The 2024 Volunteer of the Year Awards celebrated our local heroes that put the needs of the community above all else. The ceremony was hosted by Gemma Rygate, Chief Executive Officer of The Centre for Volunteering.

Gareth Ward MP, John Knox & Maryanne Stuart MP

“It’s fantastic to celebrate the incredible efforts of volunteers who contribute so much to our communities,” Rygate remarked.

Over 139,000 nominations were received across New South Wales, a figure that speaks volumes about the vital role that our volunteers play in our communities. Rygate also highlighted that volunteers contribute an astounding $178 billion annually to the NSW economy.

Gareth Ward Barbara Adams Judi Sandilands-Cincotta with Ollie and David Abela

Among those recognised, a few are familiar faces in our community:

• Barbara Adams, from Jamberoo, took home the awards for Regional Senior Volunteer of the Year and the overall Regional Volunteer of the Year. Under her presidency, the Jamberoo Red Cross raised over $100,000 and organised community events like the Jamberoo Australia Day celebrations and the town’s Christmas decorations. Barbara will proudly represent the region at the state finals in December.
• From Gerringong, Joelie Robson was honoured for her work with Disaster Relief Australia. Robson has dedicated her personal time to assisting those in crisis situations.
• David Abela of Kiama has brought hope and joy to children and families battling cancer through his work with Camp Quality. 
• John Knox from Kiama Downs, a stalwart of the Minnamurra Lions Club, has quietly gone about making the world a better place, one service project at a time. Knox was recognised for his various charitable contributions.
• Vivienne Marris from Jamberoo, was recognised for her work with the Jamberoo Country Women’s Association including local initiatives and providing support to her community.
• Finally, Judi Sandilands-Cincotta from Kiama, a volunteer with Guide Dogs NSW who spends her days as a therapy dog handler with five-year-old labrador, Ollie. They attend high schools, courts, libraries, police and ambulance stations across the region to bring comfort and support.

Local state Member for Kiama, Gareth Ward took to the stand to share personal stories of his experiences with volunteers.

Joelie Robson and Hon Paul Scully MP

“Volunteerism can save lives, but it can also change lives,” Ward said, recalling a farmer whose life was turned around by the simple act of joining a Men’s Shed. 

“As someone who has benefited from volunteer efforts myself, I know firsthand the difference volunteers make in our communities,” Ward continued. 

“Congratulations to all the nominees and winners. Your work is a shining example of the difference that committed volunteers can make in our society. Let’s continue to spread the word about the importance of volunteering and inspire others to get involved,” Rygate concluded. 

Watch this space for interviews with our local heroes.