Wagga Wagga City Council this week gave a shout out of appreciation to the many volunteers who play a vital part in Council's day-to-day operations across a variety of services and programs in our local government area.
A special morning tea was held at the Wagga Wagga Civic Centre on Friday 23 May 2025, as part of National Volunteer Week Monday 19 May to Sunday 25 May 2025.
The theme for this year's National Volunteer Week 2025 is 'Connecting Communities', celebrating the power of volunteering to bring people together.
Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga Councillor Dallas Tout said it is important to highlight the efforts of those who have given up their time to volunteer with Council.
"We celebrate the power of volunteering to bring people together, and the incredible impact volunteers have in building thriving and inclusive communities," Cr Tout said.
"Volunteering fosters community engagement, connection and belonging. It can create lasting relationships that enrich communities.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our volunteers for so generously giving of their time and efforts. We are grateful that you have chosen to donate your talents and support to our organisation, which supports the wider community of Wagga Wagga."
This year alone, Council has approved 37 new volunteers, in diverse areas such as the Zoo and Aviary, Botanic Gardens, as well as the Library, Art Gallery, Visitor Information Centre and Language Café.
Volunteers are essential when it comes to the success of Council events such as tree planting days, and more.
During the morning tea, the Mayor also recognised the contributions of all of our supervisors, who share their time and knowledge with Council's volunteers.
"In particular, I would like to recognise Wendy McNamara, who is our Zoo Curator and works at the Botanic Gardens Zoo and Aviary," Cr Tout said.
"Wendy is a huge supporter of both volunteers and work experience opportunities and gives people the very unique opportunity to feed and interact with a wide variety of birds and animals including kangaroos and dingoes and even Arnold the snake."
So far in 2025, Wendy has accepted 17 volunteers at the Zoo.
Council welcomes Volunteer Applications for a wide variety of organisational areas, events and initiatives all year round.
