The 19th of May until the 25th of May marks National Volunteer Week, a time where we stop and appreciate our amazing volunteers for all that they do. That's why we hosted a function to thank them, as well as hand out our Community Service Awards to those who have gone above and beyond for our community.
Over 150 of our tireless volunteers (fondly known as 'vollies') were celebrated at the Point Lonsdale Surf Live Saving Club.
Mayor Di Rule thanked our vollies, saying "Our special place works so well because of our volunteers. The Borough has a long history of volunteers. That's what knits us together as the welcoming community we are. Thanks to all of you!"
Council had the pleasure of awarding Citizen of the Year and Community Group of the Year awards. These incredible people were nominated by their peers as people who make outstanding contributions to the community year on year.
This year we were delighted to announce Bruce Golightly as our Citizen of the Year. Bruce has served as a volunteer fire fighter in various roles for just over 43 years, as well as Captain of the Brigade for the past 6 years. Bruce has been instrumental in securing the Brigade's sustainability, leading a recruitment campaign in 2022 that increased the number of volunteers from the community to join the Brigade. Bruce's ability to lead through change and adapt has reinforced the Brigade now and for the future. Bruce's children accepted the awards on his behalf.
Other nominees for the Citizen of the Year were:
Annabelle Ferrier- Clingan
Colin White and Sue Robinson
Noah Milne
Community Group of the Year was awarded to the Queenscliffe Climate Action Now (QCAN). This volunteer group has been championing sustainability since its inception in 2019 with many achievements in the Borough. QCAN have worked with the Borough of Queenscliffe to declare a climate emergency and commit to developing a response plan, assisted local schools with solar installations an established programs such as the community solar program and energy efficient homes to better our Borough.
Other nominees for Community Group of the Year were:
Lived Experience Disability Group (The LEDG)
Queenscliff Football Netball Club
Shedding the Blues
Fisherman's Flat Study Group
Congratulations to not only our finalists, but to all who were nominated - Council thanks you for your incredible contributions to our community.
