Volunteer Visitor Host - Zoos Victoria

Volunteer
Title:
Location:
Volunteer Visitor Host
Werribee Open Range Zoo
Description: Volunteer Visitor Hosts will be part of the face of Werribee Open Range Zoo, helping
visitors get the most from their visit through excellent customer service and helping
visitors fight extinction by advocating for our conservation campaigns.
About Zoos Victoria
Zoos Victoria operates world-class zoos on three sites: Melbourne Zoo, Healesville Sanctuary and
Werribee Open Range Zoo. Our vision is to be the world‟s leading zoo-based conservation
organisation through our commitment to fight extinction. Zoos Victoria provides innovative
wildlife-based recreation and learning experiences that inspire and facilitate visitors to take
conservation actions that make a measurable and positive difference.
Volunteers play a very important role in the life of Zoos Victoria. They contribute to the success of
Zoos Victoria by furthering our reach and capacity in fighting extinction, adding value to a visitor‟s
day, and complementing, not replacing, our staff.
Key details of the volunteer role
What will you be doing?
Who are we looking for?
Volunteer Visitor Hosts will:
greet visitors on entry and make them feel welcome
circulate along the Pula Reserve Trail and entry areas
support the Visitor Experience team to provide excellent
customer service
offer information that will allow visitors to get the most out of
their visit from way finding within the zoo to orientation outside
of it
assist visitors to plan their visit by recommending experiences,
services, activities and exhibits that meet their needs and
interests
be a “refresher” to visitors as they circulate around the Pula
Reserve Trail, Meerkat Bistro and entry areas– discussing what
they‟ve seen and where they are headed next
assist in managing visitors in queues awaiting entry to the zoo
host visitors attending special events at the zoo
fight extinction by advocating for our conservation campaigns to
visitors
People who are:
comfortable approaching visitors and starting conversations
able to relate to and adjust information accordingly for visitors
from a range of backgrounds and all ages
proactive and creative
team players
Volunteer Role Description – Volunteer Visitor Host WORZ Page 1 of 3
Last updated January 2013

Commitment
Benefits to you
Training
Costs
Location
interested in animals, wild places and conservation
reliable and communicative
knowledgeable of the local area and the zoo and/or open to
learning
experienced in delivering excellent customer service and/or
open to learning.
Committed to volunteering and open to the idea of furthering
their knowledge through information sessions and training.
Werribee Open Range Zoo is open every day of the year and
experiences its busiest times during weekends, public holidays and
school holidays. We are particularly looking for volunteers who can
help us on these busy days.
Shifts are a minimum of 3 hours and are available each day from
Monday to Sunday. Volunteers must meet a minimum commitment
of at least once a month. Volunteers who are willing to volunteer
once a week during the school holidays will be highly regarded.
Volunteers will:
have an opportunity to be involved in a world-leading zoo-based
conservation organisation
be part of a team of friendly, likeminded people
receive training and the opportunity to learn new skills, and to
apply your learning in a meaningful way
have an opportunity to get involved in other volunteer roles
subject to interest and availability
receive a range of benefits including discounts, invitations to
special events, regular news updates and discounted
membership after 12 months of volunteer service.
All new volunteers must attend and complete training in the Zoos
Victoria Core Module, which includes training units such as
volunteering at the zoo, safety and emergency procedures, and
providing positive visitor experiences. One day training is required
to fulfil this commitment.
Costs:
Zoos Victoria membership – currently $91 per year + $15 once
off joining fee for an adult. For all membership costs see
www.zoo.org.au/members . Please note, after 12 months active
volunteer service the membership is reduced to $20 per year.
Working with Children Check (if you don‟t already have one) –
free for volunteers
Werribee Open Range Zoo
Requirements Current Working with Children Check
Zoos Victoria Membership
Compliance with the Code of Conduct
Wear the uniform provided
18 years +
Ability to stand and walk for long periods of time
Demonstrated passion for wildlife and wild places
Selection Process
Prospective volunteers are encouraged to review the information
below and follow the instructions on how to apply.
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Last updated January 2013

Applications will be individually assessed and eligible volunteers will
be invited to attend a brief group interview.
Equity and accessibility
Adults of all ages, backgrounds, abilities and skills are encouraged
to become Zoos Victoria volunteers.
There is no upper age limit as long as you continue to be fit, active,
able and willing to learn and remember new information and adapt
to change as the zoo develops.
How do I apply for this volunteer opportunity?
Compile a short application outlining:
why volunteering at Zoos Victoria appeals to you
your previous experience and suitability with this role (including a C.V. if applicable)
availability
contact information
Please send you application, with the subject line „Application for Volunteer Visitor Host‟ to
worzvolunteers@zoo.org.au
To find out more:
contact the Volunteer Coordinator on telephone 97319616 or email worzvolunteers@zoo.org.au
visit www.zoo.org.au/get-involved/volunteer-at-zoos-victoria
Volunteer Role Description – Volunteer Visitor Host WORZ Page 3 of 3
Last updated January 2013