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Paruna Trails Restoration Project 2026- Expressions of Interest 

Project and AWC Sanctuary

Location: Paruna Wildlife Sanctuary, WA

Paruna Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the iconic Avon Valley outside of Perth (WA), was heavily impacted by a severe storm last year, resulting in widespread damage to multiple sections of our established hiking trails.

To safely reopen these trails and restore them to the condition they were originally built, Australian Wildlife Conservancy (AWC) is seeking Expressions of Interest from physically capable, skills-ready volunteers to support a targeted trail restoration project.

If this rewarding challenge excites you- touch base with our team! 

Project Description and Dates

 

Proposed project timeframe: Between February – April (approximately 5–6 weeks)
Volunteer workforce: Ideally a team of up to 9 volunteers- more if possible.  

The project will be delivered progressively over the above period, with scheduling dependent on volunteer availability, capacity, and on-site progress.

As part of this project, AWC is also seeking interest from a suitably experienced volunteer to assist in a Volunteer Coordinator role for this project. Working under the direction of the Paruna Sanctuary Manager, this volunteer will support on-site coordination of the volunteer team and day-to-day task delivery. Final scope, priorities and safety oversight will remain with AWC staff.

 

Volunteer tasks

• Spreading gravel from pre-positioned 500 kg bags using buckets or shovels
• Replacing and reinstating trail steps and pickets (steps weigh approximately 7–10 kg)
• Installing water tables to improve drainage and reduce future erosion
• Assisting with general trail rehabilitation and site works as required
• Supporting on-site coordination where required under direction of AWC staff. 

Key Criteria and what to be aware of before applying for these roles.

• This is a physical role involving manual labor in a bush environment
• Volunteers must be comfortable lifting and carrying items weighing up to 10 kg
• Work will take place on uneven terrain and may involve repetitive tasks
• Volunteers must be able to follow safety instructions and work effectively as part of a team
• Previous experience in trail maintenance, land management, land scaping/fencing, construction or similar practical work is highly regarded
• Volunteers expressing interest in the Volunteer Project Coordinator role should have prior experience in the above.

 

AWC Provides

 

• Induction and task-specific briefings
• Tools, PPE, materials and equipment required for work.
• Daily stipend allowance to help cover food costs etc.
• Fuel allowance towards travel to sanctuary.
• Site for camping if desired with camp kitchen and amenities available.  

 

Volunteers Provide

 

• Relevant skills, experience and physical capability
• Appropriate personal clothing and footwear for outdoor manual work
• Commitment to agreed project dates and safety requirements
• Volunteers can opt to camp onsite- caravans/camper vans welcome.

Project Coordinator Contact:

 

Expressions of Interest: Click 'SIGN UP' below and we'll be in contact. 

MyImpactPage - Paruna - Paruna Trails Restoration Project

 

Scroll to the bottom of the project description to find 'sign up' tab. 

Queries to: chloe.kobel@australianwildlife.org

 

Recruitment Process- AWC Project Coordinators will assess volunteers’ profiles upon application (signup). Suitable candidates that meet project requirements will be contacted directly for a follow up discussion before final decisions are made. Once successful candidates have been offered a position volunteers will be assigned to the project and should expect to receive all relevant onboarding documentation soon after and before deployment. Please ensure your MyImpact profile is complete with contact details and all supporting information to provide you with the best opportunity for a successful placement.

Please note- due to the high-level of interest we receive for our volunteer opportunities we regret we cannot respond individually to unsuccessful applicants. We thank each of you for you