Interview with a volunteer
Trish first started volunteering with the Friends of The Blade conservation group in 2016 and credits her time with the group with helping her rehab from a hip replacement. It’s exercise - with a purpose.
“Due to commitments in 2016, I was a bit busy to be around every week, but since 2017 it has been a weekly treat, certainly not a chore. Even though I was busy initially with other family commitments, my help was always appreciated and after being able to commit to a weekly visit has helped keep me motivated to get out into our amazing Kiwi bush. After lockdown, I couldn’t wait to get back into it and love to see the constant improvements that everyone’s efforts are making.
“I recently conducted some bird call surveys which show how well the birds are responding to the group’s efforts. In early surveys for Morepork, sadly none were recorded but our last results had 16 calls. “Recent surveys have also revealed a return of NZ Falcons and the highly endangered Fern bird. Our Blade volunteers are a real diverse bunch all great folks getting stuck in for the future of our wonderful native environment.
“It’s great to give back to the community and for me just feeds the soul being involved. Friends of the Blade need your help and are always looking for more volunteers. We are currently expanding the 300 hectares we are protecting and invite anyone interested to get in touch.”
If you would like to give it a try, contact group leader Colin on 552 6771, via Facebook ‘Friends of the Blade’ or just come for an introductory visit Friday 3rd July at 9am at the top of Whakamārama Road.