High-Flying Heroes Take the Leap for Cancer Awareness

Three of our incredible staff members, Paul Field, Kelly Rose, and Ashley De Bruin—took to the skies for a cause that touches so many lives. As part of the Jump for Cancer initiative, in support of the New Zealand Cancer Society, they each completed a breathtaking skydive from 18,000 feet.

This bold leap wasn’t just about adrenaline—it was about courage, compassion, and raising funds to support those affected by cancer. Their bravery and commitment have made us all proud.

Here’s what they had to say about the experience:

Paul Field:
“The skydive was an amazing experience and something I’ve wanted to do since I was a teenager. The freefalling part of the jump was the most incredible feeling—the 45 seconds felt like just 10! A huge thank you to the school, Kevin Parslow, and the Cancer Society for making this possible for Ashley, Kelly, and me.”

Kelly Rose:
“Jumping out of a plane was equal parts terrifying and amazing—I still can’t believe I did it, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat! I took the leap in honour of my incredible mother-in-law, who we lost to cancer in 2019, and my wonderful mum, who’s fought her own battle with the disease. It was a powerful reminder of why we do these things—to raise awareness, honour loved ones, and support those still fighting.
A huge thank you to everyone who donated and cheered us on before the big day! Special thanks to Kevin for organising, the awesome team at Auckland Skydive, and Sarah from the Cancer Society for being there to support us. Ashley and Paul—you two made the experience even more unforgettable!”

Ashley De Bruin:
“It was an amazing, unforgettable experience—something I never thought I would do. I had to remind myself to take everything in, to ensure the moment lasted longer than the 45-second freefall. I’d like to thank Long Bay College, Kevin Parslow, and the Cancer Society for this incredible opportunity. A special shout-out to our encouraging driver, Paige, and to my fellow jumpers—the brave Kelly and the fearless Paul.”

A huge thank you to Kevin Parslow for organising and motivating our staff and community members to get involved. We’re incredibly proud of these high-flying stars for their fearless leap in support of such an important cause. Their passion and purpose are a true inspiration to us all.

Related articles

Notices
Monday 6 October - Friday 21 November

Lumino the Dentists Mobile Unit is scheduled to come to Long Bay College from Monday 6th October – Friday 21st November.

Lumino the...

Introducing Long Bay College’s new Beanie and Scarf available now to purchase in the Uniform Shoppe.

Please see link to our Uniform...

Saturday 25 October

We’re excited to invite you to the Long Bay College 50th Anniversary Gala Dinner – a special reunion event to celebrate five decades...

Important Dates
Year 9 - Camp 2
Wednesday 26 - Friday 28 November
Junior Prizegiving Assemblies
Thursday 4 December
Last Day of 2025 for Year 9 and 10 Students
Thursday 4 December
Academic Prizegiving at Bruce Mason Centre
Monday 1 December
Leadership Camp
Friday 28 - Sunday 30 November
Year 9 - Camp 2
Wednesday 26 - Friday 28 November
Year 9 - Camp 1
Monday 24 - Wednesday 26 November
Long Bay Live - A Community Celebration
Saturday 22 November
End of Year Exams - Year 9 and 10 Students (Core Subjects Only)
Monday 17 - Thursday 20 November
Staff Only Day - No Timetabled Classes
Friday 7 November