Image Caption: Mayor Byrne pictured with Les and Gloria Brown.
Volunteers who have devoted decades to serving The Hills Shire have been recognised with awards to celebrate National Volunteer Week.
National Volunteer Week, held from May 19 to 25, shines a spotlight on the thousands of selfless individuals who dedicate their time to supporting others and strengthening their local community.
Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne, said volunteers were incredibly generous and committed, and were vital to the success of Council-supported programs and countless other community services.
"I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our volunteers for their tireless dedication to making our community a better place to live, work, and play," Mayor Byrne said.
"Volunteering is a deeply rewarding experience, and National Volunteer Week is the perfect opportunity for us to publicly thank and celebrate those who give so generously of themselves."
This year's theme, 'Connecting Communities', highlights how volunteering brings people together and builds social connection through acts of kindness and service.
Volunteers across the Shire support Council programs such as Bushcare, Friends of The Hills Library, the Hills Youth Army, S355 Committees, Meals on Wheels, and many more.
To say thank you, Council hosted a free screening of The Salt Path at Event Cinemas, Castle Hill on Monday 19 May and presented awards to those who had reached milestones within their volunteering careers at the 2025 Volunteer Awards Ceremony at the Norwest Council Chambers on Tuesday 20 May.
Among those honoured was Anne Krajc, who has devoted more than 40 years to Meals on Wheels, delivering meals and companionship to hundreds of clients.
"I've always believed you can't just take—you also have to give something back," Anne said.
Long-time Bushcare volunteers Les and Gloria Brown have contributed 110 years of combined service. Les began volunteering when Eric Mobbs Reserve first opened and has since served as chairman, secretary and treasurer of the local S355 Committee.
"You don't volunteer for rewards or recognition. It's about meeting new people and making lifelong friendships," Les said.
Gloria remains an active and dedicated volunteer, contributing through essential tasks such as weeding, pruning, and preparing barbecues for her fellow volunteers.
"I absolutely love it. It's so rewarding to see the impact of our efforts and how the community enjoys the environment," she said.
Council supports a wide range of volunteer opportunities, including Bushcare, Annangrove Environment Centre, Hills Youth Army, Friends of the Libraries, Hills Community Care, Bidjiwong Community Nursery, Events, Justice of the Peace services, and more.
To explore current opportunities, visit www.thehills.nsw.gov.au and search "Volunteering."
