The highest of distinctions is service to others.

Transcription

2014
Contents
Mayor’s Welcome
1
Individual Volunteer Award Nominations
2
Senior Volunteer Award Nominations
12
Young Volunteer Award Nominations
16
Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander Volunteer Award Nominations
20
Community Group Award Nominations
21
Good Neighbour Award Nominations
28
Banyule Citizen of the Year Award Nominations
30
Mayor’s Welcome
Every day around the country, thousands of volunteers
help make our communities better places to live and
work. It’s staggering to think more than six million
people volunteer annually in Australia. Many services
and initiatives would simply not exist if it weren’t for the
selfless acts of these priceless individuals. Offering their
time, skills and energy, they are an invaluable workforce
deservedly honoured during National Volunteer Week.
Cr Craig Langdon
Mayor
In my role as Mayor and Councillor, I am fortunate
to cross paths with many of Banyule’s committed
volunteers and see them in action, and see how they
touch the lives of others. From binding our communities
together, to assisting and caring for individuals, they
perform a vital function in so many ways. Whether it
be that club president who’s served for 20 years or
those people who always put their hands up, it is
truly amazing to think their efforts go unpaid and
often unsung.
Now is our chance to sing their praise and demonstrate
our gratitude to the individuals and groups of
Banyule who have helped our community. All of these
volunteers’ efforts are admirable and their commitment
inspirational. On behalf of Banyule Council and all the
people they have supported, we thank volunteers for
their overwhelming generosity and kind-hearted spirit.
This year, it also gives me great pleasure to announce
the inaugural Banyule Citizen of the Year Award.
Each of our nominees deserves to be celebrated and
congratulated for their contribution to our community.
It is upstanding people like these that are role models
for us all.
Cr Craig Langdon
Mayor
Individual Volunteer
Award Nominations
Barbara
Brook
Marlene
Caton
Ivanhoe East
Bundoora
Barb Brook really cares for her
community, as shown by a succession
of outstanding contributions over many
years to numerous organisations. For
most of her life she has been an active
volunteer at Heidelberg East Ivanhoe
Uniting Church, giving her time and
compassion to many, including those
living with a disability or mental illness.
Since the late 1990s, Scouts Australia
has benefited from Barb’s commitment
to contribute in any way she can. For
her outstanding contribution over 20
years to science education, the Science
Teachers’ Association of Victoria
bestowed Barb a Fellowship Award
in 2013. Over the years, she has also
contributed her time to Guide Dogs
of Australia, local sporting clubs and
countless community committees.
“She is an exceptional role model for
all of us…Banyule would be a much
poorer community without Barb and
her family.”
2
Marlene has been involved in volunteer
and community work over the past
30 years with various clubs and
not-for-profit organisations in numerous
administrative roles. These roles have
involved staff guidance, decisionmaking, funding applications and other
activities associated with the control and
management of organisations within
the Banyule community. For decades,
Marlene has donated her time unselfishly
in numerous volunteer roles, including
the management of Watsonia’s Red Cross
Retail Shop and long-serving committee
membership at Watsonia Neighbourhood
House and Contact Community Centre.
“Marlene directs her positive energies
to serving needy organisations and
members of the community who
she believes are in more need of her
services and compassion...”
2014 Banyule Volunteer Awards
|
Individual Volunteer Nominations
Award Nominations
Carol
Doran
Vanessa
Edwards
Greensborough
Yallambie
For the past eight years, Carol has been
a volunteer member of Diamond Valley
and Eltham Kindergarten Teachers
Association (DEKTA). She has been truly
committed to representing the early
childhood sector within Nillumbik and
Banyule, keeping professionals abreast
of current issues and changes, as well as
providing support to each other. Carol
played a key role in the establishment
of support meetings hosted by a
clinical psychologist for early childhood
educators impacted by stressful events
such as Black Saturday. Carol has also
held a position on the DEKTA Conference
Committee for the past five years.
“Carol is an enthusiastic character
who has been a wonderful voice for
early childhood professionals for the
Banyule Preschool Association for
many years.”
|
Vanessa is a proactive member of
the Yallambie community, focusing
on transforming and improving the
Yallambie Park Preschool. As the
preschool’s president and grants officer,
she has spent much of her time applying
for grants to improve a number of
amenities for the kindergarten as well
as an additional building to
accommodate 3-year-olds. Vanessa
has played an active role in the
improvement of the centre, and
continues to act on behalf of the
preschool committee.
“Vanessa Edwards’ dedication to
Yallambie Park Preschool has seen her
transform the kindergarten into an
amazing facility for all the children
and families that attend the centre.”
3
Award Nominations
Garth
Fragopoulos
Stephen
Griffiths
Eltham
Preston
Garth is a passionate volunteer for the
Art Connects Program at Araluen Centre.
He has volunteered for over 12 years,
committing six hours a week to assist
adults with an intellectual disability to
express themselves through their art
work. Garth is an artist himself, and
shares his passion and talent for art in a
patient and nurturing way. His warmth,
loyalty and hard work has encouraged
and developed the creative potential
of many aspiring artists. It is through
Garth’s ongoing commitment, generosity
and creativity that Art Connects is such
a valuable experience for the Araluen
Community.
“Amongst an organisation full of
caring people that extends past 150
people, Garth is our longest serving
volunteer. He is part of the furniture
but we still appreciate his gentle
nature and all that he gives us.”
4
Stephen has become a ‘resident
biologist’ for Friends of Wilson Reserve,
conducting a monthly monitoring project
for its 20 bat roost boxes attached
to trees in Ivanhoe’s Wilson Reserve.
Since 2009, Stephen has attended 30
sessions and has been in charge of
assessing the health of bats, banding
and microchipping them, attending
to medical needs, and training new
recruits in bat-handling skills. He has
also recruited several volunteers to help
with monitoring, and nursed one sick
bat back to health at his home. Stephen
volunteers up to six hours at each session
and has now started a PhD focusing on
the relationship of bat roost boxes and
the species’ conservation.
“Stephen has got along with a wide
range of volunteers from diverse
backgrounds and is always keen
to teach them something new
about bats.”
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Award Nominations
Geoff
Harvey
Jenny
Joyce
Rosanna
Macleod
Geoff started volunteering at Foodshare
in 2009 in response to a call for male
volunteers to help out with collecting
food donations. He donates a couple of
days each week to picking up groceries
from supermarkets as well as collecting
surplus fresh produce from a restaurant
and provisions from the VicRelief
warehouse in Yarraville. Without this
commitment, Foodshare would not be
in a position to offer such a constant
supply of food to those in our
community experiencing disadvantage.
Geoff is a real team player and treats
others with respect. His engaging and
good-humoured nature helps put clients
at ease.
“Geoff’s personality endears him
to both the clients and our fellow
volunteers…we would like to honour
Geoff’s commitment in return.”
|
Jenny has been volunteering with
Olympic Adult Education for many years,
helping educationally disadvantaged
adults in the local community. She gives
her time to help prepare meals at the
centre’s kitchen and serve meals for
community lunches. You will also find
her looking after the community garden
at the Southern Road building, giving
her time to support and share her love
of gardening with those less able and
less fortunate. She shares her knowledge
of sustainable gardening practices and
mentors members of the community,
some who have mild intellectual
disabilities.
“Jenny is there week in, week out. By
bringing others along and with her
reliability, she has brought stability to
the program.”
5
Award Nominations
Robert
MacDonald
Brian
Moran
Greensborough
Ivanhoe
Robert is one those extraordinary
people who lead with their heart in
the true spirit of volunteering. He is a
compassionate man with a real passion
for helping others in his family, his
church, his local neighbourhood and
communities further afield. Robert
joined Foodshare in February 2010
and coordinates and delivers groceries
from his church community and is also
one of the volunteer drivers. Robert is
also very involved in Prison Fellowship,
supporting prisoners, ex-prisoners,
their partners and children through
activities such as camps, practical aid and
emotional support. Robert also assists
isolated people in his neighbourhood
with their shopping and taking them to
appointments.
“Robert shies away from accolades
but I would like to take this
opportunity to pay respect to a man
who dedicates so much of his time to
helping others.”
6
Brian has volunteered much of his time
supporting those in need locally and
around the world. Since 1979, he has
remained a volunteer with the Australian
Entertainment Agents Association.
A founding member for Community
Aid Abroad/Oxfam group, he has
donated more than 25 years helping
with fundraising initiatives, including
a vital role in the Christmas tree drive.
He spent nine years at Lifeline taking
calls and training other counsellors. His
rapid response to natural disasters has
helped many. Brian helped organise a
‘Blessings for Burma’ concert for World
Vision in 2008. He also came to the aid
of people needing goods and services
after the 2008 Victorian bush fires, the
2010 Queensland floods and the 2011
Christchurch earthquake.
“Brian’s contribution to the Banyule
community over the last 35 years has
been extraordinary… bringing about
positive change locally and in the
larger world in which we live.”
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Award Nominations
Elaine
Overton
Kaye
Perry
Viewbank
Eltham
Although items at the Brotherhood
of St Laurence opportunity shop in
Greensborough are regularly turned over,
Elaine remains a permanent fixture at the
charity shop. Her 22 years of continuous
service at the op shop for approximately
five hours every Tuesday is testament
to her selfless attitude and community
spirit. She has also been involved with
Life Activities Club Heidelberg as well
as Warringal Probus, where she was
president until she had to hand over the
role for health concerns. Whether she
is organising morning teas or a group
outing, Elaine demonstrates kindness and
always puts others first.
“Elaine has given 22 years of service
to the opportunity shop…she deserves
to be recognised.”
|
Kaye brings joy and inspires learning
for the children at Panorama Heights
Preschool. She also undertakes the
vital role of mentoring new graduates
and supporting other educators in the
region. For the past nine years, Kaye has
been a volunteer member of Diamond
Valley and Eltham Kindergarten Teachers
Association (DEKTA), including eight
years in the role of secretary. She helps
keep professionals abreast of current
issues, changes in the sector and
provides support to educators. Kaye
has also held a position on the DEKTA
Conference Committee for the past
five years, helping organise an annual
conference for early childhood educators
throughout the North East Region.
“Kaye has a heart of gold and would
do anything for anybody.”
7
Award Nominations
Susan
Pitchford
Margaret
Reardon
Mont Albert
Rosanna
Sue donates her time as a resident
midwife volunteer for the Mercy
Pregnancy and Emotional Wellbeing
Study based at the Mercy Hospital for
Women in Heidelberg. She has been
actively involved in all aspects of the
study for two to three days a week since
2012 and no task is ever too hard or
too much. Her sensitivity, experience
and professionalism with patients are
admirable and help to retain study
participants. She is instrumental in
assisting participants postnatally with
their babies when they re-visit the
hospital for their follow-up observation
task. Over the years, Sue has also
volunteered in numerous roles, from
church groups to school committees.
“Sue brings an enormous amount
of enthusiasm and commitment…
and will always go beyond the call
of duty.”
8
Margaret has been volunteering at
Olympic Adult Education for more
than 10 years, helping disadvantaged
students improve their language skills
and increase their confidence. Margaret
goes above and beyond the normal
expectations of one of our classroom
volunteers. She has accompanied
students to appointments outside of class
in her own time and helped those most
in need by putting them in touch with
other support organisations. Margaret
has been assisting the teacher in one
of the English as a second language
classrooms for the last several years,
which requires a great deal of patience
and empathy as many of the students
have had no education at all in their
first language.
“Margaret deserves to be recognised
for her tireless contribution to
members of the Banyule community.”
|
Award Nominations
Ian Serby
Elaine
Sproules
Kingsbury
Heidelberg
Ian joined Foodshare as a volunteer
in 2011 in response to the request for
men to help with driving and the heavy
lifting. Within a matter of weeks Ian very
quickly progressed from a few hours
helping out to coordinating the collection
of food supplies from many venues. In
November 2013, Ian came to the rescue
once again, nominating to take on the
role of treasurer at short notice with
the sudden retirement of Foodshare’s
long-serving treasurer. Ian also makes
time to volunteer at the Austin Hospital,
assisting visitors to find their way around
the hospital and escorting patients from
Darley House at the Repatriation Hospital
to church services.
“Ian never complains, preferring
to do his bit easing the load for
other volunteers. Ian’s willingness
to regularly collect food for
Foodshare has ensured we have
food parcels for needy people in the
Banyule community.”
|
Elaine is a committed, reliable and
dependable volunteer for Heidelcare,
who has served the Banyule community
continuously for the past 22 years.
Assisting the frail, elderly and the socially
and economically disadvantaged by
providing transport and accompanying
them to medical appointments, shopping,
employment and social activities, her
work helps residents stay engaged and
connected in the community. Apart from
donating three to four hours a week
driving clients, for two months a year she
volunteers up to 12 hours a week as she
assumes a coordinating role as well.
“Elaine is compassionate, gentle
and always interacts positively with
clients, and manages any difficulties
with skill and professionalism...
Heidelcare feels she has made an
extraordinary difference to so many
lives in Banyule.”
9
Award Nominations
Lyndy
Stagg
Judith
Walsh
Ivanhoe
10
Montmorency
Lyndy has been a constant committed
volunteer over the past 28 years in
Banyule. Her community engagement
and committee representation have
been spread across a vast number of
organisations. From assistant Cub Leader
to helping at the Commonwealth Games
Deaf Olympics, fundraising for Austin
Health, to pushing wheelchairs at the
Repatriation Hospital Chapel service for
patients and residents on Sundays, she
offers her time and compassion without
constraint. She has worked with young
people in Banyule for over 25 years
and actively encourages Ivanhoe Girls’
Grammar students to volunteer and
pursue philanthropic activities.
As current president of Concord
Playgroup, Judith is always looking
for opportunities beyond the typical
responsibilities of her role. She
consistently demonstrates leadership
qualities while encouraging a friendly and
fun environment for both the committee
and its members. As well as volunteering
at Concord Playgroup, Judith was
secretary of Plenty Valley FM for two
years until 2012 when her daughter
commenced school at Montmorency
South Primary School. It was there that
she became actively involved in the
Parents and Friends Group, putting up
her hand to help out, regardless of the
chore or task required.
“Lyndy actively seeks out the needs of
others in Banyule.”
“Judith Walsh should be recognised
for her volunteering efforts due
to her unwavering dedication and
commitment to her local community
over the past seven years.”
|
Award Nominations
Stella
Whelan
Simeon
Yang
Heidelberg Heights
Heidelberg West
For the past 11 years, Stella has been a
valued and dedicated member of the
Olympic Village Combined Pensioners
Association. During this time, Stella has
always been a willing and obliging helper.
From loading walking frames into her car
and providing lifts to the club, to ensuring
members are happy, comfortable and
offered a cup of tea once they have
arrived, she never fails to put others first.
She often assists others with shopping,
taking them to medical appointments,
as well as donating money for Banyule
Community Camps for vulnerable and
disadvantaged children of Banyule.
“Stella is a very caring and unselfish
soul...a generous person who will
always do whatever she can for those
around her.”
|
Since 2000, Simeon has been a volunteer
with the North East Melbourne Chinese
Association (NEMCA) - a group that
celebrates Chinese culture and provides
valuable connections for its members.
He has served as both vice president
and president of NEMCA and honourable
director of its Song and Dance Troup.
For over a decade, Simeon has played a
key role in organising NEMCA’s regular
weekend activities, co-ordinating cultural
performances, applying for grants
and funding applications, and working
to build partnerships with numerous
organisations. Since retiring as president
in 2013, he has continued to provide
support and guidance to new committee
members and play a key role at NEMCA.
“Simeon’s dedication and passion
for promoting culture and connection
makes him a wonderful asset to
the community.”
11
Senior Volunteer
Award Nominations
Stephen
Fox
Virginia
Masters
Montmorency
Ivanhoe
Over 15 years ago, Stephen reluctantly
stood in for a last minute withdrawal. But
since his first foray in the role of Santa,
Stephen has been reluctant to let it go
and has been volunteering as Santa
Claus ever since. Santa gigs grew each
year, from kindergartens and crèches to
Christmas parties. But perhaps his most
memorable role, and most rewarding,
was last Christmas when he volunteered
to be ‘Sensitive Santa’, giving children on
the autism spectrum a chance to meet
the man from the North Pole at local
libraries. His warmth brought joy to so
many children and their families. Stephen
also volunteers his time at Montmorency
Bowling Club, where he acts as a carer,
visiting and looking after elderly and
sick members.
“His qualities, energy, effort and
spirit are something to admire and
appreciate. The diversity of children
on the spectrum that Stephen was
able to engage with and bring the
magic of Christmas to was incredible!”
12
Virginia volunteers her time as social
secretary at the Heart to Heart
Activities Group organising coach trips,
developing a social presence among
local community centres and assisting
with the group’s goal to provide a social
network for those affected by adverse
heart health. Virginia is also active in
a number of different duties including
sending out cards and making checkup calls to members in ill-health.
Influenced by heart health and other
medical circumstances in her personal
life, Virginia has been a part of the group
from 2004-2012, and has returned as a
member of the committee this year.
“Virginia has been instrumental
in helping keep the HTHAG as a
committed group in order to provide
a social network of friends who have
been touched by the adversity of
ill-health due to heart problems.”
|
Senior Volunteer Nominations
Senior Volunteer
Award Nominations
Graham
Pritchard
Lower Plenty
Graham is chairman of LINC Church
Services Incorporated, a good Samaritan
organisation providing assistance to
those in need across southern Nillumbik
and northern Banyule. For them, he
has volunteered as a transport driver
taking local people to hospital and other
medical appointments. He has also been
the treasurer of CAVE (Community and
Volunteers of Eltham) since 1985, which
supports education for local students.
In the 1960s and 70s, Graham was
secretary of the National Aboriginal
Day Committee, promoting Aboriginal
advancement across the community.
Graham has donated countless hours
volunteering over the decades. Friends
believe it is time for Graham’s dedication
to be recognised.
“Graham has worked tirelessly for the
community over a period of at least
40 years.”
|
Senior Volunteer Nominations
Lyndy
Stagg
Ivanhoe
Lyndy has been a constant committed
volunteer over the past 28 years in
Banyule. Her community engagement
and committee representation have
been spread across a vast number of
organisations. From assistant Cub Leader
to helping at the Commonwealth Games
Deaf Olympics, fundraising for Austin
Health, to pushing wheelchairs at the
Repatriation Hospital Chapel service for
patients and residents on Sundays, she
offers her time and compassion without
constraint. She has worked with young
people in Banyule for over 25 years
and actively encourages Ivanhoe Girls’
Grammar students to volunteer and
pursue philanthropic activities.
“Lyndy actively seeks out the needs of
others in Banyule.”
13
The highest of distinctions is
service to others.
– King George VI (1895–1952)
Volunteers at Watsonia Neighbourhood House
Young Volunteer
Award Nominations
Benjamin
Brook, 25
Emelia
EaglingEvery, 16
Viewbank
Ivanhoe
Ben continues to make a positive impact
on people of all ages through his various
volunteering roles. As assistant Scout
leader at 1st Eaglemont since 2009,
he has devoted his time and energy
once a week at meetings, inspiring the
next generation of Scouts. He has also
contributed his expertise for many
years with the Melbourne Gang Show,
a theatrical teaching area of scouting,
helping over 140 young people develop
skills in the technical areas of theatre
production. Ben also volunteers his time
at the Drop In Centre in Burgundy Street,
Heidelberg, helping the socially isolated
and those living with a disability.
“Nothing is too much trouble or
mundane for Ben to be willing to
assist and his attention to detail is
greatly appreciated.”
16
At only 16 years of age, Emelia has
already volunteered an extraordinary
amount of her free time to help others.
She is an accomplished athlete who uses
her sporting talents to raise money doing
charity fun runs, such as for the Cerebral
Palsy Education Centre and Cancer
Council Victoria. Emelia also volunteers
weekly at the Austin Health Repatriation
Hospital delivering newspapers to
patients, and has played violin in the
Vietnam Veteran’s Day service for the
Red Shield Appeal. She has spent many
hours knitting and sewing blankets
for remote Aboriginal communities
and women’s refuges, and will be
volunteering in the Grampians National
Park to help with replanting and cleaning
up projects.
“Emelia dedicates herself on a regular
basis to helping others.”
|
Young Volunteer Nominations
Young Volunteer
Award Nominations
Sonni
Ford, 24
James
Sherwin, 20
Heidelberg West
Watsonia
Sonni in partnership with friend Nathan
Williams (page 20) created a community
basketball club called Hoop Dreams for
young people in Heidelberg West. The
group started as they felt local young
people didn’t have many opportunities
to play sport and even if the clubs
existed many of them couldn’t afford to
participate. Hoop Dreams now runs every
Friday night at Olympic Leisure Centre.
It has helped instil young people with
community pride and brought smiles
to the faces of many. Sonni is a source
of encouragement for locals and has
brought many different cultures together.
He has become a role model and mentor
for local kids, helping them shoot hoops
as well as inspiring them to aim high
in life.
“Their passion for their home town,
their sport and, most importantly,
their peers is to be admired.”
|
James has been a participant of the
Banyule Youth Services Street Art
program for several years. Throughout
this time he has been faced with
significant adversity in his life, in which
he has shown great strength and courage
in overcoming challenges and moving
forward. Because of this, James has
developed a keen interest in assisting
young people to practise their love of
graffiti and street art in a legal, positive
manner. In order to do this, James has
volunteered himself as a mentor for the
Watsonia Graffiti Project Workshops
being run by Banyule Youth Services.
James has shared his experiences and
his art to benefit other young people
and the community.
“For James, volunteering has been
about giving back to his community...
James’ ability to connect through
volunteering despite challenges he has
faced, encompasses greatly what is
ideal in a volunteer.”
17
Young Volunteer
Award Nominations
18
Nathan
Williams, 24
Amelia
Willis, 22
Heidelberg West
Eaglemont
Almost a year ago, Nathan teamed
up with friend Sonni Ford (page 19) to
create a community basketball club
called Hoop Dreams for young people
in Heidelberg West. Both Nathan and
Sonni found sanctuary in basketball when
they were younger which they attribute
to getting them through tough times.
Having basketball in his life motivated
Nathan to overcome health issues and
move forward with his life. Hoop Dreams
has become an outlet for youth in the
area and has helped create a sense of
neighbourhood pride and belonging.
Through his positive influence on and off
the court, Nathan is scoring points for the
community at large.
Amelia has been supporting Banyule
Council’s Arts and Culture team since
February 2012. Volunteering a day a week
as the Art Curator’s Assistant she has
been pivotal to many of the successful
events and programs run by Council. Her
work includes managing the volunteer
gallery-sitters at Hatch Contemporary
Arts Space, producing high-quality
educational resource kits to accompany
exhibitions for school visits to Hatch, as
well as a range of administrative tasks
and coordinating mini-exhibitions. She
has also volunteered for the Australian
Youth Climate Coalition and the Oaktree
Foundation, working on a variety of
campaigns raising funds and awareness.
“Many of the boys involved look up
to them as mentors and role models,
which is a role they do not disappoint
in, frequently helping out younger
participants in different areas of
their lives.”
“Amelia is an incredibly committed
individual. Her contribution to the
arts in Banyule on an ongoing basis
is inspiring.”
|
Young Volunteer
Award Nominations
Luci
Zhao, 19
Doncaster East
As a founding member of the Banyule
Youth Participation Network, Luci
represented her peers and was
instrumental in advising Council on its
Youth Strategic Plan and in forming
projects to address need. She has helped
raise money for Beyond Water, a clean
water project in Africa, and the Oaktree
Foundation which addresses global
poverty. She gave up her mid-year
holidays to attend a week long Youth
Parliament where she proposed a bill in
Parliament House. Luci has also been
a key member of the YMCA’s Y Lead
program, and has helped serve meals
at St George’s lunch program. She
donates an average of 20 hours of her
week to volunteering.
“Luci feels deeply about issues of
social justice and puts those feelings
into action through her various
involvements.”
Volunteering is the
ultimate exercise in
democracy. You vote
in elections once a
year, but when you
volunteer, you vote
every day about the
kind of community
you want to live in.
– Author unknown
|
19
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
Award Nominations
20
Lowanna
Wickham
Zoe
Upton
Heidelberg West
Heidelberg West
Lowanna has provided a space for young
Aboriginal children to gather after school
and learn Indigenous dance and music.
Despite having a young family of her
own, Lowanna has offered her time and
expertise freely, organised traditional
clothes and ferried the children to
and from performances. Lowanna’s
volunteering experience dates back to
2008, performing at local schools and in
East Gippsland. In 2010, she volunteered
for six months for the Aboriginal
Advancement League, rehearsing and
performing with children who were
getting into trouble after school.
Zoe has volunteered her time in various
roles over the last few years. Her work
for the National Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander Women’s Alliance presents
a voice at a national level on issues for
Aboriginal women locally in Banyule and
wider Melbourne. As a Case Manager
at Connecting Home Limited she often
donates her time outside work hours to
provide practical support for community
members as well as giving emotional
support. Her efforts as a volunteer for the
Koorie Night Markets helped empower
artists to sell their art, and reflect on their
healing and storytelling.
“Lowanna has seen a need in
the community and offered her
considerable talents as a dancer and
teacher to ensure Aboriginal children
are able to attend an after school
activity that is culturally relevant…she
has engaged not only the children but
their parents and carers as well.”
“Zoe is a compassionate person who
never asks for recognition or support
herself...”
|
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Volunteer Nominations
Community Group
Award Nominations
1st Lower
Plenty Cubs
Amateur
Repertory
Company
Courtesy of Lisa Law Photography
The Cubs group encourages boys and
girls within the age of 8-10 to grow and
build confidence through organised
activities and camps. The community
group meets weekly and is organised
and run by people who volunteer their
time to offer activities that children may
not get to experience otherwise, like
that of camping and sailing. The club
has recently tripled in numbers and is a
credit to the volunteers who put in time
organising and running these activities.
“The Cub group relies on adult
volunteers as leaders to organise
and run every aspect of the group.
Without volunteers the group would
not be able to run and remain strong.”
Amateur Repertory Company (ARC) is a
not-for-profit association that involves
young people in all aspects of theatre
performance and production. Over 10
years, hundreds of young people have
gained experience while thousands of
patrons have enjoyed their performances.
A group of eight core volunteers
comprise the committee of management
that run every aspect of the organisation,
from fundraising to producing all major
performances and events. ARC has
participated in community events, such
as the ArtyFarty Festival, and has forged
relationships with local organisations
that benefit the community, such as
the Olivia Newton John Cancer and
Wellness Centre.
“ARC exists entirely through the
talents and dedication of its young
volunteers, and allows Banyule youth
a rare opportunity to be involved in
all forms of theatre performance and
production after leaving high school.”
|
Community Group Nominations
21
Community Group
Award Nominations
Australian
Breastfeeding
Association
Plenty Valley
Region
Over 40 volunteers make up this group
that supports the local community
in so many ways. During 2013, all 14
breastfeeding counsellors were active
on the national Helpline, taking 2,207
calls between them. The national
highest call taker is part of this team and
individually took 1,208 calls. They also
supported over 100 families through
their breastfeeding education classes.
The group is a significant contributing
factor in breastfeeding outcomes in
Banyule, which are higher than state and
national averages, and has increased
visits to maternity hospitals that service
the Banyule region. They provide feed
and change facilities at events, make
information readily available to the
public, and offer support to other allied
health services.
“Plenty Valley Region of the
Australian Breastfeeding Association
is a large and very active group
of amazing women who go above
and beyond to help support and
encourage mothers in their local
community.”
22
Banyule
L2P Learner
Driver Mentor
Program
The Banyule L2P Learner Driver Mentor
Program began in October 2010 and
has consistently been one of the most
high-achieving programs in Victoria. The
program targets learner drivers aged
16-20 years of age living in Banyule,
who have their learner’s permit but who
are finding it difficult to get sufficient
driving experience. So far, volunteers
have contributed over 1,600 hours of
supervised driving for 152 learner drivers,
93 of whom have been guided all the way
to obtaining their probationary licence.
The Banyule L2P Program has received
positive feedback from graduating
learners and their families who are
grateful for the support they have
received from the volunteer mentors.
“I cannot speak highly enough of the
calibre of individual mentors …(they)
regularly go above and beyond to
support this program and improve the
education, training and employment
outcomes for local, disadvantaged
young people.”
|
Community Group
Award Nominations
Broadband
for Seniors
Broadband for Seniors gives older
people and those living with a disability
in Banyule free access to computers
and the internet. Volunteers provide
free tuition and support for those
wanting to become computer literate.
They gently guide attendees through
the basics and teach them how to use
different programs, surf the internet and
help them acquire general computer
skills. The volunteers’ appreciation
of their students comes through in
the individually tailored tutoring and
sensitivity to walk through things at a
gentle pace. Apart from donating their
time and knowledge, the volunteers
provide a real community hub where
friendships flourish.
“The volunteers in this program have
provided confidence for those using or
wanting to use a computer. They have
patience, provide encouragement and
are delighted in seeing the success...”
|
Chinese
Medicine
Confucius
Institute
RMIT
The Chinese Medicine Confucius Institute
(CMCI) aims to promote and educate
community groups about Chinese
culture. It is made up of a group of
dedicated, talented and enthusiastic
volunteers who go out of their way to
light up the lives of others. Almost once
a month, they attend Banyule’s Adult
Day Centres (Social Support) in Ivanhoe
and Bundoora, providing engaging
demonstrations in all manners of Chinese
culture. The program offered by the CMCI
was initially Tai Chi, but as a result of its
popularity with the elderly citizens, this
has expanded to include Chinese cooking,
traditional crafts, art and music.
“The activities have provided a
valuable insight into aspects of
Chinese culture that would otherwise
not be accessible to our clients.”
23
Community Group
Award Nominations
Diamond
Valley
Photographic
Society
The society (DVPS) has been involved
in numerous community based projects
focusing on people with disabilities. In
the lead up to Christmas last year, they
worked in partnership with Banyule,
Nillumbik and Whittlesea councils
to provide a unique and ‘Sensitive
Santa’ experience for children on the
autism spectrum and their families.
Photographers undertook autism
awareness training with enthusiasm
and genuine interest, then volunteered
their time for three full-day sessions.
Capturing over 1,000 incredible Sensitive
Santa photographs as they engaged with
115 participants, including 39 children on
the autism spectrum, DVPS helped bring
Christmas early.
“The professionalism, talent and
sensitivity of the volunteer
photographers and the technical
support from DVPS cannot be
overstated…without the support of
DVPS the Sensitive Santa project
would not have been the success
it was.”
24
Friends of the
Yarra Valley
Parks
This group’s primary aim is to involve
the wider community in conservation
issues and activities within Yarra Valley
Parklands. Its continued involvement in
revitalising Lower Plenty’s Murundaka
wetlands has resulted in many water
birds being attracted to the area. One
of their current goals is to help restore
the environmental and natural history
values of the Murundaka property.
Tackling rabbit infestation, planting River
Red Gums, clearing invasive species
and planting appropriate indigenous
vegetation are just some of the projects
this volunteer environmental group has
taken on.
“We believe that the Yarra Valley
Parklands has the potential to
become one of the great urban
conservation parks.”
|
Community Group
Award Nominations
Montmorency
Community
Group
With over 500 passionate members,
this inspired community collective takes
on the environmental stewardship of
Montmorency and the planet at large.
Volunteers are engaged in a range
of activities and events focusing on
biodiversity, energy, permaculture, food
and transport. Current projects include
Pecks Dam, home energy assessment
services, monitoring Montmorency’s
sugar glider population and producing
a local gardeners’ almanac. From
monthly food swaps to carbon neutral
bush dances, they are constantly raising
sustainability awareness, building
community connection and improving
the cultural and environmental landscape
in and around ‘Monty’.
“The Montmorency Community
Group operates as a catalyst to bring
together residents and locally-based
groups that share a common goal
of building a stronger, more resilient
local community.”
|
Residents
Group 3081
Established in 2008, Residents Group
(RG 3081) is a volunteer residents group
that provides support and advocacy for
residents in Heidelberg West mainly
around housing issues. People who are
homeless are given help to enter ‘the
housing system’ by referring them to
the appropriate services. They help
public housing residents get repairs
done to homes by negotiating with
the DHS maintenance call centre and
assist them with rental rebate forms. RG
3081 offers advice and assistance with
health or legal needs. By educating the
community about their rights and how
to act on them, the group has helped
bring successful outcomes through
their advocacy and work with numerous
community groups and government
agencies.
“Resident Group 3081 believes that
by joining together on common
issues, the community has a greater
chance of being heard and making
a difference.”
25
Community Group
Award Nominations
Soroptimist
International
of Deakin
Truth 4
Youth
Soroptimist International of Deakin is a
club for women dedicated to supporting
people, particularly women and girls
where there is a need locally and
overseas. For over 50 years, its volunteers
have raised funds and provided support
to various local organisations. They have
donated food hampers for the Children’s
Protection Society, and toilet bags
and toiletries for women’s refuges and
children attending the Banyule Council
summer camps, as well as sponsor a child
to attend the camps. Soroptimist has
also given their support to Council’s
Toys for Tots program, New Mothers’
packs, Open House and Berry Street
Children’s program.
“We love what we do as volunteers
helping in overseas projects and
within the city of Banyule. Great
friendships form as we go about our
task of caring.”
26
Truth 4 Youth is a website that gives
young people a voice and offers an
insight into youth culture. A dozen young
volunteers have formed an editorial
committee, generating stories across
a broad range of topics that not only
inform but generate lively discussion
amongst their peers. Their site has had
almost 20,000 views since it started 18
months ago, and its Facebook following
is steadily growing. Outside cyberspace,
the group has produced three print
magazines, commenced a regular feature
in the Ivanhoe & Valley Weekly Review
and volunteered its time at community
events. Truth 4 Youth are constantly
evolving to reach a wider audience and
further engage with Banyule youth.
“They are providing a unique service
for their peers. Their sensitively
written, well-researched articles
provide insight, new perspectives, links
to community and the opportunity
for robust discussion on a range
of issues.”
|
Community Group
Award Nominations
Watsonia
Neighbourhood
House
Yarra Valley
U3A
Volunteers form the heart and soul, as
well as make up most of the body of
Watsonia Neighbourhood House. Over
20 volunteers call it home, and without
them, the learning centre simply would
not function. They contribute to almost
every aspect of the House’s operation
from administration to maintenance,
fundraising to committee membership.
Work for the Dole participants help
maintain the community garden, whose
plants and vegetables are sold to raise
money. Funded for 30 hours a week, the
House extends it hours to approximately
55 with the help of volunteers that
include retirees, the unemployed and
students on placement.
Yarra Valley U3A acts as a self-help body
of volunteers interested in community
education. Since 1986, it has been
serving the community of Banyule and
surrounding suburbs. The organisation
is built on a ‘culture of volunteering’ and
has grown from 59 to the present number
of 470, making it the largest seniors’
group in Banyule. The U3A movement
has a significant place in contributing to
society’s health and wellbeing for people
aged 50 years and over. Volunteers
strengthen the local community and
help to build social inclusion through
community participation in lifelong
learning. They provide opportunities and
open new horizons for members.
“Watsonia Neighbourhood House
could not operate or survive without
the constant help and support of our
many volunteers. They are what keep
us active, successful and viable in
the community.”
“Our volunteers share a common
interest in lifelong learning and
a desire to contribute to this
commitment through a sharing of
skills and knowledge.”
|
27
Good Neighbour
Award Nominations
Kirk Fisher
and Sharon
McManus
Carol
Kovacic
St Helena
Heidelberg Heights
Sharon and Kirk are described as the
always welcoming and always smiling
neighbours that go out of their way
wherever possible to assist others. The
couple moved into the area in 2000
and have been developing community
spirit since with weekly summer street
barbecues and cricket matches, and
advocating for open communal spaces
for the community. Sharon and Kirk also
played a very caring and nurturing role
when one of their neighbours needed it
most, offering support to her at home
during her battle with cancer.
“They believe community is built
by reaching out and greeting and
connecting with everyone in their
immediate neighbourhood. They are
always willing to lend a hand...”
28
Carol is a thoughtful, considerate
neighbour who maintains contact with
her elderly neighbours to assist them and
offer peace of mind. For over 10 years,
she has fostered a supportive relationship
and undertaken many services for
them. When they go away, she makes
sure their mail and bins are collected
as well as maintains their garden. But
perhaps it’s Carol’s inclusive attitude
that exhibits the art of neighbourly love
at its best. By inviting her neighbours
to family celebrations and encouraging
her two young sons to interact with
them, they get to experience a ‘Claytons’
grandparents’ role while her boys learn
about community spirit and the value
of neighbours.
“(Carol) helps to encourage our
concept of community and highlights
the way in which one person can
help to ensure that neighbours and
communities are more than statistics.”
|
Good Neighbour Nominations
Good Neighbour
Award Nominations
Geoff
Smith
Heidelberg West
Geoff volunteers his time across
two areas at Banyule Community
Health Service, one as a consumer
representative giving voice to local
people, and as a volunteer coordinator
of a local Men’s Luncheon for
disadvantaged and isolated males. He
acts as an informal ambassador in the
local public housing estate, offering
advice and advocacy for local residents,
and liaising with the health service or
Austin Hospital to help get appropriate
care. Geoff frequently dips into his own
pocket to assist a neighbour short
of something.
“Geoff is a point of contact for local
neighbours, often linking them in
with services or following up material
needs... (he provides) informal support
in the neighbourhood that makes
the difference.”
The smallest act
of kindness is
worth more than
the grandest
intention.
– Oscar Wilde
|
Good Neighbour Nominations
29
Banyule Citizen
of the Year Award
Barbara
Brook
Alan
Cook
Ivanhoe East
Heidelberg West
Barb Brook really cares for her
community, as shown by a succession
of outstanding contributions over many
years to numerous organisations. For
most of her life she has been an active
volunteer at Heidelberg East Ivanhoe
Uniting Church, giving her time and
compassion to many, including those
living with a disability or mental illness.
Since the late 1990s, Scouts Australia
has benefited from Barb’s commitment
to contribute in any way she can. For her
outstanding contribution over 20 years to
science education, the Science Teachers’
Association of Victoria bestowed Barb
a Fellowship Award in 2013. Over the
years, she has also contributed her
time to Guide Dogs of Australia, local
sporting clubs and countless community
committees.
“She is an exceptional role model for
all of us…Banyule would be a much
poorer community without Barb and
her family.”
30
Alan has devoted much of his life to his
local community with utmost humility,
consistency and dedication. Described
as the quintessential diplomat, he has
always impressed with his ability to
represent the community with carefully
thought out and balanced views. For
over 20 years, he has been a committee
member across innumerable Banyule
organisations, often serving concurrently.
Whether donating his time for the
Heidelberg Public Tenants Association
or Combined Pensioners Association,
or promoting Neighbourhood Renewal
or working on the Olympia Housing
Initiative, Alan has advocated for the
needs and aspirations of his community
with relentless energy and all of his heart.
“Alan has played a key role in
the success of local and national
programs in Banyule. He has become
a much loved and highly recognised
and respected member of the
community.”
|
Banyule Citizen of the Year Award
Banyule Citizen
of the Year Award
Brian
Moran
Brother
Harry
Prout
Ivanhoe
Heidelberg West
Brian has volunteered much of his time
supporting those in need locally and
around the world. Since 1979, he has
remained a volunteer with the Australian
Entertainment Agents Association.
A founding member for Community
Aid Abroad/Oxfam group, he has
donated more than 25 years helping
with fundraising initiatives, including
a vital role in the Christmas tree drive.
He spent nine years at Lifeline taking
calls and training other counsellors. His
rapid response to natural disasters has
helped many. Brian helped organise a
‘Blessings for Burma’ concert for World
Vision in 2008. He also came to the aid
of people needing goods and services
after the 2008 Victorian bush fires, the
2010 Queensland floods and the 2011
Christchurch earthquake.
“Brian’s contribution to the Banyule
community over the last 35 years has
been extraordinary… bringing about
positive change locally and in the
larger world in which we live.”
|
Brother Harry has provided long and
distinguished service to the community,
which is unanimous in its praise of
him. Since 2001, he has helped the
disadvantaged through his work with
the Olympic Village Exodus Community.
Whether he is supporting struggling
families, establishing youth initiatives or
advocating on behalf of the community,
Brother Harry is committed to those
in need and makes himself available
around the clock. The most vulnerable
in our community can rely on him for
practical and emotional support, from
driving people to hospital to sorting out
unpaid bills or life issues. He consistently,
selflessly and tirelessly gives service to
the community above and beyond what
is expected.
“Community members have described
him as genuine, loving and accepting
of all…Harry has been transformative
in the lives of many, all the while
keeping a low profile, never seeking
personal glory.”
31
Banyule Citizen
of the Year Award
Ted Smart
Eaglemont
Ted’s innovative graffiti removal
products have helped clean up graffiti
around Banyule and across the globe.
Locally, he has volunteered his time to
community-led projects to empower
traders, residents and schools beat
graffiti at a grass-roots level. He has
also collaborated with the Department
of Justice to train community correction
crews to manage graffiti removal
effectively. Conscious of his company’s
environmental footprint, Ted has
produced water-harvesting catchments
in a number of locations in Banyule to
source water resources for high-pressure
graffiti removal and cleaning. Ted’s
team also ensures correct disposal and
recycling in a ‘no waste’ chain.
“Thanks to Ted, the battle on graffiti is
one step closer to victory.”
32
Never doubt that
a small group
of thoughtful,
committed citizens
can change the
world. Indeed,
it is the only thing
that ever has.
– Margaret Mead
|
Last year’s
Banyule Volunteer Awards
The Banyule Volunteer Awards graphic represents volunteers as the
backbone of our community who, individually and collectively, are
‘growing a better community’. The tree’s roots symbolise foundation
and the roots of the community, with the tree itself a symbol of
enduring strength and support. The leaves are hands, as volunteers
are always willing to lend a hand. The multiple colours of the design
reflect diversity, not only of volunteers but the many areas of
community life that they are involved in.
www.banyule.vic.gov.au

The highest of distinctions is service to others.

Transcription

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