Council thanks volunteers this National Volunteer Week

Published on 08 May 2024

National Volunteer Week is coming up this month and Mount Alexander Shire Council would like to take the opportunity to thank their volunteers for the incredible work they do in the community.

Volunteers have an immense impact on the lives of others and the community as a whole. They welcome visitors to the region, drive buses, serve meals, keep senior residents company, look after community centres, care for our natural environment, and so much more.

National Volunteer Week is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering and is held from 20 to 26 May. It’s an opportunity for organisations to acknowledge the people who give their time, experience and talents freely to the community, and Council would like to do the same.

Mount Alexander Shire Council’s Mayor, Councillor Matthew Driscoll, would like to thank the shire’s volunteers for their hard work and generosity.

“Our volunteers do so much for our community,” said Mayor Driscoll.

“Around 30 per cent of our shire’s residents volunteer which is just amazing.

“They generously give over 10,000 hours to welcome visitors to the shire, provide social support for older residents, deliver youth programs, ensure young people have a say in decision-making, and produce arts and cultural events.

“They do an incredible job and on behalf of Council, we’re incredibly grateful and lucky to have such dedicated volunteers.

“If you’re thinking about volunteering in the community, I really encourage you to get in touch.

“There are so many ways to get involved and it really makes a difference to the lives of others.”

The Castlemaine Community House is inviting local volunteers to eat for free at a special National Volunteer Week Community Lunch on Tuesday 21 May as a thank you for their hard work and generosity.

There will also be a mini expo of organisations such as Dhelkaya Health, Castlemaine Community House, Safe Space, Repair Cafe and others, with information about volunteer opportunities.

National Volunteer Week Community Lunch and Expo

When: Tuesday 21 May, 12.30pm to 1.30pm
Where: Castlemaine Town Hall
Cost: $7 suggested donation (volunteers eat free)

Learn more about volunteering and find out what opportunities are available near you by visiting our volunteers page.