About:
The Marine Discovery Centre (MDC) is South Australia’s only dedicated marine education facility for school-aged students, inspiring over 10,000 visitors each year to connect with and protect our coastal and marine environments. Located at Henley Beach, the Centre delivers hands-on, immersive learning experiences focused on the Great Southern Reef, combining science, technology and experiential education to foster environmental stewardship in young people and the wider community.
The Centre features interactive learning stations exploring topics such as sustainable fishing, responsible water use, Aboriginal culture, and the importance of protecting our marine environments. Our aquariums showcase local South Australian marine species, while our engaging beachside marine trails provide a unique opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world coastal experiences.
Join the only coastal and marine educational facility for primary school-aged children in South Australia and play a meaningful role in inspiring the next generation. As a volunteer, you will help guide students through interactive exhibits and aquariums, and support our daily marine trails along Henley Beach.
Volunteering at the Marine Discovery Centre is a rewarding opportunity to empower young people to understand, value and actively protect South Australia’s iconic coastal and marine environments.
We have an outstanding group of volunteers who help run our school excursions and keep the Centre's aquariums looking their best.
There are a couple of options to volunteer at the Marine Discovery Centre, the centre is open to school groups from Monday to Friday and daily during the school holidays.
You can join a school tour for their marine trail from 10.30am - 12pm or for the centre activities from 12.30pm to 2pm.
Most of our volunteers stay for the whole day, and you can do that too.
Volunteering at the Marine Discovery Centre is a wonderful opportunity for you to empower students to actively protect South Australia's iconic coastal and marine environments.
Opportunities are also available to attend weekend Science Fairs, the Royal Adelaide Show and other external events where you represent the Marine Discovery Centre
Meet some of our volunteers here!
A day in the life of a volunteer at the Marine Discovery Centre
We are seeking enthusiastic, reliable and community-minded individuals who:
Have a passion for the marine environment and conservation
Enjoy working with children and engaging with the public
Are proactive, positive, and willing to learn
Have strong communication and teamwork skills
Are comfortable working both indoors and outdoors (including beach environments)
Are studying or interested in marine science, education, environmental science, or related fields (desirable but not essential)
To apply, please provide:
A brief cover letter outlining your interest in volunteering at MDC
A current resume
Relevant certifications (if applicable), such as:
Working With Children Check (or willingness to obtain, the MDC will organise and pay for this)
First Aid Certificate (desirable but not essential)
Availability (days/times you are able to volunteer)
Ready to be part of a passionate team inspiring the next generation of ocean guardians?
Please send your application to: [email protected]