Marine conservation is a central focus for Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers panning numerous locations across the Far North East Coast of Australia. These initiatives are designed to protect biodiversity, promote environmental health, educate and drive towards a sustainable future for Australia’s natural ecosystem, and as such, Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers is keen to get involved and make an impact on what should be everyone’s responsibility.
Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers facilitates a unique internship program Island Reef Research & Conservation. Based on the world’s largest coral reef, the Great Barrier Reef, this unique placement opportunity is not offered anywhere in Australia and provides volunteers the opportunity to work in collaboration with various oceanographic organisations to monitor and survey the reef, identify fish species and report, research the ecosystem and help clean up beaches of marine debris.
Here are 8 great reasons why this opportunity is not to be missed!
1 – Helping the Conservation Cause
One of the most compelling reasons to take part in the Island Reef Research & Conservation internship through Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers is having the opportunity to provide direct assistance to conservation initiatives. The principal objectives are to preserve the well being of the marine ecosystem, engage in marine debris cleanup activities, care for sick and injured turtles through rehabilitation, coral reef surveying and reef monitoring. Long-term reef monitoring and frequent surveys allow oceanographic organisations to gather vital oceanographic data to make future projections of the health and condition of the Great Barrier Reef.
2- Developing Key Conservation Skills
At Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers we understand the importance of practical field work placements. Students who complete their internship at this international volunteering project gain a thorough understanding of the many challenges threatening marine life, students also learn how to undertake mitigation methods and monitoring techniques through hands on experience. They can apply these invaluable practical skills to their studies and further their education. The skills and knowledge learnt on the Island Reef Research & Conservation enhance student’s resumes, separating them from the rest of the cohort and making students more employable when they join the competitive workforce. Employers look highly on graduates who have dedicated their time and effort into extra-curricular work and volunteering experience. It shows that students are passionate, committed, hard-working and more experienced.
3 – Learning from Experienced Conservation Specialists
Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers interns learn from qualified marine conservation experts in the classroom and in the field. Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers have partnered with some of the best project hosts who are knowledgeable in their field of work and more than willing to share their experience and expertise. Students can make the most of these professional connections and make the most of opportunities for career development.
4 –Excellent Hospitality
While Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers require focus and attention for their daily duties, it is important to feel at home and relaxed during down times. This internship program in Cairns ticks all the boxes when it comes to the recreational activities. The accommodation is located at a Cairns Hostel, a perfect domain that is situated in close walking distance to pubs, cafés, restaurants, shops and the sea. A continental breakfast and weekly lunch also make interns feel right at home and ready to take on each day.
5 –Connecting with other Conservation Travellers
The Island Reef Research & Conservation project offers the opportunity for participants to connect with others who share many of the same goals, ambitions and passion for conservation. Volunteers from all cultural backgrounds can come together to inspire and remind each other the reasons for making the extraordinary journey for the love of nature, volunteer colleagues can discuss different pursuits in life whether that be in the conservation field or not. These shared experiences help to build lasting friendships on a social level as well as establishing professional connections when new career opportunities arise in the future.
6 –Brilliant Free Time Opportunities
The idyllic surrounds of Cairns on Australia’s Far North East Coast remain one of the best tourist destinations in the world. This is one of the great benefits of undertaking an internship at this exotic landscape, with countless fun activities to enjoy including canoeing, skydiving, scuba-diving, sailing, snorkelling, rock climbing and kayaking. For those that would prefer a more relaxing activity, there are hot springs, spas, pools, wineries, bush walking and wildlife spotting opportunities as well, offering a rich tapestry of nature and culture for interns.
7- Earning Education Credits
Volunteers who take part in the Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers internship program through our Island Reef Research and Conservation project can be eligible to receive credits towards their education course. This benefit applies to TAFE and university students, giving them the chance to make progress with their studies without the placement acting as a barrier or obstacle to their education in the classroom.
8 – Flexible Placement Openings
For those that may be strapped for time, an Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers internship program has multiple courses throughout the year. Commencing on the first Sunday of each month, new and exciting opportunities await you.
Summary
Travellers from across the globe are encouraged to take part in this unique and educational internship program. The program can be customised to the individual, ensuring that all learning objectives and requirements are met whilst also engaging in an aquatic adventure of a lifetime.
Once you have determined the requirements and objectives required for placement and you’ve confirmed your eligibility through the TAFE or University, get in touch with us at volunteers@oceans2earth.org and we will be happy to accommodate and see you in the Tropical North Queensland!
Written by Megan Cundy, Writer for Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers
