06 November 2024 Lincoln University’s student volunteers lend a hand for Otago flood relief

A team of Lincoln University students swapped study sessions for shovels during their exam break, helping farms impacted by severe flooding in South Otago.

The ten students were part of the university’s Handy Landys volunteer club, a group dedicated to giving back to rural communities and lending a hand during hardship. 

Four students kicked off the week of work, with six more joining later.

Handy Landys exec member Eibhlin Lynch said the trip was a “no-brainer” after the severe weather events. 

“Many of us intend to be a part of the rural sector after graduating so feel that a fast recovery is vital for the long-term health of these areas.

 “At one farm, the stock manager’s response to our arrival was, ‘Ken oath, mate!’ and that sort of set the tone for everyone else too and we could really see how appreciative they were of our efforts,” Eibhlin said. 

Local Owaka sheep and beef farmer Mark Shepherd described their help as a “massive relief” after his property’s stream turned into a raging river flooding approximately 50 hectares.

“I saw the work to do, and I didn’t even want to go look at it. To see these young people turn up with a smile on their face – it was fantastic, to be honest.” 

Over the five days, the Handy Landys worked across farms from Toko Mouth to Mokoreta, mainly clearing debris and repairing fences. 

For members like Sofia Skinner, it was a hands-on way to experience the region for the first time.

“It’s been an eye-opening and great learning opportunity, getting to visit properties I otherwise wouldn’t have had the chance to and meeting farmers who’ve been so grateful and welcoming to us.”  

Eibhlin agreed. “These trips are a unique way to see the country and have great yarns with the locals.

“Witnessing the difference we’re making in the farmers' lives and easing some of their stress is immensely fulfilling.”

(from left) Fergus Lee, Callum Stratford, Eibhlin Lynch and Hamish Goatley.

In addition to the mahi at hand, the team explored areas like The Catlins, meeting some rural business owners along the way, including founders of the club Dave and Jess, at their Tōtara Hills farm. 

Having previously helped with flood recovery in Canterbury 2021, Marlborough 2022, and Hawke’s Bay last year, the Handy Landys understood the ongoing effects of severe weather on rural communities and hoped to inspire others to help.

“Even when the headlines fade, farmers continue to feel the effects of these events.

“We encourage others to look out for mates affected by these events and check in on them regularly.” 

If you’re not directly impacted but still want to help, you can reach out or donate to the club or places like Rural Support. 

This trip was made possible with support from Lincoln University Students’ Association, Otago Regional Council, Rural Support, the Ministry for Primary Industries, and Telford.

Members that went: Anna Stuart, Tor Robinson, Hamish Goatley, Jed McCready, Callum Stratford, Sofia Skinner, Fergus Lee, Daniel Cresswell, Connor Reeves, and Eibhlin Lynch.