Volunteers at the heart of the Great Ocean Road
Published on 19 May 2025
Every corner of the Great Ocean Road tells a story — and more often than not, it’s a volunteer helping to write it.
This National Volunteer Week, the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority is proud to recognise the remarkable contributions of the hundreds of volunteers who generously give their time, energy, and care to protect and enhance this iconic and culturally significant part of Victoria.
Without the help of volunteers, invasive species would spread unchecked, fragile dune systems would erode, and native wildlife would struggle to survive. The beaches and parks we all enjoy might not be as clean, as accessible, or as vibrant as they are today.
Across the region, local stewardship is alive and well. Groups such as the Aireys Inlet, Anglesea and Torquay Rubbish Rangers, Friends of Queens Park and Taylor Park, Jan Juc Coast Action, Surfrider Foundation, Wye to Wongarra Landcare, and Apollo Bay Landcare continue to lead by example.
Over the past year, more than 500 community members have volunteered directly with us, contributing close to 6,000 hours across a wide range of projects. It’s an extraordinary effort — but the true impact of their work goes far beyond the numbers.
From Hooded Plover monitoring and weed control to track maintenance and cultural heritage protection, volunteers play a hands-on role in caring for Country every day.
There isn’t space to name every group that contributes — and that in itself, speaks volumes. From emergency services like the CFA, SES, and Surf Life Saving Clubs to the dedicated volunteers running sporting clubs, and patrolling our beaches on weekends, these individuals are the backbone of our region.
Every time someone walks a well-maintained track, sees a Hoodie chick surviving against the odds, or enjoys a clean beach and a safe swim between the flags — it’s thanks in large part to volunteers who give their time, quietly and selflessly to care for this special place.
Quotes attributable to Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority Interim Chief Executive Officer, Christine Ferguson:
“This National Volunteer Week, we join with communities across Australia to say thank you.”
“Your individual and collective efforts make our coast and parks healthier and our communities stronger.”
“To every person who has given their time, energy and expertise to care for our coast and parks — we see you, we value you, and we thank you.”