Bequests

We all find our own ways to leave the world a better place and a bequest can be a special way to honour a life and a family's philosophy.

A bequest to the Cape Otway Centre for Conservation Ecology is an investment in the future of ecosystems. Your gift will greatly enhance the ability of the researchers at the Cape Otway Centre for Conservation Ecology to improve understanding of Australian flora and fauna, conserving ecosystems and the species they support for future generations.

You might consider a bequest to the Cape Otway Centre for Conservation Ecology Public Fund whether as a specific amount of money, a proportion of your estate, the residual of your estate, or other specific property.

Your will and financial planning are intensely personal, and the Trust respects your privacy. However, if you wish to allocate an amount to the Trust, or to honour or commemorate a named individual, a member of the Committee of Management is available to discuss it with you and provide assistance. All discussions will, of course, be confidential.

Naturally you are free to indicate how you would prefer your bequest to be used, and your wishes will be respected. We would be pleased for the opportunity of consulting with you to ensure we are able to carry out your wishes.

We strongly recommend that you seek professional advice regarding your will. A solicitor will help you make a clear, concise will, which is easily located and causes no misunderstanding.

If you decide to leave a gift to The Cape Otway Centre for Conservation Ecology Public Fund, it is important that you use the correct wording in your Will. We recommend you discuss it with your solicitor (The Public Trustee, State Trustees in Victoria and Trustee Companies will also assist with the preparation of wills). Take special care to use the organisation’s registered name - The Cape Otway Centre for Conservation Ecology Public Fund.

Other business details that may be useful include the ABN and mailing address:

The Cape Otway Centre for Conservation Ecology Public Fund
ABN 25 097 560 355

PO Box 296
Apollo Bay VIC 3233
Phone: +61 35237 9297 or 0438 132 764

Types of bequests

A bequest made to the Public Fund may be:

A Specific Bequest:

The gift of a specific sum of money or nominated asset such as a house or other land, shares and other investments, life insurance, works of art or other valuables.

A Bequest of Your Entire Estate:

Or a specified share or percentage of your entire estate after all debts and expenses have been paid.

A Residual Bequest:

What remains of your estate after all debts and expenses have been paid and other gifts distributed or a specified share or percentage of your residuary estate.

After a Life Interest:

When property, such as a house, is left to a beneficiary to occupy or receive income from during their lifetime (or another specified period) and then passes to the Public Fund.

You may have a preference for the way your bequest to The Cape Otway Centre for Conservation Ecology Public Fund will be used. We would be very happy to discuss this with you so we can help you find practical ways to achieve your wishes.

Your solicitor may find these bequest clause examples helpful - click here for clause examples

The Cape Otway Centre for Conservation Ecology is respectful of the gifts it receives and most bequestors are comfortable knowing their gift will be directed to the most urgent ecological needs of the time. However, if you are passionate about a particular issue, please contact us so we can look together at how your gift can be used.

Contact us about leaving a bequest

We would be delighted to know if you have acknowledged us in your Will so we can thank you for your generous support and recognise your gift during your lifetime.

Providing your details will enable us to keep you updated on our projects and programs and send you our supporter eNewsletter.

All your personal details will be treated in the strictest of confidence and we will respect your wishes if you choose to remain anonymous.

If you would like further information about leaving a bequest to The Cape Otway Centre for Conservation Ecology Public Fund, or would prefer to discuss it with us, you can contact Lizzie Corke by phone 0438 132 764 or email.

Memorials

A memorial gathering can be a special way to celebrate a life well lived. A quiet moment with close friends and family in the bush to scatter ashes or a weekend house party - we would be delighted to work with you to commemorate your loved one. Please send us an enquiry or contact us directly to discuss possibilities.