Volunteering

A day in the life of a turtle tracker

Bryan and Jan Saunders have fallen in love with our cute, long-necked resident reptiles. We don’t blame them because how could you not fall in love with Southwestern snake-necked turtles?

Volunteers like Bryan and Jan, who dedicated their time to turtle tracking by walking around Lake Joondalup, spotting female turtles and protecting their nests, have contributed to saving 145 nests and 294 nesting female turtles through the City’s 2023 turtle tracking program.

With such great outcomes from last year’s nesting season, the City will be participating in the turtle tracking program for a second year in 2024, and we need more volunteers than ever to help save these fascinating turtles from becoming extinct.

Do you think you’ve got what it takes? Bryan and Jan think you definitely do.

Keep reading to learn more about a day in the life of a turtle tracker, the time involved, and what you might get up to when volunteering for such a beneficial cause.

Jan Saunders escorting a turtle back to Lake Joondalup.

Turtles face hurdles to lay their nests, and they need our help

Southwestern snake-necked turtles (Yaakan) are residents of Yellagonga Regional Park, but their numbers are in steady decline. They are very important animals in our wetland ecosystem as apex predators, and they are crucial for biodiversity and insect control. As a near-threatened species, they need our help to restore their populations.

Nesting season occurs from September through to November when mother turtles begin their risky journey to lay their eggs in a suitable nesting spot, which can often be up to 100 metres away from the lake’s edge. Female turtles often need to cross over footpaths and main roads to find a suitable spot to lay their eggs. As a result, nesting turtles and their hatchlings are susceptible to threats such as vehicle, bike or pedestrian strikes or predation from foxes, birds, dogs and cats as they make their way to/from the lake. Their nests are also often destroyed by birds and foxes.

The City joined the Saving our Snake-necked Turtle (SOSNT) project to help protect and restore turtle populations within Yellagonga Regional Park. The project is run in partnership with the City of Wanneroo and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) in collaboration with Murdoch University and the Perth South West Group, funded by Lotterywest.

As part of a Friends Group, Woodvale Waters Friends of Beenyup Channel, Bryan and Jan have first-hand experience seeing the predation of turtles and turtle nests. When they saw the City participating in the SOSNT turtle tracking program, they wanted to get involved and make a positive difference by doing what they could to save the turtles around Lake Joondalup and Beenyup Swamp.

Left: a predated turtle nest with broken turtle eggs surrounding the nest. Right: a female Southwestern snake-necked turtle on her way back to Lake Joondalup after laying her eggs.

A day in the life of tracking turtles

Being a trained Turtle Tracker involves working with the team to patrol the Yellagonga Wetlands and protect female turtles while they journey to find their perfect nesting spot and then back again to the lake. Turtle Trackers use materials to protect the nests, preventing them from being dug up and destroyed by predators such as cats and foxes.

For Bryan and Jan, turtle tracking was a project that fit perfectly into their pre-existing daily routine.

They were already enjoying a daily walk around the lake, so during the nesting season, they just ensured they were looking out for any turtles, covering nests and helping nesting turtles back to the lake.

Bryan and Jan dedicated about five hours per week to the program during the last season, but they note that other volunteers could opt to do only weekend work or a couple of hours here and there where it suited them. There was no time commitment required, and trained volunteers had access to a roster and simply filled out a time that worked for them each week.

Bryan covering up a turtle nest to protect it from predation from foxes, cats, dogs and birds.

Due to their experience managing volunteer work, Bryan and Jan went the extra mile. They did great work managing the volunteer roster for their area and filled in for volunteers who were not able to make their rostered times. They also kept spare materials at their house for volunteers to access in case they ran out.

During the nesting season, rainy days could trigger a ‘mass nesting’ event in the park, where many turtles could be on the move at one time. Bryan, Jan and other turtle tracker volunteers could dedicate extra time during these mass nesting events to help the female turtles make their journey to their nesting site. The online chat group helped communicate these mass nesting events to other volunteers, and it was a great opportunity for turtle trackers who had not yet seen a turtle come to the lake and help them.

Bryan and Jan also helped promote the Turtle SAT app and TurtleSAT website to encourage the wider community to record turtle and nest sightings. Anyone in the community can record this information, which is crucial for monitoring turtle populations throughout the park.

Bryan using the TurtleSAT app to record turtle and turtle nest sightings around the lake.

A volunteer project where you can see the difference

When asked about the most rewarding part of being involved in the program, Bryan said that the training session was valuable in helping them understand the scale of the issue and the population decline of turtles.

“Having that understanding helps really bring a sense of achievement when you do something as simple as walking with a female turtle back to the lake. It’s such a simple thing to do, but it is so rewarding, and the impact on future turtle generations can be huge.”

Our amazing turtle tracking team in 2023/24. Bryan Saunders is pictured in the middle front with his hands in the air.

So, you want to be a turtle tracker?

“Getting involved as a turtle tracker is an easy and enjoyable way of helping nature and getting a bit of exercise into your routine. Attending the turtle training session first is important as it gives you a full understanding of the significant issues turtles have to deal with and how we can help them,” says Bryan.

Now you’ve heard all the benefits – how can you get involved?

First you need to attend a compulsory turtle training session before you can become a turtle tracker volunteer. A turtle information and training night is being held on Tuesday 20 August 2024, 6pm.

After the turtle information and training session, you will be ready to contribute to protecting a very important native animal in our wetland system. You will also be able to spend time with other like-minded people not only enjoying but protecting our iconic Yellagonga Regional Park.

Learn more about our Southwestern snake-necked turtles, other ways to Protect our wildlife, the Wetlands in the City, and other Wildlife Warriors involved in the turtle tracker program.

Turtle Tracker Program 2024/25

Attention all turtle lovers – our native turtles need your help!

Many of the City’s wetlands, including Lake Joondalup, are home to Southwestern snake-necked turtles (Yaakan). These turtles are under threat from predators such as foxes and ravens, vehicle strikes, lack of nesting habitat and drying climate.

To help save the turtles, the City of Wanneroo, City of Joondalup and DBCA have joined the Saving Our Snake-Necked Turtle (SOSNT) project, led by Murdoch University and South West Metropolitan Alliance. 

As a part of this project, a dedicated group of Turtle Tracker volunteers patrol Lake Joondalup over the nesting season (September-November) and provide protection to any turtles on the move as well as protecting the nests.

This year, we need more volunteers to build our Turtle Tracker team to protect even more turtles and nests.

Come along to this information and training session to find out more about local turtles and what you can do to help. After the turtle information talk, you will have the opportunity to be trained to join our dedicated Turtle Tracker team to help save turtles at Lake Joondalup.

Visit the City’s webpage for more details about snake-necked turtles.

Save our snake-necked turtle information night
Tuesday 20 August 2024, 6pm
Banksia Room, Civic Centre, 23 Dundebar Road, Wanneroo
Free event. Registration required

A Good Yarn: Celebrating ten years of knitting and giving

This year, the Knit 1, Yarn 2 craft group celebrates its ten-year anniversary. Established in 2014 by coordinator Susan Russell, the group came together following a call for volunteers to do a yarn bombing ‘50s set for Joondalup Festival.

At the conclusion of the festival, Susan proposed that a knitting and crocheting group be formed, and Knit 1, Yarn 2 yarn craft club was born.

Now at a stable size of 20 members, founders Susan Russell, Margaret Brooker, Teresa Williams and Jackie Johnson are the only original members. The group is inclusive, welcoming members of all ages, genders, cultures, identities and abilities, and meets monthly at the Joondalup Library.

As well as knitting and crocheting, the group provides social opportunities for members. Susan Russell said the members enjoy a friendly chat, sharing their knowledge and ideas. “Primarily, the group is a social one, where we can share our love of our art form,” she said.

“We have a lovely group of kind and generous crafters who knit and chat and take an active interest in the welfare of the members and our families. I think one of the benefits is to affirm, appreciate and encourage the skill and time involved in creating beautiful items with yarn.”

Many of the beautiful items are donated to countless charity groups. Through a partnership with the Lions Club of Wanneroo, the group make and donate children’s clothes and toys for Grandparents Rearing Grandchildren WA, blankets and dog coats for RSPCA in Malaga, Trauma Teddies for Red Cross WA, and sensory toys for Autism WA, to name just a few.

The partnership also saw the group knit babies clothes and blankets for King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth Children’s Hospital, and Pregnancy Assist.

The Women and Newborn Health Services team at King Edward Memorial Hospital were extremely grateful for the beautiful clothes, so lovingly knitted for their patients. Senior social worker, Gillian, thanked the group for their kindness and generosity. “These clothes will be given to our patients who have a premature baby in our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. I know our families will be very grateful to receive them.”

The group has achieved a great deal over the past ten years, supporting each other and those in the community who need additional support. A little yarn certainly goes a long way and can help a lot of people.

Some of the beautiful items donated to King Edward Memorial Hospital.

Yarn Bomb for the 2014 Joondalup Festival.

Part of the yarn bomb for the 2014 Joondalup Festival.

Journey through Warwick Bushland with Dr Mark Brundrett

Dr Mark Brundrett is an ecologist, researcher and volunteer for the Friends of Warwick Bushland.

Meet Mark Brundrett, a local resident who is an ecologist at the University of Western Australia (UWA) and the Western Australia Herbarium, and long-term volunteer for the Friends of Warwick Bushland. Mark has done fantastic work in natural area research and management and is a talented photographer and videographer. Keep reading to learn more about his journey and passion for our environment.

Working to protect our natural environment

Mark’s interests have always been focused on conservation and environmental protection. Some of his recent research as a retired Associate Professor at UWA and Honorary Research Associate at the Western Australian Herbarium is on pollination ecology and evolution, orchid conservation, the impacts of fire in urban bushland and partnerships between plants and fungi.

Mark has contributed to conservation efforts for over 25 years with the Friends of Warwick Bushland, alongside his wife Karen Clarke. Karen is also an ecologist and established the Friends Group in 1999. Together they have been documenting the flora, fauna and fungi of the area, monitoring vegetation condition and assisting with the management of the reserve ever since.

Friends of Warwick Bushland

Friends of Warwick Bushland (FoWB) work alongside the City of Joondalup to undertake bushland restoration by weed control and native plantings. The current focus for Mark as part of FoWB is making fire history maps, protecting orchids and prioritising weed control strategies.

The FoWB are fantastic at promoting the area and making Warwick Bushland an attractive destination for people of all ages. They have created exciting and educational public walking trails, such as their most recent Jarrah Trail, and in collaboration with the City installed lots of signage which makes walking through the bushland all the more enjoyable!

Friends of Warwick Bushland have recently established their Jarrah trail, showcasing history and information via QR codes on limestone blocks along an informative and educational walking trail.

A day in the life of Mark Brundrett

Despite being retired, Mark’s passion for the environment keeps him incredibly busy. He continues to undertake a number of scientific research projects.

He can often be found at his research site across the road from Warwick Bushland, where he works on his long-term study of orchid pollination, his orchid conservation project (more below) or helping write papers on orchid pollination and diversity trends in Perth. Mark also works with a graduate student at UWA to study Hare Orchids in Warwick Bushland.

On weekends, Mark volunteers at weeding and planting days in Warwick Bushland and often runs incredibly popular FoWB orchid and wildflower walks!

Mark undertaking field work for his research projects in Warwick Bushland (Photo by Karen Clarke).

There is no doubt that Mark is an incredibly busy man, making the most out of his passion for our natural areas. It’s inspiring to see that he makes time to volunteer. People like Mark help important volunteer groups like the FoWB continue their great work.

Mark recommends anyone interested in volunteering to help out where they can, as every little bit can make a huge difference.

Friends Groups need as many members as possible to continue their work. Friends Group activities include planting, weeding, watering and rubbish removal. Learn more about how to join your local Friends Group here.

A picturesque paradise

With Mark’s research site so close by, Warwick Bushland is the perfect place for him to pursue his passion for photography. Mark often photographs orchids, wildflowers and the abundance of interesting wildlife that can be found there.

“I observe the amazing details of wildflowers and rare interactions in nature, such as buzz pollination of certain flowers by native bees,” says Mark.

Mark uses a photographic technique called focus stacking to reveal stunning and intricate details of wildflowers, such as Fringe Lily and orchids below.

Fringe Lily image taken by Mark Brundrett using a ‘focus stacking’ technique.

Mark also creates videos of the fascinating and beautiful act of orchid pollination, which can be found on his YouTube channel (details below).

Fascinating fungi

Mark, Karen and other fungi enthusiasts have documented very interesting fungi at Warwick Bushland too! Karen has uploaded fungus photos using the free citizen science app iNaturalist, and and these records contribute to the FungiMap project. iNaturalist is a great way to learn about nature, and to record weird or wonderful natural sightings in data repositories around the world. Karen’s sightings can also be seen on the Atlas of Living Australia.

Fungi at Warwick Bushland include the striking (but stinky) Colus pusillus (pictured below). This fungus, also known as Red Tentacles or Basket Stinkhorn is recognised by its vibrant red colour and foul smell. The rotting meat-like scent attracts insects to its slime, which then spread the fungus’ spores around, helping it to reproduce.

A Red Tentacle fungus (Colus pusillis) in Warwick Bushland.

Another interesting fungus is the Anthracobia melaloma. This type of fungi is part of a large group known as ‘Cup Fungi’, characterised by their disk or cup-shaped structure. These tiny fungi have small hairs around each cup’s edge and often cover ash beds after a bushfire.

Anthracobia melaloma (Cup Fungus) after a fire.

Karen and Mark used to run ‘Fungi Forays’ with Fungimap and later the Perth Urban Bushland Fungus Project at Warwick Bushland and as part of FoWB, often leading a Fungi Guided Walk each autumn. Unfortunately, with the lack of autumn rain this year it is unlikely a fungi walk will be offered in 2024. Look out in future years for FoWB’s guided fungi walks led by Mark to discover fungi and their fascinating facts!

Orchid observations

Mark’s favourite orchid is the beautiful Chestnut Sun Orchid (below). It has become very difficult to find anywhere else in Perth, but it can be found right on our doorstep at Warwick Bushland.

The stunning and locally rare Chestnut Sun Orchid (Thelymitra fuscolutea) at Warwick bushland.

One of Mark’s long-term conservation projects focuses on the genetics of many different groups of orchid varieties to see how they grow, flower and persist over time with changes to the natural environment. He has also been examining the impacts of lower rainfall over the last few years. Mark will often share his knowledge and research findings during FoWB’s Orchid and Wildflower Walks which take place in spring each year.

The Caladenia discoidea, or Dancing Spider Orchid, (below) has a very unique strategy for pollination. It produces a pheromone which mimics a female Thynnid wasp. The scent attracts the orchid’s pollinator, a male Thynnid wasp, to pollinate the orchid. This type of pollination, called sexual deception, is risky as it requires a single insect species to be present at the time.

Caladenia discoidea (Dancing Spider Orchid) being pollinated by a male Thynnid wasp.

Mark’s favorite fauna species is the Western Bearded Dragon. It can be very elusive and they like to hide in Balga skirts, watching and observing passersby from a distance. Mark also likes to share what you can learn about other fauna species you might be lucky enough to find on the FoWB website.

A Western Bearded Dragon hiding amongst a Balga (Grass Tree) skirt at Warwick Bushland.

Involving our youth

The FoWB, led by Stephanie Murphy, are encouraging younger people to get involved in taking care of natural areas and our environment.

The group often collaborate with the Warwick Scout Group and Cub Scouts for planting days and bushland clean-up days, such as their recent ‘Clean up Warwick Bushland’ event last month, and their upcoming Planting Day with Warwick Scouts and Cubs on Sunday 9 June 2024. Providing opportunities for young people to engage with their local bushland is the best way to develop a lasting passion and respect for the natural environment.

FoWB also encourage families to spend their weekends in the bushland. Whether that be helping at a planting, weeding or rubbish removal event with a local Friends Group or by enjoying a walk and learning about bushland, it all helps establish a lifelong connection and love for nature. All FoWB events are family friendly and are great weekend activities that everyone will enjoy.

All of the Point of Interest Walk Trails within Warwick Bushland are also family (and dog on lead) friendly and are a great way for people of all ages to learn more about the plants, animals and fungi of Warwick Bushland.

Warwick Scout Group showing some of the rubbish collected at the recent ‘Clean up Warwick Bushland’ event.

Local patches of urban bushland

Mark recommends getting involved with your local Friends Group by attending a guided walk or bushcare event. These events are perfect for starting to learn about interesting facts about your local bushland area, and the plants and wildlife that enjoy it. Attending one of these events also helps discover the huge impact that volunteering can make, and how our efforts can help protect and conserve wildlife and natural areas.

Get involved with FoWB through their website or Facebook page or subscribe to their newsletter to be notified about bushland events.

Mark Brundrett and Stephanie Murphy, Coordinator of Friends of Warwick Bushland, walking through Warwick Bushland.

Mark and the FoWB are doing great things to help protect our environment. If you are interested in his amazing work, you can:
- Read Marks most recent paper, a comprehensive review of everything known about the pollination of flowers in Southwestern Australia!
- Visit Mark’s ResearchGate webpage to find more publications.
- Join Friends of Warwick Bushland. They run some fantastic events and have so much knowledge to share!
- Subscribe to the Friends of Warwick’s eNewsletter for upcoming events.
- Subscribe to Mark’s Youtube channel and view the fascinating flower videos.
- View Mark’s photography on Flickr for more spectacular images of Warwick Bushland.
- If you are interested in orchids, you can join the WA Native Orchid Study and Conservation Group or Wildflower Society of WA.
- Join your local Friends Group to help preserve and protect our natural environment.

A New Holland Honeyeater enjoying the wonderful wildflowers of Warwick Bushland.

Volunteer information sessions

Step into Volunteering

The Step into Volunteering Program is an informal introduction to volunteering. It is of particular value to those who are volunteering for the first time and those who are seeking different volunteer experiences.

Come along to a free session and learn about:

The benefits of volunteering
The volunteering opportunities available
Identifying the skills that you have to contribute to volunteering
Rights and responsibilities of volunteers and volunteer involving agencies
How to find the right volunteering position.

The information sessions are conducted by Joondalup Volunteer Resource Centre at various libraries throughout Joondalup.

Future Step into Volunteering sessions:

Wednesday 30 October, 10am, Joondalup Library.
Registrations via Ticketbooth

Monday 25 November, 5pm, Whitford Library.
Registrations via Ticketbooth

Please call 9400 4753 for more information.

Caring for our Coastline

We all have a role to play in preserving, protecting and enhancing our pristine and wonderful coastline and beaches.

The City has outstanding local Coastcare leaders like Mike Norman and Don Poynton. Together, they have dedicated over five decades of volunteer work to help preserve, enhance and protect our pristine coastline and habitats, its rare and unique flora and vegetation communities, and the wonderful wildlife that calls it home, including Quenda and the Graceful Sun Moth. This incredible duo share their top five tips to empower you to care for our coastlines and enjoy our beautiful beaches.

Our natural coastal habitats need your help

Climate change is the biggest threat to our coastline, and we have already begun to see its effects on our local beaches. Coastal hazards, such as sea level rise causing coastal erosion and damages from storms, will only continue to degrade our City’s stunning beaches. There is a lot that residents can do to protect and conserve our natural coastal habitats.

Coastcare Tips

Enjoy long walks along the beach (not the dunes)

Native dune vegetation and dune structures can be easily destroyed if people or pets roam on the sand dunes. Friends Group volunteers try their best to maintain and revegetate the sand dunes with coastal seedlings. Admire their hard work from afar next time you visit the beach, or even enjoy the views from the City’s coastal shared path which runs the full length of the coastline.

Avoid fence sitting

Don’t climb or break the conservation fencing around the dunes, especially on the ocean side. Doing so will allow easier access for people and animals to enter the dunes, harming the vegetation and dune structures. Fencing is costly to repair and can take time to fix.

Keep our beaches pristine clean

If you have rubbish left from your fun day at the beach, be sure to discard it in the bins provided. Allow everyone to enjoy a beautiful, litter-free beach, even after you leave. Any rubbish you discard on the beach will likely end up as marine debris that can harm many sea creatures.

Recycle, don’t dump

Containers for change is a great way to recycle your drink containers rather than leaving them on the beach. Donations can be made to our Coastcare groups by depositing containers under the scheme ID C10379297.

Live sustainably

Help reduce the effects of climate change on our shores by limiting consumption, reusing, and recycling your waste and lowering your carbon footprint. Don’t just enjoy nature but do your best to take care of it so we can all keep enjoying our environment into the future.

Get involved

Even if it’s just for a few hours a year, helping out a Friends Group with some of its on-ground work will not only spoil you with stunning scenery, but you will learn more about the coastal environment and help restore the dunes and beaches!

Rubbish dumped in the sand dunes at Sorrento Beach

Get involved in caring for our coastline

There are a range of ways you can get involved with restoring and maintaining our coastline. You can volunteer with your local coastal Friends Groups. Some examples of Friends Groups’ activities caring for the coast include:

Revegetation and planting.
Monitoring and recording of flora and fauna.
Weed control.
Guided nature walks where you can learn about our natural areas.
Rubbish clean up.
Seed collection.
Community education (talks and presentations).
Fire prevention.

New and returning volunteers are always welcomed. Some events require registration, for others you may be able to turn up and introduce yourself. If you have a passion for nature and conservation, or are just interested to learn more and help the community, find out more about Friends Groups within the City’s webpage.

Protect our beaches at all times of the year

Abalone season is a time of year where there can be negative impacts on beaches. Coastal vegetation and fencing can be impacted by those trying to fish for abalone.

If you see anyone trampling on vegetation, littering, illegally parking, going into fenced conservation areas, or causing other disruptive behaviour on our beaches, please report incidents to our Field Officers by calling 9400 4000 or 1300 655 860 after hours.

Coastcare groups revegetating the sand dunes at Marmion Foreshore

Meet the Wildlife Warriors of Yellagonga Regional Park

Volunteers with the Friends of Yellagonga Regional Park (FOY) have been caring for and rehabilitating biodiversity across Yellagonga Regional Park for more than 30 years! They do amazing work to protect the wildlife and flora and encourage biodiversity within our natural areas.

What started as a small residents group motivated to rehabilitate the old farming lands in 1990, the group has now grown to over 100 casual and 40 weekly volunteers that participate in the rehabilitation of Yellagonga Regional Park every single week! The group is a not-for-profit and non-government conservation organisation with the mission of ensuring long-term environmental sustainability with compatible human use.

FOY not only undertakes a remarkable effort to introduce more Indigenous flora for the nourishment of wildlife throughout Yellagonga Regional Park; but also to enhance the area’s biodiversity.

The Friends of Yellagonga Regional Park celebrate their 30th Anniversary

Achieving 30 years of environmental protection

Over the years, the FOY have achieved a huge amount to protect the natural area. Since their beginning in the 1990s, the group has consistently removed countless invasive and non-native flora planted during European settlement and farming days, such as Canna Lilys, Pepper Trees, Olive Trees and Castor Oil Bushes.

In 2010, bat boxes were installed all across Yellagonga Regional Park by the group, some of which you might see installed on trees as you walk around the Regional Park today! In 2018 for their 25^th Anniversary, the group received a grant and certificate of appreciation from the Major of the City of Joondalup. In 2019 the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) granted the group funding to install nine ‘cockatubes’ throughout the park which provide homes for the Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo. All these great achievements were reflected on and celebrated at their recent 30^th birthday celebration.

The Friends of Yellagonga Regional Park have shared that even their many smaller milestones make them proud. They dedicate their brilliant work to their volunteers that help improve biodiversity and vegetation condition by planting native species and removing weeds.

Saving turtles

FOY have recently joined the Saving our Snake-necked Turtle program to protect the turtles in the Yellagonga wetlands. Recent studies have shown that female turtles are often killed while trying to nest, and very few juveniles survive each nesting season. Because of this, the turtle population in the Yellagonga wetlands is declining.

As a part of the Saving our Snake-necked Turtle program, the FOY will patrol the Yellagonga wetlands over Spring and protect nesting females and their nests, as well as logging data using the TurtleSAT App.

Turtles prefer to dig their nests and lay their eggs in more natural areas, surrounded by native plants. While travelling to their nest location, they would normally seek shelter from predators, like birds, under the cover of native vegetation. However, some areas around the Yellagonga wetlands were cleared for farming in the past and are now open grassed parks. FOY actively replant and reforest sections of the Regional Park, which provides nesting locations for turtles, as well as providing shelter from predators for female turtles and their hatchlings.

Turtles bury their eggs on land, usually near wetlands in the warmer months. The eggs hatch several months later, and the babies make their way to the water where they begin their lives. Unfortunately, nesting turtles leave a scent trail which attracts foxes, and they dig up the eggs. Turtle eggs and hatchlings are also vulnerable to uncontained domestic pets, humans walking/cycling through bushland areas and other wildlife.

FOY works alongside the 1Million Turtle Program and the Saving our Snake-necked Turtles (SOSNT) teams to promote awareness of vulnerable species and try to protect the turtles from becoming a threatened or endangered species. The group uses the TurtleSAT app to record where the nests are and report nests that have been destroyed. This year, the group is supported by the Cities of Joondalup and Wanneroo, the DBCA and SOSNT to start a nest protection program.

Turtles are more likely to nest in dense flora close to the water’s edge, so the group also conducts planting closer to the lake to encourage turtles to stick to the area rather than journeying through risky open grassed areas or across roads.

Acting Friends of Yellagonga Regional Park Chairperson, Guy Austin-Crowe, using TurtleSAT app at Yellagonga Regional Park

Everyone can become a Citizen Scientist! You can help protect the Southwestern snake-necked turtles by downloading the TurtleSAT App and record any sightings or damaged nests that you see. The data you provide will give a meaningful record and can be used to highlight the problem and to help save our turtles.

Emerging threats to our wetlands

FOY advocates for the Park in decision-making processes and educates the community about the area to protect and conserve it. Yellagonga Regional Park is an important area for environmental conservation and biodiversity. Some of the threats to Yellagonga Regional Park include that local fauna are lacking food sources and safe nesting places. FOY conducts revegetation to provide more food and nesting habitat for native fauna.

Water levels are rising in the lake, which is causing the paper bark trees (Melaleucas) to uproot as they are no longer having a dry period over summer. The uprise in water levels is due to deforestation and suburban sprawl north of the regional park with the underground aquifer diverting its water to our lakes. FOY have begun to plant paper bark trees further back from the water’s edge to begin the revegetation process.

Feral animals such as foxes and cats are preying upon native animals in the Park. Animals native to the area, such as swamp hens, Quendas, Southwestern snake-necked turtles, ground-nesting water birds, Bobtail lizards, Goannas, Rakali and snakes are becoming threatened and are at risk of extinction, partly due to predation from these animals. The Cities of Joondalup and Wanneroo and DBCA conduct regular fox control in the Park to reduce the number of foxes.

Fox caught on wildlife camera in Yellagonga Regional Park

How can you help?

Plant locally native species in your garden that will provide food and habitat for fauna.
Allow spaces, such as rockeries, for reptiles to live safely in your garden.
Switch to environmentally friendly ways to fertilize and weed your garden and consider using home-made environmentally friendly fertilizers such your own home compost system or hand weeding methods.
Consider using rodenticide-free baits and chemical-free, humane options against pests to avoid second generation poisoning.
Keep your dog on a leash at all times and keep cats enclosed on your property to prevent negative impacts to native fauna.
If you see feral animals in the regional park, download the free app ‘feralscan’ to record your sighting. The app is nationwide, which helps researchers to gather further data to feral animal locations and populations.
Pick up rubbish and don’t litter. You could aim to take 3 pieces of additional rubbish with you when you leave any natural area – it all makes a difference!
Get involved with your local environment group to help reduce weeds, improve biodiversity and revegetate areas, as well as raising awareness and showing that people care!

The Friends of Yellagonga Regional Park welcome people of all ages and abilities to their workdays. It is an opportunity to meet new people, exercise and enjoy nature. The team shares knowledge and experiences and will train anyone new to the group. There are many opportunities to volunteer and make a difference. The Friends of Yellagonga Regional Park have made a great difference to the Park over the last 30 years, and more volunteers will help them continue their amazing work!

Friends of Yellagonga Regional Park and volunteers at the Tanah Close site after completing a workday of planting and weeding

Over 20 years of coastcare in Sorrento and Marmion

Mike has been volunteering for more than 40 years to help with many environmental and conservation causes. He is motivated to create thriving natural ecosystems and coastlines, and is working hard to empower people to make positive choices for nature.

In 1999, Mike Norman established what is now known as ‘Friends of Sorrento Beach and Marmion Foreshore’ and four years later in 2003, he initiated ‘Friends of Porteous Park.’ When he started ‘Friends of Sorrento Beach and Marmion Foreshore’, he saw a need to restore the environment in his suburb, so he set out to do just that. We think that he has been incredibly successful in doing so!

These Friends Groups are volunteer environmental conservation and revegetation groups keeping our natural areas and coastal foreshores flourishing! The activities of the groups provide numerous benefits for the community. They are creating cool, green and liveable neighbourhoods and habitat for wildlife. Volunteers also get to connect with nature and other like-minded people, as well as learning more about their local flora and fauna species.

These groups are celebrating 20 years or more of creating habitats for local wildlife, helping the coastline sparkle and building community.

Mike is the Coordinator of both of these groups, where he leads and helps with numerous conservation and community causes! Mike also finds the time to make an even bigger difference and is the Deputy Coordinator of the ‘Friends of Harman Park,’ and Treasurer of the ‘Joondalup Community Coast Care Forum.’

A passion for tackling weeds – war on weeds

Mike outlined that weeds are a huge challenge impacting our coastlines. In great news, these volunteers have been very successful in controlling weeds along our stunning coastline. In collaboration with the City’s Natural Environment Team, the group’s ‘Weeding Warriors’ have contributed to the removal of thousands of weeds. This has since been measured in ecological surveys that show an improvement in the vegetation condition.

Ecological restoration and sparkling beaches

Mike is passionate about conserving and restoring the coastline and natural areas. He has involved and educated thousands of adults and children about the coast and ecological restoration. Mike and the incredible volunteers have also collected and removed a large amount of litter from our local/stunning beaches.

Emerging threats to our coastlines

Mike shares there are other huge challenges that Friends Groups are unable to tackle without widespread community effort. Some of these challenges include feral animals and domestic animals/pets, and plant diseases and pests such as Polyphagous shot-hole borer and myrtle rust fungus. You can help by reporting any sightings of feral animals, dogs off leash or plant diseases or pests to the City and/or the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.

Importance of building resilient and climate ready ecosystems

Mike told us that the greatest challenge to our coastlines and beaches that he has witnessed, is climate change; causing sea level rise and severe storm events that cause accretion and erosion of our beaches. Sadly, the volunteers planting efforts at Sorrento Beach are often trampled on as a result of the sand building up which allows people to access the coastal foreshore areas. You can help the volunteers by staying on dedicated paths to let the dune revegetation grow. Maintaining our coastlines is crucial to ensuring we can continue to use our City’s beautiful sandy beaches in years to come. Learn more about how you can help reduce carbon emissions at home.

Friends of Sorrento Beach and Marmion Foreshore Highlights

The City of Joondalup want to say a big thanks to Mike for coordinating and hosting volunteers on a weekly basis for activities such as community planting days, weeding, litter removal, community education, events, collaborations with schools and also for his advocacy for coastline conservation. We also extend this thanks to all the volunteers across these Friends Groups and celebrate this 20-plus year milestone being reached!

Some of the group’s biggest achievements over the past 20 years include:

An “ecological restoration” accomplished by planting the phenomenal amount of 34,461 native coastal seedlings, comprised of 42 different species across a 9-hectare area of coastal reserve.
Hundreds of thousands of weeds were removed from the coastal reserves by the groups weeding warriors, including a total of 13 weed species that have been entirely eliminated from the project area, and many more weed species which are close to being eliminated.
Refined manual weeding techniques including the development of their own tools so manual weeding is effective and efficient over larger areas.
Many successful grant applications allowing the group to employ efficient manual weeding contractors during peak times.
Provide a great weekly weekend activity in nature for hundreds of volunteers. Many volunteers have come and gone, but some have been with the project long-term for a decade or even longer.
Created habitat for native animals such as Quendas, that have returned as well as the reptile population having increased.

How can I get involved?

Friends Groups are always looking for volunteers and members to take part in their regular activities which include litter pick up, weed removal and planting days. The groups may also participate in wildlife surveys or run educational events throughout the year too. All are welcome including the kids! Some of the City’s smaller Friends Groups like the ’Friends of Porteous Park’ especially need some helping hands.

To volunteer for nature, view the Friends Group Contact List to get in contact.

Joanne Burgess from Wildflower Society of WA’s Northern Suburbs Nursery

Most people are content contributing their time to one volunteer task or role to make real, meaningful and positive change. Joanne is not one of those people and is volunteering her time to help with numerous sustainability, conservation and community causes across Perth and, importantly, she stays true to her values and inspires those around her.

Joanne is many things: a keen and experienced gardener, former Sustainability Officer at the City of Stirling, and more recently, is focusing her efforts on helping conserve, educate and green our neighbourhoods through volunteering with Wildflower Society of WA (WSoWA) at the Northern Suburbs Branch Nursery and Friends of Kings Park in the Growing Friends group. Joanne also volunteers as a dog walker with Pets of Older Persons (POOPS); helps promote active travel through her role as a casual Bike Education coach with People on Bicycles and volunteers her time to help with several citizen science projects that help wildlife including Birdlife’s Great Cocky Count; the Bird in Backyards Seasonal Surveys; the Aussie Bird Count and more. She is also adding to her diverse skill-set and is training to volunteer as a literacy tutor with Read Write Now.

Joanne has also supported the City to implement its Waterwise Verge Rebate Program, with the WSoWA being one of the participating nurseries in the program. Through this program, 100 households in the City will be transforming their lawn, fake grass or paving into beautiful, biodiverse and waterwise verge gardens.

Promoting the conservation and enjoyment of wildflowers in WA

The WSoWA is a community of wildflower enthusiasts who are connecting over WA’s incredible biodiversity and wildflowers, and inspiring others to explore ways to conserve WA’s unique flora and help people create sustainable gardens. Established in 1958, the Wildflower Society of WA has made a significant contribution to help everyone to better know, grow, conserve and enjoy the wildflowers of WA.

Joanne explains that the south-west of WA is a biodiversity hotspot and many of the plants are endemic to WA.

Joanne remarked that “so many people are yet to discover and enjoy the unique and wonderful diversity of WA flora! With the south-west of WA being a biodiversity hotspot, and many of these plants rare or threatened, the flora needs our help.”

“The south-west corner of WA is one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet. It is only 5% of the Australian land mass but one-third of all Australian flowering plant species grow here. The majority of these plants grow nowhere else in the world, and land clearing poses a huge risk of pushing many plant species into extinction.”

“Residential gardens and outdoor spaces have enormous potential to support our local flora and ensure that threatened plant species continue to exist.”

Conservation through Propagation

The Northern Suburbs branch of the Wildflower Society of WA has a unique and wonderful nursery where WA’s flora, particularly the rare and unusual species, are the volunteer’s speciality. This is where Joanne spends her time helping to propagate plants from cuttings and seed and keeping the stock-plants used for the cuttings thriving.

The nursery is continually increasing the range of rare and threatened plants it propagates, to support the conservation and protection of these species. The volunteers only grow plants native to WA and many of the plant species are not commonly available or grown by other nurseries.

“By growing these plants and making them available for people to plant in their home gardens, we hope to preserve them and ensure that they don’t go extinct, as well as increase appreciation of the beautiful flora that WA has and support efforts to protect it.”, Joanne said.

Learn more about the services and activities our local Northern Suburbs Branch have on offer.

What’s happening in the nursery right now?

Did you know it takes six months to grow a plant from seed or a cutting?

This means the nursery is busy propagating plants to sell in September and October, which will be the last chance for people to get plants in the ground before it gets too hot.

The Northern Suburbs Branch is also planning for a relocation of the nursery over the next year or two to larger premises so they can grow more plants.

Image: Sally from the Wildflower Society’s beautiful native garden.

Benefits of Biodiverse Gardens

Gardens filled with local wildflowers provide homes, food, and places to socialise for wildlife and pollinators, as well as forming important stepping-stones or wildlife corridors between local reserves and waterways. Native plants are well adapted to local conditions, making them more suitable in the context of climate change.

“Native plants have evolved in local conditions and climate making them more resilient, waterwise and easier to maintain. By selecting the right species you can have flowers and colour all year round. Native gardens will still look beautiful with reduced water and increased heat.”

There are also many health and wellbeing benefits from gardening and connecting with nature.

“Just imagine if everyone on your street had a biodiverse and waterwise garden, how this could transform our neighbourhood streetscapes into a cool, green and liveable nature corridors helping the birds, insects, frogs and native animals to safely move and forage, which is really important for the long-term health of our urban bushland and fauna species.”

Get involved

Volunteer your time to help conserve WA’s flora and vegetation communities through a local Friends Group, WSoWA (website and Facebook) or one of the many other incredible volunteering opportunities near you.
Plant WA native plant species at your home: there are also many great nurseries offering native plants, find one that specialises in native plants or waterwise plants.
Learn more about and connect with nature and local flora in your local area.
Advocate for the protection of WA’s flora and vegetation communities.
Spread the word, because together we can make a difference.

Upcoming Event: Plant Sale Day

The WSoWA’s Northern Branch nursery’s annual autumn plant sale is happening on Saturday 22 April, 9.00am – 2.00pm. There are approximately 300 species of native plants available for sale, from trees to groundcovers and everything in between – many of which you can’t buy anywhere else.

Joanne and many of the volunteers will be in attendance to help you choose plants suitable for your garden and provide advice and answer all your questions.

Don Poynton of Friends of North Ocean Reef-Iluka Foreshore

Don Poynton is a local environmental leader and has been volunteering in the City for 24 years across a number of different environmental community groups to conserve and restore the coastline and natural areas (Image Credit: Dee Farrell).

Local action on the coast

As Coordinator of Friends of North Ocean Reef-Iluka Foreshore (FONORIF), Don has helped oversee the weeding and planting of native plants in the Iluka Foreshore Reserve, part of Bush Forever site 325. The group also helps educate the community about the environment by installing signage, running guided walks and more recently holding events and displays.

FONORIF was formed out of the Joondalup Community Coast Care Forum Inc (JCCCF), an umbrella organisation for several of the City’s coast care groups, which started in 1999 to represent the many interests along the coast. The local group was created when Ocean Reef resident Dr Marjorie Apthorpe and a few like-minded residents from adjacent suburbs came together to look after part of the coastal reserve between Ocean Reef and Burns Beach.

Don is currently the Chair of the JCCCF which now acts as a community reference group for monitoring issues and initiating action along the City’s coastal strip.

Since 2014, Don has also been volunteering with Friends of Carnaby Reserve to undertake restoration projects in Carnaby Reserve (formerly Medinah Park) with the help of the City’s Natural Areas Team. He is also the Chairman of the Northern Suburbs Branch of the WA Naturalists’ Club and was the Treasurer of the Friends of Marmion Marine Park for many years.

In 2022, Don received a special commendation in the Western Australian Coastal Awards for Excellence for championing the natural environment and its importance to the community, providing leadership and advocacy, and encouraging community participation in coast care activities.

Why volunteer?

Don said that he is motivated to volunteer in these groups because he cares about the local amenity and biodiversity and enjoys working outside.

“I hate seeing weeds in public places! I love being outdoors. I like working in the best ‘open-plan’ office in the world! I appreciate the diversity that exists at Iluka and want to ensure it is maintained and if possible increased,” says Don.

He also enjoys learning and knowledge sharing and working with the other volunteers saying that:

“I find there is always something new to discover or learn. I like to impart what knowledge I have, to others who are interested. I enjoy the company of the people I volunteer with.”

The coastal bushland offers a range of unique and beautiful local species that you can appreciate across the different seasons says Don.

“There are so many beautiful and fascinating species of plants, fungi, birds and insects, it’s impossible to have a favourite. Winter brings out the cup fungi and the tiny earthstars. In Spring the male fairy wrens show off their colours and iridescent blue-green jewel beetles can be found crawling over the yellow buttercups.”

Tackling local environmental issues

Through Don’s volunteer work with FONORIF he tackles a range of environmental issues. These include feral species control of feral and domestic cats and foxes, weed species including the One-leaf Cape Tulip, Wild Pink Gladiolus and Veldt Grass, and the destruction of native vegetation and sand dunes through unauthorised entry to the coast.

Changes on the ground

There have been many positive changes to the local environment as a result of FONORIF’s work explains Don.

“Many areas within the 30 hectares looked after by FONORIF have been rehabilitated since the group began. These include areas around the Iluka Foreshore Park to areas not seen by or accessible to the public.”

Don is also proud of the group’s Iluka Foreshore Macroinvertebrate and Herpetofauna Survey, partially funded by the City’s Community Funding Program, run over 3 years that recorded more than 550 macroinvertebrate and 14 reptile species.

More recently, Don helped to organise a Free Family Discovery Morning to educate the community about the diversity of local flora and fauna and the importance of maintaining biodiversity. Around 500 members of the community attended the event throughout the day and participated in guided beach, bird, biodiversity and bush tucker walks and learnt more about the local environment through environmental displays. The event was funded through one of the City’s Community Funding Program grants, a donation from the Iluka Homeowners Association and FONORIF.

Iluka Foreshore before revegetation — Iluka Foreshore in 2004 before restoration (Image Credit: Don Poynton)

Iluka Foreshore 2016 — Iluka Foreshore in 2016 after restoration (Image Credit: Don Poynton)

You can play a role

FONORIF and other Friends Groups play an important role in local environmental management and work closely with the City’s Natural Areas Team explains Don.

“Friends Groups can become the eyes and ears of the environment. As we spend all our time involved in on-ground work, we become more aware of issues that arise in our own patches e.g. an outbreak of a priority weed in a patch of bush that would not be visited by Natural Areas staff.”

Don said community members can help take action in their local environment by starting a Friends Group or joining an existing group.

“The City has over one hundred natural areas but less than twenty have Friends Groups. It would be great to see this number increase but if people would like to help but are not willing to start a group they should join an existing group.”

Getting more young people involved in the Friends Groups is also important said Don.

“It is noticeable that nearly all the existing volunteers fall into the “seniors” category and that very few young people are involved. The groups and the City need to promote the natural areas so people understand how important it is to look after them, not just for biodiversity but for their education and lifestyle, including mental health, values.”

How can I get involved?

The Friends of North Ocean Reef-Iluka Foreshore and Friends of Carnaby Reserve are always looking for volunteers and members to join in their regular activities. To volunteer in these groups contact:

Friends of North Ocean Reef-Iluka Foreshore: ilukacoastcarejoondalup@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/238527943276186

Friends of Carnaby Reserve: tyrglanyrafon@hotmail.com

The City also has seventeen other Friends Groups you can volunteer with. For more information and contact details visit the City’s website.

Support for community groups/organisations

Communities in-focus

Communities in-focus is a capacity building program benefitting community organisations and groups who are active in the City of Joondalup. Communities in-focus workshops and events engage guest speakers, facilitators and experts on a range of relevant topics.

Email community.development@joondalup.wa.gov.au or call 9400 4315 to be added to the distribution list and watch this space for upcoming programs and events.

One-to-one meeting opportunities

Community Development Officers are available to meet with clubs needing assistance or information to navigate governance challenges, marketing or planning assistance.

Networking opportunities

Networking opportunities will be available at Communities in-focus training and special events.

Community programs, services and networks

View the Community Programs and Services Supporting Groups and Agencies document below to find out what is available to further support your group.

Joondalup Volunteer Resource Centre

Volunteering can take many forms and is diverse. A meaningful position can be found to suit everyone’s unique skills, abilities, knowledge and interests. For further information contact the Joondalup Volunteer Resource Centre.

Interested in volunteering in your community?

There are many great reasons to volunteer. Some reasons people volunteer in their community include to:

learn new skills
share life experiences and skills
contribute to society by helping people who may be disadvantaged
meet new people
make new friends
give back to the community
make a difference
gain experience and contacts to help find paid employment
build self-confidence
have fun
socialise
stay active and engaged with the community.

Community activities

Getting involved in the community is beneficial for your mind, body and overall wellbeing. Participating in a group or an event within your local area creates an important sense of connection. Some ways to get involved include:

Community Inclusion Day – Beachside

Sunday 12 November 2023, 9.30am – 12.30pm
Mullaloo Surf Life Saving Club, Tom Simpson Park

Come down to Mullaloo Beach to see all the accessible features.

Meet the Hockeyroos, join athletes, Amy Lawton, Aleisha Power, Craig Marias, Nathan Ephraums for a fun hockey session for people with disability. This session is supported with coaches from Whitford Hockey Club, who have ongoing opportunities for interested players to participate in Hockey for All – a program for people with disability.

Try 3×3 wheelchair basketball, seated volleyball, and other family activities. Hear compelling speeches from Karen Harvey of Spinal Life Australia and winner of the 2023 Western Australian of the Year Youth Award, Madison Heady. Meet local service providers, enjoy a morning of fun activities and a free sausage sizzle.

Get on Board Program – Platform Tours

This program aims to assist seniors in gaining confidence in accessing public transport and enable independence by improving their ability to connect with services, activities, friends and family. Platform tours of local public transport services are hosted by the City, in partnership with the Public Transport Authority, and are available at various times throughout the year and include complimentary coffee/tea/refreshment at a local cafe.

The next series of Get on Board Platform Tours will be scheduled shortly. For more information please contact the City via email.

Community groups

There are a range of clubs, community and hobby groups throughout the City. To find out who they are and where they are located, visit the City’s Community Directory.

Joondalup Volunteer Resource Centre (JVRC)

The JVRC is located inside Whitford Library and specialises in connecting community members with their perfect volunteer role, by matching skills, interest and availability with vacant volunteer roles.

Meet-Your-Neighbour Project

Recently expanded to an all-year-round program, the Meet-Your-Neighbour Project aims to build a more connected, safer and inclusive community by encouraging residents to host small gatherings within their local neighbourhoods.

City events

The City offers a wide range of events all year round including the Joondalup Festival, Positive Ageing events, the Sunday Serenades concert series, art exhibitions, youth music events, markets and outdoor summer concerts. View the City’s events calendar for details.

Environmental events and activities

The City hosts a range of environmentally focused events and activities which include environmental tours on wildflowers, bird watching, the coast, Aboriginal heritage, Greater Gardens Workshops and more. View the City’s events calendar for details.

Volunteer events and observances

Throughout the year there are many volunteering opportunities, celebrations and observances hosted by the Joondalup Volunteer Resource Centre and the City. Previous observances have included sundowner events, breakfast forums, volunteer story promotional campaigns and Volunteer Involving Organisation promotional exhibitions.

Visit Joondalup Volunteer Resource Centre for further information and opportunities.

National Volunteer Week 2024

The City of Joondalup (City) would like to thank all the dedicated volunteers as we celebrate and recognise the vital service they provide to the Joondalup community. Our volunteers support local organisations, community groups and the City to deliver services throughout the broader community.

The National Volunteer Week theme for 2024 is ‘Something for Everyone’ which invites people to discover the power of volunteering through an array of opportunities.

If you would like to start your volunteering journey or are thinking of a change, then visit the Joondalup Volunteer Resource Centre (JVRC). The JVRC is located inside Whitford Library, and acts as an engagement point to link potential volunteers with volunteer involving organisations and community groups, to assist people in finding the perfect volunteer role that best suits their skills and interests.

Over the past 12 months the JVRC referral officers have serviced the community with 660 hours, undertaking 361 volunteer engagements while responding to 180 enquiries from volunteer-involving organisations and 193 people attending a Step into Volunteering session. This is a free informal introduction to volunteering. It can assist those who are volunteering for the first time and anyone seeking different volunteer experiences.

More than 100 volunteers help the City deliver a range of programs, such as the RYDE and Community Transport Programs. Volunteers also assist with library programs, including Books on Wheels, Family History Help, oral history transcribing, library shelving and Keystrokes, a personalised one-to-one session where volunteers assist people with using their smart phone or tablet, navigate the internet or using apps.

“Volunteering is the best job in the world and has invigorated me. You learn new skills and their is something different every week. It’s fulfilling knowing you make a difference. Volunteering has helped build my self-esteem after being told you can’t do a job anymore. I would recommend volunteering to anyone, so don’t hesitate, step up and volunteer”. Sonia – Referral Officer-Joondalup Volunteer Resource Centre.

For volunteering opportunities visit joondalup.wa.gov.au or call 9400 4734.

International Volunteer Day, Thursday 5 December 2024

International Volunteer Day (IVD) is held annually on 5 December and is also known as Thank a Volunteer Day in Western Australia.

In 1985, the United Nations designated 5 December as IVD. It encourages organisations to celebrate the efforts of their volunteers, while raising public awareness of their contributions to the community.

The City would like to thank all off the dedicated volunteers for their continued service and support to volunteering for, and within the City of Joondalup.

Volunteer now for the future of our planet. Together, act now.

For further volunteering opportunities visit Joondalup Volunteer Resource Centre.

Seniors and public transport

Get on Board Program – Platform Tours

The next series of Get on Board Platform Tours will be scheduled shortly.

Joondalup Volunteer Resource Centre

The Joondalup Volunteer Resource Centre (JVRC) aims to:

Empower community members by providing advice and support around volunteering.
Encourage, facilitate, and advocate for best practice within Volunteer Involving Organisation (VIO’s) through advice, support, and training on volunteering matters.
Assist and promote volunteering locally through training and events.

The JVRC is located inside Whitford Library, corner Marmion and Banks Avenues, Hillarys.

Regular opening hours for the JVRC during the school term are:

Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 10.00am – 2.00pm.
Saturday 9.30am – 12.30pm.

During school holidays, the JVRC is open each Wednesday, 10.00am – 2.00pm.

If you are new to volunteering or would like a change to your volunteering role, join us for a Step Into Volunteering information session or make a personal appointment with a Referral Officer by contacting volunteer@joondalup.wa.gov.au or call 9400 4753.

To look for current volunteering opportunities, check out Go Volunteer, Seek Volunteer or Volunteering WA.

Friends groups

The City of Joondalup’s natural environment is biodiverse and unique, with many natural areas that provide a rich and valuable resource for residents, visitors, and native flora and fauna. Not only do natural areas provide valuable habitat for our native wildlife, but they are also important for recreational, educational, and aesthetic value within our community.

A Friends Group is a volunteer community group that works together with the City of Joondalup to preserve, protect and manage their local natural area within the City. Our Friends Group members are passionate individuals who love and want to protect and conserve the natural environment. Friends Groups can vary from informal, small groups to a more formal incorporated body.

The City of Joondalup appreciates the extensive work put in by its Friends Groups and takes pride in the considerable value that these groups bring to the conservation and management of our natural areas. Friends Groups, together with the work carried out by the City, are working towards revegetating, improving and protecting our valuable natural areas for the community and the native flora and fauna who enjoy them.

Friends Group Activities

Friends Groups may be involved in various activities for a particular reserve, with the aim of restoring the reserve’s conservation values and the community’s appreciation of the natural environment.

Friends Group activities include:

Monitoring and recording of flora and fauna
Weed control/removal
Guided nature walks
Rubbish clean-up
Seed collection
Community education (talks and presentations)
Fire prevention
Revegetation and planting.

Join or Form a Friends Group

There are many benefits to joining a Friends Group, including:

Making a real difference to the environment and helping to create a sustainable future by protecting local biodiversity and natural areas.
Networking and learning the expertise of managing urban bushland.
Meet new people and join a community.
Physical and mental health benefits, and well as improvement of general wellbeing.
Being outdoors in nature and enjoying your natural surroundings.
Experience seeing native wildlife and rare flora and fauna species.
Relive stress and keep your mind and brain healthy.
Placing an order with the City for free native plants to plant in your reserve.
Access to environmental training and workshops.
Access to various City grants.

Most groups are concerned with a parcel of bushland located near their homes. Below, you can view our Friends Group contact list if you are interested in joining a group near you. If no existing Friends Group exists for the reserve, the City encourages the establishment of a new Friends Group.

Interested in joining or creating a Friends Group?

Friends Group Expression of Interest Form

Stay Informed

Learn more about our beautiful natural areas and the latest projects, initiatives, and events Friends Groups are progressing in your local area.

Subscribe to the Natural Areas eNewsletter (Friends Group)