Volunteering Central Coast has recognised a number of individuals and organisations at this year’s Volunteer Celebration Awards, held on June 17, 2024, at the Erina Centre.
“This year, we received an outstanding range of nominations, highlighting the diverse services and organisations that volunteers support,” a spokesperson said.
“From well-known organisations like St Vincent de Paul and Meals on Wheels to local gems such as Orange Sky, Because We Care Boutique, Marine Rescue Norah Head, Central Coast Family Support Services, ARAFMI Central Coast, HammondCare and Toukley Art Gallery, the nominations reflect the breadth and depth of volunteer engagement on the Central Coast.”
The awards span six categories, each highlighting unique aspects of volunteerism and community service.
The Quiet Hero Award, honouring volunteers who make significant contributions quietly and consistently, often going unnoticed went to Katrina Alfred of Gosford Regional Gallery.
She has been a cornerstone of the gallery for more than 20 years, inspiring both visitors and fellow volunteers.
In her early years, Alfred played a crucial role in installing major exhibitions and co-ordinating volunteers for front-of-house duties.
Today, she continues to assist at the welcome desk, ensuring every visitor feels welcomed and informed.
Her extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for the arts make her an invaluable resource to the gallery.
The Volunteer Impact Award, recognising volunteers who have made substantial impacts across multiple organisations, went to Paula Hardwick.
Her 35 years of volunteering spans multiple organisations, including Meals on Wheels, Orange Sky, Because We Care Boutique, Marine Rescue Norah Head and Central Coast Family Support Services.
Her innovative and compassionate approach has touched countless lives.
At Meals on Wheels, Hardwick’s creative ideas such as dressing up for her shifts have created a fun and inclusive atmosphere for isolated community members.
She has been instrumental in fundraising efforts and advocacy.
Hardwick’s impact at Central Coast Family Support Services is equally profound.
Earlier this year, she provided valuable advice on recruiting new volunteers and helped deliver food and supplies to families in need across the Central Coast.
At Orange Sky, Hardwick has been community engagement co-ordinator for six years, raising awareness and understanding for those experiencing homelessness, escaping domestic violence, and living in temporary housing.
Her contributions to Because We Care Boutique over the past 18 months have empowered women and girls in the community.
As a volunteer radio operator at Marine Rescue Norah Head, Hardwick has leveraged her previous experience as a flight attendant to enhance safety and awareness.
Taking the Community Resilience Award, given to individuals who have shown exceptional leadership and dedication during emergencies, was Keith Aranjo of Mangrove Mountain and Districts Community Group.
One of his significant achievements was successfully applying for a grant to equip the community with CB radios to ensure reliable communication during emergencies .
He also secured funding for three trailer-based firefighting units.
Through the Mangrove Mountain and Districts Community News, Aranjo played a crucial role in keeping the community connected and informed during COVID-19.
His involvement in various community organisations, including the Mountain Districts Football Club and Mangrove Mountain Union Church Trust, underscores his commitment to community resilience and connectivity.
Aranjo’s positive attitude, quiet and empathetic approach, and unwavering commitment inspire and encourage others to face challenges and actively participate in the community.
Wyong Vinnies Support Centre Team took the Dream Team Award, celebrating volunteer teams whose collaborative efforts provide comprehensive support to the community.
The team, comprising more than 50 dedicated individuals, provides comprehensive support to the Wyong community, answering hundreds of calls daily, assisting community members with food, vouchers, furniture, clothing, medication, toiletries, household items and travel costs.
An inspiring example of their work is their assistance to a single mother of six who lost everything in a house fire.
They manage not only the immediate needs of individuals but also ongoing support through various programs.
The comprehensive support system is vital for the wellbeing and stability of the Wyong community.
The Rising Star Award, honouring new volunteers who have quickly made a significant impact in their roles, went to Gary Wilson of HammondCare and Oliver Ricketts from Central Coast ARAFMI.
Wilson has quickly made an extraordinary impact at HammondCare Woy Woy, taking on any role, from driving the bus to managing inventory.
His impact is sure to continue growing as he brings his unique blend of energy and dedication to HammondCare.
Ricketts, a 20-year-old volunteer at ARAFMI Central Coast, has transformed the organisation’s administrative processes by creating a dynamic story workbook.
His innovative approach includes adding images and creative mapping techniques and his contributions have significantly improved the administrative experience for both clients and staff.
The Leadership Award, recognising volunteers who inspire and guide others in their community, was won by Ryan Howard of the Mangrove Mountain and Districts Community Group.
As president of the Mangrove Mountain and Districts Community Group, he has used the historic Mangrove Mountain Hall as a focal point for community activities.
He co-ordinates monthly markets and the Annual Harvest Festival Hubs, which attract visitors from across the state and financially support many valued community assets.
Howard’s love for blues music inspired him to start Blues on the Mountain 12 years ago.
He also maintains several key community assets, including the Mangrove Mountain Recreation Reserve and the Union Church, and has been instrumental in securing grants for community projects.