The recently reconstituted Recruitment and Awards Committee wants members to know that there are literally dozens of ways you can get involved with NPA.
NPA Members provide significant voluntary and financial support, bring knowledge and enthusiasm, provide direction and leadership, and carry out much of NPA’s activities. Without members, NPA couldn’t do what it does.
The message from those who give their time to NPA is that it’s a significant and satisfying part of their life, with lots of different ways to get involved. This is greatly assisted by a decentralised structure that allows members to work together in a variety of forums, each dedicated to a particular aspect of NPA’s work. There are opportunities through each of the following avenues:
Regional groups
NPA’s membership is divided on a regional basis into ‘branches’. Each branch has a dedicated group that organises and conducts conservation and outdoor activities for the particular region (such as Illawarra, Southern Sydney or Central Coast). Activities may include campaign work, submissions, newsletters, field surveys, bushcare, bushwalking, skills training, and social or other events. Offers of assistance are welcome at any time. Find a contact for your nearest group at
‘By volunteering for NPA I know that I’m assisting in protecting our precious ecosystems for future generations’ – Jane Judd, Sydney Region branch committee
Specialist groups
Specialist groups concentrate on a particular program or special interest. There are currently groups for Landscape Conservation, Park Management and Field Activities. Future groups may be formed for marine conservation, nature study or other topics. Prior knowledge or expertise isn’t required—but joining a group is a great way to learn.
State Council
NPA State Council sets strategic direction and policy, particularly for conservation and campaign work. Total composition is about 35-40 persons, including the Executive members, representatives from regional and specialist groups, and up to 8 positions (to fill identified needs) that are open to any NPA member. Find out more from George Pund, Secretary, tel 0400 763 113 secretary@npansw.org.au
‘I really enjoy the breadth of NPA activities discussed at State Council’ – Pam McCann, State Council member for Central Coast
Executive
The Executive is responsible for NPA’s financial and operational affairs, undertakes business planning, and develops, approves and oversees the annual budget. There are 9 positions as follows: the President, (2) Vice Presidents, Secretary, Treasurer and (4) general Executive members. Any NPA member may nominate for a position (subject to certain eligibility requirements). Find out more from George Pund, Secretary, tel 0400 763 113 secretary@npansw.org.au
‘Being on executive has helped me understand how NPA works and discuss how things might need to change.‘ – George Pund Executive Committee member since 2022
Administrative groups
The Executive is assisted by several administrative groups that deal with specific operational matters, including Finance, Membership and Fundraising. NPA members with relevant skills or interest can contribute. Contact Grahame Douglas (as above) for more information.
‘The membership committee is a lovely group of people to work with.’ – Helen Wilson Convenor Membership Committee
Representatives and nominees
There are several positions as representatives to other organisations (such as the Australian Committee for IUCN, Inland Rivers Network and Bushwalking NSW). In addition, NPA has nominees on various NPWS and other statutory advisory committees. We are keen to hear from members who would like to participate in these forums. Contact George Pund (as above).
Natural Areas Pty Ltd
Natural Areas Pty Ltd is a company owned by NPA that manages a conservation property in Sydney’s Northern Beaches district. There are opportunities to get involved in bushcare work, or to become a director of the company. Contact Grahame Douglas, President, tel 0418 256 700 president@npansw.org.au for more information.
Interested but unsure?
You are welcome to sit in on meetings of the State Council, Executive or any of the various groups—regional, specialist or administrative. This may give a better understanding of the group’s role and how it matches your interests, ideas or skills.
It’s also possible to share a position with another person, or to act as an assistant, allowing you to learn the ropes or juggle existing commitments. Please ask us about how we can facilitate your involvement.
Positions for 2025
Positions for regional groups will be chosen at branch annual general meetings during coming months. Contact your nearest group for details.
Other positions will be chosen at the State Council Annual Meeting, to be held on Saturday 16 November 2024 (in person and via Zoom). A call for nominations for Executive and State Council positions will be circulated to all members in early September. Positions can also be filled at other times if required.
So if you’d like to make a difference, learn new skills, while also having a rewarding experience, don’t delay—contact us right away!