Queensland volunteers recognised for making a world of difference

Some of Queensland’s hardest working volunteers have been recognised at an awards ceremony in Brisbane as part of National Volunteer Week.

249 volunteers and volunteer organisations from across Queensland were nominated across six categories for the Queensland Volunteering Awards.

Minister for Communities Coralee O’Rourke congratulated the winning volunteers and volunteer-involving organisations, paying tribute to the hard work and contribution of all of Queensland’s more than 700,000 volunteers.

“Queensland volunteers are very fitting of the theme of National Volunteer Week - Making a world of difference,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“Our hardworking volunteers are making a world of difference in Queensland’s thriving communities.

“While today is about celebrating the recipients and nominees of the Queensland Volunteering Awards, it’s also an opportunity for us to celebrate the contribution of all Queenslanders who volunteer in their communities.”

The Palaszczuk Government proudly provided sponsorship to Volunteering Queensland to celebrate the 30^th anniversary of National Volunteer Week.

“We are proud to provide support to Volunteering Queensland as part of this important week of recognition for volunteers,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“39 diverse volunteer-involving organisations from across the state shared grants to host local events and activities during the week.

“In addition to sponsoring National Volunteer Week, the Palaszczuk Government also provides Volunteering Queensland with funding of more than $2 million over five years from January 2017 – including more than $450,000 in 2018-19 – to provide support and services to Queensland volunteers and volunteer-involving organisations across the state.”

Volunteering Queensland CEO Mara Basanovic said she was proud to once again present the Queensland Volunteering Awards.

“Our dedicated volunteers are the heart of our communities, providing essential services and creating incalculable positive impact,” she said.

“We congratulate all Award recipients and nominees – you are all superheroes.

“This year we have also been very excited to present the inaugural National Volunteer Week Small Grants Initiative, receiving 191 applications from volunteer organisations across the state.

“Volunteering Queensland thanks and pays tribute to the outstanding contribution of all volunteers and volunteer organisations. Together you truly make a world of difference.”

Mrs O’Rourke said supporting National Volunteer Week was another example of the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to creating thriving communities.

“Volunteers are essential to creating thriving communities,” she said.

“Through volunteering, all Queenslanders have the opportunity to actively participate in their communities, strengthen their resilience and enjoy social and economic wellbeing.”

Find out more about volunteering in Queensland, including the recipients of the 2019 Queensland Volunteering Awards, at https://volunteeringqld.org.au

ENDS

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