Conservation first
The work must exist whether or not a volunteer arrives.
Our story
About Oceans 2 Earth
Oceans 2 Earth is a registered Australian not-for-profit placing volunteers on screened wildlife and marine conservation projects.
Our Story
Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers (O2E) was founded by sisters Cassie Smith and Tracy Leske, who shared a vision of ethical travel that prioritises conservation over commercial gain. Inspired by their experiences in wildlife rescue and environmental advocacy, they set out to create volunteer programs where participants could directly contribute to meaningful causes. Since 2010, O2E has been connecting people from all walks of life with grassroots conservationists and wildlife carers, fostering real change for our planet.
Our Mission
We’re here to redefine volunteer travel. As a registered charity, O2E ensures every program serves a genuine purpose—protecting ecosystems, rescuing wildlife, and supporting local conservation efforts.
Welfare without exception
No riding, no bathing, no staged encounters, in any destination.
Open books
Fees are itemised before you book, because we are a charity, not an agent.
The Conflict
Voluntourism often falls short of its promises. Too many programs prioritise profit over purpose, funnelling money through middlemen and leaving little impact on the ground. At O2E, we stand apart. We distribute funds according to a non-profit model, ensuring fees either go directly to grassroots conservationists and wildlife carers or support our operations and the development of new, impactful projects. By eliminating the reliance on profit-driven models, we guarantee transparency, ethical practices, and meaningful change.
Our Approach
From marine conservation to wildlife rehabilitation, we connect volunteers with projects where their efforts truly matter. Some programs are run by O2E, while others are managed by trusted local partners. In every case, we guarantee ethical standards, hands-on involvement, and lasting impact.
The Dialogue
Cassie
“We created O2E to show that volunteering can be about purpose, not profit. It’s about making a difference while seeing the world.”
Tracy
“We’re proud to offer programs where every dollar supports grassroots efforts—no middlemen, no compromises.”
The Future
The challenges to our planet are growing, but so is our determination. As we expand our programs, we remain committed to ethical, impactful volunteering. Join us in protecting wildlife and ecosystems for generations to come.
Oceans 2 Earth was founded in 2010 by sisters Cassie Smith and Tracy Leske, and is a registered Australian charity.
Registered as Oceans2Earth Foundation – Oceans2Earth Volunteers Ltd, a not-for-profit charity registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC). ABN 66 153 896 023.
More about O2E
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