East Gippsland Shire Council is recognising the important contribution of volunteers and community-minded staff during National Volunteer Week, with dozens of local residents honoured for their dedication to the region.
This year, 47 volunteers were inducted into the East Gippsland Volunteer Honour Roll, joining a growing list of residents recognised for their outstanding service to the community. Collectively, this year’s inductees have contributed more than 469 years of volunteer service.
Since the Honour Roll was established in 2022, more than 300 volunteers from communities across East Gippsland have been recognised.
Among this year’s inductees is Paynesville resident John Waller, recognised for more than 50 years of volunteer service through organisations including the Paynesville Lions Club and East Gippsland Legacy.
Reflecting on his experience, Mr Waller encouraged others to get involved in their local communities.
“Join a club, join a volunteer group. Just help your community, volunteer,” he said.
Volunteers recognised for more than 20 years of service were Christine Bittner, Helen Carter, Jae Grumley, Sharon Royal and Suzanne Davies.
Those acknowledged for more than 10 years of service included Allan Pappin, Christina Bobrowski, Jack Peterson, James Richards, Kathryn Williams, Rory Smith and Shelley Robinson.
Recognised for more than five years of service were Andrew McKillop, Cathy McLellan, Karen Downie, Ken Burrows, Louise Holden and Mick Harrington.
Volunteers recognised for up to five years of service included Ann Smith, Brenda Jackson, Carlye Law, Diana McCormack, Don McPhee, Evon Waymouth, Janine Honing, Julie Mortlock, Karen Mahoney, Kate Tatchell, Margaret McKinnell, Peter Engel, Robin Thatcher, Stephen Smith, Sue Morton, Susanne Engel, Tegwyn Somerville, Tina Ernst and Wendy Murray.
Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said National Volunteer Week provided an important opportunity to acknowledge the role volunteers play across the region.
“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our community — whether they’re supporting emergency services, aged care, environmental conservation or local sport,” Cr Ashworth said.
“Their efforts make East Gippsland stronger, more connected and a better place to live.”
Council said nominations for the East Gippsland Volunteer Honour Roll remain open year-round.
