Next week is National Volunteer Week (19–25 May), and here in Ocean Grove, it’s a great excuse to give a well-deserved shoutout to locals who are making a real difference.
More than 300 volunteers work tirelessly across numerous programs coordinated by the City of Greater Geelong and they each play an essential role in keeping our community connected and thriving.
This year’s theme, ‘Connecting Communities’, celebrates the power of volunteering to bring people together and create lasting relationships.
You don’t have to look far to see our volunteers in action. They’re everywhere, quietly rolling up their sleeves and getting things done.
Take the TAC L2P Program, which has recently received a dedicated new car based in Ocean Grove.
The TAC L2P program pairs young people between the ages of 16 and 21 (and in some circumstances, up to 23) with fully licenced volunteer mentors in supervised driving sessions.
The program aims to help young people who would not otherwise have access to a vehicle or licenced driver.
For young locals trying to get their 120 hours of supervised driving, that’s a game changer.
It means they’re not stuck trying to organise lessons miles away, and it’s all thanks to our fantastic group of local volunteers who jump in the passenger seat and help these learners find their confidence.
Meanwhile, over at the Potato Shed in Drysdale, volunteers keep the place buzzing.
They’re the friendly faces you see at the door or who usher you to your seat. This committed group of volunteers also serve at the canteen and help with the setup and pack down after shows.
Volunteering isn’t just for a specific type of person. It doesn’t matter if you’re young or old, working or retired, experienced or just keen to help. There’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re keen to help a young driver, share your love of the arts, or have a chat with someone who needs a friendly face, there’s a place for you. If you’ve ever thought about giving it a go, now’s your chance.
The City of Greater Geelong has a stack of opportunities, so please visit our website for more info geelongaustralia.com.au/volunteer
Even giving an hour or two here and there can make a real difference – not just to others, but to you as well. Plenty of research shows that volunteering can increase your life satisfaction and happiness.
Finally, we’re putting the call out for community members to nominate local seniors for the 2025 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards.
Do you know an older person who volunteers their skills, time and energy to make Greater Geelong a better and fairer place to live?
Hosted by the Victorian Government, there are six categories to consider:
1. Premier’s Award for Victorian Senior of the Year
2. Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria Senior Achiever Awards
3. Emerging Impact Award
4. Positive Ageing Award
5. Promotion of Multiculturalism Award
6. Veteran Community Award
For more information on eligibility criteria and how to nominate someone, visit seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/awards. Nominations close Sunday 1 June.
