Volunteering North Queensland and Queensland Country Bank announced partnership
Volunteering North Queensland (VNQ) is excited to share some good news for the local volunteer sector, announcing a brand new partnership with Queensland Country Bank (QCB) that celebrates the people who give freely of their time to keep our communities strong.
Thanks to Queensland Country Bank, membership fees for all Volunteer Involving Organisations (VIOs) across North Queensland will be covered for the 2025–26 year. This means community groups and not for profits can stay connected to VNQ's training, events and Celebrations without worrying about the cost.
VNQ President Anne Camplin said the partnership is a real boost for local groups who continue to do it tough. "This is such a welcome help for our current members, many of whom are feeling the pinch with rising costs. To have a major local business like Queensland Country Bank step up and support the volunteers who hold our communities together really means a lot," Ms Camplin said.
"It was a hard call to introduce paid memberships this year, but it was the right one. We needed to find a way to keep the doors open, deliver training and events, and continue to support the organisations who work so tirelessly for our region. The demand for volunteers is stronger than ever , this year alone we have referred more than 800 volunteers, and that number keeps growing."
The VRS ( Volunteer Referral Service) will still be a fee for service based on the number of Volunteer positions they wish to advertise. The VNQ Membership Program was introduced at the AGM this year following a full review. The changes were designed to keep things affordable while helping VNQ stay sustainable into the future. Membership funds go straight back into the community through workshops, events and volunteer recruitment programs that build stronger connections across North Queensland.
Queensland Country Bank's CEO Aaron Newman said the partnership fits perfectly with the bank's community values. "Queensland Country Bank is proud to stand behind the volunteers who make North Queensland such a special place. Community engagement has always been central to Queensland Country Bank and we are committed to encouraging our employees to make a difference through our Community Volunteering Program. Queensland Country Bank staff can take up to 2 full paid days each year to give back. We are your local community bank supporting local communities and sponsoring the volunteers who give their time to give back," he said.
VNQ Chair Anne Camplin said the partnership shows what can happen when business and community work hand in hand. "This support sends a clear message that volunteering matters. It shows that our corporate partners see real value in backing the people who make our region a better place to live, work and play."
Together, VNQ and Queensland Country Bank are putting community first and proving that when you invest in volunteers, you invest in the heart of North Queensland.
