Geelong residents who want to grow their passion for the local environment and the great outdoors are encouraged to apply for Greater Geelong’s Nature Stewards program.
This annual initiative presents an exciting opportunity for participants to delve into the world of native plants and animals and acquire a diverse range of skills to help protect the places where our wildlife lives.
A collaboration with the City, Geelong Field Naturalists Club and Outdoors Victoria this comprehensive 10-week course, beginning on Saturday 23 September and concluding on Saturday 9 December, provides a platform for exploring subjects such as geology, climate, botany, water systems, animal life, and the principles of conservation land management.
The program sessions, each spanning three hours, will take place at the Leopold Community Hub. Complementing the in-class learning, participants will embark on several engaging field trips to explore biodiversity hotspots across Greater Geelong, enhancing their practical understanding of our local ecosystems.
Mayor Trent Sullivan
The Nature Stewards program is an invitation to be part of a transformative journey that will arm residents with grassroot conservation knowledge and empower participants to protect and preserve the natural treasures of Greater Geelong.
Chair of the Environment and Circular Economy portfolio, Councillor Peter Murrihy
Nature Stewards is a great stepping stone for people who want to advance their skills and interest in the great outdoors, we encourage you to lodge your application via the Nature Stewards website
Although the program warmly welcomes individuals over the age of 18 from all walks of life, preference will be given to residents of Greater Geelong.
This initiative is particularly tailored for those with limited formal environmental education who are eager to explore volunteering prospects in the realm of environmental conservation.
The inspiration for Nature Stewards was drawn from the well-established Master Naturalist programs in the USA, with its inception in Victoria dating back to 2019.
Greater Geelong was the first regional Victorian municipality to offer the program.
