I have been lucky enough to watch not only my mother grow, but the farm from what was just our home to everyone’s home. I feel absolutely privileged to help my mother reach her goals and help with her business.

Once it became obvious mum had too many animals, I quit my boring 9-5 and said I’ll look after them all! I now work part time at Fossil Creek Farm as the animal assistant, helping with larger therapy groups that visit the farm and some admin duties.
I have always had a huge love for animals, from picking up “lost” dogs on the side of the road to staying out in the pouring rain to make sure everyone is fed and warm. I just can’t bear to see them suffer. And yes, I talk to them as if they will respond. I love caring for their needs and being their voice when they aren’t okay. My job involves morning and nightly feeds to the 22 horses and donkeys. Constantly grooming the horses, making sure nobody is hurt and caring for them when they are.

I assist with the larger therapy groups, usually primary to college age. I have a select few clients that have chosen to stick with me outside of these groups as we connected well, although I am not qualified. I love the feeling of helping make a difference to someone and seeing young people leave happier. I may be persuaded by staff to complete my qualifications one day. I am lucky enough that one of the horses I care for and work with is my own, Toby. Toby is recently new to me, and his last owner requested he come to Fossil Creek Farm as he LOVES people and is great for therapy. I have also played volleyball for years, starting at Waimea College, representing the South Island in Australia and am continuing to play for clubs. When I am not at the farm I also work as a personal assistant to a local real estate agent and have my salesperson licence.
I have an amazing partner who supports me in my two very different jobs, with my expensive horse hobby and listens to my daily stories about what the animals did today at the farm. He also loves to pick up the hay trail I leave daily into the bathroom. We have Ross, our SPCA kitten, who we adore.
As Jude and Lloyd keep buying animals, I think I’ll be here for a while.