A local history group is looking for people with an interesting story to tell about life in Upper Clutha as part of a new oral history project.

The project’s aim is to gather, protect and share stories of the Upper Clutha. 

It is being officially launched this Friday (March 3) in Wānaka with a course to train volunteer interviewers.

Friday is the first day of a two-day course to be held at the Lake Wānaka Centre. Twelve participants from the Upper Clutha will learn what is involved in being an oral historian, such as conducting interviews, ethical and legal requirements, operating recording equipment, and so on.

The project is the initiative of a new subcommittee of the Upper Clutha Historical Records Society (UCHRS) led by Wānaka residents Liz Holland and Helen Howarth.

“Oral history is a way of gathering information which brings history to life. It often gives a voice to people who may otherwise be left out of historical records,” Helen said.

“Generally, it is a sound or video recording of someone who speaks from personal experience about a subject of historical importance. These recollections contribute to our understanding of who we are as a community.” 

The course is being led by Lynette Shum, oral history advisor for the Outreach Services of the Alexander Turnbull Library in Wellington, and Helen Frizzell, professional oral historian from Dunedin. 

A second training day is scheduled for April 14 after which the project can truly get underway with gathering memories and stories - initially of our more senior long-term residents, Helen said. 

She said the UCHRS has provided substantial assistance, not only in the form of guidance, local knowledge and access to its computer systems and resources, but also by raising funds to buy the recording equipment with grants from the Connecting Communities Fund, the Central Lakes Trust and the Otago Community Trust. Queenstown District Lakes Council has also provided support by offering the use of the Lake Wānaka Centre for the course.

“We quickly realised we couldn’t do this on our own,” Helen said, adding they’ve been amazed at the enthusiasm and support for the project.

The course is fully subscribed with candidates from Wānaka, Luggate and Makarora and brings together a group “with a wealth of experience and skills between them”, Helen said.

“We are really looking forward to seeing where this may lead in the future – particularly as we explore options for sharing the stories.” 

Helen and Liz will be compiling the list of suitable candidates to be interviewed: “Priority will initially be given to our more senior longer-term residents,” Helen said.

They’re also keen to hear from any other trained oral historians in the community, or people who would like to know more about the project or training. They can be contacted by email at   [email protected] 

PHOTO: Supplied