Celebrating our invaluable volunteers

Last week we celebrated National Volunteer Week, a great time to highlight the important role of volunteers in our community. 

Events such as these help us to pause, reflect and celebrate the amazing work volunteers do throughout our community. 

When you stop and think, it is remarkable just how many organisations and programs simply wouldn’t exist without the tireless, and often thankless, work of volunteers. 

From clubs helping connect people through sport, to community centres and neighbourhood houses for all to feel welcome, and even the SES coming to our aid during our hardest times, volunteers are the backbone of our community. 

I’ve been fortunate to have been brought up recognising the importance of volunteerism, with giving back playing a key role in my life. 

Whether it’s being active in a soup kitchen helping to feed those in need or weeding and planting trees along Skeleton Creek, I have always found comfort in volunteering. 

There’s something about giving back to the community, contributing to causes greater than yourself that is truly fulfilling. 

So as National Volunteer Week comes and goes, I’d encourage the community to have a think about how you can get involved and give back. Where can you contribute to make a difference?  

Or even next time you come across a volunteer, just a quick thank you for all the work they do, that small token of recognition can go a long way. 

You can also check out Council’s website for volunteering opportunities. 

Finally, Hobsons Bay’s Council Plan 2025-29 is ramping up, with community consultation closing soon. 

We want to hear from community members from all different walks of life to make sure our Council Plan for the next four years represents a broad cross-section of our community. 

It’s easy to have your say, all you need to do is head to participate.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au and fill out the online survey, letting us know about what you hope for Hobsons Bay for the next four years. It closes on 6 June. 

Cr Columns are published in the Star Weekly newspaper every fortnight.