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Any park has many users, not all of them human. A group activity called 'The Needs
Auction' (developed by Wilsons Promontory education officer) illustrates the
management challenges in satisfying as many users as possible. It is a game that can be
adapted to many environments. The example given relates to the Grampians National Park.
Instructions for Needs Auction
Allot to each participating player one park user to represent at the auction. The
easiest way is to write the users (suggested list below) on cards and allow each player to
choose one unseen. Each player will also require a copy of the items for sale (record
sheet below) at the auction, a pencil to record bids, and will be allowed an imaginary
total of $1,000 to spend at the auction.
The aim is to purchase as many of the necessities of life as possible for the user each
player represents. Before the game begins, allow a few minutes for players to decide how
to spend their money and to fill in estimates in the 'Available Funds' column on
their record sheet. Depending on the group, the leader conducts either a regular or a
silent auction. As each item is sold to the highest bidder, players fill in the amount of
the winning bid and the name of the user. At the end, draw conclusions about multiple
users of a feature, competition from feral animals, pressure from humans on wildlife and
the special needs of some users.
Suggested User List
Eagle, rosella, fox, rabbit, kangaroo, frog, hive of bees, bat, duck, feral cat,
raven, deer, sugar glider, school group, disabled visitor, bushwalker, ranger, cyclist,
tree.
| The Needs Auction Record Sheet |
| Items |
Available Funds |
Top Bid |
Purchaser |
| 1. Extensive grasslands |
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| 2. Well-being of animals and plants |
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| 3. Old trees with plenty of hollows |
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| 4. Environmentally friendly tourists |
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| 5. Tourists out just for fun |
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| 6. Rubbish free environment |
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| 7. Clean and well looked after camp-grounds and toilets |
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| 8. Wide variety of indigenous plants |
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| 9. Sunny weather |
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| 10. Rainwater puddles |
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| 11. More bitumen roads |
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| 12. Increased access to other areas of the park |
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| 13. Safety from cars |
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| 14. Habitat for burrows |
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| 15. Supply of small animals to eat |
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| 16. Supply of insects to eat |
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| 17. Protection from predators |
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| 18. Fire |
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| 19. Beatiful views |
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| 20. Permanent source of fresh water |
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| 21. Seasonal creek |
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