The Hills Shire Council has paid tribute to its volunteers during National Volunteer Week (May 16- 22).
Approximately 47 volunteers were recognised for their years of service to the community during a special awards presentation, followed by a performance of Chicago The Musical by Blackout Theatre.
Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Peter Gangemi thanked the region’s volunteers for their contribution to making The Hills a great place to live, work and play.
“This year’s theme is ‘better together’ and we are definitely better off thanks to the meaningful contributions of our volunteers,” Mayor Gangemi said.
“They contribute so much to helping others, the environment and providing beneficial services that improve the health and wellbeing of our residents.
“I thank our volunteers for everything they do and continue to do for our community and further afar,” Mayor Gangemi added.
One of the volunteers recognised on the night was Les Brown who has been a volunteer for 55 years.
Les began volunteering after Council put out a call, asking for volunteer rangers to look after Eric Mobbs Reserve. From there, he held various positions on the Eric Mobbs Reserve 355 Committee, including Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer. He is now actively involved with Birds Australia, monitoring the endangered Powerful Owl colony that lives within the Castle Hill Reserve.
“Les has made incredible strides at Eric Mobbs Reserve,” Mayor Gangemi said.
“We thank Les for all his work and his efforts to maintain the Reserve and to also protect the Powerful Owl, which is endangered species,” he added.
Council has a range of volunteers in various programs, including Bushcare, the Environment Centre, Bidjiwong Community Nursery, Hills Community Care and Justice of the Peace, as well as 355 Committee Members, Visitor Centre staff, events volunteers and many more.
Residents are encouraged to discover more about Council’s volunteering program by visiting The Hills Shire Council website (www.thehills.nsw.gov.au) and searching “volunteering”.
“Volunteering has so many benefits, including educational and social. Volunteers also help to build a stronger and more connected local community,” Mayor Gangemi said.
“I encourage residents to join Council’s volunteering program and help us deliver better outcomes across the region,” he added.
