| All GlobaLinks Learning Abroad volunteer projects in Australia are coordinated through Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA). Project sites can vary each semester, and you will be assigned a project site based on the location of your university abroad. About Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA) CVA completes more than 1,500 conservation projects across Australia each year, and welcomes people with a love of the outdoors and interest in the environment to take part as a volunteer. Founded in 1982 in Ballarat, Victoria as the Australian Trust for Conservation Volunteers, the organization has grown into Australia’s largest practical conservation organization with offices in every capital city and regional centers across Australia. Last year community involvement totaled 240,000 project days contributing more than $28.8 million AUD of practical assistance to the preservation of the Australian environment. CVA was an instrumental part in Clean Up Australia Day (Victoria) and National Tree Day.
Conservation projects take place in some of Australia’s most stunning locations and may include:
- Tree planting
- Weed control
- Seed collection
- Endangered species protection
- Fencing
- Walking trail maintenance and construction
- Flora and fauna surveys
- Environmental monitoring
While on location, students will stay in typical CVA accommodation such as caravans (campers), hostels, shearers’ quarters, bunkhouses and camping. Tents will be provided where needed and students are encouraged to bring their own sleeping bag where possible. Meals are supplied and participants assist with preparation, cooking and clean-up. Project hours are usually from 8 am – 4 pm and, as indicated in the sample projects above, the activities will be labor intensive. No experience is necessary to participate, just a willingness to get involved and have fun. |