Selfless Queensland volunteers to shine in the spotlight
- Glittering awards ceremony celebrates Queensland's hardworking volunteers.
- 26 finalists nominated across eight categories at Queensland Volunteering Awards Ceremony.
- The Crisafulli Government committed to reversing the decline in volunteer numbers under Labor.
Queensland's most inspiring volunteers and volunteer programs will be recognised tonight at the Queensland Volunteering Awards Ceremony, proudly sponsored by the Crisafulli Government.
The awards acknowledge the tireless work of the thousands of volunteers who commit themselves to causes in their community, selflessly donating their time and sharing their knowledge and resources.
Now in their tenth year, the awards honour the people and businesses that have made meaningful contributions to their local communities throughout Queensland.
The Queensland Volunteering Awards has become a cornerstone event for the sector, honouring the powerful impact volunteers make on individuals and communities.
Under the former Labor Government, volunteers were forgotten and unappreciated, despite them being the heart and soul of many communities.
The Crisafulli Government is taking proactive steps to encourage Queenslanders to volunteer and has established a parliamentary inquiry into volunteering to strengthen community participation.
Minister for Volunteers Ann Leahy said the awards were more valuable than ever before, as the Crisafulli Government worked to reverse a decline in volunteering numbers under Labor.
"The Crisafulli Government understand just how important you are to our state and we want to ensure volunteers have the resources you need to keep doing what they do best," Minister Leahy said.
"From disaster recovery volunteers to youth mentors, wildlife carers to community organisers, this year's Queensland Volunteering Awards finalists reflect the diverse and inspiring nature of volunteering across the state.
"Their selfless contributions ensure our community organisations can continue to operate and provide valuable services and benefits to a range of groups.
"I'm so proud to be the Minister for Volunteers and I tip my hat to everyone who gives of their time and their knowledge so selflessly."
Volunteering Queensland CEO Jane Hedger said the awards were an opportunity for those who give to take a bow and be on the receiving end of the state's gratitude.
"These awards are not just a celebration of individual and collective achievements – they're a chance for all of us to say "thank you"," Ms Hedger said.
"Every nominee represents thousands more who give their time, their passion, and their energy to help others. This year's finalists are truly remarkable."
More than 200 guests will come together at Brisbane City Hall to celebrate 26 finalists across eight categories, shining a spotlight on the outstanding contributions of volunteers across the state.
Previous Volunteer of the Year recipients include Liz Downes, a wildlife conservationist who has worked for 40 years to save the Torres Strait pigeon from extinction; Melinda Jackson, who has been volunteering at Surf Lifesaving Queensland since she joined in 1980; and Brad Wearne, a volunteer who has transformed the lives of dementia sufferers with his outdoor workshops that provide participants with a sense of purpose, socialisation and greater self-esteem.
Corporations that have been recognised for their valuable impact on their communities include RACQ and Domino's Pizza.
