Around 20 people have signed-on to attend the annual Kylies Beach bush regeneration camp, says co-ordinator Sue Baker. It will be held April 4-9 at Kylies Beach, south of Diamond Head and is run by volunteers from the National Parks Association (NPA) Mid North Coast Branch in partnership with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).

“Twenty is a good number but it’s not enough, we really need 27 people. I’ve found that’s the minimum we need with people coming and going, and doing what they can, when they can.”

Sue laughs as she shares the characteristics of the ideal volunteer for the weeding work. 

 “Young male muscle … and preferably fit people,” she says.

She is keen to stress that volunteers can work at their own pace, and rest whenthey need to during their time staying at Kylies Beach Camping Area.

“There may be a perception that it is really hard work, however the work is as hard or easy as individual people choose to make it. It ranges from hand-pulling small bitou bushes and lantana to the lopping of larger plants at the base and painting the trunk with Roundup.

“We have a fabulous group of interesting core volunteers who come each year, they are great company and we have a really good time around the nightly campfire.”

Sue says the success of the 39-year-old project depends on the number of volunteers and she stresses the NPA value the time and work of each person, even if they are only able to take part for one day.

“We also have the NPWS trailer that is fully equipped with all cooking, eating and washing up gear, sink, urn and we have water - that means a lot less packing for those who might be hesitant about camping. We also have communal tea, coffee, milk and biscuits.

“The branch provides a barbecue on the Saturday night. So why not come and have a short working holiday with us?” says Sue.

For further information phone Sue on 6559 7134.