Frankston City’s heroes celebrated at Impact Volunteer Awards
Published on 21 November 2023
Frankston City’s humble and dedicated heroes have been celebrated at the 2023 Impact Volunteer Awards.
Mayor Nathan Conroy, Cr Sue Baker and Council Director Communities Angela Hughes joined special guests to honour our volunteers.
Mayor Conroy said our volunteers are the heart and soul of Frankston City, adding: “We are privileged to have over 16,800 volunteers in Frankston City, who contribute more than 46,000 hours of their time each and every year to our community.
“It’s a remarkable contribution that is equal to $1.3 million worth of donated time annually … a contribution that I and Council applaud, recognise and deeply appreciate. The inspirational people we’re recognising are dedicated to supporting others in need over a long period of time.”
The Leadership Award was won by Alastair Leaver, from Mum’s Supporting Families in Need. A passionate volunteer, Alastair was instrumental in reinvigorating and growing the organisation’s volunteer network – both during and following a period of volunteering turmoil due to COVID.
Alastair has improved volunteering numbers by about 60 per cent as well improved volunteer capacity by training volunteers in a wider variety of roles at the warehouse. During and since this time he has volunteered four days per week to ensure that the service is operating smoothly, effectively and is continuing to support the disadvantaged.
The Service to Community Award was won by Nancy Martin from Ebdale Community Hub.
Nancy has been volunteering for two days per week for over 10 years at Ebdale Community Hub. She volunteers in reception at Ebdale Community Hub and creates a welcoming place where people feel accepted, engaged and welcomed into the centre.
Throughout her time at the Hub, Nancy has supported many other volunteers to learn new skills, gain experience and build a sense of achievement – many gained the confidence to seek employment with Nancy’s encouragement.
The Youth Award was won by Zoe Tokalahi, from Frankston North Community Centre Playgroup. Zoe volunteers at Frankston North Community Centre with the playgroup on a Thursday. However, not content with that, Zoe also volunteers in other positions at the Frankston North Community Centre. She is building wonderful networks and connections with other participants and volunteers and has brought joy to the centre’s playgroup.
The Initiative Award was won by Jaqui O’Leary, from 3198 Seaford Beach Patrol.
Since becoming group manager in August 2018, Jaqui has run dozens of beach cleans, coordinating 1299 volunteers to remove 1,249 kilograms of waste, including 3052 cans and bottles, from our beaches. Jaqui's successful grant applications have secured $5,754 for 3198, enabling the purchase of new equipment and hosting the first-ever end-of-year social event for volunteers.
The Teamwork Award was won by the Frankston North Community Centre Cafe.
The Frankston North Community Centre Cafe Community Lunch volunteers offer their skills and time in a busy environment to provide a low-cost three course meal and barista coffee to residents and community centre participants on a Wednesday. As well as providing local residents with access to healthy food, the community lunch program offers an opportunity for people to meet others, feel connected and the sharing of information about centre programs and individual needs.
The Outstanding Volunteer Organisation Award, including a $1000 prize, was won by Mums Supporting Families in Need.
In the 2021/22 financial year, MSFIN supported over 4500 individuals to ensure that no child or family lives without essentials. This incredible free service provides families in crisis with essential aid, which includes nursery essentials, clothing, footwear, linen, toiletries and food. Since 2012, MSFIN has supported over 100,000 people.
Director Communities Angela Hughes said: “There are many groups and programs in the Frankston City community who rely on the time and skills of volunteers to do the vital work they do.
“From providing Meals on Wheels, to helping out with a local sporting club, and even in keeping our local beaches free from rubbish – we rely on the work of our volunteers to keep the City running.
“Congratulations and thanks to all the volunteer nominees, organisations and award winners. On behalf of an incredibly grateful Council and community, thank you to each and every volunteer who is making a positive impact in Frankston City!”
Ms Hughes also thanked the judging panel for the Volunteer Awards including Jackie Galloway OAM, Karin Hann and Shane Thomas.