RAM 2026 Issue #8 by RAM Magazine

RAM ISSUE 08.

OCTOBER 2026

YOUR LINCOLN UNI STUDENT MAGAZINE

RAM ISSUE 08 / OCTOBER 2026

It’s time to choose a new way to pay! All concessions can now be linked to contactless payments or a Motu Move card.

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WHAT’S INSIDE 4 Final Words from Your 2026 Exec 13 Walks to Do with Your Fav Doggo 14 LSD - Balls, Biv and Backbones 16 You Said, We Did! 22 Garden Party 2026 24 Lincoln Young Farmers Recap 28 General Election Panel Hui 36 Lets Get Political - Issue #5 38 Meet Ilse 40 LUSA’s Best Award Winners 43 Horriblescopes Get rewarded when you contribute to the RAM!

Articles:

Letters to the Ed:

Opinion Column:

Done some cool shit? We wanna hear it!

Spin a yarn, we love hearing what you’ve got to say.

Share your opinion about literally anything!

To submit a piece email comms@lusa.org.nz

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Read current issue online and contribute lusa.nz lusa.nz studentsatlincoln

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RAM ISSUE 08 / OCTOBER 2026

Zara Weissenstein President

Tēnā koutou, Lincoln University whānau! Can you believe we are already at the end of the academic year? With just a few assessments, exams, and thesis submissions left before the summer break, the year has flown by in the blink of an eye. As we cross the finish line, I want to remind you to make the most of the student services your levy supports: Support & Community: Drop by Te Awhioraki or LUSA for a chat and a breather. Health & Wellbeing: Pop into the health centre if burnout or illness creeps in. Be sure to look after yourselves, so you’re feeling strong for exams. Career Ready: Visit the Careers Centre to lock in your summer job plans if you haven’t already. Academics: Attend any available Study Smart sessions for those last-minute questions, and don’t forget to balance the grind by spending time relaxing with friends. When I first ran for LUSA President for 2025 (and again for 2026), I had big dreams for what our student body could achieve when we all worked together for the betterment of the student experience at Lincoln University. Thanks to your direct feedback, survey responses, and emails, we’ve turned those goals into reality. You can check out a full rundown of these campus wins on page 16. Representing you for the past two years has been an absolute honour. Some of my personal highlights include: Updating our constitution to better serve

LUSA 2026 EXEC future students. Hosting an unforgettable Garden Party. Seeing tangible improvements and real outcomes from the Course Rep System. Bringing all eight Selwyn Electorate Candidates to campus for the Selwyn Candidates Panel just a of couple weeks ago. I’d love to give a special shoutout to the LUSA staff, all our Club Execs, Student Reps, and Campus Volunteers, who have put so much time and effort into advocating for students and improving our experience on and off campus for years to come. If there’s one thing I’ve learnt over the past two years, it’s that Lincoln students are incredibly resilient and passionate. Never be afraid to speak up and shape the campus you want to see, because student voices genuinely change this place for the better, and that goes for a national level as well! Make sure you enrol to vote if you are able and have your say in the upcoming elections, because this is how we shape the New Zealand of the future - our New Zealand. Looking ahead, 2027 seems like it’s going to be a real banger of a year. We’ll have a relatively green LUSA Executive team next year, and I am thrilled to see fresh faces stepping up to advocate for you and make sure you all have the best student experience possible, however that may look for each of you. A massive congratulations to everyone elected for 2027. I know you’re going to do an amazing job and have an incredible ride. Before I ramble on forever, I want to wish all of you the absolute best of luck with your final assignments, theses, and exams. And whether you’re graduating this year or returning for another chapter, I’m sure you’ll all do great. If you ever see me around campus in the future, don’t be a stranger - come say hi! Have a fantastic, safe, and restorative summer break! Nāku iti noa, nā President@lusa.org.nz

Sam Rajnikant Vice President

I have a few more weeks left as your Vice President, during which I’m wrapping up a few policy reviews and preparing a preliminary AI survey for students. Part of this wrap-up is also the handover of responsibilities, progress, and initiatives to the 2027 Executive. Congratulations to Kadin Connor, elected 2027 Vice President, and the other incoming executive. I look forward to the handing over into capable hands. By the end of the year, you should have LUSA’s Environmental Sustainability Policy, the Financial Assistance Fund Policy & Procedure, the Elections Policy, and a couple of other policies reviewed. While some of these will come back next year to reflect operational updates, they have been worked on this year to be more accurate. As you may know, LUSA were also hoping to launch a detailed AI survey to gather student feedback in this changing academic environment. During such fast-paced, seemingly inevitable shifts in opportunities and expectations, student feedback is crucial, because we are apparently expected to respond to an environment that overwhelms us, one we were never really taught to play in, or given the space to learn in. It is important that we are guided, instead of feeling reliant, helpless, or uncreative on our own. Like academic integrity is our responsibility, academic safety is educators’ responsibility, and backing out on investing in teachers, researchers, scientists, and support people that form

systems is only conducive to declining confidence in students and people. Unfortunately, the detailed survey isn’t able to go ahead this year due to time and admin constraints; however, it will be as ready-to-go as possible for next year. In the meantime, we will bring you an informal, shorter survey during study week. The results of that could help us emphasize why a better approach to AI is needed at Lincoln University, keeping safety, ethics, skill-learning, and student-support in mind. So, when it comes to you, please engage with that; it will be very easy to fill! The other thing that is ongoing with LUSA is a look into how the President’s position can be made more accessible to international students, as well as Postgrads and disabled students. It is important to pursue this issue in a holistic way, despite administrative difficulties, as it plainly is about identity barriers (external and internal) to an opportunity that should be open to any eligible student here. This issue will also be handed over appropriately to the incoming executive. It has been a pleasure to serve as your Vice President this year. I’ve learnt a fair bit, and if you see me around in study week or after, don’t hesitate to stop me for a chat. VP@lusa.org.nz

Darius J Harris

Postgrad Academic Rep

Good News: the end is nigh. And of course, Summer is nearly here, with its promise of more sun in the evenings for all those necessary outdoor activities with friends and Whanau. Campus has come alive with blossoms, flowers and of course birdsong. Our campus environment has been an absolute delight for us all. More good news is that we here at LUSA, through our thorough negotiation with stakeholders within the Postgrad Lab environments here on campus, have some concrete protocols for the Department Deans, who will be passing a ‘weather eye’ across. This has been a long time coming, and I want to thank all involved from LUSA Staff & Exec, Lab Managers, as well as student input. This has been a huge commitment by all to make this happen; to see it come to fruition is a wonderful thing. I’m still focused on getting remote access protocols sorted for Postgrads within their departmental areas as well, so watch this space. The end of semester is here with all those final deadlines and exams. Keep chipping away through to the final push. All that effort and resolve is worth it in the end. Remember what we have all done to get here. Lastly, I want to thank everyone who supported my election for the LUSA Presidency. To those friends who supported my nomination, all those good folk who helped spread the word, and of course all those who voted, a massive thank you. I am looking forward to working with the new Exec in 2027, and to all those students who cast theram.org.nz

their vote in the recent LUSA Elections, please don’t forget how blessed we are that we can all partake in this democratic process. PG.academic@lusa.org.nz

Zhexi (Chelcie) Zhang

International Rep

Can you believe we’re almost at the end of the year? And yes, this is my last blurb as your International Rep. It’s been such a fun and busy year. I’ve met so many lovely people, heard lots of interesting stories, and had the chance to help make some cool things happen on campus. A big thank you to everyone who joined our events, shared ideas, or simply stopped for a chat. You’ve made this year really special! But before we can enjoy the holidays, there’s just one little thing left... EXAMS. Good luck, everyone! Don’t forget to eat, sleep, take breaks, and get some fresh air. Your brain needs a holiday too! Whether you’re heading home, travelling around, or staying here for the Summer, I hope you have a fantastic break. Enjoy the sunshine, make some good memories, and please forget about assignments for a little while! It’s been a pleasure being your International Rep. Thank you for all the laughs, support, and memories. This might be my last blurb as your Rep, but it’s not goodbye. See you around campus next year! International.rep@lusa.org.nz

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Anne Kaninteang Pasifika Rep

Coral Peat Sustainability Rep

Carolyn Mavretish

As we approach the end of the year, it’s an exciting time but also an important moment to focus and prepare for the upcoming final exams of 2026. You should all be incredibly proud of your journeys, overcoming challenges and continuing to show up with determination and spirit. To the Pasifika Community here at LU, thank you for trusting me to represent your voices. This year, LUPISA has accomplished so much, securing both internal and external funding, fostering strong connections with other campus clubs, exploring new activities, and expanding our merchandise range! None of this would have been possible without my amazing LUPISA executive team. Thank you for your unwavering support and teamwork throughout the year. I am truly grateful for your commitment and hard work. Looking ahead, events will continue to thrive in 2027 as our new Pasifika Rep, Grace Dawson, and the incoming LUPISA Executive team for 2027 continue building on our momentum and do even more for Pasifika students. I hope 2026 has been a positive and fulfilling year for you all. Thank you to everyone who has supported LUPISA this year. It has been an honour and a privilege to serve as your Pasifika Rep for 2026. Kam bati n rabwa. pasifika.rep@lusa.org.nz

I know it is a busy time for all of us as we come towards the end of the academic year. I want to thank everyone who has helped out, spread the word, or encouraged us in the sustainability space this year. It has been a chaotic year, and a key highlight for me was Sustainability Week in August. Our last sustainability-focused event for the year was held in early October in partnership with the wellbeing team. During this event, we made space to unwind and take a breather while recycling some old yarn and fabrics to make drawstring bags. As many of us move into exam season, it is important to remember to take breaks and build sustainable study habits. Remember: to achieve your best, it is important to make time to eat, sleep, and exercise properly. Structure your study and set timers if they help to keep you on track. Most importantly, have a great summer and have a think about what you could do to make your lifestyle a little bit more sustainable as we head towards next year. Sustainability.rep@lusa.org.nz

A big congratulations to all for getting through this semester. Now that classes are out of session, I hope you are all getting out in the sun and taking some extra time to do the things you love. It was so great to see everyone on campus gathered together at Garden Party celebrating this. Secondly, I want to thank the student body for showing up to vote in this past LUSA election. I am thrilled to be your Wellbeing and Engagement Rep. for next year and keen to hear about any ideas you have for events or things you feel are missing in that space. Remember also that your vote is extremely important in your National Election, taking place on Saturday, November 7th. LUSA has done a great job keeping students informed and active in this, and I hope you were able to attend the event in which all Selwyn Candidates were hosted here on campus. Some events to keep on your radar for the end of term are; an end-of-year Club House party today (Friday the 23rd) where the Music Club will be present, so feel free to swing by. Postgraduate Club will also be hosting a Laser Tag event on November 7th and a trip to Arthur’s Pass in late November for those who are still on campus. So don’t forget to sign up for these events if you’re looking for something to do in the quieter times in Lincoln. Again, great work to all this semester, and I’m looking forward to next year. Enjoy yourself this summer! PG.engagement@lusa.org.nz

Postgrad Engagement Rep

Sam Dryden Rainbow EDI Rep

Kia ora e hoa mā, We’ve made it to the end of the Study Break and are now on the home stretch. I am so proud of you all! It has been such an honour to represent you as part of LUSA these past four years; first as Sustainability Rep and then as Rainbow EDI Rep. I have learnt a lot, achieved things I never would have thought possible, and made lasting friendships along the way. It hasn’t all been easy, but one of many highlights has definitely been contributing to the foundations of events that are now a given part of who we are as a community, like Sustainability Wiki and Lincoln’s annual Pride Hīkoi. It is bittersweet to be moving on next year, but my thesis won’t write itself, and sometimes it is okay to reprioritise. I will still be at Lincoln and involved in the Sustainability and Rainbow spaces if anyone would like to catch up, and I am especially looking forward to seeing where Argie goes as LUSA’s new Rainbow and EDI Rep. Wishing you all an enjoyable summer! Rainbow.rep@lusa.org.nz

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AND HEALTHY LIVING INITIATIVE

After two rounds of funding this year we have had some great initiatives and items purchased. Next year the dates have been adjusted slightly to accommodate the semesters and to provide you with more opportunities to provide activities to your club members. The closing for 2027 Round 1 is March 12, and for Round 2 is July 23. Scan the QR Code, which will take you directly to the LU website for the grant application. For more details check out the LU website, email alumni@lincoln.ac.nz or clubs can speak to Anita in LUSA. These photos represent the variety of activities supported this year by the initiative.

r e m Sum y l i m Fa c i n c Pi

Join us on Forbes Lawn for a FREE classic kiwi B BQ ! Open to all studengts includin ol, o summer scohnal, internati and research + postgrad ! your family RSVP by 30th Nov 2026:

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Written by Anthony Barker

On Friday, 25 September, the Lincoln University Hunting Club embarked on its third trip of the year. With a decent weather forecast, twenty-two members travelled through Tekapo, up the Macaulay River to the Macaulay Hut. The club arrived at the Hut, mid-afternoon, where, due to daylight savings, there was still plenty of time for an evening hunt for those who were keen. We split into several different parties to have a search that evening. Every group saw animals, but most were too far away, and with the limited daylight left, it made it even harder. Fortunately, one group got close enough to shoot a Tahr that night. With a combination of the hunting parties camping on the mountain tops or in the hut, everyone was set for a big day of hunting on Saturday. After an early start, (before sunrise) members were excited and ready to hunt Tahr. We all saw a good number of animals in big mobs, which made the hunting exciting. Unfortunately, even with the perfect weather conditions, all the animals headed

up high into the bluffs, and most were unshootable. Although, animals were difficult to access, a total of four Tahr were shot over the weekend; it was all four’s first time shooting a Bull Tahr too! There were plenty of hiccups along the way, with lots of missed shots, wrong ammunition brought and flat tyres. After a long day in the hills and lots of walking for some groups, everyone returned to the Macauly Hut for Saturday night. With the hut to ourselves, the evening was filled with plenty of stories, card games, and a few well-earned beverages. On Sunday morning, we began heading home to Lincoln. The weather quickly changed, and on the drive out of the riverbed, it began snowing heavily. The snow made spectacular sights while driving from the riverbed through to Fairlie, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. A big thank you goes to all the club members who helped make the trip happen and made it such an enjoyable weekend. Finally, thanks to LUSA for their support for the trip.

Congratulations to all our prize recipients!

In Week 9, the Ecological Society held a prize-giving to celebrate the incredible efforts of everyone who participated in the Sustainability Week Bioblitz. Together, observers contributed a whopping 1,695 observations of 490 different species over the week, including some that have never been observed on campus or in the Canterbury Region also. Congrats to the Students who are the 2026 Staff vs Student Bioblitz champs! This event wouldn’t have been possible without our dedicated observers and our amazing sponsors. Huge thanks to Tiny Tangles, Pepper x Raccoon, and Frank Ashwood for donating such awesome prizes. We also want to acknowledge Tumbleweed From + for Nature, Remix Plastics, LUSA, and the Sustainability Action Group for the Environment (SAGE) for subsidizing and supporting the purchase of additional prizes for our winners. To finish the night, we enjoyed an exclusive screening of ‘A Line in the Sandstone’, a film that powerfully illustrates the importance of protecting the Denniston Plateau’s biodiversity.

Bagworm Moth, Kate McDowell

Exec’s Choice: Brown Rat, Alana T

Exec’s Choice: Geometer Moth, Jon Sullivan

People’s Choice – Top Fungi: Pixie Cup Lichens Sam Dryden

People’s Choice – Top Invertebrate: Torpedo Bug, Aldwin Romeo

People’s Choice – Top Bird: White Faced Heron Nathan Campbell

Completed Bingo card (all 49 spaces) Kate McDowell LU Staff Vs Students Bioblitz 2026 Champ: Students

Keep up to date/evolve with the changing habitat by following our social media and checking your emails for our awesome events.

Lincoln Ecological Society

lincolnecologicalsocietynz theram.org.nz

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A Spring Morning at Raspberry Café Tuesday 29th September delivered the perfect Spring morning for the Postgrad and Mature Student Morning Tea at Raspberry Café in Tai Tapu. The weather was so lovely that we decided to ditch the gazebo and head outside, settling around a long table in the garden surrounded by beautiful Spring blooms and sunshine. With an impressive selection of cabinet cakes calling our names, choosing just one was no easy task. In fact, I’ve already decided I’ll have to return several times to work my way through the entire cabinet! Voucher in hand, cake and drink orders placed, we settled in to unwind and catch up. What followed was exactly what a morning tea should be: good food, plenty of laughs and relaxed conversation about life at Lincoln, travel, study, plans for the future and, somehow, even Christmas. When the cakes and drinks arrived, there was an immediate reaction to the generous portions. The enormous slices of cake and iced chocolates filled right to the brim with cream and chocolate syrup had everyone admiring their treats before diving in. Taking our time over coffee, cake and conversation made for a wonderfully relaxed morning. It was one of those simple occasions that leaves you feeling refreshed, connected and very glad you took the time to stop and enjoy it. See you next time!

HAI KŌRERO

Walks to do with your favourite doggo in Christchurch. We’re spoiled for choice with dog-friendly hikes near Christchurch, so pack the leash and head out to do some exploring with your pup. If you’re keen for some fresh scenery that isn’t too far away and won’t take a whole day, these walks offer just the right amount of work-to-reward ratio. If you have any queries on how and where you’re allowed to walk your dog in Christchurch, jump on the ccc.govt.nz website.

Mt Vernon

Starting at the Taylors Mistake car park (about a 30-minute drive from town) or the Godley Head car park, the 7km to 8km loop takes about 3 hours and features incredible coastal views of Boulder Bay, Lyttelton Harbour and historic military sites of World War II gun emplacements! Your dog must stay on a leash at all times, though.

With incredible views back over Christchurch City and only 8 minutes from the city centre, this 3-hour return walk offers a multitude of routes to the summit. From the valley floor to the sides flanking it, from the Huntsbury Reserve Track, take the first right onto the Connector Track until you reach the Gorge Track. The trail here becomes green and lush, and you’ll forget how close to civilisation you are. Climb your way up, and you can join up to the Farm Track that leads to the Lamar car park. Remember to check your dog’s paws for grass seeds.

Saddle Hill Summit Track Track

Hagley Park

This is a family (dog) friendly walk in Banks Peninsula. About 1.6 km and 1.5 hours return. Following a short climb through old sheep yards to a long basin before reaching the trig at the top. Here, you’ll enjoy the views over Akaroa Harbour, Kaitorete, the Southern Alps, down to Christchurch. To get there, drive along Reynolds Valley Road from Okuti Valley, then turn left onto Bossu Road. The track entrance will be on the left.

Christchurch’s most popular park allows dogs to run off-leash in the 407 acres of open grassy areas. They must be leashed on all paved paths, car parks, etc., and are unfortunately not allowed in the Botanical Gardens. Along with the incredible open space in the middle of town, it is framed by mature woodlands and beautiful Spring daffodils. Plenty of branches and lots of shade. Ideal for picnics with your pooch.

Godley Head Loop Track

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him going. And because some things never change, Jack’s truck refused to start the next morning and needed the traditional push start.

Girls Shred: 15th-16th August

Term 3 in Review: Balls, Biv and Backbones. Term 3 is when LSD earns its keep. With the snow finally showing up (mostly), the club packed the calendar with everything from quiet wax nights to a full-blown ball, a girls’ shred weekend, and a mission up to Temple Basin to represent Lincoln against every other uni in the country. A few trucks didn’t start, a few faces got dusty, and at least one BBQ was cleaned with a ski - but the club showed up, sent it, and lived up to the LSD name.

Wax Night: 16th July Not every event is a saga, and wax night was proudly one of the quiet ones. A solid turnout of nobody-in-particular getting the important work done, with Will, Sarah and Oscar putting in a genuinely good shift on the irons and scrapers. Boards came out sharp, bases came out fed, and the season’s gear got the love it needed before the real chaos began.

Night Ski: 27th July Around 15 keen members fronted up for a night on the hill, and it went off without a hitch - well, almost. In a classic bit of LSD logistics, the spatula was left behind, which meant the BBQ ended up being scraped clean with a ski. Whether that ski ever fully recovered its dignity is unknown, but the feed got cooked, the crew got fed, and a good night was had under the moonlight.

LSD × LUTCC Ball: 8th-9th August The big one. Around 50 people made the trip up to Craigieburn for the joint ball with the Lincoln Uni Tramping Climbing Club, and it delivered on every front. Enormous credit goes to Sarah, who carried the whole event on her back - heading up the day before to set up and handling the mountain of admin that makes a night like this happen. The skiing on the day was top-notch, and by the evening the lodge was in full swing. The DJs kept the tunes going right up until the power cut out - and then, undeterred, some more after that. The Craigie staff swung by to join the party for a bit and, in true Craigieburn fashion, put on an absolute feed for the crew, capped off with cheese toasties to see out the night. Bryce, Tor and Oscar all tapped out early, though Bryce and Oscar staged a heroic resurrection and saw the night through to the end. Mitch, meanwhile, manned the BBQ all night long, putting on feeds for anyone who needed one - the only condition being a steady supply of darts to keep

Held at Craigieburn in collaboration with CUSSC and CUBA, Girls Shred saw the crew make the absolute most of the weekend. Emma, Sarah, and Nicole represented LSD, and ripped up the Craigie field hard until the weather well and truly clagged in - to the point where you could barely make out your own ski tips. With visibility gone, the day rolled into prize giving and an awesome party to celebrate the weekend and getting girls onto the clubbie’s slopes. A few CUSSC and LSD guys may have wandered in and crashed proceedings, but the party was all the better for it. A brilliant weekend and a great showing for the collaboration.

Biv Freeride: 28th-30th August The term’s grand finale saw ten LSD members head up to Temple Basin for Biv Freeride, the annual gathering of every university snow sports club in New Zealand. And in a moment of pure déjà vu, LSD once again boot-packed all their gear (plus a silly number of beers) up the hill in the pouring rain, deciding it was better to carry the beers than risk the goods lift not getting them up. Naturally, this did nothing to dampen Tor, who promptly ran back down the hill to help VUSSC haul their gear up too. Friday night was a late one in the CUSSC lodge, with LSD partying alongside the CUSSC exec, VUSSC and OUSSC. VUSSC had a few opinions about Lincoln’s agricultural pedigree, LSD reminded them that farmers can ski too. Saturday brought the predictable crop of dusty faces, but Oscar and Tor proved to be absolute backbones, pitching in to clear the track and fix the tow lines that an avalanche had wrecked, while Thomas ran back down to bring ski gear up. With the mountain sorted, the freeride event kicked off in style: with Ben taking up a spot on the judging panel alongside the other prezzys, Emma took third in the beginner women’s, and Oscar claimed first in the beginner men’s. The celebrations were, as ever, up to standard. LSD and UASC managed to get themselves kicked out of the main lodge and into the bootroom “for being too rowdy” - proof, apparently, that such a thing exists on a uni trip. LSD also put in a solid effort on the dance floor this year, a notable improvement on the LSD crew of about four years back, who reportedly spent their Biv evening somewhere much deeper and much less vertical. That was followed by an awesome live gig in Temple lodge, the inevitable wok slide back in the CUSSC lodge, and the party carrying on into the night. Prize giving the following day saw LSD’s clubbies rightly recognised for their backbone performance both on the slopes and in the clean-up of the lodge - and Jack walked away with the “Ski Hard, Love Soft” g-string. With honour intact and legs thoroughly spent, LSD made the walk out and back to civilisation for a well-earned round of Darfield kebabs and some long-overdue sleep. A massive term all round - huge thanks to everyone who came along, put in a shift, manned a BBQ, fixed a tow line, or push-started a truck. Bring on the rest of the year. Cheers, The LSD Exec.

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Introduced new semesterly reports to our reporting systems at LUSA to inform students about what the executive has been doing for them in line with the strategic plan and governance plan each semester. These are now available on the LUSA website!

We want more transparency from LUSA! We want to know more about what LUSA is doing for students!

LUSA facilitated pop-up elections enrolment stalls with the electoral commission to help students understand what electorate they can vote in, and assist them in enrolling to vote.

Introduced update videos on our social media platforms to inform students on what we’ve been doing, update them on events and other current happenings on campus, and letting them know if important matters that relate to them.

After pushing for many years, the postgraduate research 6-month reporting process is finally being updated to ensure feedback ends up where it needs to go, and supports the privacy and wellbeing of postgraduate students.

We want more information about the National elections!

We also hosted a panel of all eight Selwyn candidates to bring politics to the university and allow students to engage in the elections process in a safe and accessible way.

We want a more accessible, updated postgraduate 6-month reporting process!

We want more postgraduate research support from LUSA! While this isn’t finalised yet, we are working on a system to ensure that all postgraduate research students can access more support from LUSA, through the faculty/departmental rep systems that are already in place. This will also provide support to the department reps who are currently representing the research students on their own.

Clear communication has been on the forefront of a lot of students’ minds this year. Therefore, LUSA has been working with the university to improve communications processes and find better ways of communicating important updates with students outside of the hub which is only available to postgraduate research students and staff. While this is still a work in progress, this will likely result in a new communication hub available to all students to provide a centralised location for all communications and information that students need.

We want more representation outside of Lincoln University, such as fighting for free bus fares!

We want the rainbow crossing back!

We want better communication from the university!

You spoke and LUSA listened. Your students’ association has been involved in larger scale student advocacy in 2026, such as lobbying the government for increased cost of living support for students in the fuel crisis, overturning the scrapping of the fees free scheme, and introducing free bus fares across the motu. This mahi will continue long into future years to ensure that the student voice is heard not just within Lincoln University but all across the country.

We worked tirelessly with the university to ensure that our LGBTQIA+ community feels represented and seen on campus after the removal of the rainbow crossing at the start of the year.

YOU SAID, WE DID

LU CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP AT THE SCOTTISH CEILIDH On Saturday, the 15th of February, LUCF hosted a traditional Scottish ceilidh at the Springston Soldiers Memorial Hall. Around 40 students attended, some from the Lincoln University Christian Fellowship and some from various Christian Clubs at the University of Canterbury. The purpose of this event was purely for members of the club to have a bit of fun before the mid-semester break. As many Kiwis have distant ties to either Ireland or Scotland, what better way to end the term than making our ancestors proud. Hosting a ceilidh also posed as an awesome opportunity to get together with students from UC in a combined event.

The night ended when blisters began forming and when the dancers, one by one, slipped out the door. Wrap up was at 10pm with the final dance with those strong enough to make it to the end of the night. Overall, the Ceilidh was a massive success; this is the first time CF has ever hosted one, and certainly will not be the last. Before saying Beannachd leat (goodbye), I would love to give a quick shoutout to those brave souls who wore their kilts on that glorious night. Dancing in your tartans, wearing your crest, you make your clan proud. Beannachd leat!

You may be wondering: what even is a “Ceilidh”? A Ceilidh is a traditional Scottish and Irish social gathering with live folk music, which participants dance to under guidance from the “caller” who teaches the dance steps. Theo and Gary (from Theo and G) did the ‘calling’ and made up the band (which included an accordion). The night began at 7pm, when Theo and Gary guided everyone through an opening march. They then led us through multiple popular ceilidh dances including: • • • • • •

Scotland the Brave The Dashing White Sergeant Virginia Reel The Riverside Jig Bridge of Athlone The Flying Scotsman

After half an hour of chaos- sorry, did I say chaos? I meant to say DANCING; we had an intermission. During intermission, the dancers were able to reenergise and rehydrate on the snacks and drinks; this was also a good moment to socialise and get to know students from UC and vice versa. After snacks, it was straight back to dancing. theram.org.nz

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Back by popular demand for semester 2 was the annual LU Soil Society Quiz Night, this time in collaboration with the AGLS society and MC’d by the legendary Roger McLenaghen. The Quiz Night has become quite the tradition in LUSS and the Soil and Environmental Science department. Once again, the Golden Spade was up for grabs for the team with the best all-round soil science knowledge.

Jacinda Argillic

L.U.S.T (Lincoln Uni Soils Team)

Last Place

Soiled Ourselves

Sunny and Nam Luu

The Fantastic 5

This quiz tests participants on their knowledge of NZ soil orders, soil chemical processes, and NZ-specific soil facts. This year, it was won by our youngest participants ever, Sunny Luu (9 years old) and Nam Luu (7 years old)! Thanks to the collaboration with the AGLS Society for the first time, we also had a special Agriculture/Horticulture round. First place overall for the general quiz went to team ‘Soiled Ourselves’, second place to ‘Last Place ’, and third place to ‘L.U.S.T (Lincoln Uni Soils Team). The soils round was won by the ‘Fantastic 5,’ and the Agriculture round was won by ‘Jacinda Argillic.’ It’s always amusing to see the creative, soil-related team names people come up with. A big thank you to The Grouse and LUSA for supporting this event. All proceeds from this Quiz Night will go towards helping students attend the NZ Soil Judging Competition to be held in Canterbury in November. This competition is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about describing and classifying soils in the field – great for your CV, upskilling your practical knowledge, and meeting people in the land-based/ soil science fields. Keep an eye out for the 2027 LUSS quiz night, and if you’re keen to join a community of ‘soil nerds’, reach out to hear about opportunities in LUSS.

Book Review by Zara Weissenstein

Curiosity: Farmers Finding Freedom by John King

In the contemporary agricultural narrative often dominated by economic pressures, environmental mandates, and rigid industry compliance, New Zealand author John King offers a refreshing counter-narrative. Curiosity: Farmers Finding Freedom is an exploration of what happens when farmers throw away standard practices and look to inquiry-driven, observational land management. At the core of King’s book is a simple idea: genuine innovation requires both the courage and freedom to fail. In farming communities where failure can involve significant financial risk, King frames mistakes as valuable sources of data, showing that conventional agricultural systems often trap farmers in fixed routines, while cultivating curiosity reclaims agency, confidence, and financial independence. The moral of the story is that there is no “silver bullet” in agriculture. Through real-world stories from across

New Zealand and Australia, King illustrates how unexpected challenges can spark breakthroughs and better solutions. Whether adjusting grazing dynamics, managing soil biology, or rethinking input costs, the featured stories highlight people who questioned conventional wisdom and discovered solutions tailored to them and their land. King structures the book around lived experience, grounding high-level ecological and financial concepts in practical realities. Key themes include: Observation: Shifting focus from the commonly used solutions to reading biological and financial indicators in the moment, directly on the farm. Economic Resilience: Showing how lowering high-cost inputs can yield greater profitability, even if raw yield numbers change. Psychological Wellbeing: Addressing the isolation that comes with rural challenges, offering a roadmap to reconnect with community, purpose, and self-reliance. With each chapter serving as a case study and offering key takeaways designed to provoke reflection, this is clearly a book that is

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meant to be annotated, revisited, and discussed over a kitchen table.

King’s writing reflects decades of experience. His tone is pragmatic, encouraging, and unpretentious. Rather than prescribing a onesize-fits-all model of “regenerative agriculture,” he emphasises the mindset and processes required for true sustainable management in agriculture. The book honours the courage required to step away from traditional methods while maintaining optimism about the future of farming. Curiosity: Farmers Finding Freedom is essential reading for current and future farmers, graziers, rural advisors, and anyone interested in the future of sustainable food production. John King delivers the insight that the ultimate tool in resilient farming isn’t a new machine, AI, or fertiliser, it’s an open and curious mind that continues to search for new solutions.

RAM ISSUE 08 / OCTOBER 2026

Rain Hail & Untamed Vibes: Braving the Cold at Garden Party! Mother Nature set the tone early this year: right as soundcheck kicked off first thing in the morning, just as Savage rolled up, the sky opened up with a massive hail storm. With snow dropping down to 300 meters and relentless icy drizzle following close behind, almost 2,000 ticket holders proved that nothing freezes the legendary Garden Party, end of lectures spirit. If anything, the conditions only amped up the energy, turning this year’s event into an absolute battle of resilience and our best Garden Party to date! Partygoers braved the Rugby Field in style, turning the grounds into a runway for top-tier costumes. From a ciggarette, to ladybugs, silent mimes, and spot-on Savage impersonators, showing pure commitment. To keep you all trucking ahead, G&T Catering rolled in with a literal truckload of free carbs to fuel the crowd, Absolute cans kept going down an absolute treat regardless of the cold! On stage, the heat was undeniable. The Drax boys brought fire to their live performance, Rikki Reid captivated the crowd with her stunning, soaring vocals, and DJ Hokey kept the bass bumping and the vibes sky-high all day long. Massive respect to every single attendee who toughed out the cold, danced through the stage drips. You made history, take a look at all the madness here!

A huge shoutout to our sponsors. Your support helps make Garden Party happen, and we couldn’t do it without you!

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RAM ISSUE 08 / OCTOBER 2026

Sunday is a rest and reset day for some, but not for the Lincoln Young Farmers Club, where we managed to wrangle 30 teams to take part in the third annual Tussle. Once again, we were lucky enough to have Canterbury deliver a sunny day out for some friendly competition at the Ridgen’s farm. Our competitors mustered up their best outfits, made some questionable decisions and competed in teams of three to attempt the agricultural themed challenges. The event consisted of practical agricultural challenges and plenty of laughs. Sideline supporters watched on as each team battled through a three-person sack race, rugby ball accuracy and apple bobbing. The competition got a bit more serious when brains were required and the theory questions began, with teams being tested on fertiliser, poo and cattle identification. There were some grim faces along the course when it came to a feed of dog tucker (beef flavoured gelatine with diced veges). This was topped off with the last challenge, a dizzy race where some teams forget how to run in a straight line. The fastest teams from each heat proceeded to the final where some strategic course changes were made to keep things interesting.

The results: • 1st place - The Heifers (Lincoln Young Farmers) • 2nd place - Two frogs, one hotdog (Lincoln Young Farmers) • 3rd place - Holy shit (Lincoln Young Farmers) • Best dressed - The Simpsons (Lincoln Young Farmers) A massive thank you to everyone who helped in organising and running the Tussle. Well done to all the competitors and supporters, your enthusiasm made the day very memorable! Thank you also to our amazing sponsors and LUSA who got behind the event and showed us so much support, we couldn’t have done this without you. The LYFC is looking forward to next year’s Tussle which will no doubt be another Sunday to remember.

West Coast Weekend Trip The weekend of the 25th of September saw 36 Young Farmers members pile into vans and set off for a pilgrimage over to the West Coast. Leaving Uni, we set out for Sheffield, with Steve Wright as our first stop on the tour. Steve, alongside his brother, farms a large-scale mixed cropping property on the edge of the Waimak. Steve walked us through the property’s history and where he sees the cropping industry heading in the future, and outlined how he has driven efficiency through technology and longterm decision-making. The operation had a unique twist with Steve also growing grass carp in his irrigation pond - selling them for a whopping $80 each! Finishing up at the Wrights, we headed for the hills to the Big Ben Station, a large-scale sheep, beef and deer farm part of the wider Coleridge Downs farming operation. Jack, the Big Ben block manager, and Kristen, cadet training manager, ran us through the farm’s involvement in the Lumina lamb program and how they manage the complexity of finishing over 14,000 lambs on specialist finishing crops to uniform carcass weights. We then hit the Lake Lyndon Road and shot over the pass to the West Coast with a few stops for a boat race and some stomach evacuations. The Rotomanu Hall was our destination for the night, and after stuffing down some burgers we settled in for the night. Saturday saw a few bleary eyes emerge from the hall and a few subdued vans to start the morning off. But everyone’s eyes opened fairly

quickly as we crossed the bridge into Gloriavale. Our host, Faithful, showed us around one of the community’s three dairy farms and through their large composting wintering barn. We then loaded up into the vans for a quick tour around the community itself before heading back over the bridge and what felt like a return to society. Our next stop was the Coates Dairy Farm, another unique operation making use of composting wintering barns and automatic calf feeders to drive efficiency. It was interesting to see how high rainfall impacted production and management decisions, and how the Coates were still able to achieve production levels in line with some of the best irrigated properties in Canterbury. We then headed down the Coast to Hokitika, with a brief stop at Coastwide Forage Solutions, a contracting business covering over 400km between Murchison and Haast. Fish and Chips were on the menu in Hokitika before a night out in town with the locals! After dragging everyone out of bed on Sunday morning, we bee-lined it for the hills, trying to beat the snow. It finally caught up with us at the top of Porters Pass, however, leaving us stuck in the snow for a while before the road workers finally got sick of us and let us make our way down. We scooted back across the plains, unloaded the troops, and that was all she wrote! Thanks to all the members who came along and to LUSA for making the trip happen. Already can’t wait for the next one!

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RAM ISSUE 08 / OCTOBER 2026

Lincoln vs Massey Young Farmers Club Exchange By Hillary Cooper

On the 11th and 12th of September, Massey Young Farmers made the trip south to take on Lincoln in four disciplines: Debate, Hockey, Netball and Rugby. The weekend delivered close contests, plenty of banter and the chance to build new friendships across clubs. The action began on Friday, when the Massey crew arrived and were billeted with Lincoln members to freshen up before the debate at the Famous Grouse Hotel. The topic was, ‘The importation and feeding of palm kernel expeller in New Zealand, should be banned’, with Lincoln arguing for the motion and Massey against. A guest speakers from ‘Spark that Chat’, a mental health movement, joined us for the evening, to mingle and discuss relevant issues. In front of a great crowd, the debate was a powerful one and went down to the wire. Lincoln edged ahead by just one point, a close but rewarding win. Afterwards, everyone stayed around the pub for food and a good old-fashioned social catch-up. An early rise on Saturday kicked off at the Rolleston Hockey Grounds for a tough match. Members from both clubs showed off their skills, backed by a great crew of supporters on the sideline.

Lincoln took the win and a boost of confidence. From there, everyone made their way back to the University grounds for netball, where the ladies took to the court. Lincoln put up a good fight, but Massey stayed fierce and came away with the win. The rugby came next, with both clubs gathering to rally their troops. In the sun, it was an entertaining watch, and Lincoln claimed the victory. That secured Lincoln Young Farmers the overall win for the weekend. The weekend finished with a BBQ, giving everyone time to keep building relationships and to make some new ones, and another fun night altogether to finish off the weekend strong. Thanks go out to all the Refs, the Famous Grouse Hotel, the Selwyn Sports Centre and Lincoln University for the use of their facilities. A big shout-out also goes to Massey Young Farmers for making the trip south and making it such a fun weekend. Next year it’s Lincoln’s turn to head North, and we’re already excited. Overall, a great weekend for the club. Walking away with a win as well as many new friendships and connections that our members will carry on for many years to come.

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RAM ISSUE 08 / OCTOBER 2026

LUSA held a hui on the 8th of October with all of our Selwyn Electorate’s potential members of parliament. We were glad to get to know what our local candidates stood for and to get to know them on a more personal level in this issue of RAM. ACT Candidate Iain Murray attended the hui but did not provide a further article for RAM. I was born in Christchurch. I am a keen tramper with a love of the mountains, particularly in the Arthur’s Pass area where I first started my adventures. I strongly believe that our natural environment should be protected and preserved for future generations. I have worked in healthcare for over 40 years. For the majority of this time, I have worked as a medical laboratory scientist. I have also worked for a number of years as an infection control ADRIAN MEE advisor for a District Health OPPRTUNITY Board. Because of my science background, I like the evdencebased policies of the Opportunity Party. I am also a small business owner, and I acknowledge that the current economic environment is a challenging time for business. I live in the Selwyn District, having moved to Selwyn from Christchurch City about 5 years ago. My earliest connection to the Selwyn District, however, is when I lived in Sheffield while my father was principal at Sheffield School. My first game of rugby for the Sheffield Rugby Club (aged about eight) was played for the Sheffield Rugby Club. I have two adult children, both living in the North Island. I am proud of their achievements and the professional careers they have carved out in New Zealand. Sadly, a large number of our young people are disillusioned about their future in New Zealand. Many students I talk to have large student loans and are having little success in gaining meaningful employment using the skills they have studied to achieve. We have failed to invest enough in Research and Development to fund innovation and create the next high-tech economy that will drive the employment of our next generation. I strongly believe that all New Zealanders should have an equal opportunity to shape our future through our democratic process. Sadly, I feel that our democracy has been influenced by corporate and lobby group interests, and this needs to change. I have decided to stand as the Opportunity Party Candidate in Selwyn because I believe they can be an influence for change for good in Parliament. I also believe they will genuinely listen to the will of New Zealanders on the issues that are important.

Kia ora koutou, my name is Alma De Anda. I’m standing for the Green Party, and I’m asking you to Party Vote Green. The Green Party is here for all of us. We will protect nature from corporate greed, lower your bills, honour Te Tirit, and make laws that work for everyone, not only big business. The current Coalition Government has been a disaster for people and for nature. It has made the basics unaffordable, driven up youth unemployment to record ALMA DE ANDA highs, removed environmental GREEN protections to benefit big polluters, and failed to meet its obligation under Te Tiriti o Waitangi. This Coalition government has introduced American-style policies and rhetoric that make me fear Aotearoa will be led further down a similar trajectory of bad faith politics. I was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA, so I am all too familiar with this government’s harmful tactics and the tepid pushback by the major opposition party. We cannot normalise harmful policies that have been passed by this government. The Greens are the only party that is advocating for bold solutions that benefit all of us. I bring decades of experience in ecology and science communication, as well as decades of experience in public health outreach and education. I want to continue supporting young people to thrive in Aotearoa. I have authored academic papers and book chapters on monarch butterfly conservation, and I am currently the President of ALRANZ Abortion Rights Aotearoa. In this role, we act as a watchdog to ensure the right to healthcare is not chipped away by current and future governments. If given the opportunity to be your Selwyn MP, I look forward to building on the existing community knowledge and power of Selwyn residents and advocating for you in Parliament.

I’m running as a candidate for the Alliance Party in Selwyn. I grew up and lived in Christchurch for the majority of my life, but I moved out to Rolleston eight years ago with my Partner. I’ve always appreciated the charm the Selwyn region has to offer. One of my visions for the Selwyn district and the Alliance’s is one where workers, both young and old, can find well-paying, safe, and Secure work, regardless of qualification. The Alliance Party and I stand behind trade unions unwaveringJESSE LUKE ly, as they are the best avenue through which workers can have ALLIANCE both their interests and rights represented fairly. I work in the transport and logistics industry myself. I am a union delegate for my worksite, so I am aware of the concerns of working-class people, and I am lucky enough to represent them to the best of my ability. We also want to see a more robust and efficient form of public transport available for the region for both towns and rural areas, in the form of an electrified, publicly owned rail system that would be used for transport of both people and freight, thereby lessening the congestion and damage to our roads. Lastly, the rising nitrate pollution of our drinking waters has to be addressed. With scientific backing from regional experts and Environmental Canterbury, it has been proven that many of our drinking water sources (wells and streams) will become unusable within the next decade. I want to see a fairer Selwyn, a place where every working family can thrive in and call home.

I am currently a 2nd-term Selwyn District councillor, mother of 3, foster mum to 9, and hobbyist organic small-scale farmer. NZFirst is a party whose pillars of common sense, nationalism, patriotism, and social conservatism match my own values. Many NZers are struggling with the cost of living crisis, job insecurity, housing, and debt stress. NZFirst has an economic vision to double the economy by 2050. Energy security underpins ELIZABETH everything: our jobs, our MUNDT households, industries, and our resilience as a nation - this is why NZFIRST we are breaking up the gentailers, so they are no longer set up to maximise profit, but instead to deliver NZ affordable electricity. We are future-proofing our fuel security. We will identify a national dataset across energy, geothermal and CO2 storage sites, protecting us from international instability, and enabling NZ industry to afford to remain open here. Mining is one of our most productive sectors, contributing billions, supporting 1000’s of jobs. 50% of the mining royalties go back to the regions for water services, flood protection, energy generation, tourism, transport, and housing. Lowering the small business tax rate from 28% to 20% boosts productivity, expands business, and creates more jobs. Buying the BNZ would create competitive pricing here, preventing the >$1.5billion annual profit from going offshore. We will withdraw from the Paris Accord; paying obligations will cost us >$22bil. Establishing a KiwiSaver with $1000 kickstart from birth , enables our young NZ citizens an opportunity to purchase their first home. No matter where you come from, ALL NZ CITIZENS have the right to employment, housing and quality of life. It is important to NZFirst that we protect and value the very aspects that make NZ one of the Safest, prosperous and most enjoyable places in the world to live. PARTY VOTES NZFIRST!

My name is Nicola Grigg, and I am proud to serve as Selwyn’s Member of Parliament and to be once again standing as the National Party candidate. Over the past six years, it has been a privilege to represent one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing and innovative districts.

Like many people who now call Selwyn and Canterbury home, I came here to build a better future. Over the past 23 years, Canterbury has given me opportunities I could only have dreamed of, and I believe it’s important to give back. I have spent my career as a business lecturer, helping shape the next generation of leaders and supporting businesses as a business mentor, while also serving my community as an elected representative, community advocate and volunteer, Justice of the Peace, marriage celebrant and board member. Those roles have taught me one simple lesson: good leadership starts with listening. Selwyn is growing at an incredible pace. Growth brings opportunity, but it also brings pressure on healthcare, housing, transport, schools, and local infrastructure. Families want to know they can see a GP when they need one, find an affordable home, commute safely, and have secure jobs close to where they live. These aren’t political issues; they are everyday issues. I am standing because I believe Selwyn deserves a

representative who is visible, approachable, and deeply connected to the community. Someone who will listen first, work hard, and speak up for everyone, regardless of how they vote. Over the coming months, you will see me right across the electorate, meeting residents, visiting businesses, supporting local events, and hearing what’s important to you. I won’t promise to have all the answers, but I do promise to be present, to listen with respect, and to work tirelessly on your behalf. If you see me around Selwyn, please stop and say hello. I would love to hear your story and your ideas for our community’s future.

As the daughter of sheep and beef farmers, I grew up with a deep appreciation for the land, hard work, and the importance of thriving rural communities. Agriculture has always been a significant part of my life, and it remains central to Selwyn’s identity and success.

NICOLA GRIGG NATIONAL

Selwyn is a remarkable place to live, study and work. We are fortunate to have Lincoln University at the heart of our district, helping drive innovation, research and leadership in agriculture, environmental management and science. The students who choose to study here are helping shape New Zealand’s future, and I believe we should be creating opportunities that encourage talented young people to build their careers and lives in districts like ours. My vision for Selwyn is simple: to ensure it remains the best place in New Zealand to raise a family, start a business, pursue an education and build a future. That means advocating for the infrastructure, housing, local economy and public services needed to support a growing population. It means backing our farmers, supporting local businesses, and creating an environment where young people can succeed. Whether I’m meeting with farmers, business owners, families or students, I want to understand the issues that matter most and work constructively to deliver results. I am passionate about Selwyn and optimistic about its future, and I remain committed to helping our communities continue to thrive.”

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DR SUNITA GAUTAM LABOUR

RAM ISSUE 08 / OCTOBER 2026

I am standing for Selwyn as an independent because I think politics has become too good at talking and too slow at doing. I am a retired structural engineer, immigrant, husband, father and grandfather. I came to New Zealand about thirty years ago, worked for others, then built a business from scratch. My approach is simple: understand the problem, zero in on it, and keep going until something moves. Wit and grit. That is also how I approach politics. ZORAN Across Selwyn I have been RAKOVIC involved in rural health, public INDEPENDENT transport, water, infrastructure and development. Again and again I see the same gap: on one side, what people actually need; on the other, what government actually delivers. An independent MP can credibly stand in that gap and work to narrow it without first asking what the party caucus thinks. With students, I would work through student leadership rather than presume to speak for students myself. LUSA is elected to understand student life, identify priorities and organise students around them. My role would be to listen to that leadership, help test and sharpen the case, and then carry it into Parliament with persistence. That matters on very practical issues. Cost of living is not abstract when you are deciding whether you can afford decent food. One simple proposal is to fit student rooms with small fridges and provide proper communal kitchens so students can buy and prepare cheaper and nitritious food themselves. The cost would be modest compared with the tens of millions government can find for rescuing a cement factory, while the benefit would be felt every day. I have also lodged a parliamentary petition arising directly from an issue raised through LUSA leadership: an international student may be trusted by fellow students enough to be elected president, yet visa conditions can make it impossible to perform that role. My petition seeks a workable pathway for an elected international student association president to serve effectively. I do not want to be students’ walking political menu. I want elected student leaders to organise, define the problem, gather the evidence and build the mandate. Then my job is to help sharpen it, carry it into Parliament and keep pressing. Max Weber called politics the strong and slow boring of hard boards. I brought the drill. It’s your turn.

An open letter to the students who were not at the LUSA General Election Pannel. Last Thursday, something extraordinary happened at Lincoln University. Democracy arrived, and the students disappeared. The Lincoln University Students’ Association organised a political debate. The parliamentary candidates came, the microphones worked, and the organising committee was in fine shape. Political parties brought supporters, who cheered with the enthusiasm of people who had already decided what they wanted to hear. But the students? About twenty turned up. Fewer than one percent of the student population. The rest were presumably preparing themselves for the future the politicians were discussing in their absence. The organisers did their job admirably. The candidates did theirs. Democracy performed beautifully, except for one minor technical inconvenience: almost nobody came to exercise it. Now, comrades, before someone declares that young people have become lazy, selfish and addicted to telephones, I suggest we inspect the accusers first. Older generations have produced a political system in which citizens are invited to complain, vote occasionally, pay taxes and otherwise leave important matters to professionals. Politics has become something like dentistry. You visit the specialist when something hurts, suffer the treatment, pay the bill and hope not to return for three years. When students behave exactly as this system has taught them, we suddenly discover a crisis of civic responsibility. What a hypocrisy! We train young people to become efficient economic units, competing mercilessly for qualifications and employment, then express horror when they decline to spend Thursday evening applauding parliamentary candidates. German sociologist Helmut Schelsky would have recognised you immediately. In 1957, he published The Sceptical Generation, examining young Germans who had little appetite for political grandstanding. Their parents had experienced enough grand political ideas to ruin few continents. The young preferred jobs, qualifications and ordinary lives. They distrusted the magnificent promises that had brought their country to catastrophe. But consider the historical joke. Within little more than a decade, German universities became centres of fierce political rebellion. The quiet generation had not permanently abolished political engagement. History was merely changing its clothes. I am not suggesting you imitate the German students of 1968, occupy the administration building or chase the vice-chancellor through the car park with a revolutionary manifesto. New Zealand has enough paperwork without adding revolutionary tribunals. What interests me is the possibility that your absence

conceals something other than indifference. Perhaps you are tired of politics because politics has become tired of you. Mark Fisher called something like this reflexive impotence. You understand the problems but suspect nothing you do will make much difference. So you withdraw. And because you withdraw, the political machinery becomes less responsive. Your belief in powerlessness begins producing the very powerlessness you fear. A magnificent arrangement for those already holding power. Peter Mair described a related condition as ruling the void. Political parties withdraw from ordinary society into the machinery of government, while citizens withdraw into private life. Elections continue, governments govern, and everything functions except the connection between citizens and their representatives. Colin Crouch called the wider development post- democracy. Democracy retains its costumes and ceremonies, but public participation becomes thinner. At Lincoln, political activists cheered political candidates while almost everyone else remained elsewhere. It was practically a private conversation between rival departments of the political industry.

Albert Hirschman understood how this might change. People move between private pursuits and public involvement, often when their expectations are disappointed. You study hard, improve your qualifications and

identifying a problem become merely the beginning, followed by gathering others to do something about it?

And here I want to speak to you directly, not as voters to be persuaded, customers to be

Schelsky reminds us that youthful political quietness need not be permanent. Fisher warns that disbelief in political effectiveness can become a prison. Hirschman reminds us that private disappointment can become public action. None promises that students will return. History offers possibilities, not warranties.

Perhaps you will return when political participation offers something more substantial than professional promises. Perhaps when politicians stop treating young people as a demographic category to be harvested every three years. Perhaps when universities cultivate civic courage alongside professional competence. But institutions rarely reform themselves because their customers are disappointed. Someone must begin the argument. Someone must organise. Someone must be sufficiently troublesome to make indifference inconvenient.

The Disappearance and Return of the Students

Nina Eliasoph discovered that people often discuss political problems passionately in private while avoiding politics in public. You complain about housing, employment, university costs and the peculiar expectation that a graduate should possess five years of professional experience. Yet suggest confronting the political institutions responsible for these conditions, and the conversation becomes uncomfortable. Politics is divisive. Better not get involved. Better leave it to Wellington. Thus, a thousand individual complaints never become one collective demand. Everybody is dissatisfied, but the student collective is never sufficiently vocal to make dissatisfaction politically consequential.

attempt to construct a decent future. Eventually, however, you may discover that individual effort cannot resolve collective problems. You cannot personally create more graduate jobs or single-handedly make housing affordable. Timur Kuran adds another possibility: societies can appear tranquil while private dissatisfaction accumulates. Public silence can conceal disagreement, and changed circumstances can produce unexpected mobilisation. But twenty students attending a debate does not mean the others are secretly preparing an uprising. Perhaps you were studying, working or enjoying a beer. The danger begins when occasional absence becomes habitual surrender.

Written by Zoran Rakovic

entertained or children requiring another lecture. You are university students. You are supposed to question things, not merely memorise approved explanations and reproduce them under examination conditions. Jacques Ellul warned about technical systems increasingly organising society according to their own imperatives. We become highly competent at operating the machinery while losing the habit of asking where it is taking us. We calculate the engine’s efficiency but hesitate to question the destination. So I ask you, students of Lincoln University: when are you coming back? Not merely to improve attendance statistics. Not to become obedient foot soldiers for National, Labour, the Greens, ACT or anyone else. I am asking when you will return to the public world as its owners rather than spectators. When will theram.org.nz

I hope your absence was not the sound of a generation surrendering its political inheritance. I hope it was an interval before discovering that democracy is not a service delivered by Wellington but a responsibility exercised wherever people confront problems together. We need no more professional revolutionaries shouting about changing everything while leaving practical work to somebody else. We need citizens capable of changing something, then another thing, discovering through these modest victories that public life belongs to them. Last Thursday, the chairs were empty. The candidates spoke anyway. The political machinery continued operating. But the chairs are not the important thing. You are. Students of Lincoln, when are you coming back?

RAM ISSUE 08 / OCTOBER 2026

Postgrad Club: Community & Fun!

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Are you a postgraduate student seeking a sense of community Handy Landy’s is a group of students keen to give back to rural and a break from the rigors of academic life? Look no further than communities during times of stress and hardship. Although we are Postgrad Club. Our club offers a vibrant space where students can primarily based in Canterbury, we are willing to travel near and far unwind, connect, and create lasting memories through a variety and take on any job, big or small. of engaging events. The Handy Landys team have been super busy this semester We kicked off the year with a successful welcoming event on the travelling upto Waiau 2 times over a couple of weeks to help out 25th of February. The turnout was remarkable, setting the tone on a farm that had been damaged by flooding. We took a team for a year filled with exciting activities and growing friendships. of 8 people and got to work clearing silt and debris off fences and Since then, each event has continued to draw enthusiastic finding wires to restrain and get the fence up. A tailing trip was crowds, eager to take part in the fun and camaraderie. also completed successfully with 5 members going to that same Some of our past events included: farm. A team also went up to Cheviot to help with flood clean up Movie Night there, pulling out a fence so that it can be redone. Hosted on the 21st of September, our movie night showed ‘Johnny We also had a successful AGM on the 8th of October with a great English’, which of course was a huge hit; the room was filled with turnout, congrats to our new Exec for 2027, Chairperson is Sophie laughter and concentration. We put on pizza, which went down a Crawford, Vice-Chair is Austen Targett, Secretary is Ella Hole, treat; we also supplied popcorn and drinks too. Treasurer is Jessie McFadzien and the General Reps are Chonelle Writing Retreat Ayson and Jack Fiveash. The Postgrad Club is also helping with the writing retreat, which This is the 10th year of the Handy Landys Club and we wanted to was hosted on 13th of October 2026, where we provided coffee & celebrate that the club is still humming. After the AGM we held a tea. 10yr reunion Event, we had a few special guest appearances, Ryan Upcoming events: We have three exciting events lined up. MacAurthur (a founding member) came to share some stories and also offer some resources for future trips. Sam Back (previous Laser Tag (Ticketed Event) - limited tickets member) also shared some stories about his time in the club. We had a video from Hamish Goatley sharing some cool stories. An• Date: 7th of November, 4pm other founding member Jess Ingham sent a great video and a wee • Location:Laser Strike, 32 Byron Street Christchuch write up from Dave Ingham. Overall, we had a great time listening to how the club was created and the awesome trips they went on • Join us for a fun Saturday afternoon in town, playing laser tag 10 yrs ago. and connecting with others! Field Trip to Arthurs Pass (Ticketed Event) •

Date: 19th of December

•

An affordable opportunity to explore parts of Canterbury, take a break from studies and socialise with others without the pressure of study!

To stay informed about our events and learn more about Postgrad Club, follow us on Instagram or subscribe to our emails. Instagram: @lu_pgclub

A huge thank you to everyone who has come along on these trips and lent a hand. If you’re keen to join, scan the QR code and follow our social media pages to stay updated.

International Week: More Than a Celebration

• Window to the World • What does the world taste like? How do you say “hello” in your language? And how much can we learn about each other in just one week?

Throughout the week, students also shared photos of special places through Window to the World, and taught each other words, funny expressions, and phrases from their own languages through Say It Your Way. It was lovely to see our boards slowly fill up with colourful notes, different languages, and little pieces of people’s lives. Who knew a simple word or a favourite food could start so many conversations?

From 21–25 September, we celebrated International Week at Lincoln University, with a week full of food, languages, stories, games, and lots of fun! We kicked things off with our World Food Map, where students shared their favourite dishes from around the world. Tuesday was extra busy, with the Mid-Autumn Cultural Festival and our International Quiz Night, jointly organised by LUSA, LUICSA, and LUCSA! All 35 tickets sold out, and over 40 people joined us for a night of fun, teamwork, and friendly competition. A big congratulations to our top three winning teams! And a huge thank you to LUICS and LUCS for the amazing teamwork and support. We couldn’t have done it without you!

We wrapped up the week with Anime Movie Night, watching animated short films from different countries. Different styles, different stories, and a fun way to explore cultures together (with popcorn and snacks, of course!). For me, the best part of International Week wasn’t just the events themselves. It was seeing people come together, share something from their own cultures, discover something new, and make new connections. Sometimes, all it takes is a little curiosity to bring people closer. I really hope International Week becomes a tradition at Lincoln, with even more students and clubs joining in next year!

• One week, many cultures, countless conversations, and probably too much milk tea!

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Behind the scenes, there was plenty of planning, teamwork, and probably more messages than I can count! A massive thank you to all the student clubs, volunteers, and everyone who helped make this week happen.

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STUDY TIPS

FOR LU STUDENTS THE "REVERSE EXAM" QUESTION

THE TEACHING TRAP Grab a spot out on Forbes lawn and explain your hardest topic out loud to a friend, using simple everyday analogies. If you get stuck or catch yourself using dense academic jargon without being able to define it simply, mark that spot in your notes. You don't truly understand a concept until you can explain it over a flat white.

Stop passively reading past papers. Instead, take a core topic, adopt the role of your lecturer, and write 3 deliberate trap questions:

WHITEBOARD CHAOS Ditch notebook lines for big, kinetic movement: The Window Wall: Use liquid chalk markers to map out mind maps, equations, or timelines directly on your bedroom window or mirror. Sticky Note Elimination: Write 15 core terms or formulas on sticky notes and slap them on a wall. Every time you explain one correctly without looking at your notes, crumple it up and throw it across the room.

1. One easy question designed to catch students who only skimmed the reading. 2. One calculation/application question with a subtle trick (e.g., hidden unit conversion or conflicting variables). 3. One open-ended essay question that forces a critique of a central theory. Writing the exam forces you to spot structural patterns in how questions are framed rather than just memorizing answers.

AUDIO SYNTHESIS WALKING Record yourself on your phone giving a 3-minute executive summary of a key lecture or chapter right after you finish studying it. On your commute or evening walk or even when you’re at the gym, listen to your own recordings at 1.5x speed. Hearing your own voice summarize key ideas, bridges auditory and visual memory paths without requiring screen time.

GAMIFIED SPEEDDRAFTING

Set a timer for 10 minutes and attempt a complete outline of a complex past-exam question using only a blank sheet of paper. Minutes 0–3: Dump every formula, framework, and key term from memory. Minutes 3–8: Structure the answer into main bullet points or a logical flow. Minutes 8–10: Identify the weakest point in your outline—that is your exact study priority for the next hour.

During the on-campus Mental Health Awareness Week, we had a fun activity during our lunch hour. We polled some students and here is what they had to say: • 6 liked dogs whereas 9 liked cats • 8 knew more than 3 languages, and 10 were learning a new language • 12 liked spicy food and 7 liked mild • 11 liked to solve problems and 10 thought it was important to have a purpose

It has come to that time of the year when Spring has sprung, and the end of courses are fast approaching. Remember we are here to support you to connect to support services or to come find your people on campus. You can join us at any time via Pae Āwhina, or by emailing experience@lincoln.ac.nz. All the best for final assessments and exams, for practical work over the summer break, working or for your holiday break. Go well and we shall see you again in the new year.

Some very rich conversations were had as we have come to deduce that it seems our campus hosts cat loving, spicy food eaters who are learning a new language and like to solve problems. For everyone who participated they were able to rumage in our “lucky dip” bag and draw out a parcel and precede to unwrap the item find out what was inside. We the buddies had had great fun in wrapping the items to disguise what they were. One keen participant had fun squeezing and prodding trying to work out what was inside.

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RAM ISSUE 08 / OCTOBER 2026

Meet Ilse... Making the World a Better Place, One Future Leader at a Time Written by Harriet Johnston

After seven and a half years at Lincoln University, Ilse von Hirschberg is preparing to say goodbye to a community she has helped shape through her commitment to students, leadership and personal development. As Future Leader Scholarship Coordinator and a dedicated supporter of the Future Leader Programme, Ilse has become much more than a familiar face around campus. She has been a mentor, an encourager, a sounding board and for many students, someone who has helped them recognise their own potential. Throughout her time at Lincoln, Ilse has demonstrated a genuine passion for supporting young people and encouraging them to make the most of the opportunities available to them. Her enthusiasm, positivity and willingness to go above and beyond have made her an important part of the Future Leader experience. Her approach to leadership development can be captured in one simple phrase: “Making the world a better place, one Future Leader at a time.” For Ilse, the Future Leader Programme has always been about more than developing leadership skills. It is about building confidence, creating meaningful connections and encouraging students to make a positive

difference in their communities. One of Ilse’s most significant contributions has been her ongoing engagement with the many student-led projects developed through the Future Leader Programme. Over the years, she has supported students as they transformed ideas into initiatives that have reached well beyond the university. Projects such as Farm2Future and Agri Ventures are examples of the opportunities Ilse has helped students pursue. These initiatives reflect the creativity, ambition and community-minded approach that the Future Leader Programme encourages. Farm2Future, a three-day, two-night camp, introduces Year 12 students to the diverse career opportunities available throughout New Zealand’s food and fibre sector. Through visits to farms, manufacturers and other businesses, the project helps young people, particularly those without an agricultural background, discover the opportunities available within the industry. Alongside initiatives such as Agri Ventures, projects like these provide Future Leaders with valuable opportunities to develop their communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills while making a meaningful contribution to others.

Behind these projects, Ilse has been a consistent source of encouragement and guidance. Whether helping students develop their initial ideas, navigate challenges or build the confidence to take on new responsibilities, she has always been willing to offer her time and support. Importantly, Ilse understands that the success of a project is not measured solely by its final outcome. The experiences, friendships and lessons gained along the way are just as valuable. It is often through these challenges that students discover their strengths and develop the confidence to lead. Perhaps one of Ilse’s greatest contributions to Lincoln University has been her commitment to mentoring. She recognises that every student has different strengths, aspirations and experiences, and that leadership development is not a one-sizefits-all journey. Rather than simply providing answers, Ilse encourages students to think independently, challenge themselves and embrace opportunities that may initially seem outside their comfort zones. Her approachable nature and genuine interest in others have helped create an environment where students feel supported to grow. One quote Ilse often reflects on is: “You are the sum of the five people

you spend the most time with.” This philosophy reflects the importance she places on surrounding yourself with people who inspire, challenge and encourage you to become the best version of yourself. It is also a fitting reflection of the Future Leader Programme, where students from different backgrounds come together to share experiences, build friendships and learn from one another. Through her mentoring, Ilse has encouraged students to recognise that leadership is not necessarily about being the loudest person in the room or having all the answers. Instead, it is about listening, supporting others, being willing to learn and having the courage to make a difference. For many students, the relationships developed through the programme have become some of the most valuable parts of their university experience. Ilse’s contribution to fostering this supportive and connected community has been an important part of that journey. Her philosophy towards leadership is also strongly influenced by the belief that success should be measured by the positive impact we have on others. One of her favourite quotes comes from former Unilever CEO Paul Polman: “More and more leaders will be remembered not for the growth or

profits of their businesses, but for the impact they have on society.” This message closely aligns with the values Ilse has encouraged throughout her time at Lincoln. While academic achievement and professional success are important, she believes that leadership carries a greater responsibility to contribute positively to the people and communities around us. Through student-led projects, volunteering, mentoring and community engagement, the Future Leader Programme provides students with opportunities to put these values into practice. For Ilse, these experiences are about helping students understand that they have the ability to create meaningful change, regardless of their age, background or experience. As a university with strong connections to New Zealand’s land-based industries, Lincoln has a unique role in developing future leaders who will contribute to the country’s communities, businesses and industries. Ilse’s commitment to encouraging socially responsible leadership has helped reinforce this purpose. Over seven and a half years, Ilse has witnessed students arrive at Lincoln uncertain of their abilities, develop confidence through new experiences and eventually graduate ready to take on opportunities beyond university. While the students, projects and challenges have changed from theram.org.nz

year to year, her commitment to supporting their development has remained constant. Her contribution cannot simply be measured by the number of projects delivered or events organised. It is reflected in the confidence of students who have stepped outside their comfort zones, the friendships formed through shared experiences and the individuals who have been inspired to make a positive difference. As Ilse prepares to leave Lincoln University, she leaves behind a lasting legacy within the Future Leader Programme and the wider university community. Her enthusiasm, encouragement and genuine care for students will be greatly missed. However, the influence of her work will continue through the many Future Leaders she has supported, who will carry those lessons into their careers, communities and future leadership roles. After seven and a half years of helping others discover their potential, Ilse’s time at Lincoln is coming to an end, but the impact she has made will extend far beyond her departure. And perhaps there is no better way to recognise her contribution than through the words that capture her approach to leadership: “Making the world a better place, one Future Leader at a time.”

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Honorary Course Rep Pippa McCarthy Unsung Hero Jack Li (Yixin Li) Lincoln University Chinese Student Association

Club Awards Stand Out Exec for Club Event Charlie Probyn Lincoln University Hunting Club

Stand Out Exec Member Jack Savage Lincoln Snow Department

Staff Outstanding Staff Contribution to Students Fiona Bellinger Tania Hatton Bridget Marshall

Student

Best Industry Focused Event Lincoln University Investment Society Best Club Collaboration Lincoln Snow Department Joint award with Lincoln University and Tramping and Climbing Club

Most Creative Club Event Lincoln University Chinese Student Association

Random Acts of Kindness Superstar Aleesha Young

Best Club Event - Runner Up Lincoln University Volleyball Club

Contribution to Student Life Danzengquzong

Best Club Event Lincoln Young Farmers

Best RAM Article Dee Patel

Best Community Connection Lincoln University Muslim Association

Stand Out Course Rep Dee Patel

Best Community Initiative Handy Landys

Stand Out Course Rep Andrea Etcheverry Alday

Best New Club Lincoln University Women in Business

Stand Out Course Rep Dylan Tennent

Club of the Year - Runner Up Lincoln University International and Cultural Society

Stand Out Course Rep Sahil Sanjay Duble

Club of the Year Lincoln University Hunting Club

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RAM ISSUE 08 / OCTOBER 2026

HORRIBLESCOPES

OFFENSIVE BUT FUNNY HOROSCOPES

You’re lurking in the corner of the library, glaring at anyone who dares to breathe too loudly. You’ve convinced yourself that the exam scaling is a personal conspiracy against you by the faculty. You don’t ask for help because admitting you don’t understand a concept physically pains you.

Should you study? Should you go for a drink? Should you drop out and live off the grid? You will spend October wasting hours doing quizzes online instead of revising. You want to pass, but you also don’t want to exert any actual physical or mental effort to get there. (September 23 – October 22)

(October 23 – November 21)

It’s October, and you have already completely checked out. You haven’t seen a lecture hall since August. You’re currently browsing festival tickets and summer road trips while sitting on a solid 38% class average, and your grand OE will consist of working as a dishie in a sketchy ski resort hostel because you spent all your savings on summer festivals by (November 22 – December 21) mid-January.

You judge everyone hanging out on Forbes Lawn while you sit inside grinding out past papers like a cold, emotionless machine. You’ll attend one festival, complain about the ticket prices the entire time, and leave at 9:00pm so you can “stick to your sleep schedule.” (December 22 – January 19)

Instead of studying the actual syllabus, you’ve spent the last three days researching obscure economic theories that aren’t on the exam just so you can argue with the lecturer on the last day of class. You wear thrifted clothes to look counter-culture, but your parents pay your rent. (January 20 – February 18)

(March 21 – April 19)

You’re physically present at your study desk, but mentally, you’re floating in the Pacific Ocean. You’ve convinced yourself that “manifesting a pass” is a legitimate study strategy. When the exam stress gets too real, you’ll simply take a four-hour nap and pretend exams aren’t happening. ( February 19 – March 20)

You’ve spent the entire semester telling everyone in Forbes that you’re “working hard, playing hard,” but now that exams are weeks away, the only thing you’re playing is yourself. You’ll attempt to cram three months of commerce into an all-nighter at the library, fueled entirely by four cans of V and misplaced arrogance.

(April 20 – May 20)

You have five different group chats going, zero completed study notes, and a running commentary on everyone else’s campus drama. You will somehow bag a C+ on subject you haven’t attended since March, leaving all the hardworking students in your course rightfully hating you.

(June 21 – July 22)

(May 21 – June 20)

Stop strutting around campus in your spring outfit acting like Lincoln is your personal runway. You’ll land a soul-crushing corporate job next year where nobody cares about your social media presence or your banter. Welcome to middle management. (July 23 – August 22)

(August 23 – September 22)

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The weather is finally warming up, which means you’ve swapped your trackies for slightly thinner trackies. Your 2027 grand plan to “find yourself” in Southeast Asia will disintegrate when you realize you can’t bring your favourite couch. Enjoy your graduate job sitting at a cubicle for the next forty years.

You’ve wrapped yourself in a oversized blanket like a tragic campus ghost, waiting for someone to ask if you’re okay so you can unload three months of repressed stress on them. You’ll end up moving back in with your parents next year, for “just a few months” to save money, only to still be living in your childhood bedroom in 2030. Your study notes look like a published textbook, complete with color-coded highlighters and custom tabs. Too bad you’re so hyper-focused on formatting your reference list that you’ve forgotten to study the actual course content. You’ll return to Lincoln for postgrad study solely because the thought of the unpredictable, messy real world terrifies you to your core.

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25 OCTOBER IS YOUR LAST CHANCE TO ENROL TO VOTE.

ENROL NOW