Our story

Established in 2017, a group of volunteers liked the idea of travelling to emerging communities where they could explore giving back in a different context.

Our first trip took us to Mannar, in Sri Lanka, where we visited a part of the world seen by few foreigners. Partnering with a local NGO, we considered how we might best contribute to the community before volunteering from home with the knowledge that our skills, time and effort would make a difference.

New adventures to Cambodia, Mongolia and Nepal followed. Reflecting on the experience we decided to formally establish and invite others to experience what we had. In 2021, the Mad Cow Project was incorporated as a not-for-profit organisation and registered as an Australian charity.

How we are different

At the Mad Cow Project you don’t volunteer for us, you volunteer through us. We understand you’re busy and that’s why we encourage you to explore first and then choose how you might best contribute.

We want you to enjoy your experiences while giving back. Whether this means travelling with a small group, working on a volunteer project, fundraising to support existing work, or connecting with a new part of the world, the Mad Cow Project is there to support you.

We’re not a once and done organisation. 

As an organisation, we establish and maintain long-term relationships with local communities so that our volunteers are warmly welcomed and able to revisit and see how their contributions have made a difference. We’ve had the opportunity to grow personally and professionally while doing some good and want you to experience this too.

Our directors

We’re explorers. Our directors all started out as volunteers with us. In finding a way to solve their own problems they discovered something worth sharing. Below they share their hopes for The Mad Cow Project.

Nic Tan - Founder

I started the Mad Cow Project to give back beyond my local community. What I found was more than rewarding. It’s why I want to invite others to experience choose your own adventure style volunteering.

Volunteer Mad Cow Project Director Secretary Andrew McVittie

Andrew McVittie - Secretary

I want the Mad Cow Project to be considered a leader in the volunteering world – known for the sheer quality of the volunteering experience, the diverse skills of our volunteers, and the real positive impact we are delivering for developing communities

Director Profile Damian Seymour Mad Cow

Damian Seymour - Director

I want the Mad Cow Project to be an organisation where everyone feels like they can pursue their volunteering ambitions, whatever they may be. Where people feel valued, have a voice, are encouraged, and supported.

Volunteer Mad Cow Project Director Emma Brunton

Emma Brunton - Treasurer

I’m committed to the Mad Cow Project because of its focus on making fun and authentic experiences for volunteers, local people and communities. Our model delivers personal fulfillment and social impact.

Wing Hsieh - Director

I want to ensure that the The Mad Cow Project’s work is delivering positive and measurable benefits for the communities that we work with. I know that it can transform the travel and volunteering experience, and contribute to genuine and positive change for developing communities.

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