Please note that the 2026 allocation for the Future Rescuers Fund has now been exhausted. We will open applications again in the future, so please continue to check back periodically.

—

The ORRCA Future Rescuers Fund provides 10 fully funded marine mammal rescue training bursaries each year for individuals who face financial barriers to attending ORRCA’s Marine Mammal Rescue Course.

By covering the full course fee, this initiative removes cost as an obstacle for passionate future responders who are ready to step up and protect whales, dolphins, seals and dugongs along Australia’s coastline.

Designed to strengthen rescue response capacity in underserved coastal communities, the fund supports committed volunteers who want to undertake ORRCA’s marine mammal rescue training and join Australia’s leading marine mammal response network. This program is generously funded by a private donor, whose support is helping build the next generation of marine mammal rescuers.

If cost has been the barrier, we encourage you to apply. If you have any questions about this bursary prior to applying, please contact us at orrca@orrca.org.au.