For this week's blog we have been fortunate enough to receive some photos and information from Michelle Cullen – one of our volunteers who took part in 'The Great Orangutan Project' at Matang Wildlife Centre, located just outside of Kuching, Sarawak. We were lucky enough to be able to ask her some questions – Here are her responses (and pictures of course)!
Could you tell us a little bit about your experience of the project?
It really was life changing... I had the most amazing time and definitely left a piece of my heart there. You really do feel like you are making difference and are part of something. Since returning home I have been trying to gain more knowledge of the issues facing Orangutans and the many other endangered animals in Borneo.
What do you feel that you contributed as a volunteer?
Mainly my time and willingness to do what was needed. I met some lovely people and for the project you need to be able to work in a team- and to be able to laugh at things!
What did you make of the project staff?
I can't speak highly enough of them- they are all dedicated and it can be extremely frustrating on the ground- waiting for improvements and scores of animals needing help- but they were always there and happy to answer any questions- things they must have been asked so many times! It really feels like a little family- which is why people return again and again.
What was your highlight of the whole trip?
Wow... There were so many things...If I have to pick one it would probably be seeing a semi wild orangutan and her baby whilst at Matang. It makes you realise that we all need to do more to stop the destruction of their habitat- and keep them wild!
What were your biggest challenges?
Ha - There were a few! Certainly the physical side was difficult- we carried wood in to the jungle and it tested me- but it's a great sense of achievement when you do it. It's not all heavy work- you do clean the cages but a lot of time is spent on enrichment for the animals.
Would you return to The Great Orangutan Project or another one of our projects?
Yes! I am returning to Matang in June for a month and will also be doing the IAR projectin May. I highly recommend giving it a go!
It's great to hear from Michelle our wildlife volunteer and see her photos and we're glad she had such a fantastic time – we look forward to hearing about her time back at Matang in June and at the IAR project in Ketapang, Kalimantan in May.
We love hearing back from our volunteers, and any feedback is more than appreciated. If you would like to send us news or photos of your time on one of our projects, please don't hesitate to get in touch via [email protected].
Share this article with your friends and followers by using the social media buttons below.
Wanting to add something to this story or just let us know your thoughts? Just leave your comments below. Please be aware that all comments will be moderated: abusive behaviour or self-promotion will not be allowed.
Has this blog inspired you to volunteer? If so, why not enquire today? Simply fill out an enquiry form, and allow a member of our travel team to assist with your query! Please note that blog comments are not monitored by the travel team, so any questions related to bookings may be missed.
Come face to face with one of the world’s most misunderstood predators whilst aiding great white shark conservation. As a volunteer, not only will you get the incredible opportunity to dive with sharks, but you will also assist the team in raising awareness of the great white as you work alongside tourists and local school children to provide them with knowledge of the local environment and the importance of living in harmony with South Africa’s marine life.
Lauren and James have returned and are ready to relay tales...
Team members Lauren and James, joined colleague Georgia to...
Volunteer Lynne Coe shares her valuable tips on what to...
Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the Borneo...
The Great Projects volunteer coordinators, Matt and Niamh,...
The Great Projects' volunteer coordinators Matt and Niamh...
As the Samboja Lestari Orangutan Project begins once again...
Inge volunteered at the Harnas Wildlife Sanctuary in...