Last year's event was a great success.
2 May 2025
Local volunteer organisations are anticipating a significant gathering of potential volunteers at the upcoming Celebrate Service Volunteer Expo at Club Sapphire Merimbula.
Bega Valley Shire Council's Director of Community, Environment and Planning, Emily Harrison encourages as many people as possible to visit the free expo on Tuesday 20 May from 10am to 1.30pm, as part of National Volunteer Week.
"Our volunteer organisations are the backbone of the shire and they offer such a great range of opportunities—there is really something for everyone," Ms Harrison said.
"We've had a positive response from organisations across the shire to participate in the expo which is really pleasing, so if you've ever thought about volunteering, come along and have a look at the opportunities available.
"Volunteering has changed a lot over the last few years, and even a small investment of time can make a big difference."
The Volunteer Expo will provide people with the chance to:
Explore variety: Discover a wide array of organisations providing services in social support, animal welfare, emergency response, tourism, environment and sustainability, men's groups, women's groups, youth engagement, historic and museum, arts and culture, health and community service clubs.
Connect: Meet passionate individuals who are already making a difference in your community and learn about their experiences and journeys.
Find your fit: Whether you're interested in hands-on volunteering, behind-the-scenes work, event coordination or specialised skills, you'll find the perfect match for your interests and talents.
Make an impact: By volunteering, you can contribute to causes that matter to you, build relationships and create a positive ripple effect in the lives of those you serve.
"We encourage everyone to come along to the expo and see if there is something for them. It's free entry and there will be demonstrations, lucky door prizes and lunch," Ms Harrison said.
"Volunteering is not just about giving. It's about making a difference and being part of something bigger than yourself."
Participating volunteer organisations are listed below.
Tathra Wharf Museum
Sapphire FM Community Radio
Bega Valley Historical Society Inc
U3A Sapphire Coast
Pambula Merimbula Lions Club
Marine Rescue Eden
Farm on the Green Inc
Here 2 Help
Animal Welfare League NSW Far South Coast Branch
Bega Valley Data Collective
Bega Valley Meals on Wheels
Coast and Country Community Services
Southern NSW Local Health District
Social Justice Advocates of the Sapphire Coast
Bega Valley Shire Library
Pearls Place Community Inc. Pambula
Red Cross
Far South Coast Landcare Association
Bega Women's Resource Centre
Sapphire Community Projects Inc
Aged Care Volunteer Visitors' Scheme
Cruise Eden
Bega Valley Suicide Prevention Action Network Inc
Bega, Eden, Merimbula Day and Merimbula Evening VIEW Clubs
Merimbula Tourism Inc