About this role

Eyre Bird Observatory Committee is seeking an able-bodied energetic volunteer to coordinate the long-running Dune Restoration project at Eyre Bird Observatory. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to get some unique land management experience at this special part of the world, with plenty of down-time for bird watching, beach combing,  star gazing, and enjoying the spectacular scenery at the Observatory.

Comfortable accommodation and meals are provided for the duration of your stay at the Observatory, as well as a contribution towards travel expenses. Eyre Bird Observatory will provide all training and equipment required.

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What’s involved ?

The role involves coordinating groups of up to six volunteers to undertake the project , as well as taking the lead with dune restoration courses held at the Observatory and providing guidance to the team during the project work. The project is run twice, for a week at a time.

Dune restoration is manual work, collecting kelp from the beach which is used to stabalise the dunes. Volunteers also collect local seeds and pull weeds.

Project planning will be done from your home base, which includes rostering volunteers and working out logistics for the project. There will then be two trips to the Observatory to undertake the work scheduled during the year – exact dates can be chosen by the successful volunteer in consultation with the Eyre Bird Observatory Team.

 

 

 

Volunteers will need:

• Confidence and skill  handling a 4WD and trailer in beach / deep sand conditions.
• Good organisation and interpersonal skills.
• A moderate  level of fitness is required –  this role involves walking for long distances over sand and uneven terrain, bending, carrying armloads of kelp, laying out the kelp across the dunes, pulling up weeds.
• Basic computer skills and data collection – the coordinator records the project particulars to be reported on at the end of the project.

To have a full understanding of the role requirements and unique challenges of this landscape, you will need to have visited Eyre Bird Observatory previously, or be willing to make a trip the Observatory prior the project dates.

Who is this role suited to?

If you enjoy working outdoors,  working with people, experiencing wild and beautiful places, and taking on project logistics, this is the perfect opportunity for you! This role can be done by one person or a couple. We welcome all kind of applicants, including:

• Retired people with experience farming / working outdoors / project planning / leading a group / conservation work.
• Students working in a Conservation and Land Management Field or Project Management, with some on-ground experience.
• Experienced volunteers who are looking for a new challenge.
• Enthusiastic volunteers with suitable skills and fitness, who want to contribute to conservation in a hands-on way.