National Volunteer Week 2026
National Volunteer Week 2026 Celebration
Each year, National Volunteer Week gives us an opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary contribution Volunteers make across Australia, and to reflect on the difference they create in the lives of others.
As part of this year’s theme, “Your Year to Volunteer,” we came together on Tuesday, 19 May to honour the people who embody that message every day, our Volunteers, who show up time and again with compassion and genuine care.
We gathered at The George Tavern in East Maitland for a special luncheon that was filled with a sense of connection. It was a wonderful reminder that volunteering is not just about service, it’s about community, friendship, and shared purpose.
One of the highlights of National Volunteer Week is celebrating the individuals who reflect the very heart of volunteering. We proudly presented 7 awards on the day.
Congratulations to recipients
Charlie Pickard – “Rock of the Team” Award
Helen Harvison – “Remarkable Effort” Award
Jen Lohs – “Above and Beyond” Award
Christine Turnbull – “Spirit of Service” Award
Service Milestones:
Charlie Pickard – 10 years of service
Kate McLaughlin – 10 years of service (well… 11 actually!)
A very special congratulations to Jenny Cridland, who was awarded Life Membership in recognition of her incredible 36 years of service. What an extraordinary achievement. Jenny’s commitment speaks volumes about what volunteering can mean, not just a one-off contribution, but a lifelong dedication to supporting others.
We were also honoured to have Kate Bowman, Volunteer Service Support Program Manager for Palliative Care NSW, join us as our special guest. Kate delivered an uplifting talk and has since featured our award recipients in the latest Palliative Care Volunteering monthly eNews. It’s a wonderful piece that even raises the question of whether Jenny could be the longest-serving Palliative Care Volunteer in NSW. How amazing that would be!
You can read Kate’s article here.
Acts of kindness were everywhere on the day, including a generous donation of chocolate hearts from Chris Vollmer of Darrell Lea Maitland.
National Volunteer Week is our chance to say thank you to our amazing Volunteers, but also to remind our wider community of the vital role Volunteers play every day. Whether it’s offering, companionship, or practical support, our Volunteers make a profound difference.
If there has ever been a year to get involved, this is it.
