The Centre for Volunteering

Community leader named 2026 Inner Western Sydney Volunteer of the Year

Anne Lenehan — Wed, 09 Sep 2026 07:05:47 +0000

Sydney Community Connect founder Joumana Menzalji has been named 2026 Inner Western Sydney Volunteer of the Year, for 30 years of service supporting newly arrived migrants, the elderly and multicultural communities.

Joumana was recognised today at the 2026 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards at Club Burwood.

The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are hosted by The Centre for Volunteering to help promote and support volunteering across NSW.

The Awards are now in their 20th year and celebrate the work of thousands of individuals and volunteer teams from a diverse range of organisations across the state.

Other individual and team awards were also announced today:

Inner Western Sydney Young Volunteer of the Year: Isla Costin from Chiswick

Isla volunteers at Kids Giving Back and has also volunteered with the Australian Red Cross and the Asylum Seekers Centre.

She helped establish 4GreaterGood, an organisation led by young people that is focused on supporting people experiencing homelessness, financial hardship, displacement, and social disadvantage. She gives her time with the group’s meal programs, care pack initiatives, donation drives, fundraising campaigns, and community outreach activities that provide practical support to those in need.

Inner Western Sydney Adult Volunteer of the Year: Joumana Menzalji from Greenacre

Joumana founded Sydney Community Connect to support people experiencing financial or social hardship, including women, youth, the elderly, refugees and newly arrived migrants.

The organisation provides emergency support, guidance and social connection through cultural and sporting programs. She has volunteered for over three decades, overseeing youth soccer and archery programs, running guided tours of Sydney, and providing sewing and tailoring skills.

Inner Western Sydney Senior Volunteer of the Year: Tony Finneran from Padstow

Tony gives his time as a StrokeSafe Speaker for the Stroke Foundation, assisting with community education, particularly among culturally and linguistically diverse groups.

He is a member of 14 local, district and state health committees and has participated in clinical studies, co-founded the Bankstown Stroke Support Group, provided advice to Bankstown Hospital’s project development group, and advocated for accessibility through the Accessible Product Design Alliance.

Inner Western Sydney Emergency Volunteer of the Year: Patrick Quinane from Tempe

Patrick joined the NSW SES in Erskineville in 2023 and has since completed more than 230 hours of skill-intense emergency response during storms, floods and other incidents.

He has cleared fallen trees and managed flood hotspots, and helped communities prepare in the lead up to significant weather events. His expertise in disaster response supports impacted residents and strengthens community resilience.

Inner Western Sydney Volunteer Team of the Year: Community Support Services Volunteers, Bankstown

The 20 members of the Community Support Services Volunteers run the Village Pantry Kitchen and contribute to the Nourishing Our Neighbours outreach program, preparing food hampers so vulnerable people and those facing homelessness receive warm meals.

They also support the Digital Sisters initiative to assist older members of the community with digital literacy, run sewing classes, offer counselling and art therapy sessions, collect, sort and donate clothing; and support a local op shop to raise funds for community programs.

The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said volunteers from across the Inner West give so much to the local community.

“Volunteers help build strong and healthy communities across the state,” Ms Rygate said.

“They are always there when we need them most, giving their time and support across all areas of life including health, emergency services, education and community sectors.

“Volunteers are also role models for others, highlighting how volunteering can have such a positive impact on people and places. These awards celebrate the volunteering effort and impact.”

The NSW Minister with responsibility for Volunteering, Jodie Harrison said:

“Congratulations to our everyday heroes, the winners of the Inner Western Sydney Volunteer of the Year Awards.

“From the bush to the sea, volunteers are the true heartbeat of our communities. Thank you for your invaluable contributions. You make New South Wales the best state to live in.

“In partnership with the Centre for Volunteering, the NSW Government continues to build a sector that is strong and diverse, and to make sure volunteers like you are recognised for and supported in what they do.”

Inner Western Sydney award recipients will be invited to represent their region at the State Gala Award Ceremony at the end of the year, where the NSW Volunteer of the Year in each category will be announced.

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Senior Cyber Seeker named 2026 South Western Sydney/Macarthur Volunteer of the Year

Anne Lenehan — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 06:13:41 +0000

Campbelltown Senior Cyber Seekers President Diane Latham has been named the 2026 South Western Sydney/Macarthur Volunteer of the Year, for her work ensuring older members of the community can safely and confidently participate in a digital life.

Diane was recognised today at the 2026 NSW Volunteer of Year Awards at the Campbelltown Catholic Club.

The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are hosted by The Centre for Volunteering to help promote and support volunteering across NSW. The Awards are now in their 20th year and celebrate the work of thousands of individuals and volunteer teams from a diverse range of organisations across the state.

Other individual and team awards were also announced today:

South Western Sydney/Macarthur Young Volunteer of the Year: Erjin Son from St Andrews

Erjin has a passion for animals and volunteers her time with the Taronga Conservation Society Australia as a Keeper Volunteer.

A role model and mentor for other volunteers, Erjin has demonstrated great initiative, reliability and compassion – approaching every shift with dedication and consistency. She also supports and creates a welcoming environment for new team members as they learn the ropes.

South Western Sydney/Macarthur Adult Volunteer of the Year: Marion Stanton from Mount Annan

Marion is a volunteer at the Autism Community Network in Camden where she helps to create a welcoming and inclusive space for adults with autism.

She facilitates peer support, social groups and community activities for participants and their families that promote inclusion and community connection.

South Western Sydney/Macarthur Senior Volunteer of the Year: Diane Latham from Campbelltown

Dianne is the President of the Campbelltown Senior Cyber Seekers, where she gives her time to help older people improve their computer literacy and digital skills.

She is charged with running the organisation, maintaining its finances, and governance so that older members of the local community do not get left behind and can safely and confidently participate in a digital world.

South Western Sydney/Macarthur Volunteer Team of the Year: Herbarium Mounting Room Volunteers from the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan

The 40 members of the Mount Annan Botanic Garden Herbarium Mounting Room Volunteers have the unique, detailed and important job of attaching dried plant specimens to archival paper for scientific research, heritage, and community education and engagement.

They contributed 3,700 hours, attaching 8,000 specimens collected by scientists and researchers last year so they can be digitised and then moved to the vaults of the National Herbarium of New South Wales.

Their volunteer work supports valuable national and international scientific research and plant evolutionary history.

The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said volunteers from across South Western Sydney and the Macarthur region give so much to the local community.

“Volunteers help build strong and healthy communities across the state,” Ms Rygate said.

“They are always there when we need them most, giving their time and support across all areas of life including health, emergency services, education and community sectors.

“Volunteers are role models for others, highlighting how volunteering can have such a positive impact on people and places. These awards celebrate the volunteering effort and impact.”

The NSW Minister with responsibility for Volunteering, Jodie Harrison said:

“Congratulations to our everyday heroes, the winners of the South Western Sydney/Macarthur Volunteer of the Year Awards.

“From the bush to the sea, volunteers are the true heartbeat of our communities. Thank you for your invaluable contributions. You make New South Wales the best state to live in.

South West Sydney/Macarthur award recipients will be invited to represent their region at the State Gala Award Ceremony at the end of the year, where the NSW Volunteer of the Year in each category will be announced.

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Armidale volunteering virtuoso named 2026 New England/Northern Inland Volunteer of the Year

Anne Lenehan — Thu, 03 Sep 2026 05:42:29 +0000

Armidale volunteer Jenny Bourke has been named the 2026 New England/Northern Inland Volunteer of the Year, for her work across three leading local community groups that support people living with cancer, vulnerable renters and older people in care.

Jenny was recognised today at the 2026 NSW Volunteer of Year Awards at the Armidale City Bowling Club.

Other individual and team awards were also announced today:

New England/Northern Inland Young Volunteer of the Year: Brooke Everett and Samuel Browning – Joint winners from Tenterfield

Brooke and Samuel volunteer at the Tenterfield Railway Station Preservation Society where they give their time each Wednesday greeting visitors, compiling tourist information, helping events, and maintaining and restoring equipment.

New England/Northern Inland Adult Volunteer of the Year: Gai Buchanan from Uralla

Gai volunteers with the Justice Advocacy Service, the 24-hour service provided by the Intellectual Disability Rights Service.

She gives her time at the local courts, ensuring that clients with cognitive impairments, mental health challenges or highly disadvantaged backgrounds have access to legal and emotional assistance.

She has volunteered with the service for the past three years and also gives her time at Can Assist Uralla.

New England/Northern Inland Senior Volunteer of the Year: Jenny Bourke from Armidale

Jenny shares her volunteering duties across three leading local community organisations – Can Assist Armidale, Care for Seniors, and the New England & Western Tenants Advice and Advocacy Service.

She prepares meals, activities and bus outings for older people; raises money and provides care and support for people living with cancer; and provides governance, strategic advice and advocacy that supports vulnerable tenants.

New England/Northern Inland Emergency Volunteer of the Year: Fiona Johnson from South Tamworth

Fiona is the Local Commander of Peel Cluster at the NSW State Emergency Service where she oversees flood rescues, storm and disaster response, and helps to build community resilience.

She is a second generation SES volunteer with 15 years of volunteering under her belt, moving from the Hunter Valley to take on the volunteering role at Tamworth.

New England/Northern Inland Volunteer Team of the Year: Country Women’s Association of NSW Armidale Branch

The 50 members of the CWA Armidale Branch help to raise funds, advocate for vulnerable people and deliver life changing community support and services.

They cook, run events, lead civic conversations and advocate on important issues affecting rural and regional communities, including health, education, infrastructure and community wellbeing.

The team supported the establishment of the inaugural Medical Scholarship at the University of New England, helping to increase access to education for students in rural and regional NSW.

The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said volunteers from across the New England and Northern Inland regions give so much to the local community.

“Volunteers help build strong and healthy communities across the state,” Ms Rygate said.

“They are always there when we need them most, giving their time and support across all areas of life including health, emergency services, education and community sectors.

“Volunteers are role models for others, highlighting how volunteering can have such a positive impact on people and places. These awards celebrate the volunteering effort and impact.”

The NSW Minister with responsibility for Volunteering, Jodie Harrison said:

“Congratulations to our everyday heroes, the winners of the New England/Northern Inland Volunteer of the Year Awards.

“From the bush to the sea, volunteers are the true heartbeat of our communities. Thank you for your invaluable contributions. You make New South Wales the best state to live in.

The New England-Northern Inland award recipients will be invited to represent their region at the State Gala Award Ceremony at the end of the year, where the NSW Volunteer of the Year in each category will be announced.

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Krazy Kosci Klimb veteran named 2026 Southern Sydney Volunteer of the Year

Anne Lenehan — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 06:32:48 +0000

Krazy Kosci Klimb organiser and Cerebral Palsy Alliance volunteer Bill Manning has been named the 2026 Southern Sydney Volunteer of the Year, for his decades long work helping young people with a disability to participate in a rich and life changing experience.

Bill was recognised today at the 2026 NSW Volunteer of Year Awards at Cronulla RSL.

Other individual and team awards were also announced today:

Southern Sydney Young Volunteer of the Year: Sunny Liu from Blakehurst

Sunny has volunteered with the Australian Army Cadets and Lifeline for the past two years, giving almost 4,000 hours of her time to lead cadets and support people when they are most in need.

She has served as the Officer Commanding, Second-in-Command, and Training Officer of her cadet unit, ensuring the physical and mental safety and welfare of more than 150 members. She is also a telephone crisis supporter, where she listens to and supports people in distress, and mentors other volunteers.

Southern Sydney Adult Volunteer of the Year: Bill Manning from Connells Point

Bill has been helping to organise the Cerebral Palsy Alliance’s Krazy Kosci Klimb event since its inception more than 13 years ago, helping more than 200 young people believe in themselves and reach their goals.

He manages mountain logistics, safety, and volunteer coordination ensuring that young people with a disability can set and reach their goals and participate in challenging outdoor activities in one of the country’s most iconic environments.

Southern Sydney Senior Volunteer of the Year: Paul Quinn from Illawong

Paul has been volunteering at Calvary Health Care Kogarah for over six years where he supports people in palliative care through equipment delivery, community visits, and emotional support.

He ensures that the patients in palliative care have access to the specialist equipment they need, as well as companionship and welfare support that reduces loneliness and enhances emotional wellbeing.

Southern Sydney Emergency Volunteer of the Year: Warren Rennie AM OAM from Cronulla

Warren has been volunteering at North Cronulla Surf Life Saving Club for almost 70 years, where he has helped maintain beach safety through patrols, rescues, coaching, and mentoring other surf lifesaving volunteers.

He has strengthened lifesaving’s standards, protected beach goers and trained several new generations of fellow surf lifesaving volunteers.

Southern Sydney Volunteer Team of the Year: Calvary Kogarah Biography Service

The 20 members of the Calvary Kogarah Biography Service volunteers help record the life stories of people in palliative care, allowing them to speak openly about their lives, relationships, achievements, fears and hopes.

They give their time, compassion and energy so people are heard and supported during the final chapter of their lives. Their work also supports memory projects, letters, eulogies and legacy items for families and future generations.

The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said volunteers from across St George and Sutherland Shire give so much to the local community.

“Volunteers help build strong and healthy communities across the state,” Ms Rygate said.

“They are always there when we need them most, giving their time and support across all areas of life including health, emergency services, education and community sectors.

“Volunteers are role models for others, highlighting how volunteering can have such a positive impact on people and places. These awards celebrate the volunteering effort and impact.”

The NSW Minister with responsibility for Volunteering, Jodie Harrison said:

“Congratulations to our everyday heroes, the winners of the Southern Sydney Volunteer of the Year Awards.

“From the bush to the sea, volunteers are the true heartbeat of our communities. Thank you for your invaluable contributions. You make New South Wales the best state to live in.

Southern Sydney award recipients will be invited to represent their region at the State Gala Award Ceremony at the end of the year, where the NSW Volunteer of the Year in each category will be announced.

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Jamberoo community champion named 2026 Illawarra Volunteer of the Year

Anne Lenehan — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 06:46:12 +0000

Local volunteering legend Vivienne Marris has been named 2026 Illawarra Volunteer of the Year for her service and commitment to more than 15 community groups across the region.

Viv was recognised today at the 2026 Illawarra Volunteer of the Year Awards at Wests Illawarra.

Other individual and team awards were also announced today:

Illawarra Young Volunteer of the Year: Uthman Farache from Wollongong

Uthman is a volunteer wellness ambassador at the University of Wollongong Pulse Program, where he gives his time on free sports programs, the university breaky bar, kindness workshops and cultural events.

He has completed more than 100 shifts and 300 hours of volunteering, helping to foster meaningful student connections and wellbeing.

Illawarra Adult Volunteer of the Year: Scout Davis from Woonona

Scout Davis is the co-founder of Propel Project Dharawal, a community-led organisation focused on early intervention and mentoring of young people across the Illawarra.

She is a part of the Circle Sentencing panel, advocates for young people in court and in custody, assists police with community outreach, and actively engages with local schools and their leadership.

Her volunteering helps young indigenous people to re-engage with education, community and build trust.

Illawarra Senior Volunteer of the Year: Vivienne Marris from Jamberoo

Vivienne shares her volunteering across many community organisations, services and causes, helping people in need and building strong and healthy community connections.

She has been a driving force at the Jamberoo branch of the Country Women’s Association, while also supporting fundraising for the NSW Cancer Council, Dress for Success and the Red Cross. She gives her time at the Kiama Garden Club, the Jamberoo Valley Ratepayers & Residents group and the Jamberoo Village Markets.

All up Vivienne has supported more than 15 local groups and causes, including local show societies, sports clubs, emergency response, and homelessness support services.

Illawarra Emergency Volunteer of the Year: William Lee from Thirroul

Group Captain William Lee has dedicated an incredible 55 years of volunteering to the NSW Rural Fire Service across the Illawarra region. He provides operations support, training, while also undertaking high‑risk frontline work protecting life and property.

He’s contributed 350 hours to develop national training around heavy plant, safety and crew awareness and is also President of the Austinmer Thirroul RSL Sub-Branch, supporting veteran welfare.

Illawarra Volunteer Team of the Year: Support Transition Assistance Response Service (STARS) Volunteers

The 15 members of the STARS Volunteer Program provide care and support to older people in Illawarra and Shoalhaven hospitals waiting to enter the aged care system. They provide companionship, reassurance and advocate for patient preferences.

The team has supported 86 older people and 66 family carers over the past 12 months, providing 244 hours of direct in-hospital and after-hours service.

The program is run by the Community Industry Group, the peak body supporting and advocating for not-for-profit community and human services in Southern New South Wales.

The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said volunteers from across the Illawarra give so much to the local community.

“Volunteers help build strong and healthy communities across the state,” Ms Rygate said.

“They are always there when we need them most, giving their time and support across all areas of life including health, emergency services, education and community sectors.

“Volunteers are also role models for others, highlighting how volunteering can have such a positive impact on people and places. These awards celebrate the volunteering effort and impact.”

The NSW Minister with responsibility for Volunteering, Jodie Harrison said:

“Congratulations to our everyday heroes, the winners of the Illawarra Volunteer of the Year Awards.

“From the bush to the sea, volunteers are the true heartbeat of our communities. Thank you for your invaluable contributions. You make New South Wales the best state to live in.

Illawarra award recipients will be invited to represent their region at the State Gala Award Ceremony at the end of the year, where the NSW Volunteer of the Year in each category will be announced.

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Warriewood mental health stalwart named 2026 Northern Beaches Volunteer of the Year

Anne Lenehan — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 07:01:27 +0000

Mowana Safe Space founder Melani Kypri has been named the 2026 Northern Beaches Volunteer of the Year, for her deep commitment to greater mental health services and support for people feeling depressed, lonely, isolated or anxious.

Melanie was recognised today at the 2026 NSW Volunteer of Year Awards at Dee Why RSL Club.

Other individual and team awards were also announced today:

Northern Beaches Young Volunteer of the Year: Tilly Cooper from Mona Vale

Teenager surf rescuer and author Tilly Cooper is a constant presence at the Mona Vale Surf Life Saving Club where she works on the sand and water with young nippers, drives fundraising and promotes inclusion.

Her passion for helping others, initiative and leadership spurred her to establish the Fijian Clothes Drive, a campaign to help collect and deliver clothes and swim wear to Fijian communities. Tilly is also an Ambassador for the Kimaya Brighter Minds Program in Fiji, which promotes the intellectual development of students.

Northern Beaches Adult Volunteer of the Year: Kerry Gleeson from Mona Vale

Kerry gives her time with Northern Beaches Council, Lifeline Northern Beaches and Wayahead, providing support for mental health, suicide prevention, and for people at risk of homelessness and domestic violence.

Her volunteer support extends across the Avalon Youth Hub Steering Group, the Homeless interagency, facilitating free anxiety support groups, and as Chair of Northen Beaches Mental Health Month.

Northern Beaches Senior Volunteer of the Year: Melani Kypri from Warriewood

Melanie helped establish the Mowana Safe Space in Narrabeen to provide a safe place for people feeling anxious, bullied, depressed, lonely or suicidal.

The free mental health support service accommodates 1,000 visits a year where 45 volunteers meet with and listen to people in need. Melanie trains volunteers, develops programs and builds strong community connections.

Northern Beaches Emergency Volunteer of the Year: Christian Young from Frenchs Forest

NSW SES Commander Christian Young has provided more than 17 years of volunteer service, helping communities and people to stay safe during storms and major events.

He oversees the Canterbury, Bankstown and Fairfield Units, while also volunteering his time as a Chief Inspector. He coordinates the emergency response to floods and storms, mentors fellow volunteers, supports training, and drives strategic planning and inter-agency collaboration.

Northern Beaches Volunteer Team of the Year: Warrior Woman Foundation Wise Women Mentors

The 65 volunteers at the Forestville based Warrior Woman Foundation Wise Women Mentors help young women facing disadvantage with training, one-on-one mentoring, and community activities.

They have provided more than 13,000 volunteer hours in the past 12 months, helping young women with issues like housing insecurity and family violence, and building confidence, financial understanding and engagement in employment and education.

The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said volunteers from across the Northern Beaches give so much to the local community.

“Volunteers help build strong and healthy communities across the state,” Ms Rygate said.

“They are always there when we need them most, giving their time and support across all areas of life including health, emergency services, education and community sectors.

“Volunteers are role models for others, highlighting how volunteering can have such a positive impact on people and places. These awards celebrate the volunteering effort and impact.”

The NSW Minister with responsibility for Volunteering, Jodie Harrison said:

“Congratulations to our everyday heroes, the winners of the Northern Beaches Volunteer of the Year Awards.

“From the bush to the sea, volunteers are the true heartbeat of our communities. Thank you for your invaluable contributions. You make New South Wales the best state to live in.

Northern Beaches award recipients will be invited to represent their region at the State Gala Award Ceremony at the end of the year, where the NSW Volunteer of the Year in each category will be announced.

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Leading volunteer recruiter named 2026 Outer Western Sydney Volunteer of the Year

Anne Lenehan — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 07:05:44 +0000

Share the Dignity volunteer manager Kerrie Barton has been named the 2026 Outer Western Sydney Volunteer of the Year, for her relentless drive to recruit, train and mentor more than 200 volunteers to help end period poverty across NSW.

Kerrie was recognised today at the 2026 NSW Volunteer of Year Awards at the St Mary’s Band Club.

Other individual and team awards were also announced today:

Outer Western Sydney Young Volunteer of the Year: Jacob Gormley from St Clair

Jacob is the President of Nepean Region Rotaract – the youth arm of Rotary International. He also gives his time as a Justice of the Peace, an event organiser for the Australia Latin American Emerging Leaders Dialogue and as an advocate for young people in Penrith.

He has led community initiatives like Clean Up Australia Day, blood drives, and is a founding member of the Penrith City Council Youth Committee.

Outer Western Sydney Adult Volunteer of the Year: Kerrie Barton from Blacktown

Kerrie is the guru volunteer recruiter and manager for the NSW Chapter of Share the Dignity, an organisation dedicated to ensuring no one is without access to menstruation products, particularly those who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness, domestic violence or poverty.

She leads volunteer engagement and onboarding as part of the organisation’s three major collection and fundraising drives each year. She has helped recruit and retain 200 volunteers and supports a total of 1,000 volunteers throughout the state.

Outer Western Sydney Senior Volunteer of the Year: Linda Rushworth from Oakhurst

Linda has given more than 5,000 hours of her time over the past seven years to help people throughout the state experiencing food insecurity.

She volunteers at Foodbank NSW & ACT’s major distribution warehouse at Glendenning three days per week, where she helps oversee the sorting, packing and distribution of rescued food so it can be sent across the region.

Outer Western Sydney Volunteer Team of the Year: Foodbank NSW & ACT Community Volunteers, Blacktown

The 380 strong team of Foodbank volunteers have contributed over 4,500 days of work to provide more than 20 million meals to people and families throughout the region and the state.

They give their time to help people experiencing food insecurity due to cost-of-living pressures and social issues, at the same time helping them to combat mental health issues and social stigmas.

The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said volunteers from across Sydney’s outer west give so much to the local community.

“Volunteers help build strong and healthy communities across the state,” Ms Rygate said.

“They are always there when we need them most, giving their time and support across all areas of life including health, emergency services, education and community sectors.

“Volunteers are role models for others, highlighting how volunteering can have such a positive impact on people and places. These awards celebrate the volunteering effort and impact.”

The NSW Minister with responsibility for Volunteering, Jodie Harrison said:

“Congratulations to our everyday heroes, the winners of the Outer Western Sydney Volunteer of the Year Awards.

“From the bush to the sea, volunteers are the true heartbeat of our communities. Thank you for your invaluable contributions. You make New South Wales the best state to live in.

Outer Western Sydney award recipients will be invited to represent their region at the State Gala Award Ceremony at the end of the year, where the NSW Volunteer of the Year in each category will be announced.

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Foster care advocate named 2026 Blue Mountains Volunteer of the Year

Anne Lenehan — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 06:20:41 +0000

Hope in a Suitcase volunteer Natalie Bennett has been named 2026 Blue Mountains Volunteer of the Year for her role in bringing comfort to children entering the out-of-home care system and for speaking out on the need to provide more support.

Natalie was recognised today at the 2026 Volunteer of the Year Awards at The Carrington Hotel in Katoomba.

Other individual and team awards were also announced today:

Blue Mountains Adult Volunteer of the Year: Natalie Bennett from Blaxland

Natalie gives her time with Hope in a Suitcase, helping to collect, pack and distribute clothing, blankets and toys for children transitioning to out-of-home care.

She has supported more than 1,000 children, while organising for surplus donations to be shared with other charities like Gateway Services and Bonnie Support Services. She is also a champion fundraiser, public speaker and finder of donations, sourcing support from Woolworths, Bunnings, and other organisations.

Blue Mountains Senior Volunteer of the Year: Garry Sims from Katoomba

Detective Chief Inspector Garry Sims from the Blue Mountains Police Area Command is a Community Ambassador for the Kids with Cancer Foundation, which provides essential items, toys and personally written cards for children undergoing cancer treatment.

Garry leads an annual food drive across the Blue Mountains, coordinating local emergency services, businesses, schools and other community groups to raise thousands of dollars’ worth of donations.

He’s also an ambassador for RU OK? Day, highlighting the important issues of mental health and wellbeing.

Blue Mountains Emergency Volunteer of the Year: Sabella Hebels from Mount Riverview

Sabella is a volunteer with Anglicare Sydney, where she sources and packs crucial items such as toiletry packs for distribution at emergency evacuation centres, providing comfort to those in need.

During the 2025 Mid North Coast Floods, Sabella supported the work of GIVIT, coordinating hundreds of requests from flood affected households and matching them with donated items, including fridges, beds and other household goods, enabling families to rebuild their homes and lives.

Blue Mountains Volunteer Team of the Year: Springwood Neighbourhood Centre Reception Team

The Reception Team at the Springwood Neighbourhood Centre offers a warm, safe and welcoming space for community members looking to connect with others or access support services. The team welcomes new clients, organises resources, packs food relief bags, and provides admin support for staff.

Last year, the team distributed 900 food bags and 3,500 bread and pastry items to people in financial hardship, and contributed to 5,500 social connections, building a stronger, more connected community.

The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said volunteers from across the Blue Mountains give so much to the local community.

“Volunteers help build strong and healthy communities across the state,” Ms Rygate said.

“They are always there when we need them most, giving their time and support across all areas of life including health, emergency services, education and community sectors.

“Volunteers are also role models for others, highlighting how volunteering can have such a positive impact on people and places. These awards celebrate the volunteering effort and impact.”

The NSW Minister with responsibility for Volunteering, Jodie Harrison said:

“Congratulations to our everyday heroes, the winners of the Blue Mountains Volunteer of the Year Awards.

“From the bush to the sea, volunteers are the true heartbeat of our communities. Thank you for your invaluable contributions. You make New South Wales the best state to live in.

Blue Mountains award recipients will be invited to represent their region at the State Gala Award Ceremony at the end of the year, where the NSW Volunteer of the Year in each category will be announced.

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Homelessness support founder named 2026 Mid North Coast Volunteer of the Year

Anne Lenehan — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 07:15:47 +0000

Dignity Dishes volunteer and homelessness services advocate Lea Lloyd has been named the 2026 Mid North Coast Volunteer of the Year, for her tireless work to protect people from the impacts of hunger and homelessness across the region.

Lea was recognised today at the 2026 NSW Volunteer of Year Awards at the Westport Club at Port Macquarie.

Other individual and team awards were also announced today:

Mid North Coast Young Volunteer of the Year: Lilly De Belle from Port Macquarie

Uni student Lilly De Belle is a rescue watercraft operator, assistant trainer, fundraiser and public relations officer with Marine Rescue NSW at Port Macquarie.

She gives her time to keep the boating community safe on the water and informed of conditions and operations, as well as training new recruits and raising money to support the unit’s operations.

Mid North Coast Adult Volunteer of the Year: Lea Lloyd from Port Macquarie

Lea helped found the Mid North Coast arm of the homelessness support organisation Dignity Dishes, providing free, nutritious meals to people facing financial hardship or at risk of homelessness.

She has also been the Club Secretary for Sunrise Rotary for more than seven years, where she manages club administration, membership records, meeting minutes, and liaises with other organisations.

Mid North Coast Senior Volunteer of the Year: Gary White from Port Macquarie

Gary has been a leading volunteer at Marine Rescue NSW Port Macquarie for more than a decade, performing hundreds of rescues, mentoring many colleagues and managing multiple radio bases.

His extensive volunteer work includes flood and fire liaison with other emergency and defence force organisations, as well as operating rescue craft and leading training activity.

Mid North Coast Emergency Volunteer of the Year: BlazeAid Mid Coast Flood Response, Nambucca

Bob and Lisa Abdoo led the BlazeAid Mid Coast Flood Response team, helping 179 farmers to recover from the devasting impacts of the 2025 floods that hit the region.

They set up at the Bulahdelah BlazeAid Basecamp, coordinating a group of 300 volunteers who rolled up their sleeves to provide fencing, infrastructure repair and recovery support to local farmers and the community.

They managed the equivalent of 5,700 days of volunteer work, helping to rebuild 260 km of fencing across 125 farms and allowing a return to productive farming.

Mid North Coast Volunteer Team of the Year: The Community Transport Company Volunteer Team

The 220 members of the Toormina based North Coast Community Transport Company Volunteer Team provide essential transport services for vulnerable groups across the region.

Their volunteer work ensures people can attend lifesaving health care appointments like dialysis, oncology treatments, specialist appointments and other essential healthcare.

They ensure their clients can complete their shopping and participate in social activity or overnight appointments, helping to reduce social isolation and loneliness.

The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said volunteers from across the Mid North Coast give so much to the local community.

“Volunteers help build strong and healthy communities across the state,” Ms Rygate said.

“They are always there when we need them most, giving their time and support across all areas of life including health, emergency services, education and community sectors.

“Volunteers are role models for others, highlighting how volunteering can have such a positive impact on people and places. These awards celebrate the volunteering effort and impact.”

The NSW Minister with responsibility for Volunteering, Jodie Harrison said:

“Congratulations to our everyday heroes, the winners of the Mid North Coast Volunteer of the Year Awards.

“From the bush to the sea, volunteers are the true heartbeat of our communities. Thank you for your invaluable contributions. You make New South Wales the best state to live in.

Mid North Coast award recipients will be invited to represent their region at the State Gala Award Ceremony at the end of the year, where the NSW Volunteer of the Year in each category will be announced.

The post Homelessness support founder named 2026 Mid North Coast Volunteer of the Year appeared first on The Centre for Volunteering.

Disability rights advocate named 2026 North Western Sydney Volunteer of the Year

Anne Lenehan — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 06:33:41 +0000

Disability rights legal advocate Rosemary Wever has been named the 2026 North Western Sydney Volunteer of the Year for her work supporting people in need in the justice system.

Rosemary was recognised today at the 2026 NSW Volunteer of Year Awards at Castle Hill RSL Club.

Other individual and team awards were also announced today:

North Western Sydney Young Volunteer of the Year: Maddox Howe from Castle Hill

Maddox is a volunteer with Foodbank NSW where he helps to sort, label and pack rescued and excess food and groceries to distribute to people in need throughout the region.

The TAFE student has racked up more than 200 hours of volunteering and gives his time up to three times a week, including extra warehouse duties whenever required.

North Western Sydney Adult Volunteer of the Year: Rosemary Wever from Oakville

Rosemary volunteers with the Justice Advocacy Service (JAS), the 24-hour service provided by the Intellectual Disability Rights Organisation.

She gives her time at the Penrith and Windsor courts, ensuring that clients with cognitive impairments, mental health challenges or highly disadvantaged backgrounds have access to legal and emotional assistance.

She has used her professional legal training to provide support to clients across 65 court matters over the past three years.

North Western Sydney Senior Volunteer of the Year: Joan Bruce from Richmond

Joan gives her time at local community services provider Peppercorn Services where she supports seniors’ wellbeing and reduces social isolation through group activities and other social connection programs.

She has given her time over the past eight years helping to create safe, welcoming spaces where seniors can build friendships, strengthen social networks and maintain a sense of belonging.

North Western Sydney Emergency Volunteer of the Year: Doreen McCulloch from Windsor Downs

Doreen McCulloch has volunteered with Fire & Rescue NSW Community Fire Unit in Windsor Downs for the past 11 years where she has helped to expand firefighting resources, recruited over 130 volunteers, and led training, inventory, and safety initiatives.

She has also contributed to building community libraries, donated a defibrillator, and assisted with wildlife rescue and safety programs.

North Western Sydney Volunteer Team of the Year: Friendship Centre Counselling Services from Richmond

The 200 members of the Friendship Centre Counselling Services team offer free, accessible counselling for vulnerable people experiencing addiction and relapse, anger management issues, domestic and family violence, grief, trauma, and other significant life challenges.

The team supports vulnerable populations, reducing barriers like cost and location to promote early intervention and better community wellbeing, resilience, and mental health.

The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said volunteers from across Sydney’s North West give so much to the local community.

“Volunteers help build strong and healthy communities across the state,” Ms Rygate said.

“They are always there when we need them most, giving their time and support across all areas of life including health, emergency services, education and community sectors.

“Volunteers are role models for others, highlighting how volunteering can have such a positive impact on people and places. These awards celebrate the volunteering effort and impact.”

The NSW Minister with responsibility for Volunteering, Jodie Harrison said:

“Congratulations to our everyday heroes, the winners of the North Western Sydney Volunteer of the Year Awards.

“From the bush to the sea, volunteers are the true heartbeat of our communities. Thank you for your invaluable contributions. You make New South Wales the best state to live in.

North Western Sydney award recipients will be invited to represent their region at the State Gala Award Ceremony at the end of the year, where the NSW Volunteer of the Year in each category will be announced.

The post Disability rights advocate named 2026 North Western Sydney Volunteer of the Year appeared first on The Centre for Volunteering.