So you think you’d like to get more hands on with natural materials?

You’re a bit handy, or not, and you’d like to get involved with bottom-up, low-tech, low-carbon architecture and retrofit, and looking to volunteer on natural building projects with a eco/self build nature, ideally those in communal construction, with a social or environmental impact?

Well, yes! And here’s why we think it’s the best thing to devote your time and energies to. Many natural build projects are community-oriented, involving local residents and fostering a sense of collaboration. Volunteering in such projects helps strengthen community ties, promotes teamwork, and can lead to meaningful relationships with people who share similar values.

Why volunteer on a natural build?

• Working on a natural building project provides hands-on experience in alternative construction techniques. You can learn valuable skills in building methods, material handling, and sustainable practices that are not commonly covered in traditional construction training.
• Natural building projects often take place in diverse settings, allowing volunteers to experience different cultures and environments. This can lead to educational exchanges and broaden your understanding of how various communities approach sustainability and construction.
• Contributing to a project that supports sustainable living and Eco-conscious practices can be deeply satisfying. Knowing that your efforts are helping to create structures that are not only functional but also beneficial to the environment and future generations can provide a strong sense of accomplishment and purpose.
• Meet like-mided community. We’ve found over the years that the best way to find your people is by getting dirty with them! You never know who you might meet on a project, but guaranteed you’ll have a fair bit to talk about!

How to start volunteering!

Well, check out our events page first.  If there’s something in your area, you’re winning! If not, then you may have to plan something for down the line and be prepared to travel! I can’t tell you how many volunteers I met at the many workshops I have been in or facilitated over the years that had people come from far and wide! With caravans, dogs, babies, partners in tow, they made the trek because they were called to. And they were seldom disappointed by the experience! If you can’t find anything you want to get your hands on, there’s also plenty of local facebook groups that regularly put up offers of volunteering such as Australian Volunteering Cob and Natural Building  or Natural Building (Australia and New Zealand) – both of which will conenct you to other groups across the country that are all sharing opportunities and resources!

Where can you go to get more experience?

Sustainable House Day Workshops: Various locations across Australia participate in Sustainable House Day, where you can find workshops and tours showcasing natural building materials and techniques. Check local listings or the Sustainable House Day website for events near you.

The Ecovillage at Currumbin (Queensland): An eco-community that incorporates natural building techniques. They often offer workshops and volunteering opportunities.

Permaculture Research Institute (various locations): Offers courses and practical experience in sustainable building practices as part of their permaculture design certifications.
The Australian College of Environmental Studies (ACES): Provides training in sustainable living practices, including natural building techniques.

Djanbung Gardens (New South Wales): An educational permaculture center that sometimes offers hands-on natural building workshops.

Or head to the WWOOF Australia website that often has natural building opportunities built into your stay on organic farms.

University and TAFE Courses: Some universities and TAFE institutions offer courses or units focusing on sustainable and natural building techniques. Institutions such as the University of New South Wales and TAFE Queensland may have relevant programs.

Don’t be afraid to get started. Once you have the bug it’s very hard to go back!