Volunteering at the Department of Planning and Environment

Volunteer to help endangered shorebirds

The pied oystercatcher, little tern and hooded plover are among NSW’s endangered shorebirds. If you're a beach-loving local on the South Coast, volunteer for the shorebird recovery program.

This volunteering program covers various beaches and lakes south of Wollongong. An activity may take place near Conjola National Park, Murramarang National Park, Meroo National Park, Narrawallee Creek Nature Reserve or other South Coast beaches. As a volunteer, you’ll undertake activities such as:

•    Bird watching

•    Locating nests and chicks

•    Surveying beaches for shorebirds

•    Installing nest protection (temporary fencing and signage)

•    Monitoring nest progress and recording data

•    Identifying threats

•    Educating beach-goers

Programs run during breeding season from August to April, and training courses are frequently offered. So if you live near the beach on the NSW South Coast, find out about volunteering at a nearby national park or reserve. We look forward to hearing from you.  After applying, we will match you with the relevant program near you.

Photo: Little Tern chicks, Conjola NP, Michael Jarman/DPIE