Surf Coast Shire is preparing for National Volunteer Week by organising events to recognise and celebrate people who give back to their community.
Council will celebrate the week, from Monday, May 20 to Sunday, May 26, with events that recognise the nationwide theme of ‘something for everyone’.
Events will include a multicultural training workshop in Lorne on May 22, Local Legend’s presentation at the Council Chambers on May 23 and a Winchelsea Community House morning tea on May 24.
Councillor Rose Hodge said National Volunteer Week was a chance for council to show its appreciation for community members who donated their time, skills and passion.
“We know recognising the time, skills and success of volunteers is important, and every year we run several events to show our appreciation,” she said.
“This year, we are honouring six local legends nominated by the community at our event in Torquay; the recipients will share their volunteering stories.
“In Winchelsea, we’re celebrating the ongoing community effort towards volunteering at the community house…and in Lorne, we are providing free multicultural training to give back to the community volunteers.
“Without volunteers so many important projects, programs and events just wouldn’t take place, and we recognise them not only during National Volunteer Week, but year-round.”
Surf Coast Shire Council has close to 200 internal volunteers that assist council with many committees and roles throughout the Shire.
Recipients of Surf Coast Shire’s Local Legend awards recipients included Ocean Mind volunteer Matt Benson, Anglesea Kindergarten volunteer Sue Saw, and Festival of the Minds founder Jules Haddock.
Surf Coast Little Athletics founder Claire Osborn, Athlete Willem Curwood, Reconciliation advocate Hutch Hussein, and Youth volunteers at Torquay Community House also received the award.
