Kiama Council has celebrated the contribution made to our community by volunteers, with an afternoon tea for representatives of various groups.

The Acting General Manager, Mike Dowd, said, "Volunteers are an invaluable component of our society.

"27 per cent of our Municipality are volunteers, compared to the State average of 18 per cent.

"The commitment and sacrifices you have made are very much appreciated by the community."

Guest speaker Tricia Ashelford, Kiama's Citizen of the Year, said, "While you don't get paid for volunteering, it is very rewarding in many ways.

"It is such a great way to feel connected within the community, make friends and feel you are making a difference."

Mayor Mark Honey listed the myriad of ways that volunteers have helped over the past 18 months, from raising funds for the drought and mental health initiatives, to fighting bushfires and patrolling our beaches.

The event was held to coincide with National Volunteer Week.