Surf lifesaving patrol captain and rugby league first aider Terry Vella has been named 2023 Central Coast Senior Volunteer of the Year for his dedication to safety on the sand, in the sea and on the turf throughout the region.
He was recognised at the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, one of the largest celebrations of volunteering across the country, also taking out the Senior Volunteer of the Year category.
The awards are run by The Centre for Volunteering to acknowledge the outstanding efforts of volunteers working across all sections of communities throughout the state with Central Coast winners announced on September 28 in Gosford.
Terry Vella, of Bateau Bay, is a volunteer Patrol Captain and Training Officer at Shelly Beach Surf Lifesaving Club, helping other volunteer club members with training in radio and advanced resuscitation techniques.
With 48 Surf Lifesaving and First Aid awards, he serves as a key official at surf lifesaving events at club, state, and national levels.
Off the beach, he continues his commitment to safety as the First Aid Officer in the NSW Rugby League competition.
Named Adult Volunteer of the Year was John Avis of North Avoca, a dedicated mentor and facilitator for the Junior Lifesaver of The Year program which has propelled North Avoca Club to new heights of success.
He has organised the youth leadership and development camp for 30 youth at Narrabeen Sydney Sports Centre and his innovative Junior Club Captain program enhances the leadership skills for Rookies and Juniors.
Volunteer Team of the Year was the We Care Connect Volunteers – a team of 76 members dedicated to mitigating the effects of childhood disadvantage caused by factors like unemployment and domestic violence.
The team focuses on enhancing life outcomes and self-esteem for at-risk and marginalised youth, many of whom grapple with severe trauma.
They provide clothing, educational resources and essential toiletries, helping to restore a sense of normalcy and dignity to young lives.
Jenna Smith from Berkeley Vale was named Young Volunteer of the Year.
Jenna gives her time to raise awareness about the plight of abandoned and homeless pets for numerous organisations across the Central Coast including SoCares, Peggy’s Promise, Claws n Paws and Bateau Bay Neighbourhood Centre.
She raises funds and collects food and other pet essentials, while also highlighting the vital role shelters play in community wellbeing.
Her volunteering not only provides essential supplies for animals, but also educates the public on the urgent need for compassionate and medical care for shelter animals.
The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said the awards recognised the tireless work of volunteers and was a chance to say thank you.
The awards are supported by principal partners the NSW Department of Communities and Justice and ClubsNSW, which represents the state’s 1,100 not-for-profit clubs.
Source:
The Centre for Volunteering