Friends Of Simpson Desert Parks

The Friends Of Simpson Desert Parks is a dedicated volunteer group that has been actively involved in the conservation and management of some of Australia’s most iconic and fragile desert landscapes for over 35 years. Established in 1986 by a group of passionate individuals led by adventurer and conservationist Warren Bonython, the organisation brings together people from across Australia who share a commitment to protecting the natural and cultural heritage of the Simpson Desert region. Friends Of Simpson Desert Parks operates as part of the broader Friends of Parks network, collaborating closely with government agencies, Traditional Owners, and other conservation groups to ensure these unique environments are preserved for future generations.

Mission and Vision

The mission of Friends Of Simpson Desert Parks is to support the conservation of the desert’s unique ecosystems, wildlife, and cultural sites through hands-on volunteer work and community engagement. Their vision is to see the Simpson Desert’s natural and cultural values maintained and respected, with visitors and locals alike playing an active role in their protection. The group places a strong emphasis on working in partnership with Aboriginal Traditional Owners, acknowledging their deep connection to Country and the importance of their guidance in caring for culturally significant sites.

Main Objectives

• Provide volunteer support to park rangers in the management and maintenance of the parks.
• Promote conservation of native flora and fauna, and control invasive species.
• Assist in the protection of culturally significant sites, in collaboration with Traditional Owners.
• Promote visitor safety and responsible travel practices in the remote desert environment.
• Support visitors by maintaining facilities and providing information to ease the challenges of travelling in such isolated areas.

Benefiting Groups

Friends Of Simpson Desert Parks benefits a wide range of stakeholders. Local Aboriginal communities, including the Wangkangurru Yarluyandi, Lower Southern Arrernte, Arabana, and Dieri peoples, are key partners, with the group respecting and supporting their role as custodians of the land. Park visitors, including tourists, researchers, and adventure seekers, benefit from improved facilities, safer travel conditions, and access to well-maintained cultural and natural sites. The broader Australian public also gains from the preservation of these significant landscapes, which hold ecological, cultural, and recreational value.

Types of Services and Activities

The group undertakes a diverse range of practical conservation activities, typically during the cooler months when conditions are more favourable for volunteer work. These activities include:

• Weed and pest control, such as removing non-native grasses and monitoring feral animals.
• Installation and maintenance of visitor signage and barriers around culturally sensitive areas.
• Monitoring vegetation health and dune erosion through photo points and surveys.
• Revegetation efforts to restore damaged flora.
• Construction and upkeep of tourist facilities, including steps and campground infrastructure at Dalhousie Springs.
• Cultural site surveys and collaboration with Traditional Owners to protect heritage values.

Friends Of Simpson Desert Parks also organises social and planning events for members, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. New volunteers are always welcome, with opportunities to participate in working bees, cross-desert trips, and other projects that make a tangible difference to the health and accessibility of these remarkable parks.