Corporate Profile
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National Trust of Australia (Queensland) respects and honours the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Queensland. National Trust of Australia (Queensland) acknowledges the stories, traditions and living cultures of First Nations peoples across the many traditional lands and language groups of Queensland. We thank them for caring for Country, the lands, the waters and wildlife since time immemorial.
WHO WE ARE
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WHAT WE DO
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NATIONAL TRUST OF AUSTRALIAN (QUEENSLAND) AND NATIONAL TRUST OF AUSTRALIA FAST FACTS
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HOW WE WORK
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OUR STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
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CURRUMBIN WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
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CURRUMBIN WILDLIFE SANCTUARY 'OUR WORK' & NTAQ VOLUNTEER STATISTICS WORLD-CLASS RESEARCH AND EDUCATION CAMPUS
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EDUCATION, EVENTS AND EXPERIENCES
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HERITAGE
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OUR FIRST NATIONS PARTNERSHIPS
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ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES YOUR LANDCARE NEEDS NATIONAL TRUST OF AUSTRALIA (QUEENLAND) PARTNERSHIP WITH EARTHWATCH AUSTRALIA
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DISTANCE LEARNING PLATFORM
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OUR FINANCIAL POSITION
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who we are We are dedicated to our Charitable Purpose 'to promote and advance the conservation,
protection and understanding of Australia’s natural and cultural heritage, including the heritage of Australia’s First Peoples, for public benefit and education'.
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2014
National Trust was established in Queensland by state legislation to recognise and care for special heritage places.
Dr Alex Griffiths gifted the Currumbin Bird Sanctuary to National Trust Queensland, with its care governed by an act of Parliament.
National Trust Queensland transitioned to National Trust of Australia (Queensland), a public company limited by guarantee, and an independent environmental charity with a newly defined charitable purpose outline in its constitution.
In 1995 the name was changed to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and was officially heritage listed. In 2009 it was added to the Queensland Heritage Register.
Board Directors National Trust of Australia (Queensland) is governed by an independent Board of Directors, with support from various Advisory Committees, including Audit and Risk, Nominations and Governance Committees.
The Team 4
National Trust of Australia (Queensland)
We acknowledge the invaluable contributions of our staff, volunteers, and regional Community Groups, who work tirelessly across Queensland to further our mission. 5
what we do Success for us is being leaders in Conservation and Heritage
National Trust of Australia (Queensland) Visitor, Community and Environmental Sites •
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Gold Coast
National Trust of Australia (Queensland) {NTAQ} manages visitor, community and environmental sites across the state including Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and Hospital and Garima Conservation Reserve in the Southeast, to Cooktown Museum in Far North Queensland.
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Honeyworld, Currumbin, Gold Coast
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Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, Gold Coast
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Garima Conservation Reserve, Gold Coast
With a workplace that is very diverse and multigenerational with staff, volunteers and trainees who all play a vital role in preserving Queensland's history for future generations. Our activities throughout are overseen by Head Office located at Currumbin, Queensland.
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Pottsville Koala Rehabilitation Facility, Northern Rivers, NSW
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Byron Bay Parklands Plantations, Northern Rivers, NSW
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Uki Gum Plantations, NSW
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Merrimac Eucalyptus Plantation, Gold Coast
Queensland Heritage Council Representation
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Neranwood Eucalyptus Plantation, Hinze Dam, Gold Coast
The National Trust of Australia (Queensland) is a permanent member of the Queensland Heritage Council, a statutory body, created under the Queensland Heritage Act 1992 that provides advocacy and expertise on heritage matters. Through this role, National Trust Queensland works collaboratively with the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation and the Heritage Council to:
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Wolston Farmhouse, Wacol, Greater Brisbane
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Royal Bull’s Head Inn, Drayton, Toowoomba
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Harris House, Toowoomba
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Brennan & Geraghty’s Store, Maryborough
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Support the addition of new places to the State Heritage Register
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Townsville Heritage Centre, Townsville
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Ensure heritage remains accessible and relatable to a broad audience
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Zara Clark Museum, Charters Towers
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Develop strategies that engage communities in recognising and celebrating their local heritage
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Stock Exchange Arcade, Charters Towers
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Lyall’s Store, Charters Towers
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Hou Wang Chinese Temple and Museum, Atherton
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Cooktown Museum, Cooktown
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Eco Parklands Plantation and Wildlife Rehabilitation facility – to be launched 2026/27, Currumbin
Acting independently of government, the Council serves the public interest by ensuring places of heritage value are identified, protected, and appreciated for generations to come.
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Fast Facts
Fast Facts
Australian Council of National Trusts (ACNT)
A member-based charity, committed to promoting and conserving Queensland’s natural, built and cultural heritage
National body representing each state and territory National Trust – advocating for heritage funding and policy outcomes Chair: Lachlan Molesworth
President: Mark Townend Deputy President: Glenys Schuntner CEO: Jayme Cuttriss CEO/Company Secretary: Ben Graziani
Over 19,000 Members who enjoy free access to over 800 places around Australia and overseas
605 Volunteers 373 Staff 150 Trainees
Represented by
14 places managed across Australia 11 Heritage Listed places
Managed assets valued at $121.9M (as at 30 June 2024)
Over 60,000 Members who enjoy free access to over 800 places around Australia and overseas
Over 786k visitors attending events and places
More than 370k followers on social media
$10.3M in construction/building expenditure
38,460 participants in student education programs
249 trees on the Register of Significant Trees across the State
ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF COUNTRY The National Trust of Australia (Queensland) acknowledges traditional owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connections to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders cultures, and to Elders - past and present.
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252 places managed across Australia 197 Heritage Listed places
Managed assets valued at $627M as at 30 June 2024
Historic artefact collection valued at $42M
Over 1.5M visitors attending events and places
More than 511k followers on social media
$15.5M in construction/building expenditure
110,885 participants in student education programs and over 75 Community Programs
25,000 trees on the Register of Significant Trees across the State
162 Heritage appeals managed on behalf of community groups
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Protecting 60 hectares of bushland and plantations
3,700 Volunteers 735 Staff 150 Trainees
NT: Eddie Webber - CEO VIC: Collette Brennan - CEO SA: Simon Ambrose – CEO WA: Julian Donaldson - CEO TAS: Jude Franks – Acting MD
1.5M
786k Historic artefact collection valued at $7.6M
ACT: Linda Keyser - CEO NSW: Debbie Mills - CEO QLD: Jayme Cuttriss - CEO
National Trust of Australia (Queensland)
31 Heritage appeals managed on behalf of community groups
Member of
Protecting 10,800 hectares of bushland and plantations
ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF COUNTRY
Members of
The National Trust of Australia acknowledges traditional owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connections to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders cultures, and to Elders - past and present.
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how we work Our Vision is to be leaders in Conservation and Heritage. Our Mission is to conserve and advance our natural and cultural heritage for future generations. Our Values we are committed to being: • Authentic in our approach, preserving the integrity of Queensland’s heritage. • Responsible stewards of the environmental, cultural, and built assets entrusted to our care. • Respectful in our engagement with communities, cultures, and histories. • Trusted by our members, partners, and the public to uphold the highest standards of governance and conservation. • Innovative in finding sustainable solutions to protect and celebrate our environmental, cultural and built heritage for future generations.
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National Trust of Australia (Queensland)
National Trust of Australia (Queensland) is driven by a dedicated team of leaders committed to the organisation's mission. This leadership is provided by key personnel, including an experienced Board of Directors and an Executive Committee, who together ensure the Trust remains focused on delivering its strategic outcomes.
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Board of Directors
Executive Committee
Specialists
Mark Townend AM President Glenys Schuntner Deputy President Carolyn Parker Garry Vistarini Mellisa Brown Fiona Gardiner PSM Stuart Lummis Paul Davies Annabelle Simon
Jayme Cuttriss Chief Executive Officer Ben Graziani Chief Financial Officer and Company Secretary Travis Couch General Manager Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and Hospital Jane Jamieson Head of Volunteer Programs and Community Training Partnerships Briony Low Head of People and Culture Noel Langdon Head of Heritage and Environmental Services Jason Thomas Head of Business Development and Partnerships
Dr Michael Pyne OAM Head of Veterinary Science and Research Anthony Molyneux Head of Life Sciences and Conservation Georgia Lane Head of Fundraising
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our strategic priorities
2023-2027
Financial Sustainability We are dedicated to maintaining a robust and resilient financial foundation to support long-term growth and preservation efforts. Vibrant and Engaging Guest Experiences Our focus is on creating enriching, memorable experiences that connect visitors with Queensland’s heritage and natural environment. Digital Transformation We are committed to leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency, improve engagement, and broaden accessibility to our programs and sites. Advance Conservation and Research Programs We prioritise the continuous development of conservation and research programs that safeguard Queensland’s environmental, cultural, and built heritage. Creating a Great Workplace We strive to cultivate a dynamic, inclusive, and supportive environment, ensuring a positive and fulfilling experience for all employees and volunteers.
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National Trust of Australia (Queensland)
Ecotourism Operator
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary National Trust's most iconic property in Queensland
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, the Southern Gold Coast's premier tourist attraction and a member of the Queensland Tourism Hall of Fame, welcomes over 600,000 visitors annually. Recognised with the 2024 Gold Award for Cultural Tourism and the Gold Coast Business Excellence Award for Tourism, Hospitality, and Events, the Sanctuary continues to set the standard for excellence in the industry.
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our work Local Landmark and Economic Driver
Operating since 1947, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the few properties on the Gold Coast listed on the Queensland Heritage Register, making it a vital asset to the community. Heavily supported by the community, the Sanctuary prioritises working with local suppliers.
Heritage-listed Zoological Garden
Set across 27 hectares of eucalyptus-rich bushland and subtropical rainforest, the Sanctuary is home to over 1,000 native mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians, and some exotic species, making it a unique and important zoological garden for both conservation and tourism.
Significant Local Employer and Training Provider
National Trust Queensland supports a workforce of over 1,000 people, including staff, volunteers, and participants in training programs, significantly contributing to the local economy and workforce development. For our employees, we offer dedicated training and development opportunities; for our volunteers, we emphasise social engagement and community outcomes; and for our training participants, we provide pathways to employment and skills development.
Environmental Advocacy
The Sanctuary actively advocates for environmental conservation and the protection of heritage at all levels of government, as well as through private and community organisations, promoting sustainable practices and environmental awareness across the region.
Research and Conservation Operations
As a not-for-profit organisation, all revenue generated by Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is reinvested into enhancing the Sanctuary’s offerings and supporting vital conservation and research projects. The Sanctuary is involved in 16 conservation programs, including two marquee Breed for Release initiatives - the Eastern Bristlebird and the Tinker Frog. In 2025, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary will expand its conservation efforts to ensure endangered species are giver greater opportunities to thrive in the wild.
Community Wildlife Hospital
Providing free medical treatment to sick, injured, and orphaned native wildlife, the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital treats over 14,000 animals annually, including close to 500 Koalas each year. As one of the busiest wildlife hospitals in the world, it plays a critical role in treating native wildlife. The Wildlife Hosptial is put under most pressure with environmental disasters such as flooding, bushfires or droughts.
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our work cont... Education
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary offers four key educations streams: 1. Content for Primary and Secondary School excursions. 2. Community courses, such as emergency care for native wildlife, veterinary nursing insights, and animal training. 3. On-site school holiday programs catering to all ages and abilities. 4. Wildlife on Wheels school incursion program, covering Indigenous Peoples and animal-related subjects from early childhood to Yr 12.
Training
Training is integral to our organisation, both directly to upskill our work teams and as a significant community training partner. The Sanctuary site with its wide diversity of operational departments hosts external trainees to gain work experience to support accredited training outcomes. These programs have resulted in the Sanctuary winning the Queensland Training Awards in the category of Medium Employer in 2022 and 2024. Training programs are fully integrated into our workplace planning business model.Some examples of training activities at the Sanctuary include hosting TAFE Trainee Vet Nurses at the Wildlife Hospital, hosting TAFE Wildlife Students in our Wildlife team and hosting School Based Trainees Business Students within our commercial outlets. Additionally, we have been the host sites for four intakes rounds of Skilling Queenslanders Work Skills Traineeships, providing disadvantaged Queensland jobseekers with paid work programs to complete Cert 1 Conservation and Ecosystem Management. This program provides a genuine employment pathway into the wider Horticulture industry but most specifically into careers in Bush Regeneration.
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National Trust of Australia (Queensland) Volunteers and Hosted Trainees Non-Payroll Team Members (participating in Accredited Training) National Trust of Australia (Queensland's) success is underpinned by the vital contribution of our Community Conservation Champions—our dedicated volunteers and hosted trainees. This achievement reflects not only the commitment of our volunteers but also the strong leadership of our Volunteer and Heritage Site Managers, who provide outstanding support across all Trust properties. National Trust of Australia (Queensland) is also strengthening its role as a provider of accredited Conservation and Eco Tourism training, delivering significant benefits to both participants and the wider community. New accredited training programs are underway at Royal Bull’s Head Inn and Wolston Farmhouse, the 2025/26 year is set to deliver further growth and impact in this important area. NTAQ VOLUNTEER & HOSTED TRAINEES Volunteer Engagement Volunteer Hours Hosted Trainee Hours Total Combined
2024/2025
% Change 2024/2025
92% Based on 358 survey responses 124,941
up 3.6%
47,249 179,190
up 7,037 hours or 5.6% up 14,910 hours or 31.5% up 14.6%
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a world-class wildlife research and education campus With local, state, and federal funding secured, the National Trust of Australia (Queensland) is moving forward with the establishment of a state-of-the-art Wildlife Research and Education Campus at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. This landmark initiative will enhance our capacity to deliver critical care for native animals while driving world-class research, education, and community engagement.
In 2020, Currumbin Wildlife Hospital launched the Koala Chlamydia Vaccine Research Program, ensuring all Koala patients are now vaccinated prior to release. Bringing world-leading wildlife experts under one roof, led by Dr Michael Pyne OAM, Head of Veterinary Science and Research, Currumbin Wildlife Hospital in partnership with QUT Professor Ken Beagley and team, along with UQ Associate Professor Dr Stephen Johnson, Dr Lyndal Hulse, with the vaccine program overseen by Lewis McKillop, marking this a step in protecting Koalas from localised extinction. The vaccine—developed and produced at QUT—requires two doses and early results show it provides long-lasting immunity. For the first time, the treatment is being applied to wild populations in areas with high disease prevalence, offering new hope for the survival of Australia’s iconic Koalas. Currently in field trials is a single does slow release chlamydia vaccine.
The new facility will enable Currumbin Wildlife Hospital to expand its pioneering research and training programs, directly contributing to the survival of Australia’s threatened native species. Purpose-built laboratories will create a hub for leading scientists from across the globe to collaborate on applied research that responds to urgent conservation challenges. Alongside this, the Education Campus will engage students, community groups, and corporate partners—building industry expertise, strengthening conservation capability, and sharing knowledge widely. The project will also deliver significant economic benefits. Training programs will generate innovative educational tourism opportunities, attracting visitors and international students to the region. Each year, the Campus is projected to support 41 new local jobs and contribute an estimated $6.7 million to the local economy in Gross Regional Product (GRP). Aligned with the Commonwealth Government’s decarbonisation agenda, the facility has been designed with sustainability at its core. Rooftop solar, rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient lighting, and environmentally responsive design will minimise the carbon footprint while delivering lasting environmental benefits. 20
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education, events and experiences
Through this unique combination of tourism, hospitality, conservation, education, and community engagement, National Trust of Australia (Queensland) is a recognised leader in protecting heritage, inspiring learning, and creating unforgettable visitor experiences.
National Trust of Australia (Queensland) owns and operates iconic cultural, heritage, eco-tourism destination venues across Queensland. Our portfolio includes Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary—a multi–Tourism Awards Hall of Fame winner. In addition, we have a strong focus on training across hospitality and wildlife conservation and education. We have a high level of expertise in hosting and planning functions and corporate events through our multiple venues across the state at our portfolio of heritage listed properties. We have developed and promote a wide range of complementary retail goods including Honeyworld, a premier food tourism experience and e-commerce platform showcasing Southeast Queensland produce. We have significant experience and knowledge in the care and curating of important historical collections at our museums at Cooktown and the Zara Clark Museum in Charters Towers. We utilise our network of listed properties to host community events, talks, walking tours, and other cultural and education programs. Education lies at the heart of our mission. We provide enriching learning experiences for school students and deliver hands-on training and apprenticeship pathways in hospitality and tourism, construction, bush regeneration, environmental management, and wildlife care. These programs are offered in collaboration with leading training providers, helping to equip the next generation with essential skills and a deeper connection to our organisation. Our Heritage Library and extensive digitised files are a centre of research excellence, housing physical and digitized archives and collections that support scholarship, education, and public engagement. Select items also travel in exhibitions, sharing Queensland’s stories with communities across the state.
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heritage National Trust of Australia (Queensland) preserves and celebrates Queensland’s heritage through museums, eco-tourism, and historic community spaces. Iconic properties like Cooktown Museum, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, and Wolston Farmhouse offer immersive experiences that connect visitors to our state’s rich history. Our educational programs provide hands-on learning, while our advocacy work and community networks protect heritage. Events such as the Australian Heritage Festival, Trust Talks and partnerships with local festivals, ensure Queensland’s unique stories are shared widely.
Cooktown Museum 2022 Winner of GAMAA Awards for Organisations with Paid Staff for: 'Reimagining James Cook Museum'. 24
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our first nations partnerships
Our Commitment
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National Trust of Australia (Queensland)
National Trust of Australia (Queensland) is dedicated to respecting and honouring the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Queensland. Our second Reconciliation Action Plan (Innovate level), which we proudly worked on in partnership with Traditional Custodians, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community members across the state and partner organisations, was launched in 2024. NTAQ’s Innovate RAP underpins our organisation-wide commitment to reconciliation which includes meaningful partnerships, education and engagement across our team, the communities we work alongside every day and over 600,000 guests we welcome to our properties each year. From a First Nations supply chain perspective, we work closely with Traditional Custodian membership based community bodies such as the Yugambeh Region Aboriginal Corporation Alliance (YRACA) and the leading Indigenous Community led Health and Wellbeing organisation Kalwun to deliver positive and sustainable procurement and employment outcomes. Over the 2023/24 financial year, National Trust of Australia (Queensland's) spend with Indigenous businesses equated to over $236,000. This spans areas across cultural education and engagement, to storytelling and performances led by Traditional Owners to supply chain outcomes across First Nations retail offerings.
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your landcare partner for rehabilitation and revegetation works Full Rehabilitation of Post-Use Sites National Trust of Australia (Queensland) identifies appropriate uses for your site including opportunities for sub-contracting and adventure tourism. These opportunities are geared to be commercially viable. They support the rehabilitation programs disturbed land needs to heal. • Post-mining land use • Rehabilitation support for native ecosystems • Third party partners for heavy machinery earthworks Weed Identification and Management We will identify invasive weeds on your site and produce a management plan. We’re protecting Australia from invasive weed species like: • African Box Thorn • Balloon Vine • Camphor Laurel • Lantana Australian Wildlife Conservation We take a holistic approach to conservation. We review the potential of each site to support: • Koala colonies and other mammal species • Threatened amphibians, bird and fish species • Threatened vegetation and ecosystems • Insects (including Richmond Birdwing butterfly) Area Flora and Vegetation Surveys National Trust of Australia (Queensland) baseline surveys are world-leading. • Flora Surveys (detailed) • Weed Audits Area Monitoring Exceed reporting requirements with National Trust of Australia (Queensland's) efficient data collection and software modeling. • Data and mapping • Ongoing monitoring • On-Site Secondment 28
National Trust of Australia (Queensland)
Australian Bushland Regeneration Each bush ecosystem is different. We find the unique opportunities your land will present. • Enhance biodiversity • Protection for threatened species • Increased native habitat • Future wildlife corridors Creekline Restoration Projects Restoring damaged creekline ecosystems with the right plantings for habitat creation. • Endemic species (correct for state and region) • Micro-climate consideration • Natural filtration and waterway healing Australian Revegetation Projects We treat every revegetation project as an opportunity to restore balance between species. Understanding human interactions with the land during revegetation is vital. • Programs of Works • On-site Nursery advice Captive Wildlife Management Wildlife management can be conducted in-situ and ex-situ. Expert guidance and workable monitoring plans. • Restore wildlife populations • Release and maintenance of captive bred animals • Increase genetic diversity for species • Licenses and approvals Annual Environmental Reporting We understand that you must understand your land in realtime, with quality advice presented in plain language by industry leaders. • Independent Scientific Analysis • Full time vegetation experts
Knowledge and Experience Our experts. Your field Our team has the experience and knowledge to manage the risks associated with land regeneration and rehabilitation of ecological communities. Our intensive management often employs a combination of: • Expert Project and Scientific Leadership teams • Field surveys • Captive wild animal populations for reintroduction • Wildlife veterinary personnel and husbandry facilities Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (CWS) • Wildlife and vegetation research and monitoring including radiotelemetry and non- invasive techniques • Independent wildlife and vegetation experts • Scientific Ethics and Regulatory Permit approvals • Data management, interpretation and analysis • Guidance and expertise to achieve a native ecosystem • Nursery and propagation services • Training, development and work readiness programs • First Nations cultural experience and competency Projects Team and Queensland’s Leading Scientific Team Al Mucci Adjunct Associate Professor, The University of Queensland Al is a current member of the Koala Advisory Council with substantial experience in conservation planning and management and high cultural competency values. Michael Pyne OAM Dr Head of Veterinary Science and Research Projects, Currumbin Wildlife Hospital Michael has 21 years’ experience as a wildlife veterinarian at Currumbin Wildlife Hospital.
Anthony Molyneux Head of Life Sciences and Conservation Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Anthony has over 28 years experience in the zoological industry with world class animal husbandry experience and koala knowledge. Noel Langdon Head of Heritage and Environmental Services, National Trust of Australia (Queensland) Noel is a seasoned business leader and a strong advocate for tourism, the arts, history, natural environment and the not-for-profit sector. Independent Scientists Vegetation Experts National Trust of Australia (Queensland) maintains a range of working relationships with experts in University of Queensland (UQ) School of Agriculture and Food Science and Queensland University of Technology (QUT) School of Life Sciences, Research Fellows and Professors. Veterinary Personnel and Husbandry Facilities Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and Hospital Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and Hospital research staff are equipped for humane animal conservation programs. They regularly collar, release and track all species of wildlife. We have a dedicated team of experienced vegetation experts that create ecosystems and manage plantings, all whilst working within the workplace health and safety guidelines.
We recreate native ecosystems. We restore the habitat that Australia’s native species’ need. 29
National Trust of Australia (Queensland) partnership with Earthwatch Australia In collaboration with Earthwatch Australia, the National Trust of Australia (Queensland) is championing the first Tiny Forests projects in Queensland Tiny Forests The National Trust of Australia (Queensland) will launch its first Tiny Forest projects on the Gold Coast at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (CWS) and Eco Parklands. The Trust is partnering with Economic Development Queensland to protect an important and unique 148-hectare parcel of land at Currumbin and champion the transformation into the one of the largest eco-parks in Australia. Our horticultural team together with our education staff, and related resources will be the base to deliver these projects. We will then roll out the Tiny Forest concept to several of our other properties across Queensland and then introduce the concept to our sister Trust organisations nationally.
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distance learning platform Beyond our Gold Coast Tiny Forest and Eco Parklands projects, National Trust of Australia (Queensland) plans to develop and utilise a Distance Learning Platform to engage regional and remote schools throughout Australia. This platform will provide unique content and create an opportunity for teachers and students to connect directly with scientific fieldwork led by their own teachers, bridging the gap between regional and metropolitan education experiences. The National Trust of Australia (Queensland) owns and operates the multi award winning Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary with a wide range of well-established wildlife education experiences. In addition, we also have the busiest wildlife hospital in the Southern Hemisphere admitting more than 16,000 animals annually for care and recovery including 400 koalas. We partner with the University of Queensland in the development of the Chlamydia vaccine and conduct all the field trials in the remarkable success of this vaccine. At Garima Conservation Reserve, our nature reserve in the Currumbin Valley, we have ongoing active 'Breed to Release' Threatened Species Conservation' project for the Eastern Bristlebird breeding facility, along with rejuvenation of 27 hectares of land. We own and manage many significant heritage buildings and collections across Queensland from Cooktown Museum in the north to Wolston Farmhouse in the south of the state.
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Earthwatch Australia operates several scientific environment and conservation research programs from the oceans, reefs and wetlands to areas of environmental importance in the outback, regional and metropolitan Australia. These programs include a range of teacher, student and youth education programs, Citizen Science projects and expeditions in Australia and internationally. The vast conservation activities undertaken by both National Trust of Australia (Queensland) and Earthwatch create significant learning experience opportunities for teachers, students, universities and university graduates, the general public and governments. National Trust of Australia (Queensland) and Earthwatch want to share these activities and give better access and a better understanding of the importance of our activities and the work we undertake. A Distance Learning Platform will provide, at times, a real time behind-the-scenes view of the vital rescue and research efforts our organisations conduct daily to preserve and protect the environment, native wildlif, threatened and endangered species, offering an immersive and inspiring educational experience. This initiative not only promotes environmental stewardship through hands-on learning but also fosters greater awareness of the critical conservation work undertaken by National Trust of Australia (Queensland) and Earthwatch Australia. The remote learning concept is not new and is one that was successfully initiated during COVID-19. We’ve taken this knowledge, experience and responsiveness to provide enhanced learning experiences and outcomes for regional and remote community school students of all ages as part of the school curriculum nationally. We have the opportunity to give these students experiences that metropolitan schools and students take for granted.
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In 2023 more than 4 million students were enrolled in Australian Schools. Approxmiatley 3.2 million students lived in metropolitan Australia while 850,000 lived in inner regional areas. 404,000 lived in outer regional areas and 109,000 students lived in remote areas. In addition, there are about 30,000 students that are home schooled.
Why Distance Learning Platform? Our platform will offer real-time, behind-the-scenes access to conservation efforts, wildlife rescues, and scientific research. This approach transforms environmental education by immersing students in the critical work we undertake every day to protect native species and preserve biodiversity. The Benefits: • Hands-On Learning: Students and teachers participate in virtual fieldwork aligned to the national curriculum. • Increased Access: Brings unique metropolitan learning opportunities to over 1.4 million regional and remote students. • National Impact: Delivers inspiring education to Australia’s 4 million school students and 30,000 home schoolers.
The unique content that both National Trust of Australia (Queensland) and Earthwatch provides aligns directly to school curriculums nationally which means all four million students enrolled would potentially be candidates to participate in one or more the programs we will deliver via our Distance Learning Platform. National Trust of Australia (Queensland's) Distance Learning Platform will be an affordable subscription-based service however we will seek both Federal and State Department of Education support together with limited major sponsoring partners and philanthropic donors to assist in rolling out this learning program nationally. We will use a fully developed comprehensive learning platform to deliver multiple learning experiences with content from both Earthwatch education and research programs and the activities that NTAQ’s Life Sciences team carry out every day. This platform in addition to the education experiences we already have developed at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and our heritage portfolio across the state.
Why Your Support Matters To make this vision a reality, we seek partnerships with corporations and philanthropic donors that share our commitment to education and sustainability. Your support will: • Enable the development of the platform and its interactive content • Support state and federal collaborations to ensure national reach • Showcase your brand as a pioneer in fostering environmental education and regional equity Together, we can ensure every Australian student, regardless of location, has access to transformative education experiences that foster environmental stewardship and inspire the next generation of conservationists. We invite your organisation to join us in this impactful journey. Let’s create a brighter future for Australia’s students and environment, together. 34
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financial position NTAQ asset portfolio valued at
$100 MILLION Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary generates
$30 MILLION ANNUALY Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary independently financed
$7.5 MILLION
in tourism-related infrastructure, upgrades and activations
National Trust of Australia (Queensland) manages a diverse portfolio, including the iconic Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, and operates a successful trading business. As a not-for-profit organisation, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary has independently financed significant investments in tourism-related infrastructure, upgrades, and activations. Additionally, the Sanctuary has secured substantial external funding over the past three years to support conservation initiatives, program activities, renovations, and construction projects. This success highlights the organisation's strong governance, project management capabilities, and the expertise of its staff. The Trust’s ability to consistently manage external funding from both State and Federal Government grants, alongside philanthropic support, has led to repeated backing from funders, many of whom have supported multiple or consecutive projects, underscoring confidence in the organisation’s stewardship.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary has secured
$2 MILLION
in external funding over the past three years to support conservation iniatives, program activities, renovations and construction projects
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thank you Noel Langdon Head of Heritage and Environmental Services P: 0400 971 579 E: nlangdon@nationaltrustqld.org NATIONAL TRUST OF AUSTRALIA (QUEENSLAND) HEAD OFFICE 28 TOMEWIN STREET CURRUMBIN QLD 4223 P: +61 7 5534 0873 E: info@nationaltrustqld.org.au W: nationaltrustqld.org.au | currumbinsanctuary.com.au
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National Trust of Australia (Queensland) Updated 11/12/2025