My experience with Oceans to Earth was unfortunately far from positive. I felt that the cost of the program was entirely too expensive, considering the accommodations and program provided. Although Oceans2Earth was very helpful in organizing our travels, the organization did not check-in upon our arrival, which seemed unprofessional in terms of safety. The manual provided beforehand concerning our specific rescue was inaccurate, outdated, and misleading. The manual was a misrepresentation of the site as a whole. The accommodations were minimal, which was to be expected, as the site was in in a rural area. However, these same accommodations were unsanitary, and in stark contrast to the cost paid for this trip. As a foreigner, traveling to a new country, those in charge of this facility were unwelcoming and ungrateful. Instead of being appreciative, they were critical and unprofessional. I highly recommend this project solely for those native to the area, for the staff did not look highly upon those traveling from other parts of the world. As for the rescue, showers were permitted every 3-4 days, water was extremely limited, and there was no separation between the rescue and the living facility. Animals were allowed in every area of the facility, including the kitchen. The refuge requires significant renovations, including the removal of carpet, window repair, and an overall deep clean. Personally, I was very surprised that Oceans2Earth promoted such a facility, especially one that was in such stark contrast with the facility pictured online. I was truly disappointed in my experience, and the amount of money I invested. The cost of this trip did not reflect the accommodations provided. I feel that Oceans2Earth needs to re-visit this site, and reevaluate their affiliation with this program.
Response from Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers
Oceans 2 Earth are sorry your experience was not as expected. In response to your review;
- Oceans 2 Earth do indeed have checks in place to ensure volunteers arrive safely.
- The accommodations are described as large cabins which are spacious, warm and clean.
- The cost of the project includes transfers, food, accommodation, the cost to train volunteers and funding to the project to help keep it running. The cost is $78 a day for a 2 week program which is what it takes to keep the volunteer program running. We are a not for profit organisation so all funds benefit the project.
- There is no restriction on volunteers taking showers.
- The photos online are actual photos of the shelter and its volunteers. They fully represent the project.
- As for your feeling unwelcome, I will be looking into this and I sincerely apologise.
We have never received any negative feedback from this project in 5 years. In fact our volunteers find it a magical experience spent working very close with the animals. This includes making them feel comfortable hence why they live amongst the people. All of the animals have injuries and psychological problems so their best interests are what are our concern.
This is a working shelter which is privately owned. The owners devote their lives to the animals and it is because of them that so many animals are saved. There is no other place in Australia that people can experience living and caring for these beautiful Australian animals. It is a privilege to spend time at this project. Unfortunately, I think there has been a ‘disconnect’ between what you have thought the experience to be. I am sorry you did not contact us while you were at the project so we could have discussed this further. We find if people are feeling the culture shock of being in the bush and speak to us about their challenges, we can offer support.