National Volunteer Week a chance to say Thank you
The invaluable effort of volunteers across the country were recognised during National Volunteer Week from 10th to the 16th May.
“Every day hard working volunteers are making real and lasting differences in our local community through their work with vulnerable people, protecting our environment and even risking their lives during bushfires, floods and other disasters,” Federal Member for Holt, Anthony Byrne said.
Anthony Byrne experienced first hand the invaluable contribution that volunteers are making to the community in Holt, visiting the local SES Unit in Narre Warren.
“I extend a thank you on behalf of the broader community for the efforts of this very important SES unit. During the storms in August last year, Narre Warren SES received over 260 calls in a 12 hour period – making it one of the busiest in the state,” Anthony Byrne said.
Narre Warren SES unit controller Tim Howell said that he was “very proud to receive recognition on behalf of the dedicated team of volunteers at the unit, who contribute their time and effort while balancing family and career commitments.”
“Volunteer Week is a chance to recognise this enormous contribution and encouraging more people to discover the satisfaction of giving to the community in this way,” Anthony Byrne said.
The Australian Government’s $21 million Volunteer Grants program provided small grants to over 6,700 organisations last year, benefiting over 366,000 community volunteers. Successful organisations in this year’s Volunteers Grants will be announced in coming months.
Anthony Byrne encouraged those interested in volunteering to visit www.govolunteer.com.au to search for local volunteering opportunities.
For more information about National Volunteer Week, go to http://www.volunteeringaustralia.org/
