit.

As Rebeca continues to grow her business and engage with her community, her story exemplifies the potential for individual contributions to make a significant impact.