We are paying tribute to our own team of dedicated volunteers as part of Volunteer Recognition Day on Monday, April 20th.
The event, which is celebrated worldwide, highlights the effort of all volunteers who are working on behalf of others without being motivated by financial or material gain.
Bristol Aquarium’s Displays Supervisor Liv Orchart said: “The work of volunteers is absolutely crucial across all levels of society and we wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you to our own team who give up their time to help out here at the aquarium.
“They provide vital additional resources and play a key role in the day-to-day running of the site.
“In return they are able to indulge their passions and develop their skill sets with the help of trained professionals,” she added.
One of the volunteers currently working at Bristol Aquarium is Andrew Brown, who hopes the knowledge he has gained will help him study for a degree in marine and freshwater biology at Hull University in September.
“Initially I started my volunteer placement at the end of June last year for three weeks. After that I came back for one or two days a week up until October and now I try to come in at least once every week or so,” he said.
“I love that from day one you are engaging with the animals and instantly feel part of the Aquarist team. It’s a very hands-on experience which I’ve learned many new skills from.
“My favourite job is feeding and working with the giant Pacific octopus. It’s amazing to be able to work so closely with such an intelligent animal, a great opportunity for a volunteer.
“I was also lucky enough to help take four stingrays from Bristol down to Portsmouth Blue Reef Aquarium in the summer.
“It was great to see how the animals were transported and cared for and to see them happy in their new home.
“As well as volunteering at the aquarium I also work part-time as a lifeguard and am studying for my A-Level biology exams this summer.
“My time at Bristol Aquarium has been such great experience for the future and looks great on university and job applications,” he added.
• To find out more about volunteering opportunities at Bristol Aquarium please visit https://www.bristolaquarium.co.uk/displays/volunteering/
. For national volunteering information please visit the National Council for Voluntary Organisations at www.ncvo.org.uk .
Issued by Bristol Aquarium. For more information please contact Sarah Moore on 0117 929 8929.
