Local volunteers, and organisations that depend on the support of volunteers, gathered in Sunbury last Tuesday to meet with Federal Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth.
Minister Rishworth chatted to volunteers about the different types of work that they do and spoke with businesses and community groups including the Sunbury Winter Night Shelter, local food bank and food share service, CareWorks and representatives from the Woodend and Sunbury Rotary clubs.
Hosts of the event, Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health and Volunteering Victoria spoke about the vital role that volunteers play in the community, as well as the many benefits that volunteering can have on the individual.
“Volunteering is the physical demonstration of caring for each other and the community as a whole,” says Geoff Sharp, CEO of Volunteering Victoria.
“It is us at our very best and highest. Volunteering is also one of the greatest things we can do for ourselves, improving mental and physical health, learning new skills, pursuing passions, and creating better connections with others and our community. For this reason and many others, we are proud to work with government at all levels and our community partners to ensure ongoing support for volunteering at the local community level.”
Many of Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health’s programs are supported by volunteers including their social support and carer respite groups, the Parent Child Mother Goose program, and community events such as the popular Puppy Pride.
“All of our volunteers receive support and training relevant to their role,” says Anya Richards, Volunteer Partnerships Officer.
“As well as giving people the opportunity to make a difference to their community through the various volunteering opportunities we have available, we also work with local volunteer organisations in Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges to support their engagement with volunteers to ensure it is an inclusive and rewarding experience.”
Minister Rishworth said volunteers were vital to ensuring strong and vibrant communities, particularly in regional and remote areas across Australia.
“We know that volunteers provide essential services in many different ways, whether it is helping out in times of disaster or crisis, supporting the more vulnerable people in our community, or assisting local sporting teams and community events,” Minister Rishworth said.
“It was so good to meet with volunteers in Victoria and see how they are helping to build strong and vibrant communities.”
Member for Hawke Sam Rae thanked volunteers who work in the local area.
“Our local volunteers do so much for our community here in Hawke. Whether they’re involved in local sporting clubs, helping those in need or providing a space for locals to come together, they do a great job,” Mr Rae said.
For media inquiries, please contact:
[email protected]
(03) 9052 4524
