By NICOLE VALICEK
THE hard work of volunteers in the community was praised last week during a day held to celebrate them.
Hobsons Bay City Council said thanks to the wonderful contribution of all volunteers on International Volunteer Day held last Thursday.
Hobsons Bay City Mayor Sandra Wilson said that recognition of the importance of volunteering would be a focus of her mayoral program.
“The time volunteers put in is truly remarkable and they deserve the council’s utmost respect and thanks,” Cr Wilson said.
“It is hard to imagine what our community would be like without the hard work and dedication of so many selfless individuals and groups.”
There are between 700 and 800 local community organisations in the municipality with the majority being run by dedicated teams of volunteers.
She said volunteers are involved in a wide variety of activities in the community including sports, health, education, community services, environmental projects and many more.
“Volunteers also directly support the council in delivering meals on wheels, providing visitor information services, planting trees and providing transport and support for frail and elderly residents.”
She said many residents also serve as volunteer committee members with organisations providing services from facilities like kindergartens and early learning centres, community centres, senior citizens centres and sporting clubs.
Cr Wilson said volunteering is a great way to get involved in the community, make new friends or learn new skills.
“We can all recognise the efforts of volunteers in our community.
“Saying a simple ‘thank you’ to someone who volunteers can show that their work is appreciated.”
This year’s theme, Young.Global.Active, recognised the contribution of young people to global peace and sustainable development.
