Volunteering FAQs

This page will answer most of your questions. 

For more information you can download the Volunteering with the Foundation (pdf 1Mb) booklet.

How long will I have to commit for?

It’s your choice! Your commitment to a particular volunteer position depends entirely upon your circumstances, interests and the length of time you are available. There are no set time requirements (except for guiding), but if you nominate yourself for a particular project, we would expect that you participate and complete the task. You are also able to choose when you would like to retire from your volunteering role.

Can I volunteer with my family or friends?

It’s your choice whether you volunteer as an individual or as part of a group. There are volunteering opportunities to suit both situations. You may volunteer for some activities as an individual and for others as part of a group. All members of any group must be registered.  In some instances (eg bushwalking clubs where the group members vary), this may be covered by a special group registration which covers the group for one day at a time.

What age restrictions apply to volunteers?

Under the Parks and Wildlife Service Volunteer Insurance Policy all volunteers must be at least 16 years old.

Do I need any experience or qualifications?

A willingness to learn and loads of enthusiasm as well as some bushwalking experience and a knowledge of the Track would be beneficial. Sometimes a volunteer role may require specific job skills or qualifications, but you would be able to choose whether you wanted to participate. Volunteer Guides are required to hold at least a Senior First Aid qualification.

Do I need Police Clearances or Working With Children checks?

Some volunteer roles within the Foundation involve working with vulnerable people, such as children. Police clearances and Working With Children checks will protect your safety as well as participants’ safety. The type of check depends upon the volunteer role, and the BTF will inform you if you need a successful check to undertake that role.

I work full time. Can I still volunteer?

Yes! There are volunteer opportunities that do not require you to be available during normal office hours. For example much of the Volunteer Guide’s commitment would be during weekends, maintenance volunteering is in your own time and with some of the community events, volunteer tasks are outside normal working hours.

Will volunteering cost me anything?

There is no cost to register as a BTF volunteer.  Depending upon the type of volunteer role you decide to undertake, there may be some out of pocket expenses, such as the cost of fuel to travel to and from your maintenance section. It is difficult to reimburse volunteers for all expenses they may incur, as the BTF is a not-for-profit organisation with all available funds directed towards the facilities, promotion and upkeep of the Track. The total contribution made by the hundreds of volunteers is greatly appreciated by the Foundation.
It is a good idea to enquire about expenses you may incur before committing to any volunteer role.

Do I have to be a member?

Volunteers do not have to be members of the Bibbulmun Track Foundation.  However, we encourage you to join the organisation for a number of reasons including:

  • Membership can develop a feeling of belonging to the organisation.
  • Membership can enhance feelings of great pride and satisfaction through a personal contribution.
  • Membership ensures that you are kept informed of all relevant matters regarding the Track and the Foundation.
  • Membership helps to provide much needed funds for the development and ongoing provision of walker services.

Other benefits include three editions of Bibbulmun News annually, free trip planning advice, discounts on BTF merchandise and events and invitation to special events.

Through the financial support of the Foundation by members and sponsors, we are able to ensure that 100% of all funds received from donations and fundraising are used on Track improvements and maintenance - not administration. A strong supporter base also assists the Foundation when seeking grants and funding for the upkeep of the Track.