Enjoy working in the Aussie bush experiencing diverse landscapes including dry savannahs, swampy wetlands and endless forests of eucalypts.

Volunteers spend their time on a stunning wetlands reserve which serves as the centre of this science-led, conservation initiative focusing on the preservation of wilderness, the conservation of wildlife and ecological communities, cultural heritage and community wellbeing.



The Reserve is home to several endangered species and more than 220 bird species which are actively managed, therefore, ongoing habitat monitoring, conservation management and wildlife research is a key part of this project. Currently, there are no formalised processes for collecting medical & rehabilitation data on Northern Australia’s species, government or otherwise in Australian conservation practices. No facility scientifically records, analyses and shares data to support first-line defence against diseases of Northern Australia’s species. This is where volunteers step in and help us combat the challenge head-on!

Conservation work includes research assistance, wildlife and habitat monitoring and data input, construction of new animal pens and general care and maintenance of the facility.

The reserve also provides professional medical care to wildlife, particularly threatened species, therefore when animals are in care, volunteers assist in the care and rehabilitation and release of wild animals. Large raptor and macropod pens, bird aviaries and small mammal enclosures enable the project to increase their rescue and rehabilitation footprint. This allows volunteers to engage in daily activities caring for some of Australia’s most iconic wildlife species. Unless there are animals in care, this is not a core volunteer activity.

One night in a Cairns hostel are included either side of the trip to the wetlands giving volunteers the opportunity to spend some time in the city and meet other O2E volunteers who are embarking upon different projects within the region.