General Questions

What is Wild Mob?
What is a ‘Mobster’?
What do the costs cover?

Project Work and Activities

What are the working hours?
What types of conservation work can I expect?
How much free time will I have on the projects?
Do I need any previous training or experience?

Living Conditions, Facilities, Food and Equipment

What kind of accommodation can I expect?
What's the food like on Wild Mob projects?
What things do I need to bring on a Wild Mob project?

Transport

Is all transport included?
Can Wild Mob book my flights?
What happens if there are delays?

Registration Process, Costs and Cancellations

What do the costs cover?
How does the registration process work?
Is my personal information safe?
What if need to cancel my booking?

Individuals, Groups, Age and Education

Can I join on my own?
Can I go with my school, friends or family group?
How big are the volunteer groups?
Are there any age limits for Mobsters?
Is my school or group eligible for grants?
Are there any formal educational components on the projects?

Health, Safety and Insurance

Who is in charge of Wild Mob projects?
Will I be safe on the project?
What if there's an emergency?
Will I be covered by insurance while on the project?

Staying in Contact

How can I stay in contact with other Mobsters?
Does Wild Mob have a Facebook page?
Does Wild Mob have a newsletter?

General Questions

What is Wild Mob?

Wild Mob is a not-for-profit, non-political organisation providing volunteers the opportunity to work on meaningful environmental projects in remote and iconic Australian destinations. We are dedicated to protecting Australia’s unique biodiversity through practical conservation and rehabilitation programs. Our organisation was founded in 2008 by Graeme Wood, founder of online accommodation site Wotif.com.

What is a ‘Mobster’?

A ‘Mobster’ is simply a name we give to our project participants. Our projects are unique – a mix of hands-on conservation volunteering, practical environmental education and plenty of free time to enjoy the natural surroundings. Therefore, we need a unique name to match – a name for everyone who joins us on the projects and helps make a positive difference in protecting Australia’s most iconic places.

What do the costs cover?

Mobsters’ contributions simply cover the costs of running the projects. Since we’re a not-for-profit, our objective isn’t centred on money. Instead, our sole focus is to offer participants a unique experience of hands-on environmental education, practical conservation work and time to enjoy some of Australia’s natural places. The cost-recovery contributions cover expenses for food, accommodation, project equipment (including work equipment), activities, local transport, training, guides and related expenses, which vary for each project.

Project Work and Activities

What are the working hours?

Working hours will be adjusted to the group’s abilities, weather conditions and can vary for each project. Conservation work usually ranges from 2 to 6 hours a day. We believe our projects offer the most when they include a balanced mix of environmental education, hands-on conservation work and leisure time.

What types of conservation work can I expect?

The project changes based on location. It can include invasive weed removal, marine debris and beach cleanup, bird and animal surveys, GPS plotting, walking track maintenance and animal feeding, among other things. Generally, Mobsters should hold a moderate level of fitness, though some projects require more advanced fitness levels for extended bush walking and more labour-intensive activities. However, our project leaders will always adjust the activities and work to meet the abilities of the group. For specific details for each project, simply contact us.

How much free time will I have on the projects?

We aim to give Mobsters extra time each day to relax and explore. Wild Mob projects offer a variety of additional activities, which can include snorkelling, Aboriginal cultural education, leisure hikes, bird watching, nocturnal wildlife spotting or tours of local attractions. Each project provides a different set of opportunities to take in the natural surroundings. For more information on specific activities, check out the project pages or contact us.

Do I need any previous training or experience?

No, no previous experience is required. Project leaders will teach and supervise all Mobsters for the conservation component of the projects. Based on the group’s ages and experience levels, project leaders are happy to help introduce volunteers to camping, cooking and cleaning duties.

Living Conditions, Facilities, Food and Equipment

What kind of accommodation can I expect?

Wild Mob projects offer a variety of accommodations, depending on each unique location. For those more adventurous, some projects require bush camping in tents, with limited access to running water or mobile coverage. On the other end of the spectrum, some projects offer stays in cabin accommodations with bedding and toilets, along with access to mobile service, laundry and nearby basic shops. For specific accommodations, refer to the project pages or contact us directly.

What's the food like on Wild Mob projects?

Wild Mob believes in a balanced diet, containing a mix of fresh fruit and vegetables, locally sourced meats and a few treats for good measure. We supply breakfast, lunch, dinner, morning and afternoon teas and all drinks while on site. Wild Mob staff aim to shop in a socially responsible manner, which can include organic and local produce. If notified in advance, we’re happy to cater for special dietary requirements.

What things do I need to bring on a Wild Mob project?

Mobsters will need to bring proper clothing for project activities. Additionally, participants should bring any personal medication and toiletries, as appropriate. Wild Mob will supply all necessary project equipment and camping supplies. Upon registration, participants will receive a prioritised, detailed gear list of items they should bring for their specific project. Our projects are set up so that, in many cases, our Mobsters do not have to purchase any specific gear.

Transport

Is all transport included?

Local transport is included. After registering, we’ll inform participants of the local pick-up/drop-off location and what time they’ll need to be ready to help them plan their journey. Participants are responsible for their own transport to/from the designated project pick-up/drop-off point.

Can Wild Mob book my flights?

No, as Wild Mob is not a licensed travel agent, we cannot directly make bookings for Mobsters. However, upon registration, we’ll send participants full details for departure/return times, project locations, etc., and we’re happy to help recommend suitable flights and transport, if required. For more information, feel free to contact us with any questions. 

What happens if there are delays?

Although we are committed to maintaining our departure and arrival schedules, in the event of unforeseen circumstances, Wild Mob cannot be held responsible for the costs incurred due to missed connections.

Registration Process, Costs and Cancellations

What do the costs cover?

Mobsters’ contributions simply cover the costs of running the projects. Since we’re a not-for-profit, our objective isn’t centred on money. Instead, our sole focus is to offer participants a unique experience of hands-on environmental education, practical conservation work and time to enjoy some of Australia’s natural places. The cost-recovery contributions cover expenses for food, accommodation, project equipment (including work equipment), activities, local transport, training, guides and related expenses, which vary for each project. 

How does the registration process work?

1. We recommend you first get in contact with us. By doing that, we can answer any questions you might have. All of our contact details are available here.
2. You’ll need to complete a registration form. This form is available as a PDF document on our website. Anyone under 18 years will need parental consent. The information collected within the registration form is essential to ensure we have proper contact details and can provide the safest experience for everyone on the projects. All personal and medical information is kept strictly confidential and shared only with those responsible for the project (e.g., Wild Mob project leaders). All information is held in accordance with Australia’s National Privacy Principles set out in the Privacy Amendment Act 2000.
3. Upon receiving your completed registration form, we’ll send you an invoice for the project contributions.
4. Next, you’ll need to make a deposit (typically $100) to secure your spot on the project. This can be done on any of our website’s project pages. All transactions are through a 3rd-party, fully encrypted and secure bank connection. We can also receive payments by direct deposit. Alternatively, we can process cheques. Wild Mob will invoice groups as a whole.
5. After receiving your completed registration form and deposit, we’ll follow up with you to confirm receipt and send you specific information on departure and return times, items you should bring, a project itinerary, etc.
6. Approximately one month prior to the start of the project, we ask you to pay the remaining balance (if any) of your project contribution.

Is my personal information safe?

The personal and medical information we require is to safely implement projects and to better serve Mobsters and our project partners (e.g., national parks). If you choose not to provide certain personal information we may not be able to process your registration, fulfill your request or provide you with an appropriate level of service.

Further, we are committed to protecting your privacy. We support and are bound by Australia’s National Privacy Principles set out in the Privacy Amendment Act 2000. We will only collect information relevant to our relationship with you. The information will be disclosed only to those responsible for the implementation of projects (e.g., Wild Mob project leaders).

If you have any questions in relation to privacy and the information collected, used and stored, please contact our Privacy Officer:

Sarah Hay
Wild Mob Pty Ltd
PO Box 1724
2/249 Coronation Drive
Milton QLD 4064
Australia
Phone: +61 (0)7 3369 9665
Fax: +61 (0)7 3337 9835
E-mail: info@wildmob.org

What if need to cancel my booking?

We understand there are occasionally unforeseen circumstances and our Mobsters need to make other arrangements. However, if you need to cancel your booking, please note our policy: cancellations made 3 weeks prior to the project start date or longer are fully refunded, cancellations made within 3 weeks prior to the start date are refunded the full amount minus a $100 deposit, payments are subject to a cancellation fee of 100% within 7 days of the project commencement date. Please ensure you have arranged your own cancellation travel insurance. Payments and placements are not transferable. Additionally, Wild Mob reserves the right to cancel a camp if the minimum group size requirement is not met.

Individuals, Groups, Ages and Education

Can I join on my own?

Of course! The project dates listed on our website are available to individual participants. You’ll likely be joined by a group of 6 to 10 other like-minded people, all interested in helping protect and experience some of Australia’s unique places. Additionally, some projects are tailored specifically to university students, families, grey nomads or international travellers, allowing for more appropriate activities, education and conservation work. If you double check with us before booking, we can help place you on one of these specially focused projects, or simply on a general project with a wider range of other Mobsters.

Can I go with my school, friends or family group?

Absolutely. We regularly take groups on our projects. We specialise in offering tailored camps for small school groups and university students. If we’re notified in advance, we can also prepare specialised content to coincide with curriculum requirements. Family and friend groups with an interest for the environment, outdoor and adventure are warmly welcomed too.

How big are the volunteer groups?

Groups usually range in size from 6 to 11 volunteers, with the addition of Wild Mob staff to supervise all activities. For schools, families or other groups, we’re happy to include teachers, parents or other leaders to join in the project, too. Exact numbers for each project depend on the location and available transport and accommodations. For more details, refer to each project page or contact us and we’ll be happy to give you more details.

Are there any age limits for Mobsters?

Generally we require participants to be at least 16 years old if they’re travelling independently. However, we’re happy to accept participants as young as 14 if they have adults accompanying them (parents, guardians, teachers, etc). All Mobsters under 18 years of age will need parental consent. There is no upper age limit, as long as volunteers possess an appropriate level of fitness – some projects require more fitness than others. If you have questions, feel free to give us a call and we’ll be happy to answer them.

Is my school or group eligible for grants?

Your school or organisation may be eligible for grants or other funding for participating in a Wild Mob project. For more information, visit our schools page for more information and links to available government grants and funding opportunities.

Are there any formal educational components on the projects?

Depending on the size and type of participants, we’re happy to tailor the project activities to specific educational needs. While we always include informal and practical environmental education as part of our projects, we can make arrangements with teachers or university lecturers to include additional learning components. Simply contact us in advance and we can discuss and make the arrangements.

Health, Safety and Insurance

Who is in charge of Wild Mob projects?

Every camp will have a dedicated project leader who is responsible for the organisation of transport, accommodation and facilities, conservation work, educational aspects and additional activities during the camp. A second staff member may assist the project leader with these duties. If attending, teachers or guardians share joint responsibility for the supervision and care of students with Wild Mob staff.

Will I be safe on the project?

Wild Mob’s priority is to keep our Mobsters safe. Our experienced project leaders ensure a safe working environment for all participants by providing safety briefings prior to commencing all activities, as well as adequate training and supervision. Comprehensive risk assessments have been completed on all of our projects to minimise exposure to dangerous situations. 

What if there's an emergency?

Should an emergency arise, all project staff are certified in first aid. We also keep an emergency response plan on hand, which contains contacts for police, ambulance, nearby hospitals and medical facilities, fire brigade and 24-hour Wild Mob number. The Project Leader will also carry a satellite phone in remote locations, as necessary.

Will I be covered by insurance while on the project?

Yes, Wild Mob has a twenty million dollar mandatory public liability insurance policy. In addition to this, Wild Mob Corporate Travel Insurance covers all volunteers for injuries whilst on Wild Mob trips for either 85% of income or, in the case of a student, 85% of private tutorial and domestic assistance. The details of the policy are available upon request.

Staying in Contact

How can I stay in contact with other Mobsters?

Many new friends have been made on Wild Mob projects. We suggest you exchange contact details while on the project so you can stay in contact with each other afterward. Because of privacy restrictions, we can’t release contact details to other participants. If you’d like, you can send us your photos and we can post them to our Flickr page. But please note, we may also use these photos for our website, brochures or other promotional materials.

Does Wild Mob have a Facebook page?

Yes, we do. Go to www.facebook.com/wildmob and become a fan. You can also follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/wildmob_org. Or you can check out our photos from past projects on Flickr at www.flickr.com/wildmob.

Does Wild Mob have a newsletter?

Yes, we do. Visit www.wildmob.org/subscribe to register for the newsletter. We send it once every month or two, with recent volunteer accomplishments and info on future projects.