100 South Australian nature lovers needed for park ranger volunteer program
The Environment Department is looking for 100 volunteer rangers to help look after the state’s national parks and connect visitors with nature.
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Eco warriors, hiking enthusiasts and those that just love the great outdoors – the State Government wants you.
The Environment Department is looking for 100 volunteer rangers to help look after the state’s national parks and connect visitors with nature.
Environment Department executive director of national parks Mike Williams says under the new program, rangers will carry out tasks such as running guided walks and maintaining trails.
“The volunteer ranger program will support the wonderful work already being done by our existing park volunteers and the department’s park rangers, as well as providing opportunities for volunteers to gain skills and experience on their environmental career journey,” Mr Williams said.
“We are looking for anyone with a passion for the environment and connecting people to nature to apply, from university students and people looking for a career change, to those retired.”
It will begin with a trial during the October school holidays, in Morialta Conservation Park in Adelaide and Innes National Park, on the Yorke Peninsula.
Surrey Downs man Ian Roberts, who works at the University of Adelaide as a plant breeder, volunteers with his wife Ailsa as a campground host in many of the state’s national parks.
“I come from an environmental science background and I love being out in nature,” Mr Roberts says.
“I have seven-year-old triplets. It’s a great opportunity to engage kids and other people with the environment.”
That might involve showing park visitors where to spot animals, helping them navigate reserves and reminding people about campfire rules.
The gig takes the couple and their children Thomas, Annabel and Stuart, all around the state – waking up in spots including Para Wirra in the Mount Lofty Ranges, Deep Creek on the Fleurieu Peninsula and Mambray Creek, which is part of Mount Remarkable National Park.
Applications are open until July 31. For more information visit parks.sa.gov.au/volunteer/volunteer-ranger-program.
michelle.etheridge@news.com.au