Time to volunteer your best suggestion

Communities throughout Australia are enriched by the millions of people who volunteer their time and expertise, but there are always particular individuals and groups who stand out for their exceptional service.

An annual celebration of the Armidale region’s most exceptional volunteers officially kicked off yesterday, with the launch of the 2019 New England Awards. Nominations are now open for the awards, which are held by Council’s Armidale Volunteer Referral Service (AVRS) and the Armidale Uniting Church’s Alwyn Jones Community Service Award Committee.

Past winners joined Armidale Regional Council Mayor Simon Murray at the launch of this year’s awards, which will culminate in a morning tea and presentation ceremony on 21 May, as part of National Volunteer Week.

National Volunteer Week is held annually to recognise the value of volunteering and celebrate the social, cultural and economic contribution of Australia’s six million volunteers. Thousands of events will be held throughout Australia from 20-26 May under this year’s theme, Making a world of difference.

Nomination forms for the New England Awards - incorporating the Alwyn Jones Community Service Award – are available online at https://yoursay.armidale.nsw.gov.au/Volunteer-Awards or printed versions can be obtained from Armidale Uniting Church or Council’s offices in Armidale and Guyra.

Nominations close on 3 May 2019 and all nominated will be invited to the presentation ceremony. Selected nominees who give their approval will also be entered in the  NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards.

Everyone interested in becoming actively involved in their community through volunteering is encouraged to contact the AVRS.

“We can match people with a role that suits their skills and interests,” AVRS Coordinator Jane Davies said. “We also help to find roles for people training in community service, to give them added experience in their chosen fields.”

To find out about volunteering and available positions, call Jane on 6770 3838 or email [email protected] 

Further information about the awards: •Jane Davies - 6770 3838 or 0488 444 872 •Alwyn Jones Award: Margaret Waters – 0456259569

Published on 22 Mar 2019