Can anyone volunteer?

Yes. No previous experience is required — just enthusiasm and willingness to help. Volunteers under 18 have additional requirements. Please read our Child Safety Policy before applying.

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What will my volunteering experience be like?

Volunteering on Njulbitjik (Bare Sand Island) is essentially remote camping on a sandy, hot, almost treeless island with a small group of volunteers. Sea turtle research is the core of the experience.

You’ll have your own tent. Shared facilities include:

• research dome

• cooking and food‑prep gazebo

• food tent

• equipment tent

• a toilet located away from camp

Two small boats allow visits to nearby islands when conditions permit. Most research happens at night or early morning, around high tide, during the coolest part of the day.

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What will I get to do?

Volunteers take part in all aspects of the research program, including:

• measuring nesting turtles and hatchlings

• recording hatched nest data

• data entry

• food preparation and cooking

• general camp duties

There is also time to relax or explore. See the volunteer photo gallery for examples of past trips.

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Are we allowed to go fishing?

Yes. Fishing is permitted around Bare Sand Island. Bring your own gear if you plan to fish.

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Can I volunteer for only a few days?

No. Volunteers must commit to the full week. Transport to the island is costly and there is no regular boat service.

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Can I get a refund if I pull out?

Yes — with conditions. You must notify us before 1 May so we can fill your place. Please read our Refund Policy.

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Can I join a waiting list?

Yes. Start the booking process as normal. If all places are filled, the system will offer you the option to join the waiting list. We will contact you if a place becomes available.

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When should I arrive in Darwin?

We strongly recommend arriving the night before your volunteer week begins. If you miss the boat (usually departing at 10am), we are unlikely to be able to get you to the island.

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How long does it take to get to the departure point?

The boat departs from Cullen Bay Ferry Terminal.

• From Darwin CBD: ~10 minutes

• From anywhere within 20 km of the city: allow 30 minutes

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Do I need to prepare or do background reading?

If you are reasonably fit, the only preparation needed is reading the volunteering manual. Volunteers walk 5–8 km in soft sand each night, so a basic level of fitness is required. If you’re not currently active, we recommend daily walking for at least a month beforehand, aiming to comfortably walk 5 km.

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Do I need to bring a tent and sleeping mat?

No. AusTurtle supplies both. You should bring:

• a sheet for the sleeping mat

• a pillow

• a sleeping bag

You may bring your own tent if you prefer.

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What do I need to bring?

The volunteering manual includes a full packing list of required and recommended items.

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Do I need to bring money?

No. Some merchandise may be available on the island, but payment can be arranged once you return to Darwin.

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Are there safety protocols in place?

Yes. We follow remote‑fieldwork safety procedures. On the island we have:

• Satellite phone

• EPIRBs

• Comprehensive first aid kit

CareFlight can reach Bare Sand Island within 30 minutes.