This National Volunteer Week, held from May 19–25, Australians are encouraged to reflect on the quiet strength of those who give their time and energy to strengthen their communities.
With this year’s theme ‘Connecting Communities’, we turn the spotlight on a few of the many local volunteers who quietly go about making the world a better place, asking for no reward and often receiving little recognition.
These are the neighbours, friends and familiar faces who turn up, pitch in and connect us all through their selfless acts.
These are the volunteers who humbly and quietly do their thing, don’t chase the spotlight and often go unrecognised.
These are the volunteers we like to think of as our unsung heroes.
Through our new ongoing philanthropic project at Smith Creative called “Community Focus”, we asked around and tracked down some of these amazing individuals so we could honour them with a set of portraits to shine a light on their quiet acts of service.
BRENT HODGKINS
Founder of Warrior Records, Brent Hodgkins has long been a passionate supporter of local musicians and Bruthen’s creative community. Since 2019, his recording studio Bruthen Music has provided artists with a space to be heard. Through his record label Warrior Records he continues to offer emerging talent a platform to thrive and has volunteered countless hours to record, master and promote upcoming local musicians under his Warrior Records Label.
COSETTE MURPHY
Whether raising funds, championing the Lions Club, or supporting literacy through the Friends of East Gippsland Libraries, Cosette Murphy is a quiet force for good. Her dedication spans multiple groups, and her energy has contributed to the success of numerous initiatives.
TERRY RYAN
For nearly a decade Terry Ryan picked up litter daily across Kalimna Hill and Apex Park, driven by pride in his town and a love of walking. Though health concerns have slowed him down, his efforts made a lasting impact — not just through cleaner parks, but by inspiring others to care for the environment.
JAMES BISHOP
Inspired by Terry Ryan and raised with a strong sense of civic duty, James Bishop spent three years walking the streets of Lakes Entrance each morning, picking up rubbish without fail. While health challenges have since slowed his pace, James still instinctively cleans up wherever he goes — quietly making a difference.
TIFFANY VATCHER, JEN SOUTH AND MAX
At UpStage Independent Theatre School, principal Tiffany Vatcher and teacher Jen South help young people build confidence, creativity and teamwork through drama. With decades of combined experience, they’ve created a nurturing space for self-expression and growth — ably assisted by Max, Tiffany’s therapy dog-in-training, who supports students with calm and cuddles.
PERRY BURLEY
The Lakes Entrance Foreshore Market wouldn’t run without the dedication of community members like Perry Burley. As the organiser and public face of the Surf Life Saving Club’s monthly market, Perry helps create a space where local makers, producers and visitors come together.
STEPH BEATTIE
When Steph moved to Lakes nearly 11 years ago, she didn’t know she’d find a second family at the CFA. Now with over seven years of service, she continues to serve and protect her community. Steph says the most rewarding part of volunteering is being part of the tight-knit CFA team — people she can count on through thick and thin.
TEGAN ROBERTS AND STACEY OOSTERMEYER
Best friends and the dynamic leadership team behind the Bairnsdale Show, Tegan and Stacey embody true community spirit. Tegan, now in her second year as President, brings vision and drive, while Stacey, in her third term as Vice President, is passionate about creating events that bring people together. As they prepare for another unforgettable show, they’re calling for more helping hands—whether for a full year or just a few weeks.
Written by Shannan, Smith Creative
