NATIONAL Volunteer Week will be celebrated in style in the Strathbogie Shire this year with a luncheon event on Wednesday, 21 May.
Dedicated volunteers from across the shire are invited to attend.
National Volunteer Week runs from Monday 19 to Sunday 25 May and its theme for this year is 'Connecting Communities', to recognise the vital role volunteers play in fostering unity and resilience.
Strathbogie Shire Mayor Claire Ewart-Kennedy highlighted the significance of the theme.
"Our volunteers are the backbone of our shire," Cr Ewart-Kennedy said.
Latest Stories
"Their selfless contributions create the vibrant, supportive community we are so proud of.
"This celebration is a small way of acknowledging their extraordinary efforts and the difference they continue to make every day."
The event will include a light lunch from 12pm, followed by an inspiring talk from special guest speaker Sarah Barnbrook.
Ms Barnbrook is a best-selling author, international award-winning advocate, and passionate volunteer, with more than 20 years of experience in service at local, state, national, and global level.
She brings a wealth of insight into the power of compassion and community connection.
As founder of Away From Keyboard Inc., she champions digital wellbeing for children and carers, and her work with organisations like the United Nations and Women
4 STEM continues to drive change for women and youth in both digital and real-world spaces.
Her story is one of resilience, care, and quiet leadership and serves as a reminder that every act of kindness, no matter how small, can build stronger communities.
“The event will also feature a special presentation to honour our nominated Local Legends — volunteers from across the shire who have gone above and beyond in their service," Cr Ewart-Kennedy said.
"These individuals have been recognised by their peers for their outstanding dedication, and we look forward to celebrating their incredible contributions to our community.”
To conclude the afternoon, guests will enjoy a scenic cruise aboard the Goulburn Explorer on the Goulburn River and Nagambie Lakes.
Volunteers will be able to sit back, relax on the sun deck, spot Australian wildlife, and take in the spectacular riverbank scenery during this well-deserved experience.
The event is proudly supported by the Community Recovery Hub which is jointly funded by the Australian and Victorian Governments through the Disaster Recovery
Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
Date: Wednesday 21 May
Location: Discover Park, 69 Loddings Lane, Nagambie
Time: Light lunch from 12pm, followed by guest speakers and cruise
Transport: Bus transport available
Places are limited, bookings essential at http://tiny.cc/8stg001 or call 1800 065 993.
For more information visit www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au or call 1800 065 999
