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THE GREYTON POST
JUL /AUGUST 2025
A Life of Compassion: Nicola Vernon and the Story Behind Greyton Farm Animal Sanctuary
F or many, retirement means slowing down, but for Nicola Vernon, it became the start of a journey that would transform not only her life but the lives of hundreds of rescued animals. Nicola’s passion for circular economy grew organically—quite literally—on her farm outside Greyton. “In 2009, we were dreaming of a peaceful rural retirement,” Nicola recalls. “But during lambing season, I noticed lambs perishing in the cold fields nearby. One day, I found what I thought was the lifeless body of a lamb by the track. Just as I passed, an ear twitched. That tiny, ice-cold bundle became our first rescue—Cara, who is still with us today, now a dignified 16-year-old lady in good health.” From that small act of kindness, the Greyton Farm Animal Sanctuary was born. As more animals arrived, Nicola faced not only the practical challenges of caring for them but a deeply personal one too—reconciling her identity as an animal lover with the realisation that her diet contributed to animal suffering. “It was painful to confront, but I couldn’t stand by and do nothing. If I couldn’t save them
all, I could at least change the world for a few.” Nicola’s commitment didn’t stop at rescue. She also opened the Art of Compassion Gallery, blending her love of art with fundraising for the sanctuary. “It began with art auctions and grew into a beautiful space that now hosts exhibitions and supports animal welfare causes,” she explains.
the future. Her Pigs to Plants programme is helping local farmers transition from pig farming to sustainable market gardening, promoting food security and animal welfare. She dreams of finishing a multi-purpose barn to serve as a resource centre, ensuring the sanctuary’s work continues for generations. As for what keeps her going? “Surrounded by 220 beautiful souls, I find my balance and my hope. Each life saved is a
reminder that compassion can change the world.” As Gandhi said, “the greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated” You can support the sanctuary by visiting their website at www.greytonfarmsanctuary. org, sponsoring an animal, or popping into the Art of Compassion Gallery. Because, as Nicola has shown, even the smallest act of kindness can start a movement.
At 71, Nicola is looking to
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