Volunteer with AABR

There is a lot to do and we are always looking for help. For example:

  • helping to organise field days or seminars ( Contact Peta Lilley petalilley17@gmail.com )
  • preparing content for the newsletter or website (Contact Louise Brodie newsletter@aabr.org.au 0407 068 688)
  • helping prepare submissions on issues important to the industry
  • telling bush regen colleagues about AABR, and encouraging them to join
  • joining the AABR working groups and doing some volunteer work
  • contacting your local branch and offering to help  ( Victoria, NSW/ACT)
  • getting together with others in your region to form a local branch
  • assisting with social media
  • and many more jobs large and small

(Note: if you are interested in voluntary bushcare work, AABR does not organise any directly but there are many wonderful organisations that would love to hear from you see our volunteer page )

Please contact AABR secretary  secretary@aabr.org.au if you would like to talk more about volunteering for AABR

Caring for the Bush

Each year, thousands of people all over Australia volunteer their time to protect and conserve the natural environment.

Many have got together to form “Care” groups, such as Bushcare, Landcare, Dunecare, Rivercare, etc. The environments these groups work in are very varied, eg. forest, creeks, wetlands, coastal headlands and beach dunes.

Likewise the activities performed are diverse, eg. weeding, planting, controlling erosion, fencing and track work.

The ‘Bushcare & Landcare‘ page lists links to the groups within these  programmes, many run by local Councils.

The ‘Other Opportunities‘ page shows a variety of groups that work around the country.

Doing the Best for the Bush and for You

If you’re thinking of starting a volunteer group, or even just going solo, there are many things to keep in mind. Just a few of these include :

  • Get permission from the landholder or land manager to do what you want to do.
  • Is there an existing plan to follow, eg. a Council Open Space Plan of Management?
  • What are your aims? – Write them down and refer back to them – if necessary, change them over time.
  • Plan ahead. Are the resources available (even if that’s just your time), now and in the future, to achieve the aims?
  • Is qualified and experienced bush regeneration advice available?  Despite the best intentions, many natives get pulled out or damaged and many weed infestations get worse if the understanding of a site is lacking. Talk to experts before you start.
  • Consider the native animals. Many animals use and even prefer certain weeds for food and shelter. New native habitat should be established before pulling out all the weeds.
  • Ensure there is adequate consideration of occupational health & safety and make sure your activities are covered by insurance.