A campaign has been launched to save the last rhinos of Lombardini. At the head of this campaign is a passionate conservationist, Justin Terblanche who is on a mission to protect the last surviving rhinos at Lombardini Game Farm. To achieve this, he launched a crowdfunding campaign to protect the last surviving rhinos at Lombardini Game Farm.
A campaign has been launched
Terblanche (27), who is affectionately known as the Rhino Whisperer, has started a BackaBuddy campaign titled “Eyes in the Sky for Our Last Rhinos.” His goal is to raise R176,000 for a thermal drone that will provide vital night-time surveillance against poachers. So far, over R47,000 has been raised from 37 supporters.
The Heartbreaking Reality of Rhino Poaching
Justin’s journey began in Patensie, where his deep bond with wildlife evolved into a full-time mission to fight poaching. Today, only four rhinos remain at Lombardini: Amanda, Brittany, Tiffany, and a young male named Herbie.
“Each day is a fight for their survival,” says Justin. “We’ve lost too many. Now, we’re their last line of defence.”
Building Trust, Becoming One of the Herd
It took Justin over a year of living in the bush, in complete silence, to earn the trust of the rhinos.
“They began to recognize me—by my scent, my voice, my presence,” he shares. “Eventually, they accepted me into their crash.”
Why the Drone Is Crucial
With no government support, the drone offers a lifeline. It will allow Justin to monitor threats after dark, when rhinos are most vulnerable.
“This drone gives us eyes in the sky. It could mean the difference between life and death,” he says.
How You Can Help
Supporters can donate or share the story via BackaBuddy. Every contribution brings the rhinos one step closer to safety. At the same time, you can keep your eyes open for an upcoming documentary about Justin and his Rhinos. It is called “The Guardian of the Crash.”
WATCH: The campaign video
Rhino Whisperers NPC is a registered non-profit. 100% of funds go directly to the cause.
CLICK HERE: Supporting the campaign
