Volunteer Story of the Month

Lucy Fechner

Most Tuesdays, rain, hail or shine, Lucy Fechner is volunteering her time weeding, mulching, trimming and doing anything else that needs attention at Barossa Bushgardens.

The stay-at-home mother of two (Jules, 4 and Finn, 2) admits to enjoying a little time to herself. It’s just one of the reasons she decided to make 2026 her year to volunteer.

“I wanted to be outside and get my hands dirty,” says Lucy.

“And since having the boys I wanted to do something good for the environment that is going to be good for our kids too - for the next generation.”

Lucy learned of the volunteer opportunity when bringing her sons to the Barossa Bush Playgroup and knew it was the perfect fit for her.

“I was pleasantly surprised when I saw it was run by women not much older than me. It was really cool,” says Lucy.

"There’s a whole lot of stuff that goes on here that I had no idea about and everyone has been so lovely, it makes it easy."

Lucy isn't new to volunteering, she and husband James helped build an animal hospital on Kangaroo Island after the bushfires.

"We had no kids then so it was easier!" she laughs.

Feeling supported by those around her, Lucy values the knowledge and experiences gained through her volunteer role at Barossa Bushgardens.

“I really like gardening at home and I wanted to learn about plants and how everything works.

"It makes me feel proud every time I come through here now - I’m like, I did that, or I helped with that!"

Connecting with nature, forming friendships with like-minded people and giving back to her local community keeps Lucy returning every week.

“It’s been really good for my mental health too - the exercise and being out in the fresh air.

You can explore a huge range of volunteering opportunities in our foyer information stand next to the Nuriootpa Library entrance, and on the website.

Contact Volunteering Barossa & Light, The Barossa Council on 8563 8495, or email at volunteer@barossa.sa.gov.au.