During National Volunteer Week (May 20 to May), it’s important to acknowledge the many people who generously give of their time and talents to help improve the lives of others and their communities.

The theme promoted via Volunteering Australia in 2024 is “Something for Everyone”, with the following extract featured on the organisations website.

National Volunteer Week 2024 will recognise the diverse passions and talents everyone brings to the act of volunteering. It’s an invitation to explore the myriad opportunities available, emphasising that there’s a place for everyone in the world of volunteering. Whether you’re drawn to environmental causes, community outreach, education, or beyond, there’s a place where your unique skills and interests can flourish.

L-R: The planter box is well prepped with soil prior to the garden make-over; All for a good cause. Andrea was captured actively sweeping, planting, watering planter beds – you name it. The Post Office is currently boasting a well-presented business frontage, with clean seats and some visually appealing succulent plantings, all donated via Andrea from her own garden. What a green thumb! A visually spectacular planter box now greets customers and visitors alike at the front of the Post Office. Photos courtesy The Buloke Times

Volunteers, and their acts of kindness regularly help build a better and brighter future and remind us that we all have a role to play in making our communities safer, healthier, stronger, more vibrant and great places to live work and play.

Wycheproof’s strength

Volunteering is integral across all Buloke communities, and in this instance Wycheproof’s strength has regularly come via the acts of many community members, young and old from all walks of life, in a wide array of community settings.

From years gone by to more recent times, volunteers have been active making Wycheproof the wonderful community it is today.

A few notable profiles (and there are certainly many) include committed volunteers Andrea Coatsworth and Betty Taylor. Both Andrea and Betty were spotted out and about, giving of their time on separate occasions ensuring the historic Wycheproof Post Office building and surrounds, remain a well maintained and welcoming community and tourism precinct on Broadway.

Thank you, Andrea and Betty – thank you to all “Volunteers” across Wycheproof and Buloke. Happy National Volunteer Week.

This article appeared in The Buloke Times, 24 May 2024.