2023 has been another busy year!  With over 25 Environmental Volunteer groups operating across Port Stephens, Council has been kept busy with the various requests and tasks to support these wonderful volunteer groups.

Our volunteer groups are dedicated to specific areas, but as an inducted Council volunteer, you can join any group and work under their Action Plan. The more knowledge we can share and offer a helping hand, the better impact we have on our unique environment. Feel free to join our PSC Environmental Volunteers Facebook group which focuses on sharing knowledge and information on upcoming events.

For our Environmental Volunteers, we encourage you to send your requests through this form to provide assistance with your environmental activities. These requests will be assessed and replied to by our dedicated Volunteers Support Officer.

We’re also developing our Volunteer Action Plans to guide all Council volunteer groups by setting clear objectives for groups. Keep an eye out for these plans as they go live on our website.

Did you know that Ngioka Nursery in Nelson Bay is also predominately volunteer run? Ngioka Nursery has contributed to the growth of over 17,000 native seedlings since 2016 (that we have records for). These seedlings have been planted by Landcare volunteers, Park volunteers, and Council staff or given away to the community.

We also have our last event under the Unsung Heroes grant series happening on 2 December with a Bush Tucker workshop. The aim of this grant series is to increase volunteering by creating event-based activities that connect existing volunteers with prospective volunteers. Come along and learn something new and network with some of our volunteers. If you’re thinking of joining one of our volunteer groups this would be a great event to come along to and get to know our team!

Lastly, we still have our 3 minute survey open for existing, new or potential Environmental Volunteers. Share your thoughts on volunteering and help us understand what you enjoy and want to see more of. You also go in the draw to win a field guide!

Be sure to keep an eye out for the yellow vests working in a reserve near you.

For more information about how to get involved in volunteering, visit pscouncil.info/VolunteerWithUs