Helping hands recognised for hard work

THE nation’s largest annual celebration of volunteers in on this week, and Bendigo Volunteer Resource Centre manager Helen Yorston said it’s the perfect time to reflect on people who donate their time to make our community a better place.

“Volunteering creates social connections, enables us to share our time, skills and energy with others, improving our self-worth and sense of belonging while building resilience in our community,” she said.

Ms Yorston said this year’s Easter and Writers’ festivals and the March’s Bendigo Fun Run are clear examples of passionate people working together for the benefit of the community.

“Volunteers are vital in helping deliver those,” she said.

“We have volunteers at the art gallery who welcome visitors coming to the Elvis exhibition at the moment, and in junior sport like footy, basketball, netball, we’ve got AusKick happening in winter, these might be our future star footballers and they’re all supported by volunteers.”

On Wednesday, SES commemorated Orange Day, a national celebration to thank emergency service volunteers.

“The SES, day and night they’re out and about,” Ms Yorston said. “Accidents happen… there’s no nine to five, it can happen at any hour.

“We should really acknowledge those people, whether it’s the SES, the CFA, lifesavers, they all do a fantastic job and we always need more people to support these emergency services.”

The BVRC is located in the Bendigo Library as a central point to help potential volunteers find something to help out in, whether it’s maintenance at the Bendigo Tramways or making tea at a neighbourhood centre.

“As we celebrate the marvellous contribution of existing volunteers, we wish to encourage others to get involved in community life, do something positive for your mental health and well-being by lending a hand to a cause which they are passionate about,” Ms Yorston said.