Taking a ride around Dunedin Botanic Garden aboard the little blue Crest Community Express train has been a rite of passage for local children for the past 22 years.
To ensure that opportunity continues, the Children's Recreational Enterprise Support Trust, which operates the train, is putting out an urgent call for volunteer drivers, commentators and support personnel.
Crest train trust chairwoman Hilary Trbuhovich told The Star that the team of active volunteers available to drive the train and provide commentary had dwindled to just seven.
''This puts pressure on the volunteers we do have available, so we would really like to at least double that number,'' Mrs Trbuhovich said.
Given the responsibilities involved, it would be best if volunteers were mature people and the trust was particularly keen to find retired or semi-retired people who had some time to devote to it.
Weather permitting, the train operates from Tuesday to Thursday, and on Saturday and Sunday. Hours are reduced in winter.
Along with volunteer drivers (who must have a full driver's licence), the trust was also searching for people who would enjoy providing a commentary for those taking the train ride, and also for people with mechanical expertise, who could help with maintenance.
''The Botanic Garden is the perfect place to spend time and it is lovely to drive visitors around in the train,'' Mrs Trbuhovich said.
''And we have plenty of opportunities for people with different types of experience.''
The Crest trust provided its volunteers with training and ongoing support, and they were not left alone to drive until they were happy to do so.
Founded in 1992 by an autonomous group led by Arthur Linnell, and operating independently since 1993, the Crest train has given rides around the lower garden to literally thousands of Dunedin people and visitors over the years. In the process it has raised and distributed thousands of dollars in small grants to support children's education.
Since October 2012, the trust has also operated the ''Shuttle Bug'' vehicle, which has enabled it to take visitors on rides to the upper garden - a popular service with tourists.
The Crest train trust is also regularly involved with off-site community events, including Special Rigs for Special Kids, the Festival of the Plains, Brighton Gala Day, Mosgiel Christmas Market and the Santa Parade.
- by Brenda Harwood
The Crest train trust will hold an open day for potential volunteers this Sunday, March 29, from 1pm to 2pm. Meet in the lower garden, near the duck pond, and volunteers will be on hand. For more information, phone Hilary Trbuhovich on 488-3067 or email hitruble@kinect.co.nz
