Fruit Collection and Delivery

This is a vital part of the Bats and Trees Society of Cairns (BatSoc)’s support for flying fox rescue and rehabilitation in the Cairns region.

The ‘fruit run’ has been running regularly for 6 years, with strong relationships and systems already established. Unfortunately, our main volunteer is unable to continue in this role, and we are looking for the right person to fill her place.

The role requires the volunteer to liaise with Oz Harvest volunteers and stallholders at Rusty’s markets to collect donated fruit for delivery to our bat creche in Kuranda. This happens every Sunday afternoon from late October to April/May, with collection starting at 3.30pm and delivery from Cairns starting from around 4.45pm. The role entails considerable physical exertion, as we often collect more than 10 large boxes of fruit – the total weight on a good week will be around 120kg. The boxes need to be filled, carried to your vehicle, then driven to Kuranda. Ideally you would help with unloading once at the creche. The donated fruit is generally very ripe and boxes may leak, so this would need to be a consideration regarding the use of your vehicle – ideally, we are looking for someone with access to a ute or older station wagon (or a very effective tarp!).

BatSoc will reimburse fuel costs. The fruit run coordinator will give comprehensive training and is happy to accompany the volunteer for as long as needed. As well as a solid weekly workout (no gym membership needed!) the volunteer will have the satisfaction of knowing that they are playing a crucial role in the rehabilitation of a keystone species of the Wet Tropics rainforests.