Volunteers Wanted, Needed & Appreciated

Tablelands Regional Council is taking the opportunity this National Volunteer Week (19–25 May) to highlight the important role volunteers play in our community.
‘Volunteers are the backbone of any community, offering their time and skills selflessly to support a range of organisations, causes and initiatives,’ said Mayor Rod Marti.

‘Their tireless efforts in sporting clubs, community groups, committees, support services and other places in the community ensures our region thrives.

‘Our TRC volunteers are key to the success of our information centres, galleries, museum, community nursery and disaster management groups.

‘Volunteering is a great opportunity to meet new and like-minded people and to support your community.

‘Our volunteers enjoy their roles and have fun contributing to the community.

‘You don’t need any particular skills — we’ll provide training and ongoing support.

‘We’re especially keen for more volunteers at our Ravenshoe Visitor Centre.

‘Find out more about volunteering with TRC by stopping in at an information centre, gallery, museum, nursery or a customer service centre.

‘Our friendly staff and volunteers are happy to provide further details and insight into the range of opportunities.

‘You can also find out more and register to volunteer at trc.qld.gov.au/volunteer,’ said Mayor Marti.

Lorraine van Raders has been a volunteer with the Malanda and Surrounds Community Disaster Team since it was established after Cyclone Yasi in 2011.

‘Even before the community disaster teams were formally established, I was involved in a more informal response to Cyclone Larry in 2006,’ Lorraine said.

‘I am also part of the Emergency Services and have been dedicated to this kind of work for over 25 years, driven by the belief that strong communities recover faster.

‘Helping people through their toughest moments brings additional purpose to my life and working alongside others who are just as committed to our community’s safety and resilience is incredibly rewarding.

‘Our team, with the structure and support of the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG), helps us bounce back faster after disasters.

‘Having representatives from all parts of our community means we can quickly understand what’s happening, identify what’s needed, and get that information back to the LDMG.

‘Volunteering makes me feel like an essential part of my community.

‘It’s incredibly satisfying to know that I’m contributing to making our town stronger and more resilient.

‘I’ve built connections with so many people, and I’m able to put a lifetime of skills to good use when it matters most,’ said Lorraine.