Latrobe City Council celebrated its volunteers during National Volunteer Week, from 15 – 21 May.
National Volunteer Week is the largest annual celebration of volunteering and recognises the crucial role of volunteers in supporting our nation.
This year’s National Volunteer Week theme was ‘The Change Makers,’ highlighting the powerful impact volunteers make supporting individuals, communities and the nation.
Volunteers help to shape Latrobe City by maintaining reserves, gardens and recreational areas. From spaces such as the Morwell Rose Garden to Mathison Park and Edward Hunter Bush Reserve, Council volunteers maintain Latrobe City to a high standard.
Mayor of Latrobe City Council, Councillor Kellie O’Callaghan said volunteers are the lifeblood of many programs and provide vital support to our local community.
“In the 2016 Census, 19.3 percent of the Latrobe City community reported that they volunteer. This is higher than the Australian average and slightly higher than the Victorian average,” said the Mayor.
“Volunteers are an integral part of the fabric of our community. National Volunteer Week is the perfect time to recognise the efforts of those 8,500 community members who volunteer.”
“Volunteers are there in our times of need, through the support of the SES, CFA and Red Cross in times of emergency, supporting the most vulnerable by delivering meals on wheels, library books and transporting individuals to medical appointments, they support the success of sporting associations to enable weekend and after school sport participation. There are many varied volunteer opportunities within our community that deliver positive outcomes.
“Volunteering not only benefits those who are recipients for these acts, but those who give so freely of their time to enhance our City’s liveability.”
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, head along to the Volunteering Connections Event at Gippsland Performing Arts Centre, Saturday 27 May between 9am – 1pm where a range of community organisations will showcase local volunteering opportunities.
To sign up to become a volunteer, visit Council’s website: www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/Community/Volunteering_in_Reserves_Gardens_and_Recreational_Areas
