The Parks Connect Cadet Ranger program provides teens aged 13–18 with hands-on conservation experiences, ecological skills training, and citizen science activities that will deepen their connection with Queensland’s protected areas.
Develop real-world skill in these cumulative 1.5–2-hr sessions to set yourself on a pathway for a rewarding career in biodiversity management! Working collaboratively from within national parks or QPWS Gateway Visitor Centres, you’ll discover how to use camera traps, mapping, acoustic monitoring and environmental surveys to detect and report threatened species.
Through fun, hands-on activities and interactions with Park Rangers, Traditional Owners and committed conservationists, Parks Connect Cadet Rangers gain valuable insights into how to manage and preserve protected areas for future generations.
Choose from a range of Cadet Ranger events at QPWS Gateway Visitor Centres or within national parks and protected areas in South East Queensland.
WALKABOUT CREEK DISCOVERY CENTRE
You’ll be learning all about Park Rangering in a bushland oasis that includes a wildlife centre, short walking and mountain biking trails, a shady deck cafe, and picturesque Enoggera Reservoir for swimming and paddling. Image: NPAQ/Parks Connect
DAVID FLEAY WILDLIFE PARK
Stroll the shady boardwalks of this 7.5-acre enclosed fauna reserve on the Gold Coast where Cadet Rangers will be able to learn the tips of the trade working alongside Park Rangers. Image: Ian Wilkinson © Queensland Govt
“ROAMING” CADET RANGERS
Enhance your skills with this ongoing program of discovery in some of SEQ’s most stunning places. Spend time in Qld’s national parks while you learn all about the crucial role Rangers play in conserving threatened species. See below to book. Image: NPAQ/Parks Connect
The Parks Connect Cadet Rangers Program is resuming this February. Click on the images below to book.
CADET RANGERS 13–18 YEARS AT WALKABOUT CREEK DISCOVERY CENTRE (ENOGGERA)
Cadet Rangers (aged 13–18 years), come along on Saturday 21 February to learn more about some often overlooked insect and spider species.
First, we’ll take a guided walk, exploring the diversity of invertebrates found within the park. As insects or spiders are encountered, the presenter will point out key species and discuss their ecology, biology and the important roles they play within ecosystems.
This session includes demonstrating equipment used to collect and monitor invertebrate abundance, giving you insight into how invertebrates are studied in the field. You’ll also share your observations and findings with others, developing skills in scientific observation, ecological thinking and environmental interpretation.
CADET RANGERS 13–18 YEARS AT DAVID FLEAY WILDLIFE PARK (BURLEIGH HEADS)
Discover the hidden world of invertebrates at this FREE Cadet Ranger event – Invertebrate Observers – at David Fleay Wildlife Park!
Cadet Rangers (aged 13–18 years) will take a guided walk exploring the diversity of invertebrates found within the park. As insects or spiders are encountered, the presenter will point out key species and discuss their ecology, biology and the roles they play within ecosystems.
This session includes demonstrating equipment used to collect and monitor invertebrate abundance, giving you insight into how invertebrates are studied in the field. You’ll also share your observations and findings with others, developing skills in scientific observation, ecological thinking and environmental interpretation.
Looking for family fun where you can attend events with your Cadet Ranger teen?
Check out our PARK OF THE MONTH events! Each month, we run a series of fun outdoor activities in a SEQ National Park or Conservation Park. Hurry, tickets for these FREE events sell out fast.
Parks Connect is proudly supported through funding from the Queensland Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation.
