Nature + network: values in action at a threatened species sanctuary

Join us for a unique opportunity to fulfil your B Corp volunteering commitments, shoulder to shoulder with your Melbourne B Corp peers, whilst also deepening your understanding of biodiversity in business. 

This special event is hosted in partnership with the Odonata Foundation (a non-profit organisation with DGR status) at Mt Rothwell Biodiversity Interpretation Centre. 

The session blends volunteering, networking, and educational insights, concluding with an exclusive nocturnal tour of the sanctuary.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

Volunteering opportunity

Hosted by Melbourne B Locals, join us one hour out of Melbourne at Mt Rothwell (near the You Yangs) this May to and engage in meaningful conservation efforts alongside other B and aspiring B Corps. This activity not only fulfils some of the staff volunteering time pledged by B Corps but also offers a tangible way to contribute to environmental conservation. 

Activities are suited to people keen to get their hands dirty through light physical activity and may include activities such as planting and fencing maintenance etc. All training and equipment is provided, with no experience required.  

Insights into the Business of Biodiversity

The event will also feature a brief presentation by Sam, CEO of Odonata, and our very own B Local Melbourne host, Marnie Hawson, sharing their insights into the Business of Biodiversity program. 

Learn how incorporating nature into your business model can not only assist in your B Corp commitments and open up different Impact Business Models, but also prepare your business for the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD).   

Dinner and networking

After a rewarding afternoon volunteering for the planet, relax and connect over dinner with fellow B Corp (and aspiring B Corp) professionals. This is a prime time to share experiences, explore collaborations, and discuss innovative ways to integrate sustainability into your business practices. 

Dinner will be provide on site, please email us at melbourne@bcorp.community if you have any dietary requirements.  

Creatures of the night spotlight tour

For those interested in extending the experience, we're offering a complimentary nocturnal tour to end the day, (normally valued at $55 per head). Immerse yourself in the beauty of the sanctuary under the cover of night, a truly unique experience not to be missed. You may encounter an Eastern Barred Bandicoot, Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby, Rufous Bettong, Eastern Bettong or maybe even an Eastern Quoll.

This event is more than just an outing; it's a step forward in our collective journey towards sustainability and impact. Whether you're looking to fulfil volunteering commitments, eager to network with purpose, or interested in the intersection of business and biodiversity, this event promises a rewarding experience for all participants.

Join us in making a difference, not just for the afternoon, but for the future of our planet.

Ticket price includes: 

• Volunteering and networking opportunity with B Corp peers
• Dinner and drinks
• Sanctuary tour

Not included

• Transport to and from Mt Rothwell

Agenda

1:45pm -  Arrive at Mt Rothwell Biodiversity Interpretation Centre. Meet and greet your fellow B’s. 

2pm - Hands on the tools volunteering (wet weather options available). 

5pm - Drinks and an overview of Business of Biodiversity program  

5:30pm - Dinner 

6:30pm - Sanctuary tour (visiting the quolls, bush-stone curlews and dingoes) and a guided nocturnal spotlight tour

8pm - Wave goodbye and head home

FAQS

What to bring

Wear weather appropriate clothing with enclosed sturdy footwear, hat, coat and sunscreen. You are welcome to bring torches and cameras (flash is OK). Bring a water bottle and any snacks you need before dinner.

Who can attend

All employees at all levels of B Corps, and aspiring B’s are invited. At this stage, there is no limit to the number of people who can attend, so represent your team solo or bring along your colleagues for a great team day.

Transport

Mt Rothwell is about an hour's drive from Melbourne CBD down towards Geelong. Attendees are encouraged to make their own way to and from the site. If you have capacity to carpool,  please give a shout out in the B Local Melbourne LinkedIn group to coordinate.

Volunteer Commitment Records

If you’re planning to record your volunteering for your impact commitments, please speak to the head of impact in your team as each business tracks and records these activities differently. We encourage you to share your experience through your marketing - perhaps an impact report section, blog post, social media - to help spread the word.