MITCHELL SHIRE COUNCIL MITCHELL VOLUNTEERS!
Recognising and celebrating our inspirational volunteers. Contents.
Welcome 4 Irene Telford 46 Acknowledgements 5 Sean Kerris, Margot Green and Phillip McLean 48 Michelle Byrnes and Marg Ashford 6 Bill Hogan 50 Pam and Alex Priestly 8 Peter Welsh 52 Alan Vidal 10 Lions Club of Seymour Goulburn 54 Kilmore Men’s Shed 12 Carol Smith 56 Kilmore and District Hospital 14 Ted Gray 58 Marg Elliot 16 Ron Jessup 60 Wilma Hammond 18 Mick Sanderson 62 Vyvienne Whitehurst 20 Heather Dunn 64 Beverley 22 Alice and Jack Solomon 66 Ruth Hall 24 Jeff Wilmot 68 Gordon Hastie 26 Peter Oblak 70 Alan Cook and Norman Mason 28 Mitchell FReeZA/Volume Committee 72 Gregory Mallett 30 Mitchell Dog Walking Group 74 Snack Attack, Broadford CFA 32 Wandong Heathcote Junction Neighbourhood Watch and Community Group 76 Rotary Club of Southern Mitchell 34 Bernie Melvaine and Carolyn Atkinson 78 Audrey Flannery and Angelica Skora 36 Victoria State Emergency Service 80 Goulburn Park Wall Mural Painting Group 38 Judy Clark and Rob Eldridge 82 Seymour Quilt and Craft Fair 40 David James 84 Seymour Visitor Information Centre 42 More Information 86 Patricia Archer and Mary Steyne 44 Contacting Council 87
2 3 Welcome. Acknowledgement.
Mitchell Shire Council acknowledges These people are strengthening the Council would like to sincerely (Kilmore CWA); Danni George and and appreciates the vital role volunteers community in which we live, and thank and acknowledge the Mitchell Peter Heading (Nexus Primary play in contributing to the Mitchell contributing to a stronger, more External Volunteer Advisory Panel for health); Jason Hutson (SES/CFA); community. The volunteers of Mitchell resilient Mitchell Shire. their input, advice and dedication Jitka Jilich (Kilmore and District achieve so much each and every day - to developing and supporting Hospital); Lisa Linton (Rivers and This Mitchell Volunteers! booklet and it does not go unnoticed. volunteering in Mitchell Shire. Their Ranges); Mark Perrott (OKR FM); recognises and celebrates Mitchell’s contribution to the development of Jacqui Sims (MCRAG); Damion Toes Volunteers contribute to the amazing volunteers. We want to this booklet has been invaluable, and (Scouts Victoria); and David Waye incredible work of over 100 not-for- provide a snapshot of differing types of we appreciate the time and expertise (Pyalong Community Centre). profit organisations and community volunteers and volunteer roles within volunteered to this project. groups within Mitchell Shire. These Mitchell Shire. We hope that these Council would also like to sincerely include emergency services, sport incredible people will inspire others to The Advisory Panel members are thank and acknowledge photographer clubs, service clubs, education, follow in their footsteps, and volunteer people who live, work or volunteer Ashleigh Dunn from Ashleigh May health services, community services, their time doing something they are within Mitchell Shire, and include Photography, who volunteered her environment, animal welfare, places passionate about; we want to create a Margaret Canny (Getting There time to photograph and edit the of worship, childcare, tourism and culture of volunteering at Mitchell! Network); Pat Coffey (The Seymour photos appearing in this book. more; Mitchell volunteers are truly a We Want/U3A); Audrey Flannery Thank you! team of dedicated, diligent, resilient, (Youth Council); Pam Freemantle and incredible people! Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are warned that this Photography by: The Mitchell Shire community is booklet may contain images of leading the way in volunteering, deceased persons. with an impressive 21% of the population volunteering, as opposed to the Victorian average of 19%.
4 5 Michelle Byrnes and Marg Ashford.
Michelle and Marg contribute and the Wallan Neighbourhood substantially to improving the state of House as a committee member. She sport in Mitchell Shire, for all to enjoy. is currently the Stadium’s delegate and user group representative for the Michelle is currently the Treasurer of WDNA, and the Vice President, Score the R.B. Robson Stadium Committee Secretary, official scorer and Life in Wallan, and has been volunteering Member of the WDNA. with the Stadium Committee of Management since 2009. Prior to When asked about her volunteering, that, Michelle volunteered at her Marg says “I am there if I am needed. child’s kinder and primary school I like to keep things going for others. since 2004. Michelle enjoys seeing I do like to try and encourage people the improvements that they can to get involved. It’s something that bring to the stadium, which will needs to be in their blood. I’ve made benefit all users. a lot of good friends, and it’s a good social thing to do” – Marg. “It’s good to watch the stadium grow because of the changes and If you want to find out more, improvements we have done over or are interested in volunteering, the years. I enjoy seeing people enjoy please contact: what we have done, and see them R.B. Robson Stadium: using the stadium” – Michelle. www.robsonstadium.com.au or email: Marg has been volunteering in [email protected] Wallan for 30 years. Since this time, Wallan and District Netball Marg has been a volunteer with the Association: Wallan District Netball Association www.wallananddistrictnetball.org.au (WDNA), the R.B. Robson Stadium,
6 7 Pam and Alex Priestly.
Pam and Alex are married, and Alex volunteers because it “gives me certainly do enjoy every aspect of their an interest, along with like-minded lives together, including volunteering. people. It is easier to make new They are both valuable volunteers for friends, keeps me active and gives a number of groups in Mitchell Shire, satisfaction at being able to pass on and have been volunteering since they knowledge gained over my life”. He arrived to Mitchell Shire in 2000. They encourages people to “Give it a go. have been volunteer Foster Carers There are many spheres of opportunity for the Greyhound Adoption Program to explore, or if you have a special (GAP) for six years, and have fostered talent or experience, there will a forum 30 greyhounds to date; pictured are for you to display it” – Alex. their adopted greyhounds, Dylan and Pam said that she has “made an Jimmy. GAP is dedicated to finding awful lot of friends, I keep active and homes for greyhounds that are no get to do things. It keeps the mind longer suitable for racing, and foster going as well as the body. It is a good carers take dogs into their homes to way to meet new people” – Pam. help them with the transition from racing dog to pet. If you want to find out more, or are interested in volunteering, Pam and Alex are both also volunteers please contact: with the University of the Third Age (U3A) Kilmore and District Inc., which Greyhound Adoption Program: is a self-help learning group for www.gap.grv.org.au, semi-retired and retired people. Pam is phone: (03) 5799 0166 or currently a volunteer on the Committee email: [email protected] of Management, a membership U3A Kilmore and District Inc.: convenor and a lunch club convenor, email: [email protected] while Alex convenes a walking group and the recorder group. Finally, both Mitchell Shire Concert Band: Pam and Alex are involved with the www.mitchellshireconcertband. Mitchell Shire Concert Band, and org.au or email: secretary@ volunteer their time assisting with the mitchellshireconcertband.org.au band concerts. 8 9 Alan Vidal.
Alan is a valuable member of the “If you’ve got the time, do it. You don’t Wallan community, and volunteers have to be an expert, you just have to his time to the Greenhill Reserve put your hand up and give it a go in Committee of Management, and what you want to get involved with”. Wallan Football Netball Club, If you want to find out more, having begun with the club in or are interested in volunteering, 1967. Alan manages all activities please contact: for the ground and surrounds, is the ground liaison with Council, and Wallan Football Netball Club: organises contractors for the facility www.wallanmagpies.com.au when required. Alan maintains the Greenhill Reserve Committee grounds, and cleans up rubbish of Management: around the Reserve, to ensure that Mitchell Shire Council on the community can all enjoy a well- (03) 5734 6200. maintained and clean space. Alan said he has been lucky in life, so likes to contribute back to the community. Alan gets satisfaction out of getting things done, and sees the importance in preserving things for the next generation. When asked what he would say to others to encourage them to volunteer, Alan replied:
10 11 Kilmore Men’s Shed.
The Kilmore Men’s Shed is a would like to know more about the community-based, not-for-profit Men’s Shed in your area, or would like group that is accessible to all men, to join, email: regardless of age. Their primary Kilmore: activity is the provision of a safe and [email protected] friendly environment where men are able to work on meaningful projects Broadford: at their own pace, in their own time, [email protected] in the company of other men. A major Seymour: objective is to advance the well-being [email protected] and health of their male members. Puckapunyal: puckapunyaldncentre@ The Kilmore Men’s Shed raise funds gmail.com that are put back into the community and Men’s Shed programs. They Pictured are committee members of provide a safe alcohol and drug free the Kilmore Men’s Shed. environment, which encourages regular social interaction. The Men’s Shed discuss men’s health issues, promote mateship and support, and encourage intergenerational bonding through partnering with local schools. There are four Men’s Sheds in Mitchell Shire: Kilmore, Broadford, Seymour and Puckapunyal. If you
12 13 Kilmore and District Hospital.
Volunteering at the Kilmore and selling clothes and other items for the enjoying table games, music, dance, is a gradually expanding area of District Hospital is extremely diverse op shop three days per week. community access activities; cooking volunteering at the hospital. across the each setting including: and sharing meals; hand and nail Volunteers offer support in the If you are interested in volunteering aged care facilities; the hospital care; hand massage; special events, lifestyle and wellbeing program in with the Kilmore and District Hospital: auxiliary; and in the Hospital and so much more. aged care which predominantly visit www.kilmoredistricthospital.org. opportunity shop. involves socially connecting Volunteering in the hospital au/volunteers or email Volunteers are involved in fundraising with older people from our local commenced in May 2015 and this [email protected] through raffles, cake stalls, fashion community requiring residential involves volunteers providing social Pictured are volunteers from across parades, manning a monthly stall at care. This can be as simple as contact and support to patients all hospital and aged care settings. the Wallan Market; running an annual enjoying a simple conversation, whilst also assisting with some community fair; and sorting and reading a newspaper together, background support to staff. This
14 15 Marg Elliot.
Marg moved to Kilmore in 1989, When asked what she liked best about and since joining the Kilmore volunteering, Marg replied: Tennis Club committee in 1990, “The thought of being able to help she has been heavily involved in people. I love tennis and love seeing the growth and continued success people enjoy tennis. It is something of the club. In addition to serving we can do as a family and I get a big as Secretary for a number of years, buzz out of it!” she was club President for 9 years and continues to remain an active If you want to find out more, committee member. Marg is also or are interested in volunteering, a representative on the JJ Clancy please contact: Reserve Committee of Management, Kilmore Tennis Club: and held the position of Secretary www.tennis.com.au/kilmoretcinc or and President for many years. email [email protected] Marg said she has always been a JJ Clancy Reserve Committee volunteer, and since moving to Kilmore of Management: to live, decided to just come along Mitchell Shire Council on to the Tennis Club and join; she had (03) 5734 6200 never played tennis in her life! She has always been the sort of person who likes helping people, and believes it is because of the good influence from her mum, who was also an avid volunteer in the community.
16 17 Wilma Hammond.
Wilma has been an extensive and while her children were at school, valuable volunteer in Mitchell Shire, with school reading, school canteen and contributes substantially to the and school sports. community. She was a foundation Wilma believes that it makes her member since the re-construction feel part of the community and of the Kilmore Mechanics and Free volunteering helps her to become Library Inc. in 1994, is a member of rooted within the community. She the Kilmore and District Residents said volunteering benefits go both and Ratepayers Association, and ways; she is helping the community, a volunteer with Kilmore OKR FM, but she is also learning about the the Kilmore Tennis Club where environment, and it supplements her she organises the Monday Ladies own knowledge. Competition, the Kilmore Show, and organises a Choir with the Hall, and “You will always learn something about a Children’s Drama Group. Wilma where you live and who you work with. is also a volunteer with the Save It is very rewarding” – Wilma. Monument Hill Group, and regularly If you want to find out more, organises educational and factual or are interested in volunteering, night walks on Monument Hill for please contact: the community. Kilmore Mechanics and Wilma said that having children Free Library Inc.: made her realise that she had to put www.theruralstore.com.au time into the community, and her volunteering started out because of her kids. She has always volunteered
18 19 Vyvienne Whitehurst.
Vyv is a passionate and valued things. Give the best you can, while member of the community, and has you can” - Vyvienne. been the Secretary and Treasurer The Kilmore Agricultural and Pastoral at the Kilmore Agricultural and Society welcomes new members, Pastoral Society Inc. since 1999. Vyv whether your interests are in horses, played an integral role in bringing dogs, art, photography, home craft or the group back from almost folding, entertainment there is something for to now being a thriving community everyone to get involved in and make organisation. Vyv contributes to the the Kilmore Agricultural Show a true planning and delivery of the Kilmore community celebration. Show, which has been operating since 1856; it is an important and If you want to find out more, exciting event on our community or are interested in volunteering, event’s calendar. please contact: Prior to moving to Mitchell Shire, Vyv Kilmore Show: volunteered as a Scout Leader in [email protected] or visit Greensborough, and is a life member www.kilmoreshow.org.au of Diamond Valley. She said she has always been a volunteer and likes to give back to the community. When asked why she volunteers, Vyv replied: “To help the community. If nobody helps, it goes backwards. All the little things add up; just need to give little
20 21 Beverley.
Beverley has spent the last six years weekly food hampers for people on as the head of a group of volunteers a low income, unemployed, under at Freedom Care. Beverley has been employed, a pensioner or have involved with Freedom Care since it experienced a circumstance that is began, and assisted in setting it up, making it difficult to make ends meet; supported by a dedicated team of operating the Second Chance Op volunteers; Beverley certainly is an Shop; delivering the Feed our Kids inspirational and valued member of program, and so much more. our community. If you want to find out more, When asked about her volunteering, or are interested in volunteering, Beverley replied: please contact: “I enjoy it, it’s quite rewarding. As Freedom Care Inc.: long as you are capable, there’s all www.freedomcare.com.au or email different types of work to do; it is [email protected] definitely worthwhile”. Freedom Care begun as an immediate response of love and care to the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires. The ongoing drive and passion from all the volunteers involved, has been truly inspiring, and has contributed to making the community grow and flourish. Freedom Care supports the community in so many ways, through
22 23 Ruth Hall.
Ruth is a great asset to our community, available for anyone to do; all people and has been volunteering within have skills to do something. Don’t do Mitchell Shire for almost 50 years. it for accolades, do it because you She is currently the treasurer for the love it”. Eastern Hill Cricket Club; is a volunteer If you want to find out more, with the Seymour Visitor Information or are interested in volunteering, Centre; a volunteer with the Lion’s please contact: Club of Seymour Goulburn; and is a volunteer with Nexus Primary Health, Nexus Primary Health: delivering meals to the community phone: 1300 77 33 52, through the Meals on Wheels program. email: [email protected] Previously, Ruth has been a volunteer or visit: www.nexusprimaryhealth.org.au with her local kinder committee, Little Athletics and Seymour Girl Guides as a leader. Ruth attributed her volunteering to her parents, and believes that if your parents are community minded and volunteer, then their children should follow in their footsteps. Ruth believes that volunteering will help to leave the town in a better way that what it is. “Don’t stand back; put your hand up and do it. There is always something
24 25 Gordon Hastie.
Since moving to Mitchell Shire 20 The Mitchell Shire Suicide Prevention years ago, Gordon has been an Network exists to help people inspirational community member, recognise in others, the needs volunteering his time for many local they have, and to talk to them so community groups. Gordon is the they may be referred to the correct past President of the RSL, is the club places. It comprises volunteers Administrator for the Rotary Club with different backgrounds, from of Southern Mitchell, is involved in multiple community and service the Australian Rotary Health Project groups, including Rotary, Lions and on post-traumatic stress disorder in community house. The network returned soldiers, is a member of promotes the work of organisations the Mitchell Shire Suicide Prevention like Wesley Mission and Beyondblue Network, and is on the Board for to reach out to people in need. Nexus Primary Health. If you want to find out more, Gordon said it was time to put or are interested in volunteering, something back into the community. please contact: When asked about what he likes Rotary Club of Southern Mitchell: most about his volunteer involvement, [email protected] or Gordon replied: visit www.portal.clubrunner.ca/8920 “It’s very rewarding; it’s a great pleasure. The fellowship, meeting with other volunteers and working with others in the community is what makes it great” – Gordon.
26 27 Alan Cook and Norman Mason.
Alan and Norman have been long family members and the community. standing volunteers with the Broadford Norman also contributed to the Cemetery Trust, and both play a initiation and planting of the rose major role in ensuring the Broadford garden. When asked about his Cemetery is managed properly. volunteering, Norman replied: Alan has been a volunteer with the “You get praised – constant pat on Trust since 1991. He is a general the back for the work you do. Go committee member and caretaker ahead and do it; if you have your of the cemetery. Alan has played a heart and soul in it, go for it as it is major role in the restoration of grave great satisfaction” – Norman. sites and overall maintenance of the If you want to find out more, cemetery grounds. Alan says it is the or are interested in volunteering, opportunity to “be able to help the please contact: community, to help out in a little town where you can” that he likes most Broadford Cemetery Trust: about his volunteering. [email protected] Norman has been a volunteer with the Trust since 1989. He has been Chairperson since 1993 and throughout this time also undertook the roles of secretary and treasurer. Norman is responsible for overall cemetery management, grave allocation, ordering and installation of plaques, and the liaison with
28 29 Gregory Mallett.
Greg’s story is a little unique. Greg fundraising, brigade training, brigade has been a volunteer member for the equipment maintenance, media and CFA for 27 years. He was an active public relations, multicultural liaison, firefighter with extensive experience brigade administration and the junior prior to losing his vision due to members program. illness. Greg has since volunteered If you want to find out more, his time as a member of the District or are interested in volunteering, 12 Incident Management Team, please contact: where he is utilising his fire ground knowledge and making a valuable CFA Victoria: contribution taking on the important www.cfa.vic.gov.au/volunteer-careers, role as radio controller. phone: (03) 9262 8645 or email: [email protected] Greg said that the “comradery and giving back to the community” is what he enjoyed most about volunteering. CFA volunteers come from all walks of life, and volunteers play a key role in helping CFA to protect Victorian lives and property. Volunteering with CFA is not just about firefighting. All people with various skills are welcome. In addition to firefighting and emergency roles, many support roles exist, including community education,
30 31 Snack Attack, Broadford CFA.
The Broadford ‘Snack Attack’ is to deliver a small piece of a much a subdivision of the Broadford larger picture – enhancing our area’s Fire Brigade, and is utilised as an fire-fighting and emergency resilience Emergency Catering appliance capability. Without the Snack Attack designed to feed large quantities the Broadford Fire Brigade and of emergency service personnel surrounding brigades would suffer; meals in times of crisis. It is manned similarly, without the Broadford Fire by an all-volunteer staff consisting Brigade, the “Snack Attack” would predominantly of Broadford Fire not be able to provide its much Brigades “Non-Operational” (Non- needed function. firefighter) and some “Operational” The Volunteers of the Broadford (firefighter) Members. Fire Brigade are proud to assist Snack Attack was first put together with the “Snack Attack” project, as some 20 years ago when the are all members of the Broadford need was identified to ensure that Fire Brigade proud to assist with Operational Fire Fighters in the field, whichever role they chose to take in some working up to 12 hours, had our diverse and capable organisation. the chance to eat and have a much If you want to find out more, deserved break. or are interested in volunteering, At any large deployment you will please contact: see the “Snack Attack” providing CFA Victoria: assistance for those in need and it www.cfa.vic.gov.au/volunteer-careers is not unusual to feed numbers into phone: (03) 9262 8645 or the hundreds in a very short period of email: [email protected] time, with very little notice. The “Snack Attack” works with the Broadford Fire Brigade as a whole
32 33 Rotary Club of Mitchell Southern.
The Rotary Club of Southern The club is fun and vibrant, with a Mitchell is a service club great mix of people. Meetings are held encompassing the townships of every Tuesday night 6.30pm for a 7pm Broadford, Kilmore, Wallan and start at Kilmore Trackside. surrounds. The club has over 20 For more information or to volunteer, members and is involved in many please email: community events and projects. Rotary Club of Southern Mitchell: Such events are the Broadford [email protected] or Australia Day Festival; Kilmore Art visit www.portal.clubrunner.ca/8920 Expo; Broadford Senior Citizens Christmas Luncheon; and Wallan Relay for Life. Ongoing club projects include the annual Bowelscan Program; Community Police Person of the Year; local Pride of Workmanship Award; the Kilmore Art Walk (partnering with Kilmore Art Society); and research into Post- Traumatic Stress Disorder in returned servicemen and women from conflict areas (partnering with RSL).
34 35 Audrey Flannery and Angelica Skora.
Audrey and Angelica are inspirational Audrey has grown up volunteering, young people, contributing to making and dedicates most of her spare time their community a great place to live in to volunteer work; she is a strong for other young people. Both Audrey advocate for young people getting and Angelica volunteer with Mitchell involved with volunteering. Audrey Youth Council, which is an advisory also volunteers for the National Breast committee of Mitchell Shire Council Cancer Foundation, and recently and a youth development program. It organised a fundraising campaign and provides an important opportunity for community event, which raised over young people to have input into Council $10,000 for education and research. decisions. Angelica and Audrey are also She was also awarded the 2015 both volunteer presenters at OKR FM Australia Day Young Citizen of the Kilmore Community Radio, hosting their Year Award. own radio shows. “Volunteering is a good way to get In addition to Youth Council and OKR experience and to prepare for the FM, both Angelica and Audrey are future, and a great way of helping heavily involved in their community. others. I have so much fun learning Angelica has contributed substantially new things and meeting new people. to the Cyber Tattoo Campaign, by It is a good first stepping stone into publically standing up against cyber your career” – Audrey. bullying. She also volunteers regularly If you want to find out more, for various community events through or are interested in volunteering, the Freeza/Volume Committee. She was please contact: recently awarded the 2016 Australia Day Young Citizen of the Year Award. Mitchell Youth Council: Mitchell Youth Services on “Do what you love. Whether it is (03) 5734 6200 or visit speaking on the local radio, or going www.mitchellshire.vic.gov.au/ out into the Shire helping, try and do community/youth/youth-council it because you love it and think that you’re helping other people. Imagine OKR FM Community Radio: how many people can be so happy, (03) 5781 0919 or visit just like you can be” – Angelica. www.okrfm.com.au/index.php 36 37 Goulburn Park Wall Mural Painting Group.
A small group of volunteers, led Goulburn Park is one of Seymour’s by local artist Diane Grant (nee Di best parks, and the mural attracts Laverie), repainted the Goulburn Park many visitors, who admire the Wall Mural on the Sound Shell. The incredible work completed by a small originally mural was painted by Di group of talented volunteers. Laverie and Bev and Alan Kilpatrick Next time you are in the area, do with the support of volunteers in yourself a favour and stop by to visit 1993, which was Seymour’s 150th the mural. anniversary year. The mural restoration project begun in 2015, with volunteers being recruited from the Seymour and District Art Society, and the Seymour U3A group. The project took over four months to complete, with over 150 hours of volunteer time generously donated.
38 39 Seymour Quilt and Craft Fair.
The Seymour Quilt and Craft Fair has There are multiple community preparation, and without the support If you want to find out more, stop by been going strong for six years, and groups involved in the delivery of of all the participating community the Seymour Spinners and Craft Group has become a fundamental event in the Fair, including the Seymour groups and volunteers, this event at the Old Court House in Seymour, or the Mitchell events calendar. So much Country Women’s Association, the simply would not occur. visit their Facebook page at so, that it was awarded the Australia Seymour Spinners and Craft Group, www.facebook.com/Seymour-Quilt- The Fair is one of Seymour’s best day Event of the Year Award for 2015. the Old Courthouse Spinners Group, And-Craft-Fair-1665949340293748/ displays that promotes our Shire’s The Fair is held each October at the the Nagambie and Seymour Men’s wonderful work of local art and Anglican Church and Hall in Seymour, Shed’s, the Anglican Church, the craft artists. with over 50 volunteers dedicating Country Clogging group, and many their time to provide a major event for other local quilters. The Fair requires Mitchell Shire. four months of careful planning and
40 41 Seymour Visitor Information Centre.
The Seymour Visitor Information If you want to find out more, Centre (VIC) is located on the or are interested in volunteering, Goulburn River, at the beautiful and please phone: historical Old Court House. A team Seymour Visitor Information Centre: of dedicated and valuable volunteers (03) 5799 0233 or email: visitorinfo@ work tirelessly to provide interesting mitchellshire.vic.gov.au and useful information for visitors and locals who stop by to sample what The VIC is open daily from Seymour has to offer. 9am to 5pm. Seymour is a town rich in heritage. The Seymour Court House was completed in 1864 and was used as a Telegraph Office before the First World War. The volunteers at the VIC have experience ranging from a couple of weeks to over 20 years, since the inception of the Seymour Visitor Information Centre in 1993. The volunteers do a fantastic job of promoting Seymour and tourism within Mitchell Shire and surrounding areas.
42 43 Patricia Archer and Mary Steyne.
Patricia and Mary are both heavily leading riders during sessions. When involved in the community, and asked what she liked best about her contribute substantially to enabling volunteering, Mary replied: people to enjoy horse-related activities. “I get to meet people and love watching They are pictured here with the the children develop into confident gorgeous Bo, who is full of personality! young people getting out and about. It’s Trish has been volunteering in Mitchell a great way to interact with them, while Shire since 1970. She was a Coach they grow with their disabilities”. and Secretary for the Seymour Riding RDA Victoria is a not for profit Develops Abilities (RDA) for 16 years, organisation that enables individuals and has just recently handed the reins with a variety of disabilities, ages and over to pursue other volunteering backgrounds to develop independence, interests. Trish is now actively a sense of freedom and to reach their contributing to the Seymour & District equestrian goals, through adaptive U3A, where she is the Secretarial/ coaching techniques and equipment. Public Officer, keeper of memberships, The Seymour RDA operates in overseer and maintenance of I.T. association with the Seymour Special equipment and website, and prints the School. They meet every second newsletter. Trish was also a past Ring Thursday during school terms and Steward with the Seymour Agricultural most RDA days, riders are able to walk Society; past secretary for the Seymour across the park with their Aides to the Pony Club; and past Secretary for the Centre. There are approximately 20 Upton Rd Horse Trials. We asked Trish volunteers involved, but they would like why she volunteers; she replied: to encourage younger volunteers to join. “It gets you out into the community. It If you want to find out more, gives you a feeling of wellbeing. You or are interested in volunteering, meet other people – all walks of life please contact: and all sorts” – Trish. Seymour RDA: Mary has been a volunteer with the www.rdav.asn.au/centres/seymour/ or Seymour RDA for 18 years, and initially email: [email protected] got involved because of Trish, and because she loves horses. Mary was Seymour Pony Club: a Coach for many years, and is now www.seymour.ponyclubvic.org.au a volunteer caring for the horses and 44 45 Irene Telford.
Irene is a Seymour local, who has been arose in areas she was passionate volunteering in Mitchell Shire since she about, and Irene was interested in moved here, about three years ago. making a difference, so took them Irene is heavily involved in the local on, and we are certainly thankful that community, and is the Treasurer and she did! Newsletter Editor of The Seymour We Irene said the thing she liked most Want (TSWW), the President of the about volunteering was: Beam Mitchell Environment Group, a tutor at the Seymour U3A, and a “It gives me the opportunity to make member of Mitchell Shire’s Community a difference. I get to meet new people Liaison Group. and it is fun! It is a place where I can contribute!” TSWW is a not-for-profit group, run entirely by volunteers, which She wants to encourage others to encourages positive community volunteer their time in something that development throughout the Seymour really interests you, and “makes you area. They support local community come alive” – Irene. groups and individuals, leading to a If you want to find out more, better Seymour. Similarly, the Beam or are interested in volunteering, Mitchell Environment Group is a please contact: community group that was formed in 1989 to provide a forum for The Seymour We Want: environmental action and discussion www.theseymourwewant.org.au within the Mitchell community. They Beam Mitchell Environment Group: are an incredible group, who work www.beam.org.au or hard to create a thriving community. email: [email protected] Irene is interested in the environment and the community, and is very community minded. Opportunities
46 47 Sean Kerris, Margot Green and Phillip McLean.
Sean, Margot and Phillip are three certainly does her part to make incredible CFA volunteers, committed our community great! About her to making a difference, and keeping volunteering, Margot says she “enjoys our community safe. Phillip has been and loves it because of the people. I volunteering in Mitchell Shire for 35 want to try and help other people. I years, and has been the Captain for have been told that I am not much of the Glenaroua Fire Brigade for the a taker but a good giver!” past 13 years. He is a much respected Sean is a young volunteer, and has community man; farmer; Committee been with the Trawool Fire Brigade Member and Life Member of the since 2012; he also makes himself Seymour Agricultural Pastoral Society; available to turn out with the Seymour the President of the Seymour Working Brigade when required. Sean is Sheepdog Club; and organises the certainly a future leader, and it is ‘Woolly Cup’ Sheep Race for the promising to see such an enthusiastic, Australia Day event. Phillip said the dedicated and mature young man, thing he likes most about volunteering volunteering for his community. Sean is “connecting with like-minded said he chose to volunteer because people within the circle, as it then of his father: “My dad was in the creates community”. Brigade and I always wanted to follow Margot has been a valuable member his footsteps, so I joined, and I have of the Hilldene Fire Brigade since encouraged other friends and family to 1978. During her time with the join. It is something I can see myself brigade, Margot has taken on the roles doing as a career”. of Secretary and Communications If you want to find out more, Officer. Margot has also taken on the or are interested in volunteering, roles of the Mitchell Shire Group’s please contact: Secretary and Communications Officer; Radio Operator for the CFA Victoria: Seymour Incident Control Centre; a www.cfa.vic.gov.au/volunteer-careers, wildlife carer; and was the first lady phone: (03) 9262 8645 or President for the Seymour Agricultural email: [email protected] Pastoral Society. Margot is a Life Seymour Agricultural Pastoral Society: Member of the Hilldene Fire Brigade www.seymouragshow.org.au or email: and the CFA, and is also a National [email protected] Emergency Medal Recipient – she 48 49 Bill Hogan.
Bill has an extremely important environment for people to enjoy volunteer role in the community. Bill social contact and participate in a regularly drives the buggy for Travellers wide variety of activities. The clubs Aid at Seymour, and transports and promote wellbeing, vitality, strength assists people with mobility challenges and a positive approach to ageing. to transfer between trains and the bus There are four Senior Citizen Clubs interchange. Bill also drives vehicles located in Mitchell Shire: Broadford, for Community Accessibility, which is Kilmore, Seymour and Wallan. a not-for-profit and mobility support When asked about his volunteering, service provided in the community to Bill replied: assist with transport of disadvantaged residents get to where they need to “I like the company of people. I like go. Community Accessibility works in the idea of charity, and like to give partnership with clients, carers and back to the community and helping other professionals providing, high people. Go ahead and do it. You never quality and flexible services. Through know when you will need it yourself”. leadership, and a dedicated team of If you want to find out more, staff and volunteers, they promote or are interested in volunteering, social well-being and independence. please contact: Bill also volunteers his time with the Traveller’s Aid: Seymour Senior Citizens, where he is www.travellersaid.org.au the President, the maintenance man and volunteer bus driver. Bill regularly Community Accessibility: picks up members from their homes, www.communityaccessability.com.au and drops them off for regular meets. email: [email protected] In addition to this, Bill also organises or phone: (03) 5799 2965 day’s out with the members, and Senior Citizens: takes them out for a full day of fun Mitchell Shire Council: (03) 5734 6200 and activities. Senior Citizens Centres and Clubs provide a relaxed friendly
50 51 Peter Welsh.
Peter is an active member and profile of the Aboriginal community in volunteer with the Seymour Local Seymour and surrounding districts in Aboriginal Network (LAN). Peter a positive way; to improve training and assists in planning and setting up education opportunities for Aboriginal local community events that are people in Seymour and surrounding organised by the LAN, in partnership districts; and to empower local with government and other service Aboriginal people to aspire to take providers. Peter is also an active leadership roles in the community. member of the LAN Events Committee, If you want to find out more, or are and is a great role model for young interested in becoming a member, aboriginal men in our community. please visit: Peter said the thing he likes most Department of Premier and Cabinet, about volunteering is “the interaction Local Aboriginal Networks (LANs): with other people. It’s very enjoyable, www.dpc.vic.gov.au/index.php/ so get out there and do it!” aboriginal-affairs/aboriginal- The Seymour LAN is made up community-development/ of Aboriginal residents who work local-aboriginal-networks-lans or together to provide a voice for their contact the Aboriginal Community community, identify issues, priorities Development Broker, Aboriginal and plan for the future. The Seymour Victoria, Department of Premier and LAN conducts its business under the Cabinet on (03) 9665 9507. mantra of ‘run by the community and for the community’. The two main guiding principles to achieve their goals are ‘respect’ and ‘commitment’. Their main goals are to raise the 52 53 Lions Club of Seymour Goulburn.
Lions Clubs are an international service Vision projects and Lions volunteers organisation which began in the USA also give their time at the Pioneer 100 years ago and has spread to over Park Cemetery working bees to 200 countries, including Australia. The support the environment. Lions Club of Seymour Goulburn has Lions believe that where there is a 34 members to serve Seymour and need, there is a Lion. When asked wider community. “what do you enjoy about being a Volunteer services includes delivering Lion?” members replied with “all the Meals on Wheels, driving the Travellers friends I have were made in Lions” Aid buggy at the railway station, and “being useful and making a delivering library books to home difference in my community”. bound residents, and operating Driver “As one person, I can do so little, but Reviver stops on the Hume Freeway. with a group of Lions, we can do so Volunteers also arrange community much more in our community.” events including Carols by Candlelight and the Labour Day Market. All the TWO MORE HANDS means more funds raised from sausage sizzles and members, which means more community events are returned to the support, which means more help for community or Lions projects such as the community. TWO MORE HANDS. Disaster Relief. If you are interested in joining Lions: Lions support youth by providing visit www.seymourgoulburn.vic.lions. school scholarships and conducting org.au or email seymourgoulburn@ Youth of the Year Quest for young lionsclubs201v5.org leaders. Lions Eye Health Program and recycling eyeglasses are their
54 55 Carol Smith.
Carol is a valued member of our Day Luncheon with the Seymour community and dedicates so much Goulburn Lions Club. time and effort to make Mitchell Carol is also involved with the Seymour a great place to live. Carol is the Relay For Life, which is a team event President of the Lions Club of to raise funds for cancer research; she Seymour Goulburn; the Secretary has been involved since it started in of the Seymour Volunteer Group of Seymour. Each Relay For Life event Cancer Council Victoria; a volunteer is organised by a local volunteer Peer Educator with the Council for organising committee in partnership Ageing (COTA), and also volunteers with Cancer Council Victoria. Volunteers with the St. Vincent De Paul in with Relay For Life gain many benefits Seymour; Meals on Wheels; the and development opportunities, Library for Housebound; and was the including strengthening your team work past secretary and Council member and communication skills, practical with the U3A. work experience to strengthen your Carol said she began volunteering resume, and a chance to increase for the Seymour Volunteer Group of your community interaction and social the Cancer Council as she “wanted interaction. There are two Relay For Life to do something to reduce the events in Mitchell Shire: Seymour and impact of cancer in our community”. Southern Mitchell. The group raises funds for cancer If you want to find out more, research, prevention and support or are interested in volunteering, through National events, such as please contact: Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea in May, Daffodil day in August, and Pink Cancer Council Victoria: Ribbon Day in October, as well as www.cancervic.org.au or local fundraisers such as the Oaks email: [email protected] 56 57 Ted Gray.
Ted is a dedicated community “It’s the total involvement in the member, who gives his time to benefit community. It’s a way of being all. He has been a volunteer with the able to support areas that can be Trawool CFA Brigade since 2005, involved in by the general community. is the current Brigade Community Honestly, it is the best thing that has safety Delegate, and was awarded ever happened to me! Get off your the Black Saturday Emergency Medal backside and do it!” for his bravery and valued services. If you want to find out more, Ted has also been a volunteer with or are interested in volunteering, the Seymour & District Art Society please contact: since 2005, acting as President and committee member. He is a volunteer Seymour & District Art Society: with the Seymour Old Courthouse www.seymourartsociety.org.au Committee since 2009, and a Patron Seymour FM: and Committee Chairman for the www.seymourfm.com.au Relay for Life. email: [email protected] or Ted also has his own radio show, phone: (03) 5792 1039 and is a volunteer with the Seymour Puckapunyal Community Radio since 2010, also acting in the roles of President, Treasurer and commentator, in which he was awarded two media awards. Ted was asked what he liked most about his volunteering; he replied:
58 59 Ron Jessup.
Ron has a special role in our “I just love helping people. I really community, and has been church want to help people live well. I try and Minister for 34 years. He currently is put out positive messages so people the Chaplain and Community Support can go well and be encouraged in life. Representative with the Seymour I am a strong believer in community Football and Netball Club, and has and the benefits of working together. been volunteering with them for four I love seeing people respond and years. Ron is available to provide make good choices. It really is a good confidential support to players, thing to serve others – it’s good to look members and supporters for grief, outside yourself to give to others”. loss, relationships, personal issues If you want to find out more, and spiritual matters. or are interested in volunteering, Ron is also a volunteer with Seymour please visit the website: FM Community radio, and has Seymour Football Club: his own radio show. Ron presents www.foxsportspulse.com/ two weekly shows, “As A Matter of club_info.cgi?c=0-6165-80584-0- Interest”, talking about local topics 15701531&sID=92241 with local people, and the Christian themed program “Faith, Hope and Love”. He believes that it is a great to acknowledge people and personally try and encourage people who serve the community in various ways. We sat down to ask Ron about his volunteering; he replied:
60 61 Mick Sanderson.
Mick is a long-time volunteer in Brigades. The Good Friday Appeal is Mitchell Shire, and is truly an a non-denominational, non-political inspirational and honoured community organisation that exists solely to raise member. Mick has been a volunteer funds for the benefit of The Royal with the Seymour Fire Brigade for Children’s Hospital. The strength of 60 years; Volunteer Fire Brigades the Good Friday Appeal lies with the Victoria and District 12 President for thousands of people who volunteer 20 years; Committee Member on the their time, expertise and creativity Mitchell Shire Council Fire Prevention to organise fundraising activities Committee since 1983; President throughout the year. of the former Hume Highway Fire We sat down and spoke to Mick Brigades Association for 29 years; about his volunteering; he replied: Area Manager and Life Member for the Royal Children’s Hospital Good “I needed something to do. All my Friday Appeal; as well as Brigade mates joined the CFA at the same Delegate on multiple Committees time, so it was good to give back to the and Associations. Mick has been community. I encourage people to give awarded the National Medal and 2 it a go – that’s life, get into something. Bars, and the Victorian Urban Fire There are so many things out there Brigades Association Gold Star Award that someone can volunteer in”. for his many years of service; he is a If you want to find out more, treasured member of our community. or are interested in volunteering, Being the regional representative for please contact: the Good Friday Appeal in Seymour, Good Friday Appeal: Mick overseas the fundraising [email protected], activities, and works closely with phone: (03) 9292 1166 or local community groups and Fire visit: www.goodfridayappeal.com.au 62 63 Heather Dunn.
Heather has been a volunteer within If you want to find out more, Mitchell Shire for 15 years, when she or are interested in volunteering, started with the Meals on Wheels please contact: Program. She has since been a Seymour Health: valuable volunteer with Seymour phone: (03) 5793 6100; Health’s Planned Activity Group (PAG), email: [email protected] or where she supports the staff to provide visit: www.seymourhealth.org.au meaningful activities for the group. The Seymour Health’s PAG provides a social activities program for people aged over 65 years, and younger people with disabilities. The PAG aims to meet the need and interests of older people in a manner that promotes participation and enjoyment. Heather is also a volunteer with the Lions Club of Seymour Goulburn. Heather said she initially put her hand up to volunteer as she felt like giving back to the community. She likes being helpful and meeting new people. When asked what she would say to others, to encourage them to volunteer, Heather replied: “Go for it; you get so much out of it. It gives you a whole new life!” 64 65 Alice and Jack Solomon.
Alice has been volunteering in Mitchell When asked why she volunteers, Shire for 15 years, and is a volunteer Alice replied: on a number of committees. She is an “I have a disability and can’t work, so inspiring community member, and a volunteering is my way of contributing role model for women and girls in the to the community. I feel like I’m community. Alice runs a local radio making a viable contribution. It program at the local Seymour FM makes me feel useful”. Community Radio, is a volunteer with the Indigenous Regional Action Group Alice is pictured with her husband and a Life Member of The Seymour Jack, who is also an active and We Want. Alice is also the current valued member in the community. Chair of the Seymour Local Aboriginal If you want to find out more, Network (LAN); she helps with LAN or are interested in becoming a meetings and developing local projects member, please visit: and partnerships with services and local government. Department of Premier and Cabinet, Local Aboriginal Networks (LANs): The Indigenous Regional Action www.dpc.vic.gov.au/index.php/ Group is an inclusive mechanism for aboriginal-affairs/aboriginal- the Victorian Aboriginal community community-development/ to develop local responses to family local-aboriginal-networks-lans or violence matters, ensuring they are contact the Aboriginal Community responsive and culturally relevant development Broker, Aboriginal to Aboriginal individuals, families Victoria, Department of Premier and and communities in Victoria. They Cabinet on (03) 9665 9507. implement community led responses that educate, prevent, respond to and reduce family violence in Aboriginal communities.
66 67 Jeff Wilmot.
Jeff is working hard to do his bit to Tyaak Flora Reserve, weed removal make the community great, and and revegetation along Reedy Creek, our green areas beautiful! He is a and more. passionate and esteemed member Jeff was asked about his volunteering; of our community, and contributed he replied: to the ideas being promoted by Sustainable Seymour. “I felt it was something that needed to be done. I want to see the Jeff has been volunteering with environment improve in general, and Landcare since 1996, and is I get a lot of satisfaction by getting the Treasurer of the Dabyminga involved and getting things done, and Catchment Cooperative (DCC). seeing the place looking better. I love The DCC is the operational group working in the community and being for two Landcare Groups - Reedy a part of it, and encourage people to Creek Landcare Group and Tallarook find out what your interests are and Landcare Group. The group is get involved!” made up of landholders in the Reedy Creek/Dabyminga Creek If you want to find out more, Catchments, from the forests of or are interested in volunteering, Mount Disappointment and the please visit: Tallarook Ranges through to the Victorian Landcare: Goulburn River near Tallarook. The www.landcarevic.net.au Cooperative meets every two months at the Reedy Creek Community Hall. Projects include Paterson’s Curse Control, establishment of the Tallarook Arboretum, protection of
68 69 Peter Oblak.
Peter has been a tireless volunteer Seymour RDA; Seymour Relay for in the community, and spends up Life; and is a volunteer Justice of to seven days a week volunteering the Peace. his time. Peter began volunteering “I love the mateship and seeing the in the Puckapunyal and Seymour end product, the outcome of what communities in 1988, upon his you do. It is good to look back and posting to the Puckapunyal Military say ‘we did that’. It is great fun. It Area, and continued upon his gives you something to do, you get discharge from the defence Forces to meet people and the compliments in 1998. you get from other people, just Peter has been a volunteer with makes you feel good” – Peter. multiple groups, including the If you want to find out more, Seymour and District Cricket or are interested in volunteering, Association; Seymour and District please visit: Junior Football League; Lions Club of Seymour Goulburn; Mitchell Shire Council: Kings Park Recreation Reserve www.mitchellshire.vic.gov.au/ Committee of Management; volunteering Seymour Little Athletics; Eastern Hill Cricket Club; St. Mary’s Junior Football Club; Puckapunyal School Council Committee; Puckapunyal Kindergarten Association; Puckapunyal Scouting Group; Puckapunyal Girl Guides; Puckapunyal AUSKICK Coordinator;
70 71 Mitchell FReeZA/ Volume Committee.
Mitchell FReeZA/Volume is an volunteering with FReeZA for three innovative youth development program years. Dell chose to volunteer as she providing young people between the wanted to do something that would ages of 12 and 25 with the opportunity add excitement to our community; to attend affordable and accessible she “wanted to help create a more music and cultural events in a safe, fun environment for young people in drug and alcohol free environment. the community”. Dell believes that all Mitchell FReeZA/Volume events young people should volunteer, as it are organised and delivered by a will provide them with skills that can be dedicated team of young volunteers, used in the workplace. who represent the Committee. Erin has been volunteering her whole Pictured are three FReeZA/Volume life, when she started helping out at Committee members, Rylee the age of four with her local Scout Pabedinskas, Dellareece Matson and group, and has been volunteering Erin Smith. with FReeZA for five years. Erin likes to see the change she can make in Rylee has been volunteering with the community, and it makes her FReeZA/Volume for three years, and feel good to see people happy and prior to that, volunteered her time with thankful for what they do. the Bangers & Thrash Crew. In her time with FReeZA, Rylee has helped “Doing something good for others to deliver 15 events to young people in shouldn’t be about money, but the community, and was integral in the something good to do in the successful Colour Dash to support the community. You have so much fun homeless. Rylee initially got involved and meet so many people along the as she “loves the opportunities it gives way, and people appreciate it!” – Erin. within our community, and it helps If you want to find out more, with my study in social work and in my or are interested in volunteering, career” – Rylee. please contact Dell has been volunteering for four Mitchell Youth Services: years, and initially started with the phone: (03) 5734 6200 or Mitchell Youth Council, Community email: [email protected] Liaison Group, Kilmore Quilters and Cyber Tattoo; she has been 72 73 Mitchell Dog Walking Group.
The Mitchell Dog Walking Group was “Volunteering is a wonderful way to initially set up as a social group for get to know the local people. It makes people who had adopted greyhounds, you feel good and giving makes and wanted to get out and meet other you feel better than receiving. You like-minded people while enjoying a come home feeling better when you walk and a chat. As the popularity volunteer. I encourage people to find increased, the group changed its their own way; find what you enjoy name from Greyt Greys & Friends, and just do it”. to include all dog breeds and their If you want to find out more, or are people, and is now known as the interested in joining, please contact: Mitchell Dog Walking Group. The Mitchell Dog Walking Group: Groups of people and their canine email: [email protected] companions meet up and connect for walks in Mitchell Shire. Walks are held on the last Sunday of every month (weather permitting), and all are welcome. People and their dogs need to be capable of walking approximately 1.5 hours, and hopefully join the group afterwards for a coffee and a chat. We sat down with Pam Freemantle, who was instrumental in getting the Mitchell Dog walking Group up and running, to ask her about her volunteering:
74 75 Wandong Heathcote Junction Neighbourhood Watch and Community Group.
The Neighbourhood Watch exists to involvement. It undertakes projects keep the community safer through and tasks that improve our amenities close liaison between community and lifestyle. The WHJCG produces and local police, education of the monthly community newsletter local children on safety issues, “Whats News” and operates the and encouraging local youths to www.wandong.vic.au website participate in community projects. to promote town services and Neighbourhood Watch also exists businesses and to disseminate to bring people together; it is not community news and information. always about crime. By definition Both groups are completely managed Neighbourhood Watch is also about by volunteers, and are always seeking watching out for your neighbours and new members. The more volunteers your neighbourhood. The Wandong involved, the better informed and Heathcote Junction Neighbourhood safer we are, and the more effectively Watch Facebook page also exists, planned community initiatives and which is an open interactive forum for activities can be delivered. idea exchange. If you are interested in joining, and The Community Group has evolved to becoming involved in keeping your represent the views of our residents, community happy and safe, contact: and to take a lead negotiation role in matters which affect the well-being Wandong Heathcote Junction and aspirations of the community. Neighbourhood Watch: The WHJCG provides leadership [email protected] in community development and
76 77 Bernie Melvaine and Carolyn Atkinson.
Carolyn and Bernie have both was a committee member for the contributed significantly to the local caladenia Social Club and Kilmore Toy community through various volunteer Library. roles. Bernie is a current volunteer Carolyn says volunteering with the Girl with the Kilmore Kookaburra Girl Guides is very rewarding. She added: Guides, and has been a Guide leader for 32 years. In addition to the Girl “Watching the girls grow up from my Guides, Bernie also volunteers with the unit, knowing I’ve taught them life skills Kilmore and District Adult Riding Club. and personal development; the rewards She was also a founding member of are enormous!” – Carolyn. the Kilmore Netball Club, and initially Girl Guides provides a non-formal got involved with volunteering because education program that engages her children, to help out with the clubs girls in fun and energetic activities. and keep them going. The program is designed to develop When asked what she liked most leadership skills and opportunities about volunteering, Bernie replied: for girls and young women aged 5 - 17 years. Volunteering with Girl “The friendships you make; the Guides also provides women with an satisfaction of getting the job done, opportunity to give back and share and knowing that you are helping their wealth of experience to girls who someone” – Bernie. will be tomorrow’s leaders; there are Carolyn has been a Guide leader for currently two Girl Guides groups in 29 years, is a State Trainer for Girl Mitchell Shire: Kilmore and Seymour. Guides, is the Guide representative If you want to find out more, on the Kilmore Guide/Scout Hall or are interested in volunteering, Committee of Management, a member please contact: of the Kilmore Historical Society, and the No Lift Special Interest Girl Guides: Group Treasurer. In the past, Carolyn www.guidesvic.org.au volunteered with the Meals on Wheels, Kilmore and District Adult Riding Club: and the Kilmore Primary School, and www.kadarc.org 78 79 Victoria State Emergency Service.
The SES serves the community in scenes’. Members of the SES access a wide variety of ways during times extensive training to undertake the of emergency, including flood, tasks they perform and develop storm, tsunami, and earthquake leadership, communication and emergencies. SES can be called problem solving skills along the way. upon to clear trees from roads, The main reason most SES volunteers driveways, buildings or fences or get involved is to support their provide temporary repair to buildings community. If you feel you would like damaged by storms or strong to get involved with a great bunch winds. SES supports other agencies of like-minded people and be one including: aiding Victoria Police with of those helping to serve your local searches, road crashes and lighting; community, call 1300 842 737 or assisting the CFA with staging area visit www.ses.vic.gov.au management during bushfires; and helping Ambulance Victoria Pictured are volunteers from the with casualty handling. They have Kilmore SES Unit. also been requested on occasions to assist other interstate SES organisations during major disasters. Mitchell Shire is serviced by two units of trained SES volunteers, based in Kilmore and Seymour. Volunteers engage in a range of tasks ‘on the ground’ at emergency situations as well as those involved ‘behind the
80 81 Judy Clark and Rob Eldridge.
Judy and Rob work diligently Rob contributes substantially to to improve the state of the improving the state of Wallan, and environment, and to make Wallan a has been volunteering for nine years more environmentally resilient place, in Mitchell Shire. He is the President of natural beauty with diverse flora of the Wallan Environment Group; a and fauna. Committee member for Wallan Home Harvest; a member for Transition Judy has been volunteering in Wallan Towns; Director for the Merri Creek for seven years, is a member of Committee of Management; and has the Wallan Environment Group, a been a volunteer on multiple advisory founding member of Transition Wallan committees and action groups. Inc. and convenor of Wallan Home Harvest. Judy is also a community Rob said he initially started to representative on the Wallan and volunteer because he “always wanted District Community Network, and is to put back into the community. currently organising a cabaret on behalf There was a lack of open passive of the Wallan Public Hall Committee. space in Wallan, so I joined the When asked what she liked best about Wallan Environment Group to try volunteering, Judy replied: and improve it. I get a satisfaction of making a difference. My kids and “I am driven by the need to improve grandkids also live in Wallan, so it’s a our understanding and actions about bit of a legacy too”. climate change. I love to meet people and exchange ideas and hear about If you want to find out more, what people are doing to change to or are interested in volunteering, a simpler lifestyle. My special hobby please contact: is edible gardening, so Transition Wallan Home Harvest: Wallan Inc. organised Wallan Home www.wallanhomeharvest.org.au Harvest as a practical action to reduce carbon emissions, get to know Wallan Environment Group: my neighbours and generally have a [email protected] good time together locally” – Judy.
82 83 David James.
David was a foundation member Scouts is a worldwide movement of Friends of Wallan Creek (now that has shaped the development Wallan Environment Group) and of youth and adults for 100 years. has acted in the role of treasurer People from wide cultural or religious since its inception; he has been a background including those with valued volunteer in Mitchell Shire an intellectual or physical disability for almost 16 years. David is the enjoy an unlimited range of activities. Treasurer of the Wallan Scouts and Scouting encourages the physical, has been a driving force behind the intellectual, emotional, social, and establishment and ongoing growth spiritual development of young people and success of the Wallan Market. so they may play a constructive role He also established the Wallan Swap in society as responsible citizens Meet. Both of these events are major and as members of their local and tourist attractions for Wallan. David international communities. This aim is also the treasurer on several other is achieved through a strong and committees, and is an outstanding active program that inspires young role model for our community. people to do their best and to always be prepared. David said he gets a sense of satisfaction from his volunteering. If you want to find out more, He enjoys “making good friends and or are interested in volunteering, working with people who are good please contact: putter-inners. If you have the time, it Wallan Scouts: is satisfying to get involved. You don’t www.wallanscouts.com.au have to do a lot, but it is pleasant to go down and help”.
84 85 More information. Contacting Council.
For more information about volunteering in Mitchell Shire, visit: Telephone: (03) 5734 6200 www.mitchellshire.vic.gov.au/volunteering or phone (03) 5734 6200 Fax: (03) 5734 6222 and ask to speak to the Community Development Officer. Email: [email protected] For more information about volunteering, visit the following websites: National Relay Service: Department of Health and Human Services: www.volunteer.vic.gov.au TTY users phone 133 677 then ask for (03) 5734 6200 Volunteering Australia: www.volunteeringaustralia.org Speak and Listen users phone 1300 555 727 then ask for (03) 5734 6200 Volunteering Victoria: www.volunteeringvictoria.org.au Telephone Interpreter Service: 131 450 Go Volunteer: www.govolunteer.com.au Indigenous Community Volunteers: www.icv.com.au Australian Volunteers International: www.australianvolunteers.com.au Service Centres Broadford Customer and Library Service Centre 113 High Street, Broadford, Victoria 3658 Kilmore Customer and Library Service Centre 12 Sydney Street, Kilmore, Victoria 3764 Seymour Customer and Library Service Centre 125 Anzac Avenue, Seymour, Victoria 3660
Mitchell Shire Council acknowledges the Traditional Custodial Owners of the Wallan Customer and Library Service Centre land on which we work and live, and pay respect to Traditional elders, both Wellington Square, 12/81 High Street, Wallan, Victoria 3756 past and present.
86 87 MITCHELL 113 High Street SHIRE COUNCIL t: (03) 5734 6200 e: [email protected] www.mitchellshire.vic.gov.au
“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive and go do it. Because what the world needs, is people who have come alive” – Howard Thurman.