AS we celebrate National Volunteer Week, I’d like to acknowledge the dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly to support local organisations, charities and emergency services across our region.
This year’s theme, Your Year to Volunteer, recognises the extraordinary contribution volunteers make to communities across Australia and encourages more people to get involved in ways that work for them.
It is an opportunity to thank those who already give their time so generously, while also inviting others to discover how volunteering can create connection, purpose and lasting positive change.
We are fortunate to have outstanding volunteer organisations across our community, including SunAssist, the State Emergency Service (SES), Country Fire Authority (CFA), CHAILIS, sporting clubs and countless local groups that provide support where it is needed most.
Whether it’s responding to emergencies, assisting vulnerable residents, supporting community events, mentoring young people, protecting our environment or helping local clubs thrive, volunteers make an extraordinary contribution to regional Victoria.
I have enormous respect for those who dedicate their time to helping others, often quietly and without recognition. Their efforts strengthen our communities and ensure many important services and activities can continue.
Without volunteers, many local services and sporting clubs simply wouldn’t exist. Their dedication helps keep vital programs, events and organisations operating across our region.
National Volunteer Week runs from 18 to 24 May and is a chance for all of us to recognise and celebrate the dedication and impact of volunteers across our communities every day.
