Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers has more exciting news for Australians looking to take part in animal conservation volunteering programs this year! The Southern Wombat Refuge project in Victoria is accepting volunteers in July 2020.
Travelling with purpose
It is important to give back and make a difference around the world by volunteering with animals whilst also having an adventure of lifetime. It means the world to us to have a dedicated team of volunteers working towards a common goal, whether that be animal care and rehabilitation, marine conservation, research and monitoring or cultural education and conservation. Contributing your time and efforts towards projects run by charity organisations such as Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers can be challenging yet so rewarding for oneself.
With the recent covid-19 pandemic sweeping the globe and restricting international travel, the lack of international volunteers has hit our projects and host partners hard. Especially following the 2019/20 Summer Bushfires Crisis which was particularly devastating in the states of Victoria and New South Wales. The bushfires devastated Australia with human lives lost, over 3000 homes destroyed, over 10 million hectares of bushland, forests and National Parks burned along with over one billion animals perishing.
Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers’ Emergency Response & Wombat Refuge initiative on Mount Mitte Mitte was established specifically in response to the bushfires, however, now with the Mountain regenerating and the Government clamping down on access, Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers have re-branded the project to wombat care only giving international volunteers the opportunity to care for some of Australia’s iconic wildlife. With covid-19 cases down to minimal numbers in Australia, it is time to revive our animal welfare and conservation initiatives beginning with the wombats being first out of the gate. Interstate borders are still closed around the country between many states, so it is important for potential volunteers to check current restrictions prior to booking. Currently, intra-state travel is possible within Victoria, however anyone travelling form interstate or overseas may have issues. It’s important to keep on top of the restrictions in place and book accordingly.
Now more than ever, we need to create passionate workforce of dedicated Australian volunteers to assist with the care of the wombats. There are always wombats undergoing rehabilitation in the refuge, located in a carer’s home, as many stay for a number of years. They require nourishment, love and care from volunteers aiding in their recuperation until their eventual release into their natural habitats. This is an extraordinarily fulfilling experience that has positive and direct impacts to the lives of these animals. This project encourages caring for the carers, so pitching in and helping the carers with household tasks and support is paramount.
Volunteers and volunteer project fees are a critical component of Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers projects. Without the help of our animal and nature loving volunteer team we would not be able to save as many animals as we would without them. So anyone thinking about making a difference should reflect on how fulfilling volunteering in your own country can be. The positive and direct impacts to the ecosystem and local community are very authentic. You don’t need to go overseas to volunteer!
If you have any queries regarding any of the Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers projects please email us at volunteer@oceans2earth.org and explore our website for all the programs on offer in Australia. Start planning now for when regional and interstate borders open as we are expecting an influx of applications. We simply ask that you please ensure that you can travel to these destinations prior to booking. With regards to covid-19, Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers have gone to great lengths to ensure all of our travelling volunteers are in safe and good hands so you can focus on the important conservation work that we have been undertaking since 2011.
Let it begin with wombats!
Written by Megan Cundy, Writer for Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers
