Victorian Council of Churches Emergencies Ministry

A volunteer coordinator during the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires, Rosie saw a systems gap and changed her organisation’s strategy on volunteer recruitment and retention. Engaging people from a section of the community not normally involved in emergency management, she has improved the quality and quantity of volunteers in her region, which benefits the rest of the State. Rosie’s efforts have, in turn, led to an increased engagement by Government and improved psychological outcomes for affected individuals and communities.

Keon Park Tennis Club

Barbara spends all her time working to better and promote the club, attending weekly to help out, meeting with stakeholders, updating members online and attending events. Her interaction with the community has increased the club’s financial and social membership. And as club secretary, she has generated in excess of $350,000 for upgrades to courts and facilities. Barbara was also instrumental in establishing the club's Multicultural Coaching Program, which is now a benchmark program for Tennis Victoria’s ACE program. 

The Salvation Army Melbourne Project 614

Anne is the longest standing volunteer at the Salvation Army in Melbourne, with over ten years of service. Overseeing the Marketplace-Emergency Relief Program, Anne ensures a friendly and relaxed atmosphere for disadvantaged people who may be stressed and dealing with complex issues. She supports other volunteers, manages the client database, interviews between twenty to forty clients a day, arranges for medications, store vouchers, travel passes, and refers clients to other specialist services.

Self Help Addiction Resource Centre - Family Drug Help

Colleen is a peer leader for one of the largest groups at Family Drug Help. Families attend and receive support, education and knowledge about addiction to assist them to attain resilience and empowerment in their own lives. Colleen also attends all training and supervisor sessions, applies for grants, advocates for members and promotes the group within the community. Her warmth and dedication have made the group into a sustainable and valuable resource for families in the area.

Lethbridge community

Diane has lived in the town of Lethbridge for most her life, and tirelessly shares her enthusiasm, passion and time for her community. For over 16 years she has stood on various school and community committees, leading or assisting in administration, community projects, grant applications and fundraising. She leads in a collaborative manner and always with infectious enthusiasm. She rolls up her sleeves, encourages others to participate, and gets the job done.

Motor Neurone Disease Association of Victoria

Marian’s unwavering dedication over 25 years has resulted in many new initiatives that made a positive impact on the lives of thousands of people with Motor Neurone Disease. For 12 years she coordinated the annual fundraising walk, which has grown from 200 participants to over 2,200, and over many years, has coordinated a variety of support, fundraising and awareness activities. Marian’s direct and indirect support has raised over $1 million for Motor Neurone Disease research and care.

Camp Awakenings

After a difficult childhood of his own, Michael founded the camp to give other young people the opportunity to change or improve their lives. Over the last 16 years, 120 students a year have benefited from a supportive environment to grow and develop, harnessing tools and skills to counter the challenges they face. Annually, he supports a team of 20 volunteers, makes significant personal monetary contributions and raises $50-80,000 through events and sponsorship for this successful youth development program.