Rebuilding After the Storm

Rebuilding After the Storm

In May 2025, an extraordinary burst of rain hit the Sanctuary—so intense that it overwhelmed both the rain gauge at Third House and the river flow meter in the Brook. With both instruments knocked out, the true scale of the downpour remains unknown.

What is certain, however, is the extent of the damage it caused.

Across the Sanctuary, landslips and flooding left their mark. A section of the popular loop track was destroyed, while a culvert along the fenceline was buried beneath rock. At Totara Crossing, a major slip disrupted the visitor track, and large trees were brought down throughout the area. Stormwater damage was widespread, particularly along the fenceline track. Most seriously, a significant slip near Carters Creek undermined part of the predator-proof fence.

The response from supporters was immediate and inspiring. Within just a few days, more than $100,000 was raised to fund repairs. Over the past year, those funds—combined with an enormous volunteer effort—have enabled the Sanctuary to recover. Thanks to this collective work, repairs are set to be completed this month, almost exactly one year after the storm struck.

Key Repairs

Strengthening the Carters Creek fenceline
The most complex repair took place near Carters Creek, where the fence had been undermined. Over six months, a dedicated team of volunteers—working alongside staff and interns—stabilised the slope, rebuilt the internal track, and upgraded stormwater systems to prevent future slips. Completing this work with contractors alone would likely have consumed most of the recovery fund.

Restoring the loop track
The Sanctuary’s main visitor track was quickly brought back into use. A retaining wall was constructed and the damaged section rebuilt, ensuring safe access for visitors.

Securing Totara Crossing
A geotechnical assessment guided repairs at Totara Crossing. Loose rock was removed, a new track was cut, and the area is now regularly monitored for movement. As a precaution, the track will be closed during periods of heavy rainfall.

Upgrading the fenceline track
Contractors recently completed repairs along the vehicle track that runs around the outside of the fence. The improvements have made the track smoother and safer, while also redirecting stormwater away from vulnerable areas. New drainage pipes have been installed in sections prone to washouts, with the Sanctuary’s asset team contributing further cost savings by installing stormwater structures and fabricating steel pest-proof grilles.

One year on, the Sanctuary has not only repaired the damage but strengthened its resilience against future storms. This achievement stands as a testament to the dedication of volunteers, interns, staff, and the wider community—whose support made recovery possible.