Volunteer recognition

Kelly and her dog, Spike, are a big hit with the children at Saltwater P-9 College!  Once a week during school term, Kelly and Spike spend one-on-one time with a select group of students who may need a little extra help with their reading.  Each session lasts for approximately 20 minutes and books are selected to suit the student’s reading level and interest.  The Story Dogs Program aims to create a safe, fun, supportive, non-judgemental environment for primary school aged children needing assistance with literacy.  “Spike loves all the attention from the children and often sits between me and the child to listen to the story” says Kelly.  “The children feel safe; there is no pressure and no judgement – we just let them read, and it’s amazing to see the students’ confidence levels soar!”

Kelly stumbled across Story Dogs at last year’s Wyndham Volunteer Expo and signed up on the spot.  Story Dogs are hoping to be present at this year’s Expo on Saturday 11th May at Encore Event Centre, so consider popping along to find out how you can get involved.  “We desperately need more dogs and volunteers – there is a huge demand out there,” says Kelly.

“You rarely experience a student spending their whole morning asking when it’s their turn for their session so they can read to their pal, Spike!”  In return for her time, Kelly (and no doubt Spike too!), feel a great sense of satisfaction seeing the students improve, gain confidence, and start to love reading.

To find out more about Story Dogs, visit https://www.storydogs.org.au/ or to come along to the Volunteer Expo, visit https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/wyndham-volunteer-expo.

To help your local community, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

Whilst scrolling through her Facebook feed, Julie Connell discovered a community event happening at Point Cook Coastal Park and decided to go along and take a look – after all, this was her backyard and cleaning up the area seemed like a good activity to be involved in. Twelve months later, Julie is now the main organiser of that group she first attended – LoveOurStreet Point Cook. 

Meeting once a month for just an hour, the group of likeminded volunteers clean up litter around the waterways of Point Cook and what better way to keep your mental and physical health and wellbeing in check – fresh air, social connection, exercise and feeling rewarded!

Since last February, the group has collected 237kg of rubbish and grown from 6 participants to 41.  “We’re all in this together” says Julie. “We can make a huge impact on our local patch and along the way, make friendships and care for the environment”.  “The group is diverse in age and culture - I even have one couple who are teaching me Korean whilst we pick up litter”, says Julie.

Julie acknowledges that using her organisational skills has made her role very easy and satisfying.  “It’s important to know your skill set, what you’d like to achieve through volunteering and then identify the right role – that way you’ll absolutely love it”.

If you would like to join a local litter group, contact Werribee River Association at admin@werribeeriver.org.au or visit https://werribeeriver.org.au/volunteer-with-us/litter-groups/.

If you would like to help your community, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

There are nearly 500 parkrun events around Australia taking place every weekend.  It is a free community event, run completely by volunteers, where you can walk, jog, run, volunteer, or spectate.  The Wyndham Vale parkrun meets at Presidents Park every Saturday at 8am and today, we are putting the spotlight on volunteer, Louise Finlay, who believes volunteering makes you feel great and can lead to lifelong friendships!  “I might see a mum struggling to take part in the activity and I’ll offer to help out and take care of her child”, says Louise.  “I know of one family who brought along their newborn baby, and now he’s running in the event himself, breaking new ‘personal bests’ all the time!”

Louise is a favourite at Wyndham Vale parkrun and has been consistently volunteering for several years.  “You don’t have to be the most social or outgoing person to volunteer, it’s just nice to help others and show kindness” says Louise.

At Wyndham Vale parkrun, there are lots of opportunities to try new roles, apply your skills or learn new ones.  You might prefer to come along and walk/run each week and then put your hand up to help on occasion, or you may have an injury which prevents you from taking part in the activity but are able to scan barcodes or be a timekeeper.

For more information, visit www.parkrun.com.au/wyndhamvale or to help your local community, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

Louise believes “if you smile at someone, you might just get a smile back”!

Zach Thornton, a lifelong Wyndham resident, believes being on a committee can “give a great sense of fulfilment, whilst providing invaluable experience in the world of business and admin”. 

When he first joined the Tarneit Football Club committee 5 years ago, Zach provided a helping hand, but wasn’t sure how he could add value, or what was involved.  That has all changed in the last couple of years as Zach’s full-time job provided him with some great skills that could be transferred to his role on the Committee at the Tarneit Football Club. 

Not only does he cover events, sponsorship, admin, merchandise, match day and operations, but he is also the Club Secretary and facilitates full-club training sessions. The Club is always looking for more help in delivering some of these tasks. “You don’t have to play at the Club or have a child playing to be involved.

We have lots of interesting volunteer roles from social media and admin, to managing events”, said Zach.  “Volunteering gives you purpose and a sense of pride”.

Contact the Club via https://www.facebook.com/tarneitfootballclub or email enquiries@tarneittitansfc.com.au.

If you would like to help your community, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

Not long after moving to Werribee in 2000, Cheryl became full-time carer for her mum.  Following her mum’s passing in 2006, Cheryl felt isolated and lost – she had not had any time to foster new friendships or connect with her local community.  One day when visiting the local library, she noticed a Wyndham City flier promoting an information session on volunteering.  The rest is history, as they say, as 15 years later she is still volunteering in the same role she applied for all those years ago!

As a volunteer with the Visitor Information Centre, located at the entrance to Werribee Zoo, Cheryl has provided travel advice to thousands of visitors to Werribee and talked to them about places to visit locally.  “It has been great for me as it opened many doors.  I started to connect with people in the community and before I knew it, I had joined the garden club, water aerobics and a choir!” says Cheryl, “once you make that first step into volunteering, you’ll never look back!”

International Volunteer Day is celebrated on the 5th of December and recognises the contribution of volunteers worldwide.  Wyndham City would like to acknowledge and thank Wyndham community members who "may not necessarily have the time, they just have the heart". 

If you would like to help your community, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

Musarrat Saiyed has lived in many countries and as a ‘global citizen’, she is accustomed to all kinds of diversity through language, culture, and religion.  “You become so open to other viewpoints and opinions and understand where people are coming from” says Musarrat, “that it makes you humble, and the diversity and acceptance just becomes a part of you”.

Within a year of moving to Australia (Tarneit), the COVID-19 pandemic took hold and Musarrat remembers reading about the hardship people in her community were facing.  In response to this, she set about establishing a not-for-profit organisation called Pulse with Purpose and one of the first projects was to offer halal food relief.  Some years later, Musarrat now engages a team of volunteers from different cultures and backgrounds, to prepare, cook and in some cases, deliver, over 70 meals per week.  Operating out of Dianella Community Centre in Tarneit, Musarrat and her volunteers offer a global cuisine with traditional meals from many different countries.  Not only do community members receive food - they also receive a listening ear, a smile, and a hug. “When you smile at someone and they smile back, you are filled with a moment of happiness” says Musarrat.

Pulse with Purpose also engages young people as volunteers to tutor children from high school.  Called ‘Study Circle’, this program offers support and learning assistance for young people whose migrant families may struggle to follow and understand the Australian secondary school curriculum.

When asked what motivates her to volunteer her time, Musarrat responded “it gives meaning to your life and helps you to be mentally healthy.  What we give others, is what we truly earn”.

If you would like to know more about volunteering with Pulse with Purpose and their projects, contact pulsewithpurpose@gmail.com or follow on https://www.facebook.com/pulsewpurpose.

If you would like to help your community, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

During October, Wyndham is hosting a multitude of free or low-cost events to celebrate the state-wide Seniors Festival.  This year’s theme ‘Learn. Live. Love’ is something Heather Curtis would say you gain from volunteering. 

Heather moved to Wyndham in 2010 and one of the first things she did was sign up to volunteer with Wyndham Council.  “I’ve had a few roles in that time, but Lunch with the Bunch holds a special place in my heart and I’m still doing it, 12 years later” says Heather.  The Lunch with the Bunch program involves taking independent, older adults, or people with disabilities, to a group lunch in the Wyndham area. “It’s such a great program and so nice to see how happy the clients are catching up with friends over a meal. I absolutely love making that happen” says Heather. 

On one occasion, two clients came together who realised they hadn’t seen each other for 22 years and this program bought them together through chance.  “They ended up rekindling their friendship and that made me feel so pleased” says Heather.  “I always feel so contented and joyful at the end of my shift”.

To find out about volunteering in Wyndham, and more specifically roles at Council, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

Daniel Smith volunteers on the Board of Governance at the Grange Community Centre as a general member.  The Board of a not-for profit organisation runs (governs) the organisation and is different to the everyday work of the organisation. Daniel has volunteered in different roles over the years but finds the Board role gives him a real insight into the workings of the community centre and an appreciation for what goes on behind the scenes. 

As a Board member, Daniel has learnt many new skills.  “I have a disability and I love that the Grange Community Centre has a family, friendly environment and I can be my own person, without being judged.  This has allowed me to grow in confidence and feel more empowered”, says Daniel. “I love being able to give back to the community that has given so much to my family”.  Daniel’s two sons attended holiday programs at the Grange Community Centre, and his daughter attends 3 year old Kinder, so when he was asked if he’d like to join the Board of Governance, Daniel jumped at the opportunity to help.  “I found reading and understanding the financial reports a bit challenging, but I was offered support to understand them and if you don’t know something, or are unsure, they will help you,” says Daniel.

Why not give volunteering on a Board of Governance a go?  It can be immensely rewarding and can lead to skill development, extend your networks and make a real difference in your local community.

Visit https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/services/community-centres-venues/volunteer-community-centre/volunteering-board-management to find out more about volunteering on the Board of Governance a Community Centre.

For information on volunteering in Wyndham, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

Samara Gracias was 17 when she pushed herself to attend a ‘hang out’ session at the Wyndham Youth Resource Centre after feeling a bit disconnected since her friend-group had moved interstate.  “I’d always had a passion for live music, and I got chatting to one of the Youth Workers, who encouraged me to think about joining the FReeZA Ccommittee,” said Samara. 

Wyndham’s FReeZA Committee supports young people to develop their event management skills, build employment pathways and networks in the music industry and delivering live music events.  “I’d always wanted to be a sound technician before joining FReeZa but now I’m keen to study a Diploma of Stage Management” says Samara.  “I absolutely love seeing an empty room transform into a lighting show, stage, a band playing and lots of people enjoying themselves, but the greatest satisfaction comes from knowing I’ve been a part of making it happen!”.

Since volunteering, Samara has gained conflict resolution skills, communication, and public speaking skills, plus the confidence to pursue her passion and giving her access to contacts in her chosen industry. Samara has since made many new friends through volunteering with the FReeZA committee, feels supported and more connected.  “Don’t be afraid to talk to new people and to follow your passion.  Volunteer for an organisation or cause that you believe in and that interests you – you never know where it could lead” says Samara.

Volunteering can provide many benefits to young people – building new friendships, gaining confidence, learning new skills, adding to resume, providing a referee to future employers, and just finding your passion.

For more information about volunteering in Wyndham, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

Rutu Shah looks forward to Wednesdays with eagerness – this is the day she volunteers two hours of her time to the Wyndham Park Tool Library.  Rutu cares for her two children full time except for those two hours per week when she is volunteering – that is ‘her’ time and she loves it! 

The new Wyndham Park Tool Library is located within the Wyndham Park Community Shed and is hoping to open to the public later this year.  It will allow community members to borrow tools for a low annual cost reducing waste and consumption, leading to a more sustainable future.

Rutu’s role involves sorting donated tools, labelling, and setting up the library so that it can be trialled with existing community shed members.  “It’s so satisfying working and talking with other people” says Rutu. “It gives you self-respect and you get to meet so many diverse members of community”.

Rutu learnt about this volunteer role at Wyndham City’s Volunteer Expo in March and left her contact details with the Tool Library who then followed up with her after the Expo.  The Volunteer Expo attracted 55 volunteer organisations, 450 attendees and resulted in 134 new volunteers recruited to those organisations!  Rutu was one of them and the Tool Library believe they were very lucky to have found Rutu at the Expo! 

Whilst the Tool Library is not open to the public until later this year, they have many volunteer opportunities from website design to tool maintenance and repairs, plus many more.  For further details and to submit your interest, go to https://www.wyndhamparktoollibrary.com.au/.

“Volunteering gives me a boost” says Rutu, “everyone should give it a go!” 

For more information on volunteering in Wyndham, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

Graeme Prentice has just clocked 51 years of volunteering service with the Country Fire Authority (CFA) – a massive achievement and something Graeme just takes in his stride! When asked why he became a volunteer in the first place, Graeme puts it down to his family environment as a small child, coming together and helping one another.  In addition to the CFA, Graeme has volunteered in many different roles from Youth Leader, to volunteering at his children’s school and helping out at the local sporting club.  “You don’t have to give hundreds of hours to be an effective volunteer and it doesn’t matter what your skills or background is, there is always something you can do” says Graeme.

In his volunteer firefighting role, Graeme has been to fires all over Australia but his most memorable is the 2019/20 fires at Mallacoota in East Gippsland.    Whilst sitting around taking a break, a group of young children approached the volunteer firefighters and thanked them.  The children had spent the day collecting flat pebbles from the beach and painting messages of thanks on each pebble. 

Graeme’s pebble is now sitting alongside some of his other trophies and recognition awards – and is very dear to him.

“I get so much satisfaction from making life easier and happier for other people” says Graeme.

If you’re interested in volunteering with the CFA, visit https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/volunteers-careers/volunteer-with-cfa. 

For information on volunteering in Wyndham, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

EdConnect is a charity that “prepares and connects volunteers with disadvantaged or at-risk young people for educational success and personal wellbeing”.  Shirley Harsley was on holiday in Queensland when she saw EdConnect’s advertisement offering to “recruit, train and support skilled volunteers to provide life-changing support to students in local schools”.  “Perfect”, thought Shirley, who was seeking some experience in this field, having just completed a Diploma in Counselling.

For more than a year now, Shirley has given 1 hour a week to EdConnect’s program to support a young person who often just needs someone there to listen to them.  “I offer emotional and learning support to the student; it is so rewarding.  A student told me recently that they realised they needed to behave more in class to gain their teacher’s trust.  To hear this, filled me with such a sense of pride – it’s a good feeling to help other people become the best version of themselves” says Shirley.

As we celebrate National Volunteer Week (15th to 21st May), think about what you can do to help in your local community.  It only needs to take up 1 hour of your week, but it can make such a difference.  EdConnect have Mentor and Learning Support volunteer roles.  For information and to apply, visit https://www.edconnectaustralia.org.au/volunteer/ or call 1800 668 550 - #edconnectaustralia.

For more information about volunteering in Wyndham, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering

Now that she is retired, Radha Sundarakumar is busier than ever, and absolutely loving it!  With a teaching background specialising in English language, Radha volunteers to run English conversational classes. 

Based at Featherbrook Community Centre in Point Cook, the spoken English classes provide adult students with confidence and the skills to integrate into the community.  Radha’s classes are particularly beneficial to community members who may not have access to such a service due to their visa type, Radha is able to provide participants with basic English language skills and to tailor the classes to the needs of the students. “One student had virtually no English-speaking skills when she first came along, but over time her confidence grew.  The day I saw her conducting an event in English, was the day I knew I’d really accomplished something, and I felt so proud,” says Radha.

Radha also volunteers as the Secretary of Point Cook Indian Seniors Group and is involved in celebrating days of significance with Wyndham Women’s Support Group and Sewa Point Cook.  “I truly believe that keeping yourself busy and giving back to your community is so fulfilling and gives me a lovely feeling of togetherness,” says Radha.

There are lots of volunteering opportunities available at your local Community Centre.  Pop in and introduce yourself and have a chat to the friendly staff about your interests and what is available.

If you’d like to learn more about volunteering at Featherbrook Community Centre, call 8353 4000 or email featherbrookcc@wyndham.vic.gov.au.   

Our March volunteer spotlight is Karthick Thanigaimani who migrated to Australia from India in 2008 and has embraced volunteering in his local community.  In celebrating Cultural Diversity Week, we reflect on the contribution of Victoria’s multicultural communities.  Karthick is no exception – he brings a wealth of diverse experience and knowledge to his volunteer roles, and in turn, feels more connected to his local community and Australian culture.

“Volunteering is a great way to grow your networks and feel part of the community” says Karthick.  In addition to his paid work, Karthick is a Volunteer Firefighter and Communications Officer with the Country Fire Authority (CFA), Assistant Secretary of the Point Cook Action Group, and a Justice of the Peace.  He says there are many organisations looking for help and “if each person gave one hour a week, it would make such a difference.”

Karthick knows that volunteering has helped him feel connected but has also given him the chance to contribute and ‘give back’ to a country that has given him so many opportunities to learn, apart from his core working skills.

If you’re interested in taking on a volunteer role, whether it’s one hour a week, 15 hours a week or only occasionally, consider coming along to Wyndham’s Volunteer Expo on Saturday 18th March and meet some local Wyndham organisations looking for volunteers.  It’s free to attend (between 10am and 2pm) at Encore Event Centre, Hoppers Crossing.

For more information about volunteering, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering. To get involved in local ‘Cultural Diversity Week’ celebrations, visit https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/whats-on.

At 87 years of age, Gerry Greenwood, considers himself “very fortunate” to still be volunteering and has no intention of giving up at the present time!  For the last 41 years, Gerry has been a volunteer with the Victoria State Emergency Service (SES), Wyndham Unit – and he’s still attending call outs!

It’s not just the SES he is committed to!  Gerry has volunteered throughout his life and loves being able to help other people.  “As a volunteer, you learn all sorts of things and at the same time, are able to give back to your community and help others less fortunate than yourself”, says Gerry.

The SES are committed to protecting and serving the community in emergency situations such as storms, floods, earthquakes, tsunamis and landslides, plus other requests for assistance.  In his role as Deputy Controller - Community Engagement, Gerry gives presentations and hands out information brochures to help residents ‘be prepared’ if a disaster or severe storm hits the Wyndham area.  “There are lots of things people can do for themselves”, says Gerry, “like cleaning out downpipes, removing loose objects in yards, trimming overhanging tree branches”.  “The life of an SES volunteer is a thankless one, but the satisfaction of being able to help people in distress, is enough reward” says Gerry.

Wyndham SES is always on the lookout for new members.  To learn more, visit https://www.ses.vic.gov.au/ or email wyndham@ses.vic.gov.au.

If you’re interested in volunteering in your community, consider coming along to the free Wyndham Volunteer Expo coming up on Saturday 18th March at Encore Event Centre from 10am to 2pm.

For more information, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

Ejaz Ali knows only too well how challenging it can be to move into a new community where you don’t know anyone or have any direct family on hand for support.  From past volunteering experiences with Good Shepherd’s L2P program when first moving to Melbourne, Ejaz knew that by being involved in his local community, it would help him to build relationships and gain confidence as a valued community member.  In recent times, Ejaz has been involved in the Rotary Club of Wyndham Harbour and is currently the Treasurer.  “I am mostly involved in fundraising activities for the Club – it’s a great way to gain new skills or share existing skills” says Ejaz. 

When his son was younger, Ejaz helped with some fundraising activities for the Toy Library.  In addition to being Treasurer of the Rotary Club of Wyndham Harbour, he also volunteers for Love our Street once a month, cleaning up litter and is a member of the Apex Club which he joined after moving to Wyndham from the inner city. Ejaz has now developed a strong connection to Wyndham, despite moving away recently to the Eastern suburbs of Melbourne.  “Even though I don’t live here anymore, I feel more comfortable with Wyndham and still feel I have a strong attachment to the area” says Ejaz.

Ejaz admits that volunteering as a Committee member with Rotary and Apex has helped him develop his interpersonal skills.  “I was quite shy and lacked confidence with public speaking.  Volunteering has helped me with this” says Ejaz. 

If you’re thinking about volunteering, find something that you enjoy and approach a group or organisation that supports a cause you believe in.  The Rotary Club of Wyndham Harbour is involved in a variety of projects and activities to support the local community. To register your interest, email info@rotaryclubofwyndhamharbour.org.au or visit their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/RCofWH.  For more information about volunteering in Wyndham, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

Today we celebrate International Day of People with Disability and whilst Kathy MacKendrick is technically legally blind, it doesn’t stop her from being active in her community and seeking out ways to help others. Informal volunteering is less structured and not coordinated by an organisation, but it is just as important and necessary in our community. Kathy is a shining example of someone who volunteers informally. 

Kathy is passionate about recycling and community. She sells household goods, succulent cuttings from her garden, and runs a recycle project. She hosted a stall at her local church fete in November. She donates non-perishables every week to the Baptist church foodbank. Kathy also donates each month to the 16 environmental or humanitarian charities she supports. 

Given she is unable to drive due to her disability, Kathy often walks to the bus stop, and on garbage collection day, she closes garbage bin lids to ‘help out’ residents so that their bins are not filling up with rainwater! She provides a collection point at her house for people to drop off egg cartons which she supplies to two local farmers, and glass jars to recycle for free on Gumtree for re-use. If that’s not enough, Kathy advocates for people with disability. “Some disabilities are not visible and often not considered to be real” says Kathy.   

Informal volunteering is a great way to help someone out, support a cause you believe in, or simply connect to your community. “I’m grateful for my life. Everything I do is of value and I feel so happy when I know I’ve helped someone else, or the environment. A good place to start is your local church or community centre” says Kathy.

International Volunteer Day is celebrated every year on 5th December and celebrates the diverse ways people can volunteer in their community.

For more information about volunteering in Wyndham, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

Being part of a community organisation board or committee of management is an important way of volunteering.  It can be very rewarding to know that you are part of the team who is leading a local group or organisation to provide a valuable local service to people in your community.  Equally important are the new skills and relationships you might gain from the experience. 

Wyndham resident, Carole Popham, knows only too well the important role these committee volunteers play in the operation and future development of any community group.  Carole has been volunteering for many years and in many different roles.  Currently she is a Committee member of the University of the 3rd Age Werribee (U3A) and is the Membership Co-ordinator.  U3A is a community organisation for semi-retired and retired Wyndham residents.  The purpose of the organisation is to encourage older people to share their knowledge, skills and interests, in a friendly environment.

Carole believes that being on the Committee enables you to learn valuable life skills and is suitable for anyone willing to learn.  “If you’re a beginner, just become a general member and you will be supported to take on a more formal role when the time is right” says Carole.  “You need to listen to people’s points of view and then come up with a group consensus.  It allows you to pick up new skills, deal with people and different situations and at the same time, enjoy yourself!” 

Carole firmly believes that “if you want a community to be vibrant, you need to be prepared to put in!”

U3A Werribee are always keen to take on new members!  To register interest, visit http://www.u3awbee.net.au.

To support volunteers who form part of Committees, Council is running free training sessions for current, new, or aspiring board/committee members.  Visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering and click on ‘Volunteer and Community Group Training’.

Meet Scotty, as he is affectionately known, who has been volunteering for the last 16 years, since retiring at the age of 54.  Now 71 years of age, Scotty is a shining example of an older person realising their potential as we celebrate International Day of Older Persons.  Having worked with computers for 33 years, Scotty was approached by a Library staff member to see if he would be interested in a volunteer role with Wyndham Council.  He then spent the next 10 years updating the library computers.  “I used to get there at 7.30 in the morning and update the computers before the public came in.  I absolutely loved it” says Scotty.

Once the computers were able to be updated automatically during the night, Scotty moved on to delivering library books with Council’s Home Library Service.  He delivered books to people who were unable to get to the library and really enjoyed being able to help other people and give back to his community.

Scotty also enjoyed a 5-year stint of volunteering every Monday setting up indoor lawn bowls for a group of elderly citizens.  He developed strong relationships with the participants and looks back on that time with fond memories as many of the participants have since passed away.  “It was like having a Gran and Grandpa, as I never had one” says Scotty. 

These days, Scotty is volunteering with Council’s Family and Local History Library and is involved in a very worthwhile project which involves scanning old photos onto the computer.  Scotty believes it will take him 7 or 8 months (volunteering for 4 hours a week) to complete the project and he ‘absolutely loves it’!  “At 71, I need to keep my brain active and at the same time I get to interact with people, and it gets me out of the house!” says Scotty.

The Victorian Seniors Festival celebrates the inspiring contribution of older Victorians, and throughout the month of October, Wyndham City will be hosting a series of events which are open to all seniors.

For more information on volunteer roles at Wyndham City or volunteering in Wyndham, go to www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

Meet September’s volunteer, Kristy Kitto.  Kristy first became involved in Scouts when her children joined, and for the last 18 months, she has been a Volunteer Leader at Tarneit Scout Group.

As a Volunteer Leader, Kristy gets to develop and write the program for each session and comes up with some amazing activities and projects for the children to get involved in, many of which the children have input into developing.  “It’s all about supporting the kids to do what they would like to do” says Kristy, “and it’s so rewarding to know you’ve made it interesting enough that they want to come back again the following week!”

Kristy believes “volunteering is a great way to get out there and develop relationships and it gets you out of your own mind for a little while.  Volunteering makes me feel happy and proud and is a great way to develop community spirit, allowing yourself to be ‘you’.  If you’re looking for some adventure, new places to explore and to meet some new people - consider helping out”.

Kristy feels well supported in her volunteer role and is able to access all sorts of training.  If you’re someone who is interested in working with children, this is a great step towards gaining some experience. Alternatively, you might be a parent who has some great skills to share and is interested in passing them onto the younger generation.  You don’t have to be a Leader, you could be a volunteer helper, a Committee member or be involved in fundraising activities.  All training and uniform are provided.

If you are interested in an adult volunteer role or would like to book your children in for a free 3-week trial, please email the Group Leader at gl.tarneit@scoutsvictoria.com.au. To contact your local group, visit www.scoutsvictoria.com.au and ‘find your local group’.

Meet Sri Ram Kumar, who migrated to Australia 10 years ago, and moved to Point Cook just prior to the COVID-19 lockdowns. 

Sri Ram had been thinking about volunteering in the local community for some time when he came across an advertisement on Wyndham Council’s Facebook page about a Wyndham Volunteer Expo.  Hosted by Council in May 2022, the Expo attracted 44 Wyndham community groups and organisations as stallholders and nearly 400 attendees.  “I went along with an open mind and spoke to lots of organisations” said Sri Ram.  “It was a real eye-opener for me, to see so many local organisations in the one room”.  One of the organisations that caught Sri Ram’s attention was NatureWest, a not-for-profit organisation that shares an environmental vision for the wider Werribee catchment.  This sparked Sri Ram’s interest in sustainable living, land management and conservation. 

After attending a ‘clean up’ day in Truganina, Sri Ram signed up to be involved in Wyndham Litter Warriors and is currently looking around Point Cook to select the next site for a local clean up day.  “After attending the Truganina clean up day, it felt really satisfying to know I’d done something for the community and at the same time, I made some new friends and connections”, said Sri Ram.  “The great thing about this volunteer role is you commit to what suits you at the time and I really like that flexibility”.

Similar to Sri Ram, if you would like to organise an event in your street, estate or suburb or would just like to come along and help, feel free to contact Bruce at NatureWest on 0407 880 590.  To follow activities, join the Facebook group ‘Wyndham Litter Warriors’.

For more information about volunteering in Wyndham, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

Meet Jennifer Foo, a local Wyndham resident who has been volunteering for Gateways Support Services for the past 12 years.

As a young girl living with her brother with autism, Jennifer saw firsthand the support her mother provided to enable and empower her brother to live an independent life.  In her birth country of Malaysia, her family were actively involved with a club that supports families with disabilities, delivering a variety of programs.

Jennifer knew as an adult that she wanted to give back to the community the same way she was able to in Malaysia.  When the opportunity to volunteer with Gateways Support Service came up, she responded.  Now she spends one or two Saturdays per month with clients between 15-40 years old, some with intellectual disability or with autism like her brother.  She takes them on excursions to movies, bowling or walking through the city, which gives them a sense of "being involved and participating in something".

Being able to volunteer makes Jennifer "feel happy and satisfied throughout the day, helping them be out and about, have fun, also helping parents/family to give them respite, free quality downtime to recharge and feel that they are being supported".

If you’re thinking of volunteering, Jennifer suggests you choose something that is “dear to your heart and close to home,” or something that gives you a “sense of purpose,” as there is nothing more satisfying than knowing you have made someone “feel happy, have a sense of achievement and enjoying time with their friends.”

For more information on volunteering with Gateway Support Services please visit their website https://www.gateways.com.au/ or contact Linda Justin – Linda.Justin@gateways.com.au.

For more information on volunteering in Wyndham, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

It is with great pleasure that we introduce Denice Strong.  Denice has volunteered all her adult life. It was a “natural thing to do” for Denice to follow in her Mum’s footsteps as she watched her Mum volunteer up until a year before she passed away.

Denice has volunteered in a number of roles such as at an Information Centre, school office and tuck shops, various Social Club Committee roles and at the Royal Children’s Hospital.  In 2006 Denice became a volunteer at Werribee Mercy Hospital, initially at the Concierge Desk, then for 5 years in the Emergency Department where she spent time sitting alongside people and talking with them while they waited to be seen.

Denice, along with her friends, Kathleen and Janette, are involved in the “Trauma Teddy” Project.  Trauma Teddies are given to children, who are experiencing illness or trauma, to provide comfort.  All three ladies knit the teddies and Denice assembles and delivers them to the Werribee Mercy Hospital.  Since 2008 they have provided a modest but consistent supply to the Hospital Emergency Department  with approximately 4000 distributed to date.

In 2017 Denice also became a volunteer with Mercy Palliative Care where she spends time with people who are at the end stage of their life. Denice visits patients primarily in their homes where her volunteer role is spending time with patients and, for some, recording their life stories. 

“I aim to record these stories word for word as they are shared in the hope that loved ones, as they read them, may be able to hear their voice again”.  It’s a “privilege to be a small part of the work of Mercy Palliative Care“. 

Denice says “volunteering has made me feel connected to others in the Community and has enriched my life.  I would encourage anyone who is considering volunteering to look around at the many opportunities available.  I would also say don’t wait until you think you have the time, do the research, choose your field carefully, then make room in your life and just go for it.”

Shane Bullen was a young boy following in the footsteps of his stepdad, when he was first attracted to the big red trucks of the Country Fire Authority (CFA)!  His junior years taught him to understand how fire reacts and grows and provided him with an insight into the world of firefighting.  Once he became a little older, he progressed into the senior brigade and completed the recruit course to be a firefighter.  After 15 years, Shane, now a 2nd lieutenant, says he has never looked back. He’s made some lifelong friendships, loves the sense of camaraderie between the members, enjoys being a team player; and all this has given him great skills and confidence to face the paid workforce.  “After seeing footage of our brigade members on the news during the 2009 Black Saturday fires and hearing of the experiences from the members and my stepdad who were deployed, I had even more drive to be a firefighter so I could help the community. When you can stop a fire before it destroys someone’s livelihood, it’s a great feeling.  To help someone in their time of need is so rewarding” says Shane.

The Truganina Fire Brigade have a stall at the upcoming Wyndham Volunteer Expo on Saturday 14th May 2022 at Encore Events Centre.  Come down anytime between 10am and 2pm and have a chat with the volunteers.  It’s not just about firefighting; there are roles in administration, fundraising, grants and media, to name a few! 

To register interest in volunteering with the CFA, visit https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/volunteers-careers.

Five years ago, 27 year old, Shaun Threadgold, was struggling with his mental health.  Unable to find work and being a quiet person, Shaun knew that he needed to get out and spend time with people, but his illness prevented him from doing so. 

He was invited to go along and help out at a project the Hoppers Crossing Apex Club were involved in.  The project was creating a vegetable garden for a local primary school and picking out different fruit and vegetables for the children to plant.  Having just landed his first job in horticulture, the alignment seemed to fit.  However, this was his first major social outing for quite some time and so it was daunting.  Despite this, Shaun found it relaxing and worthwhile, and so he started to become more involved in Apex projects and even attended some meetings. 

He became more and more comfortable with joining in with Apex activities and firmly believes that volunteering with Apex helped him get his second job after including his volunteering role on his resume.  When asked what’s the best thing about volunteering with Apex, Shaun says, “it’s the sense of serving a higher purpose than myself and having the opportunity to help someone who might be in a similar situation to myself”.  “We helped an elderly lady recently with some gardening and just to see the weight lifting from her shoulders made me feel incredible”.

To learn more or to speak to someone about becoming involved, call Amanda on 0431 118 951, email hoppersapex@hotmail.com or visit http://www.hopperscrossingapex.org.au. 

Twenty years ago, Jennie lived in Emerald on other side of Melbourne, but she landed a job in Laverton and found a nice quiet spot to live in Little River.  She had good access to work, close to a railway station and away from the busy city.  But Jennie soon realised that the environment was very different from the one she had come from, so she embarked on a journey of discovery to learn about her local flora and fauna – “just what everyone should do when they arrive in a new place, says Jennie!  We need to encourage people to plant local indigenous plants which will in turn, encourage local habitat to thrive, keeping the ecosystem alive and well.” 

This is Jennie’s passion, and whilst she is Secretary and founding member of the Little River Landcare Group, she is also involved in a wide range of the group’s projects.  One she is particularly proud of and led, is the beautification of the historical Little River railway station which was a finalist in the environment category of the Keep Victoria Beautiful Sustainability Awards!  With her knowledge of plants and keen interest in birds, Jennie inspires everyone around her to take pride in their surroundings and ‘make a difference’.  She says volunteering is the best way to develop friendships with like-minded people and our activities are always stress free and welcoming. “You don’t need to have a green thumb to come along!” she says.

To learn more about the Little River Landcare Group, visit http://www.littleriver.vic.au/little-river-community-landcare/ or email littleriverlandcare@outlook.com.

For more information on volunteering in Wyndham, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

Retirement can be a wonderful thing, but many people struggle with the isolation it can bring when you’ve been used to working your whole life with a team of people.  Following retirement from family day care, Cheryl Coghill wandered down the street to the Werribee Hospital Foundation to buy a 2nd hand book to read, and went home with a new volunteer role!  Cheryl now collects, collates and categorises second-hand books to sell from her residence, with all money raised going to the Werribee Hospital Foundation, to help fund items such as a blanket warmer for the Palliative Care Unit at Werribee Mercy Hospital. 

Cheryl has so many books being dropped off on a daily basis, she can no longer fit her car into the garage!  With her friend Kathleen at her side to help, the ladies are running the next book sale on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th February 2022 from 9am to 4pm at 27 Cambridge Crescent, Werribee.  Books are $2 each or $6 for 10, and as an added bonus, children’s books are given away for free!

Cheryl has been volunteering in this role for 12 months now and says the best thing about it is “giving back to the community, speaking to people at the book sale and catching up with people you haven’t seen for ages.  It’s a great way to keep connected and not feel socially isolated”.

Werribee Hospital Foundation is 100% not-for-profit, and have many exciting events and fundraisers planned for 2022, which means they also have a variety of volunteer roles to fill!  If you think you might be interested in learning more, contact Stacey Rocco at hello@whf.org.au. Volunteering can provide so many things for so many people.  To learn more, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

Research shows that one of the main reasons people don’t volunteer is because they have never been asked!  Back in 2006, Jon Patten, a father of 4 young children, was tapped on the shoulder to see if he could help with starting up a new basketball club; and so Good News Power Basketball Club was created.  Initially run by a small group of parents of children attending Good News Lutheran College, the club has now grown to more than 25 teams!

Originally from a cricket and AFL background, Jon soon picked up the rules and skills involved in basketball, starting with guiding and teaching the Under 8s and at the same time, being taught himself.  Jon soon came to realise that there was a lot more to it than playing basketball.  “It opened my eyes to understanding some of the issues and challenges these young people faced and that an hour on the court gave them an ‘outlet’ allowing them to forget about their troubles,” says Jon. “Our philosophy is always to encourage and to build self-confidence; seeing the children come out of their shell and flourish is so incredibly rewarding”.  Jon has witnessed first-hand some of the positive side effects of playing team sports and loves to watch the proud faces of the parents when their child scores their first points!

There are many different volunteering opportunities at the club, and you don’t have to have had any experience of basketball to come along and join in with the camaraderie and teamwork.  For more information, email gnpbc.registrar@gmail.com or visit http://www.goodnewspower.sportingpulse.net/.

To learn more about volunteering in Wyndham, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

You might have seen Soo in her Parks Victoria (volunteer) uniform around town, but you’re most likely to have seen her at Werribee Park Mansion and Gardens.  It’s her second home and Soo prefers to be there 6 days out of 7!  With no extended family here in Australia, Soo knows she needs to connect with people on a daily basis for her own mental and physical health and wellbeing. “It’s my way of giving back to community instead of sitting home alone. Every day is a happy day and the rangers and volunteers all treat each other as one big family.  It is an amazing place to volunteer,” says Soo.

When she first started as a volunteer more than 10 years ago, Soo didn’t know the difference between a weed and a seedling!  She now volunteers in the State Rose Garden, pruning, weeding and de-heading;  Werribee Park Community Garden which is tended to by many different cultures;  the Heritage Orchard where Soo helped to plant a cherry tree many years ago which is now yielding beautiful fruit; and Werribee Park’s famous ‘parterre’ garden.  It is in this garden that a group of AMES volunteers work with the local Sikh community, to grow silverbeet each winter, for local Wyndham Foodbanks.  During the most recent lockdown, Soo was the only volunteer in the park granted a permit to harvest the silverbeet.  It was ready for picking right in the middle of lockdown and, Soo, despite being nimble and light, still managed to pick and bundle up over a 100kg of silverbeet each week.  This was then picked up by local Sikh ‘essential workers’ and delivered to Wyndham Park Community Centre’s food relief shop.

Prior to COVID, Soo would delight in the many groups of families and visitors coming together for picnics and BBQs in the beautiful surrounds of Werribee Park. “I would be asked to join groups of people for lunch on so many occasions!  It was so nice to meet new people and it is certainly a way of ensuring against social isolation,” says Soo.  The impact of COVID has been significant in all areas of her volunteer roles – weeds have taken over, beds need to be dug and prepared for planting, pruning needs to be done, crops need to be harvested.  “There is lots to be done but you don’t have to have any experience.  Just come down and help out when it suits you.  There is always someone here who can teach and show you what to do and it’s such a beautiful place to volunteer”.  If you are looking to make new friends, learn some new skills, look after your mental and physical health and wellbeing, consider having a chat to the Parks Victoria Rangers to find out more.  They can be contacted via the Parks Victoria website - https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/get-into-nature/volunteering.

To learn more about volunteering in Wyndham, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

Raghubir Singh migrated to Australia in 2008 and after studying a Diploma in Business Management, embarked on a journey of self-discovery, achievement and success which ended in devastation, loss and fear for his future.  In 2017, following massive changes in the industry he was involved in, he was forced to close his business.  Dealing with feelings of stress and demotivation, Raghubir sought solace by working on himself, reading books and positive stories and gained the courage to start up a charity called Pure Water Healthy Life Inc.  Established in 2019, the charity provides clean and pure drinking water delivered to families in India living in the countryside, absolutely FREE of cost.  To date, thousands of litres of ‘Pure Water’ has been delivered to the doors of more than 400 families.  “When I hear how this free service impacts the lives of the people, it gives me happiness and great joy knowing I am helping others” says Raghubir. “I am playing a vital role in saving people from waterborne diseases which account for 70 to 80% of acute illnesses.”  For the cost of a cup of coffee, a $5 per month donation can provide a family with a minimum of 300 litres of ‘Pure Water’ on an ongoing basis.

In his spare time, Raghubir mentors young people through Whitelion’s volunteer program, Breakthrough Mentoring based in Wyndham.  He came across this volunteer role whilst scrolling through social media and immediately felt inspired to share his experiences to help young people overcome their difficulties.  “I listen to the young people and guide and direct them so that their mind is ready to face life’s challenges and they learn to cope better” says Raghubir.  “We are provided with training and guidelines and you can volunteer one hour a week or more, depending on how much time you have to give”.  When asked what the best thing about volunteering is, Raghubir responds “it makes you feel light and happy in the inside and shows you who you are, what skills you can give and is so rewarding”.

If you’d like to learn more about volunteering with Whitelion, contact Ailsa Gibson-Sheridan on 0421 711 765 or ailsa.gibson-sheridan@whitelion.asn.au.

To donate to Pure Water Healthy Life or to learn more, go to http://www.purewaterhealthylife.com.

For volunteering in Wyndham, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering or click here to view the latest achievements of the Wyndham Volunteering Strategy.

Lynnette Labuschagne came to Australia from South Africa in 2008.  She knows what it’s like to leave all your family behind and come to a new country and to not know anyone here.  Despite this, she felt welcomed by the community and very supported. Over time, she started to feel part of the Australian community and since living in Wyndham, decided she wanted to give back to the community who were so welcoming to her and became involved in Foodbank Manor Lakes.  Lynnette is very humble.  She says she does it “to see the joy on the children’s faces” and because she can “make a difference to someone’s life just by showing some kindness and spending a little bit of your time with them”.  In every way, Lynnette goes ‘above and beyond’.  Not only does she and her team of volunteers parcel food, collect and sort donations, manage volunteers and help customers, but Lynnette also drops everything to personally deliver a food parcel to someone who needs it urgently.  She doesn’t like to burden the other volunteers.  “It makes me feel so happy knowing that a family will now be fed, and in turn, it gives the family hope and the strength to carry on”.

The foodbank currently helps around 50 families a week (over 200 people) and heavily relies on donations from the community.  If you would like to help by dropping off some food items, they can be accepted on a Tuesday and Wednesday between 9 and 12.30pm at Manor Lakes Community Centre.

A little kindness goes a long way …. ‘thank you’ Lynnette.

Katherine Crowe works full time with very odd hours and being new to the area, she was looking for a flexible volunteer role to help her get to know people and at the same time, do something rewarding and fun.  The first role that popped up on her screen search was the WynBay TAC L2P Program and now she’s loving being able to help young people gain the necessary number of driving experience hours to go for their driving licence.

The WynBay TAC L2P Program assists learners between 16 and 21 years of age, who do not have access to a supervising driver or vehicle, to gain the driving experience required to apply for a probationary licence.  “I love getting out and about in the car with my learner.  Over time, you really get to know them and when they pass the test, I get a great sense of achievement that we’ve done this together as a team” says Katherine.

Following induction and training, volunteers are matched with a learner and have access to a sponsored vehicle.  “It’s a great, flexible and worthwhile way to help someone out”, says Katherine.  “The program always needs volunteers so if you’re over 21, hold a current full Victorian driver’s licence, give them a call and find out more.  It’s so much fun!”

For more information, contact Naheed Akhtar, L2P Project Coordinator on 0487 465 687 or email l2p@lcis.org.au.

In 2013, Sanjay and his family moved to Tarneit and sadly not long after, he became a victim of crime.  After the second incident, he realised something needed to be done. 

With support from the media, Victoria Police, Wyndham Council and Neighbourhood Watch Victoria, he formed Tarneit Central Neighbourhood Watch and now there are more than 2,400 members and volunteers in the group, working together with Victoria Police for the safety and security of the community.  As a result, crime rates are dropping in the local neighbourhood. 

“It’s all about making your community safer and feel more connected” says Sanjay, and “we’re here to guide and help in whatever way we can”.  The group meets on a regular basis and are involved in various events throughout the year to raise awareness, not only on safety and security issues, but also family issues, health and recreation, education and service referral. 

The group organise activities for the community to come together with a particular focus on young people and ‘at-risk’ community members. “It’s all about helping one another and being kind to your neighbours”, says Sanjay, “particularly during and after any crisis that the community faces”. “It’s a great way to make new friends, connect with other residents in your community, understand and help each other, and feel like you’re making a difference – and it makes you feel satisfied!” 

To find out more, visit https://facebook.com/nhwtarneitcentral  or call Sanjay on 0447 115 967.  

Werribee Football Club is lucky to have Lorraine Joiner on their valued team of volunteers!  Lorraine was ‘dobbed in’ by her daughter back in 2003 when the club needed help with sewing football jumpers!  Since then, Lorraine hasn’t looked back. In the past 18 years, she has not only sewn jumpers, but also made sandwiches for the players and more recently has moved into merchandise sales.  “I always get a welcome from the Club CEO and President.  It is a great Club to volunteer for.  They make me feel really appreciated” says Lorraine.  “There are numerous roles at the Club for volunteers and it’s like a big family.” 

To express interest in volunteering with the club or to find out more, contact zthornton@werribeefc.com.au or visit https://www.werribeefc.com.au/.

For information about volunteering in Wyndham, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/volunteering.

Christina grew up in a family of 14 and from an early age, fondly remembers visiting the local Op Shop in search of clothing.  She now enjoys giving her time back to the organisation that helped her family through tough times. 

Christina volunteers for Uniting’s Op Shop 3 days a week and is involved in all aspects of running the shop from sorting items, pricing, handling the register and most importantly, finding clothes for her regular customers!

During her time volunteering, Christina has learnt lots of new skills, including the confidence to now be able to train new volunteers and recommends that ‘everyone should give volunteering a go as it is so good for your mental health and wellbeing’.

Christina loves helping people and gains satisfaction from finding a special outfit for her customers.

She recently had a couple of weeks away from the shop due to illness and when she returned all her regulars were thrilled to see her back and this, she says, is why she loves to volunteer!  It’s like a family.

Her fellow volunteers are all very supportive of each other and because they are so multicultural, they are learning about each other’s cultures eg Christina has just been learning all about Ramadan.     

For further information about volunteering with Uniting, please contact Shelley on 9051 2000.