The Redlands Coast community is being encouraged to thank a local volunteer as celebrations begin today for National Volunteer Week (19-25 May).
Redland City Mayor Jos Mitchell said this year’s theme of ‘Connecting Communities’ recognised the power of volunteering in bringing people together.
“There are thousands of residents across our city who go above and beyond the call of duty to support their fellow Redlanders,” the Mayor said.
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“The contributions from this large volunteer base make our community much richer, both from an economic and a social perspective.
“These individuals are everywhere – in our sports clubs, school P&Cs, hospital auxiliaries, foodbanks and serving on the boards of local charity groups.
“They are the quiet achievers who keep the canteens running, the books balanced, and the jerseys washed for game day.
“Many of these individuals also perform their volunteering duties around personal commitments such as work, study, running a household and raising a family.
“Our volunteers never seek out recognition, but I want them to know that their ongoing dedication and hard work is greatly appreciated.”
The Mayor said the value of volunteering to the Redlands Coast community had been on full display to start 2025.
“Take for instance Tropical Cyclone Alfred in March, where volunteers from the Redland City SES unit responded to more than 1200 call outs across the city,” the Mayor said.
“Many of these volunteers were also involved in the response to weather events such as flooding in other parts of Queensland to start the year.
“Beyond disaster management, our volunteers span roles in aged care support, domestic and family violence prevention, youth work, social assistance, and environmental protection.
“Council also has volunteers working across many areas, including at our art galleries and libraries, in our Community Champions disaster response program, with our Bushcare groups, and at the IndigiScapes Community Nursery.
“Research released by Volunteering Queensland in 2024 found the value of volunteering to the Queensland community was estimated at more than $117 billion.
“This is more than the output of some of the state’s biggest industries, all driven by people who have a passion for giving back and helping others.”
National Volunteer Week is held every year in May to shine a spotlight on the important contributions volunteers make to communities across the country.
This year’s theme of ‘Connecting Communities’ recognises that volunteering can help to bring people together, create long-lasting relationships, and enrich lives.
“National Volunteer Week is also a great time to think about lending a hand yourself,” the Mayor said.
“This could include giving up a few hours to volunteer at an op-shop, coaching a sport team, signing up to the SES, or participating in your local Bushcare group.
“Every contribution is welcome, and by getting involved you will be further strengthening the social fabric of our city.”
To find out more about volunteering on Redlands Coast, visit the Council website.
