NATIONAL Volunteer Week, which is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering, took place from May 18 to 24, and the theme this year, ‘Your Year to Volunteer’ encourages first-time volunteers, celebrates the dedication of long-time volunteers and recognises that volunteering looks different for everyone.

Every day across the Sunshine Coast, volunteers generously give their time, skills and care to support programs that help bring people together, build confidence and strengthen community life.

More than 4,000 volunteers share their time and skills to help deliver services and experiences that support the Sunshine Coast community, and all tiers of government collectively said “thank you” to these community stalwarts and champions.

Sunshine Coast Council Division 9 Councillor Maria Suarez said Council valued the work of volunteers enormously.

“Their contributions strengthen communities, support essential services, and make a real difference in people’s lives.

“Many organisations and causes could not function without the dedication and generosity of volunteers; they really are the heart of community support.”

Cr Suarez also highlighted the positive social connection that is made by way of helping out.

“Volunteering helps to build friendships with individuals who share similar interests and values, you can learn new skills, and the satisfaction in helping others or the environment gives a sense of purpose or achievement, which can boost your mood and reduce stress.”

The local region is not short of groups to volunteer with, and Member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson highlighted the diversity on offer to those wishing to volunteer.

“The incredible contribution they make to organisations such as STEPs Charity, Rotary, Wishlist, Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre, Bloomhill, Salvation Army, St Vincent de Paul, Anglicare, Coast Guard, Surf Life Saving, and so many others would not exist without them,” Ms Simpson said.

“Volunteers are vital in supporting people across the Sunshine Coast and making our community a stronger, kinder and more connected place to live.

“I would personally like to say, ‘thank you’ to every volunteer across the Sunshine Coast for the selfless time, care and assistance you provide to our community each and every day.”

Member for Ninderry, Dan Purdie, made mention of the long-standing organisations in the community which are powered by volunteers.

“Coolum Beach Meals on Wheels recently celebrated their 40th anniversary, having grown from 22 clients in 1986 to over 200 clients today. Thanks to their amazing team of over 200 volunteers, they provide much more than a meal,” Mr Purdie said.

“With our Surf Life Saving Season wrapping up for winter, the vital role our volunteer patrol members play in keeping our families safe can be seen in an astonishing 2,760 rescues carried out across Queensland beaches this summer.”

“I’d like to thank every member of Coolum Beach Surf Life Saving Club who pulled on the red and yellow and volunteered their time,

spending long days in the sun to protect others.”

Mr Purdie also made mention of the SES volunteers who are there when disaster strikes.

“As we saw during the severe storm cells which smashed Coolum Beach in November last year, our amazing orange army – the Coolum SES Group – were there for us, working tirelessly to put tarps over damaged roofs, assist with the clean-up and help restore safety amid fallen trees and powerlines.”

Thank you to every volunteer who gives their time to help others and support our communities.