Celebrating the lifeblood of our community - volunteers!

23 May 2019 - Media release

The selfless hard work and dedication of local groups and individuals were celebrated this morning at the 2019 Campaspe Community Volunteer Awards.

The awards were presented at a special morning tea (Thursday, 23 May), hosted by Campaspe Shire Deputy Mayor, Cr Vicki Neele, to coincide with National Volunteer Week which runs from 20 -26 May.

Cr Neele said the awards are a great opportunity to formally identify and acknowledge the great work our volunteers do for the community.

“Campaspe is very fortunate to have so many committed volunteers who give up their time for the benefit of the entire community,” Cr Neele said.

Each year awards are presented in three categories; Individual, Young Person and Organisation. This year’s winner of the Individual Award is Pauline Aitken of Echuca. The Lockington Youth Action Group received the Young Person Award, and the Organisation Award was presented to Riding Develops Abilities (RDA) Echuca.

Individual – Pauline Aitken

With support from her husband, Pauline opened a ‘Relief Centre’ in her own home more than ten years ago. Whilst initially in response to the effects of financial hardship in the farming community, today it remains open for anyone in need of food, supplies and a simple chat. Pauline welcomes visitors with kindness and respect and takes a genuine interest in their wellbeing. At times, Pauline has provided a bed for the night. The centre sees 250+ visitors each week from farming communities, unemployed, broken families, single people, drug addicts and those suffering from gambling addictions. Pauling spends around 50 hours a week organising deliveries, unpacking and storing supplies, and meeting and greeting visitors.

Young Person – Lockington Youth Action Group

The Lockington Youth Action Group (LYAG) exist to encourage and engage the youth of Lockington, with 18 secondary school students demonstrating leadership skills. The LYAG are in their second year of coordinating the Lockington Scarecrow Festival which engages businesses, schools, families, sporting and community groups. They also volunteer at local CFA dinners waiting tables and cleaning and support the Lions Club with presentations and flag raising ceremonies on Australia Day. There are many other community activities the group is approached to support and are always eager to be involved.

Organisation – Riding Develops Abilities (RDA) Echuca

RDA Echuca is a not for profit organisation that enables people with a variety of disabilities, ages and backgrounds to develop independence, a sense of freedom and to reach their equestrian goals. Part of the Victoria branch, RDA Echuca has been operating in the local community for more than 20 years. They provide pleasurable yet challenging equestrian activities for people aged 3-85 with physical and intellectual disabilities, with a riding rally every three weeks. In addition to providing a physical outlet for members of all abilities, RDA Echuca offers kind words, supporting hands and endless encouragement. RDA Echuca provides families and carers the pleasure of seeing their children and dependents enjoying themselves, and for some, the experience of freedom of movement.

“On behalf of the whole of our municipality, I’d like to congratulate and thank all individuals and groups who were nominated for their selfless work and outstanding contributions. They are indeed the heart and soul of our community,” Cr Neele said.