Ever felt like volunteering, but had no idea where to begin or whom to ask? Ipswich City Council’s Better Impact Volunteer Portal can put you on the right track.
Nearly 400 volunteers from across the Ipswich region currently help the Council run smoothly, thanks to accessibility tools like the Portal.
It lists all currently available positions according to category and time frame, with detailed information and links for signing up.
Community, Culture, Arts and Sport Committee Chairperson and Division 3 Councillor Andrew Fechner directed residents of all ages to the website for rewarding experiences.
“If you are interested in joining a bushcare group or get involved with our visitor centres and city events, visit Council’s Volunteer Portal to see opportunities open across Ipswich,” Cr Fechner said.
Volunteering for the Council covers a range of roles, including: helping out at festivals, concert groups, and poetry readings; staffing public information and education centres, libraries, and history rooms; and working outdoors with bushcare, nursery, and nature centre groups.
There are currently two opportunities listed on the Portal within Greater Springfield, both involving riparian (riverbed) preservation and regeneration activities, such as watering, weeding, and litter clean-up.
Bellbird Park’s Woogaroo Creek Bushcare group, which formed just a year ago, meets at the nearby Eugene Street car park at 2pm on the last Sunday of every month.
Top: Image: Ipswich City Council.
The Opossum Creek Project – run by Opossum Creek Bushcare, which is part of Springfield Lakes Nature Care (SLNC) – is currently postponed due to Council works and this year’s extreme weather, but will recommence in November.
Environment and Sustainability Committee chairperson and Division 4 Councillor Russell Milligan said volunteers are essential to support and enhance the gardens, parks, reserves, and waterways of Ipswich.
“Partnering with volunteers such as these Bushcare groups, some of which have been active for more than 20 years, is one way Council is working with the community to improve the city’s natural environment,” Cr Milligan said.
The Council also encourages residents with passion and drive, and a bit of group-organising experience, to set up new bushcare groups.
“As part of Council’s Bushcare program, each volunteer group receives tailored support including on-the-ground training, insurance cover, plants, tools and mulch.
“Whether it’s adding a burst of biodiversity to your garden with free plants, or showing your love for a park by joining a local bushcare group – get out there and get Ipswich growing!”
Residents can access the portal by searching online for “Ipswich Better Impact Volunteer Portal”.
