Written by Kylie Gordon

Having successfully completed my first-year milestone (Confirmation of Candidature), I am excited to share the latest update on my research exploring the social networks and capital outcomes associated with the management of NGO-held Privately Protected Areas.

With the theoretical framework now complete, I am finalising the data collection tools – namely a survey and interview – which will be ready early in the new year to implement with two case study sites, Birdlife’s Gluepot Reserve and Bush Heritage’s Scottsdale Reserve. In preparation for this next phase, I am testing and refining these tools to ensure they are clear and relevant for both our ARC industry partners and the research objectives.

Recently, I had the privilege of presenting my research to the Gluepot Management Committee and volunteers, where I highlighted how the connections between people can drive not only conservation outcomes, but a range of other benefits for individuals, the reserve, and society more broadly. Social outcomes are often difficult to measure, but it was evident from my visit to Gluepot that the dedicated volunteers and their social networks are critical for enabling a whole host of tangible and intangible benefits!

Participants involved in this research will be contributing to new and exciting knowledge for the Privately Protected Area they are affiliated, gain a deeper understanding of their personal networks, and will be contributing to a framework that highlights the often-invisible social architecture of the conservation sector.

My sincere thanks to those who contribute to the ongoing development and implementation of this research – my supervisors, project partners and participants alike.