UTS Students make a big difference in Paterson and Gresford

MORE than 80 student volunteers from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) rolled up their sleeves over the weekend as part of The Big Lift, delivering an enormous boost to community projects across Paterson and Gresford. 

The annual student-run volunteering initiative, now in its 16th year, visited the Hunter Region as part of its nine-day journey through regional New South Wales and Queensland.

Founded on the philosophy of “Paying it Forward”, The Big Lift brings university students together to complete practical community projects while building connections with regional communities.

In Paterson, the students worked alongside local volunteers to revitalise four key community sites: the Paterson Lagoon, Paterson Hub & Harvest, Kings Wharf Park and the Paterson Sportsground.

Their efforts included removing weeds and dead branches, planting new seedlings, repairing picket fencing, spreading mulch across garden beds and establishing new community garden areas.

In Gresford, volunteers assisted with preparing the Gresford Community Hall for painting, installing bench seating, undertaking bush regeneration and plant care at the Gresford Arboretum, and improving walking tracks surrounding the local sporting complex.

Julie Overton from Paterson Community Builders said the students’ enthusiasm and commitment had made a lasting impact on the town.

“It was such a pleasure hosting the UTS students in Paterson,” Ms Overton said.

“They worked so hard on cleaning up the weeds and dead branches, planting new seedlings, fixing picket fencing and mulching garden beds across four sites in Paterson including the Paterson Lagoon, Paterson Hub & Harvest, Kings Wharf Park and the Paterson Sportsground.

“We also need to thank all our locals involved for assisting with this project and looking after the needs of our very special visitors.”

Paterson resident Jan Hennell praised the students’ efforts.

“The students have made a huge difference to our town, especially setting up the community garden beds,” Ms Hennell said.

Dungog Shire Mayor Digby Raywood also acknowledged the contribution made by the volunteers.

“Thank you to all students from UTS for the fantastic work they have done across the Paterson and Gresford sites,” Cr Raywood said.

The Big Lift is one of Australia’s longest-running student volunteer programs, providing university students with opportunities to support regional communities through practical projects while learning about life outside metropolitan areas.

The weekend activities were made possible through funding provided by Gresford Community Group Inc. from a grant awarded by The Centre for Volunteering and the Australian Government Department of Social Services.

The organisers also thanked the many local volunteers, community organisations and residents who worked alongside the students and helped make the weekend a success.