Celebrating our volunteers

SINCE returning to live in Greater Geelong 25 years ago, I’ve come to truly appreciate how there is something for everyone here.

Sport is obviously a big one (Go Cats!), but there are so many other things to do and see that appeal across the board, including gigs, beaches, bushwalking, galleries, wineries and laneway cafes.

This also rings true when it comes to volunteering, with something to suit different passions, schedules, skills and reasons for helping others – reflecting this year’s National Volunteer Week theme of ‘Something for Everyone’.

National Volunteer Week (May 20 to May 26) is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate our incredible volunteers, and highlight the many opportunities available.

I’ve been fortunate to meet with volunteers of all ages and backgrounds during my time as a councillor and through my own volunteering at organisations like Bellarine Landcare, Mannerim CFA and Bellarine Community Health.

I’m always struck by their immense generosity, empathy and commitment to serving the community.

Whether they’re community visitors to elderly residents, washing netball bibs, looking after stray animals, sorting through op shop donations or driving a train at the miniature railway, these community members want to make a difference and bring joy.

Let’s not forget the many benefits that volunteers experience themselves by making new friends, strengthening their ties to the local community, “doing their bit” and learning new skills.

And of course, that warm and fuzzy feeling of helping others can improve mental health.

You can explore the roles available in our region and find out more about National Volunteer Week here: volunteeringvictoria.org.au It would be remiss of me not to plug the diverse volunteer opportunities available at the City of Greater Geelong. We have hundreds of volunteers working across a wide range of areas, including at the National Wool Museum, Potato Shed, Visitor Information Centres and neighbourhood houses.

Our L2P program is always on the look out for patient and calm volunteers with a licence, who can mentor young learner drivers facing barriers getting 120 hours experience behind the wheel.

L2P volunteer Andrew Cleary was instrumental in making sure our new electric L2P car became a reality, from proposing the idea to bringing together the businesses who jointly sponsor the vehicle. Andrew’s contributions are a great example of the many different ways to utilise your skills, so I encourage you to consider volunteering at the city: geelong.link/Volunteer

On behalf of Council, I thank the volunteers who make such invaluable contributions to Greater Geelong.

Happy National Volunteer Week!

 

Cr Jim Mason

Bellarine Ward,

City of Greater Geelong