Devils, dirt and determination

PICTURED: Building upon the success of Devil Ark, Aussie Ark operates as Australia’s largest mainland breeding facility for DFTD-free Tasmanian Devils. Their efforts are crucial for the species’ survival.

Rotary’s role in protecting a species on the brink. Rotarians swapped boardrooms for bushland in the Barrington Tops, rolling up their sleeves to support Aussie Ark’s mission to protect the endangered Tasmanian Devil through hands-on conservation work.

Rotary in action took on a distinctly hands-on and slightly muddy form recently, as District 9660 Governor Evan Burrell joined fellow Rotarians for a working weekend in the wild, with a visit to Aussie Ark in the Barrington Tops of New South Wales.

Accompanied by District 9660 Governor Nominee Peter Comino and members from the Rotary Clubs of Morisset and East Maitland, they stepped well outside the traditional Rotary setting of meetings and formalities or slinging sausages. Instead, the group immersed themselves in practical conservation work, contributing directly to one of Australia’s most significant wildlife protection initiatives.

The visit centred around supporting the conservation of the endangered Tasmanian Devil, a species under severe threat due to the spread of devil facial tumour disease. Aussie Ark has been at the forefront of efforts to establish a disease-free insurance population within the protected environment of the Barrington Tops, safeguarding the future of the species.

Rather than observing from the sidelines, the Rotary team took a fully participatory approach. Tasks throughout the day included assisting with site maintenance, weeding the animal enclosures, preparing habitats, and supporting the operational needs of the sanctuary. It was, by all accounts, a physically demanding but highly rewarding experience, one that underscored Rotary’s commitment to meaningful, community-driven impact.

Evan described the experience as a powerful reminder of Rotary’s purpose, noting our true strength lies in our ability to mobilise people, to get our hands dirty and to take direct action where it matters most.

A highlight of the visit was the opportunity to see the Tasmanian Devils up close. For many involved, this provided a tangible connection to the importance of the work being undertaken. The animals, known for their strength, unique characteristics and ecological significance, represent both the urgency and hope behind Aussie Ark’s mission.

The Rotary Club of Morisset has played a key role in supporting Aussie Ark, demonstrating how local Rotary clubs can partner with specialised organisations to deliver lasting environmental outcomes. This collaboration reflects a broader shift within Rotary towards hands-on service projects that create visible and measurable impact.

Beyond the physical work, the day also reinforced the strong sense of camaraderie among participants. Working side by side in a challenging environment fostered connection, shared purpose and a renewed sense of motivation, hallmarks of Rotary’s enduring appeal.

As environmental challenges continue to grow, initiatives like Aussie Ark highlight the importance of collective action. Rotary’s involvement serves as an example of how volunteer organisations can contribute meaningfully to conservation efforts, not only through funding and advocacy, but through active participation.