Conservation Volunteer Opportunity - North Coast NSW

Live and Work in Nature

Looking for a peaceful spot to stay, explore and give back to nature? We’re inviting self-contained nature lovers to stay at Banyula - our 1,000-acre conservation property tucked between State Forest and Yuraygir National Park, just 15 minutes from the stunning beaches of Minnie Water and Wooli. In exchange for helping out with standard conservation activities, you’ll have access to our off-grid facilities and a beautiful, quiet place to call home for a while. Whether you’re in a van, caravan or camper, and have a love for the environment, we’d love to have you join us and be part of the hands-on work that keeps this special place thriving.

About the ‘work’

Volunteers assist alongside our team with:

• Planting and weeding
• Wildlife camera monitoring
• Light construction and fencing removal
• Basic property maintenance and general land care
• Food garden productivity 

For first time visitors, we require a minimum of 1 month stay to ensure you get settled and offer a relaxed, informal arrangement where we hope the tasks feel rewarding and the exchange is fair- more like contributing to a shared project than doing a job. The amount of help we ask for is flexible and can be discussed when you apply, with the possibility of extending your stay if it’s mutually beneficial.

What We Offer

In exchange for your support, we provide:

• Free use of our deluxe off-grid facilities (hot showers and flushing toilets, drinking water & Wifi)
• A peaceful, natural setting surrounded by native wildlife
• Access to a unique conservation reserve, sometimes working alongside our team of scientists, bush regenerators and volunteers.
• A chance to join educational and ecological events when available
• Seasonal produce from the garden such as mangoes, bananas, herbs, vegetables and fruits

You’ll need to be reasonably fit and self-sufficient, with your own vehicle and accommodation (van or caravan preferred) for sleeping and preparing meals.  However, you will have full access to the amenities block and Wifi if required, and any produce from the garden. As this is a conservation property we have a strict no pets policy.

About Us

We’re an active couple in our 70s, passionate about protecting biodiversity and living lightly on the land. We’ve spent years restoring this property, along with our team of local professionals, NGO's and community groups, and are now opening it up to travelling volunteers who want to be part of the journey. We live onsite and enjoy the company of others, but you’ll have your own space and can choose where to set up which will offer as much privacy as you require.  The access road to Banyula is dirt but well maintained. Flooding is rare but possible in extreme rain. Mobile reception is limited but you’ll have full access to high speed reliable Wi-Fi if needed.

About Banyula Conservation Reserve

Banyula is a 1,000-acre private conservation reserve located on Gumbaynggirr Country in the Clarence Valley, adjacent to State Forest and Yuraygir National Park. The property includes predator-free areas, bush regeneration zones, wildlife corridors, and growing habitat restoration efforts. 

About the Area

The Clarence Valley on the NSW North Coast is a region of exceptional natural beauty, where rivers, rainforests, and beaches converge. It's home to the longest stretch of undeveloped coastline in New South Wales, protected within Yuraygir National Park, which spans 65 km of pristine beaches, rocky headlands, and rich coastal ecosystems. 

Just 20 minutes from Banyula, the coastal villages of Minnie Water and Wooli offer unspoiled beaches, excellent fishing, and a relaxed, small-town atmosphere. Minnie Water, one of the oldest fishing settlements on the coast, is known for its sheltered southern reef and calm waters, making it ideal for swimming and launching boats. Wooli, almost entirely surrounded by Yuraygir National Park, boasts stunning beaches and is a gateway to the Solitary Islands Marine Park, offering opportunities for snorkeling and diving. 

Grafton is a riverside city in the Clarence Valley, about 35 minutes from Banyula. Set along the Clarence River, Grafton offers a relaxed pace of life with all the essentials - supermarkets, cafes, pubs, and specialty shops. It's also a gateway to nearby national parks like Washpool and Nymboida, making it a great base for exploring the natural beauty of the Northern Rivers region.