Volunteers celebrated for service to the community

Mayor Linda Aitken said the invaluable efforts of volunteers helped make Wanneroo a welcoming and friendly place.

“Our volunteers are the backbone of our community, and part of what makes the City of Wanneroo a great place to live,” she said.

“They help the City deliver a wide range of programs and services that promote community connection and a sense of belonging, from teaching children about Wanneroo history to preserving the City’s pioneering past and rich history, to supporting cultural activities to help keep the arts alive and thriving. 

"On behalf of our residents, I would like to thank all of our volunteers for generously giving their time and helping create a vibrant and inclusive community."

The City has 500 active volunteers, including the 71 volunteers in heritage and libraries.

Last week’s function recognised volunteers from Buckingham House, Cockman House, the Community History Centre, City libraries, the museum and the gallery.

The following volunteers were awarded with the City's Volunteer Excellence Award for their invaluable assistance:

Julie Stephens, It’s All About Play/It’s All About Stories programs, Clarkson Library Carol Kennet, Books on Wheels, Clarkson Library Susan Marriott, Books on Wheels, Clarkson Library Jess Aloe, Girrawheen Library    Rahmah Bee Abdul Hameed, It’s All About Play, Girrawheen Library Carolyn Bye, Wanneroo Gallery Catherine McKenzie-Murray, Buckingham House Larraine Ferdinands, Books on Wheels, Wanneroo Library.

Retiring volunteer Alex La Corte was also recognised for his contributions as a volunteer for the English Conversation Group at Clarkson Library for the past eight years.

This year’s event included a special tribute to Freeman of the City, Margaret Cockman.  

The great granddaughter of one of the City’s founding families, Margaret has lived in Wanneroo all her life and has dedicated many years of service to the local community, including more than five decades working in local government until her retirement in 1996.

Without Margaret, many associations and community organisations in the cities of Wanneroo and Joondalup would not exist. 

Margaret was recognised for her community work in 1990 when she received the Medal of the Order of Australia and again in 2001 when she was awarded the Centenary Medal. She received the title of Freeman of the City of Wanneroo in 1995 for her work in service of the community since 1946.

Find out more about becoming a volunteer.