Murrindindi Shire Council is inviting all volunteer groups and anyone interested in volunteering to our Volunteer Expo at the Alexandra Football Netball Club on Saturday 5 July.
In the spirit of this year's National Volunteer Week theme, 'Bringing Communities Together', Council is hosting the Expo to connect you with opportunities that suit your skills, interests and passions, and help our local groups grow their numbers.
Volunteering is a rewarding way to give back, build new skills and boost your wellbeing. It also strengthens community connections and lets you support causes that matter to you. From helping local charities and environmental groups, to working with animals, assisting emergency services or preserving local history, there's something for everyone.
Our Volunteer Expo aims to connect community groups with people keen to contribute their time and talents. Local organisations will showcase a range of volunteer roles to suit different interests and skill sets. Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow your group, the Expo is a great opportunity to get involved and make a difference in our Shire.
In the lead-up to the Expo, Networking Pop-up Sessions will be held in Marysville, Eildon and Alexandra. All events are free and open to everyone. These Sessions offer a relaxed opportunity to meet representatives from local organisations and find out how you can get involved. They are a great way to explore your options before the main Expo. Whether you are new to volunteering or just want to meet people and learn more, these networking events are the ideal starting point, so come along and enjoy a hot beverage on us.
Register your attendance to one of our three Volunteer Networking Pop-ups:
- Marysville Session on Tuesday 20 May
- Eildon Session on Thursday 22 May
- Alexandra Session on Saturday 31 May
If you would like to host a stall at the Volunteer Expo, volunteer groups can register to showcase their opportunities. Prospective volunteers can also register for a ticket to attend or call Council on (03) 5772 0333 and ask to speak with our Community Capacity Building Officer. Registrations close Monday 23 June.
Murrindindi Shire Council is pleased to advise this event was made possible by the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action Community Development Fund. Learn more about the Community Capacity Building program.
Murrindindi Shire Mayor Damien Gallagher highlights the critical role volunteers play in strengthening the community: "Volunteers are the heart of our Shire, and this Expo gives everyone a chance to find out how they can get involved whether it's supporting a local cause, gain new skills, or simply connecting with others, we encourage all community members to attend.
We're proud to celebrate the generosity and dedication of our volunteers through events like the Volunteer Expo, the Volunteer Appreciation Dinner and the Community Awards. These events celebrate the spirit of community and recognise the generous individuals who give their time to help others. Supporting volunteers is central to what Council does, it strengthens our communities and benefits us all."
Bronwyn Ondracek, said of her experience volunteering locally; "As a new arrival to Marysville and approaching retirement, I started volunteering at MiRa (Marysville Information and Regional Arts). This allowed me to learn about the attractions and the history of the area to assist the visitors and also become connected with the locals, many of whom have become friends. Now that I am retired, I divide most of my volunteering between MiRa and U3A. Both give me pleasure, allow me to meet a wide range of people and help me to feel that I am contributing to the area. Volunteers are the backbone of small communities and new volunteers are always welcomed warmly."
Volunteer Networking Marysville Session on
