Como House and Gardens - Como Property Steward Information Session
As a Volunteer Property Steward, you support the National Trust Victoria's mission to inspire the community to appreciate, conserve, and celebrate Victoria's cultural heritage. This practical, hands-on role contributes to the presentation, maintenance, and conservation of Como House & Garden, helping ensure the property remains welcoming, safe, and well-maintained for visitors, volunteers, and staff. Volunteer Property Stewards assist with a variety of landscape, building maintenance, and conservation support activities that enhance the appearance and functionality of heritage buildings and gardens. Through these activities, volunteers play an important role in supporting the preservation and public enjoyment of one of Victoria's most significant heritage properties.
This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy practical outdoor work, property care, gardening, maintenance activities, and contributing to the conservation of historic places.
Location: Como House & Garden
Meeting Point: As directed by the Property Manager and National Trust staff
Reports to: Property Manager and Coordinator (day-to-day supervision), with tasks developed by the Conservation and Advocacy Team and Gardens and Landscapes Team
Time Commitment: Weekday shifts available, Thursdays preferred with flexibility possible
Hours: Ideally 10:00am - 2:00pm
Commitment Options: minimum of one day per fortnight weekday
Work Style: Independent and team-based work, typically alongside other Volunteer Property Stewards
Meeting Point: As directed by the Property Manager and National Trust staff
Reports to: Property Manager and Coordinator (day-to-day supervision), with tasks developed by the Conservation and Advocacy Team and Gardens and Landscapes Team
Time Commitment: Weekday shifts available, Thursdays preferred with flexibility possible
Hours: Ideally 10:00am - 2:00pm
Commitment Options: minimum of one day per fortnight weekday
Work Style: Independent and team-based work, typically alongside other Volunteer Property Stewards
Number of Volunteers Up to four volunteers. Volunteers will ideally work together as a team, with opportunities for independent work where appropriate and approved by staff.
Volunteer Duties & Key Responsibilities ;
A property-specific task list will be provided, with training delivered onsite. Activities may include the following:
Landscape Maintenance - Volunteers assist with maintaining the presentation and functionality of heritage gardens and outdoor spaces. Tasks may include:
- Repairs to fencing and garden edging
- Raking paths, lawns, and driveways
- Using blowers to clear leaves and debris from outdoor areas (where trained and authorised)
- Cleaning landscape structures such as fences, bridges, and garden features
- Pressure washing approved outdoor surfaces
- Oiling timber landscape structures where required
- Supporting the Gardens and Landscapes Team with maintenance projects
Building Maintenance -Volunteers assist with the care and presentation of exterior heritage buildings and visitor areas. Tasks may include:
- Dusting and removing cobwebs from building exteriors
- Clearing and washing down decks, paving, pathways, and hard surfaces
- Cleaning windows, windowsills, and exterior light fittings
- Cleaning landscape features such as fountains, gates, lamps, and steps
- Graffiti removal under staff direction
- Oiling curtain tracks and approved fittings
- Undertaking minor hardware repairs when assigned and appropriately trained
Conservation Team Support - Volunteers may assist the Conservation Team with practical conservation support activities. Tasks may include:
- Assisting with access and worksite set-up for conservation projects
- Supporting painting and maintenance projects as directed
- Assisting with gutter cleaning under appropriate supervision
- Helping document completed works and maintenance activities
- Providing general support for conservation and heritage preservation activities
Skills, Experience & Attributes Required / Desirable
Volunteers should have:
- A reasonable level of physical fitness and mobility
-
Ability to work independently while strictly following to instructions and safety procedures
- A positive attitude and willingness to learn
- An eye for detail and pride in maintaining high presentation standards
- Reliability and commitment to scheduled volunteer shifts
- An interest in heritage properties, gardens, conservation, or maintenance work
Desirable but Not Essential
-
Experience with gardening, landscaping, property maintenance, or handyperson tasks
- Experience using basic hand tools or maintenance equipment
No formal qualifications are required. Training and support will be provided.
Support & Training Provided by NTAV
- Site-specific induction and orientation
- Training in safe work practices and task procedures
- Instruction in the safe use of tools and equipment supplied by NTV
- Ongoing guidance and support from Property, Conservation, and Gardens staff
- Opportunities to work alongside conservation and landscape professionals
- Opportunities to visit and assist at other National Trust properties and projects
Important Notes
- Volunteers will be provided with the tools and equipment required for approved tasks.
- Volunteers must follow all National Trust Victoria safety procedures and staff directions.
- Some activities involve outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
- Certain tasks may require bending, lifting, carrying, climbing steps, or working on uneven ground.
- Volunteers will only undertake tasks for which they have been appropriately inducted and trained.
Benefits to Volunteers
- Gain practical experience caring for a significant heritage property
- Develop skills in property maintenance, landscape care, and heritage stewardship
- Learn from National Trust conservation, property, and gardens professionals
- Support the conservation and presentation of Victoria's cultural heritage
- Enjoy working in the beautiful surroundings of Como House & Garden
- Meet like-minded volunteers and become part of a supportive volunteer community
- Access National Trust Victoria volunteer outings, excursions, and events
- Contribute to enhancing visitor experiences across National Trust properties
- Make a meaningful contribution to the preservation of heritage places for future generations
Compliance Documents Required
- Working With Children Check (WWCC)
- Police Check
Schedule Summary
This activity has the following schedule
| Date | Start Time | End Time |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday, October 08, 2026 | 1:00 PM | 2:30 PM |
