Jamberoo’s Barbara Adams has long been a beacon of compassion and dedication in her community, and her recent win at the regional Volunteer of the Year awards is yet another testament to her tireless efforts. As she prepares for the state finals in December, Barbara reflects on her many years of service with the Red Cross and the countless lives she has touched along the way.

Barbara’s commitment to volunteering isn’t just about raising money—it’s about making a tangible difference in people’s lives when they need it most. “When the bushfires hit Batemans Bay, we took $15,000 down there and gave it to the Red Cross to use as needed. I know it helped people who needed something as simple as a washing machine, and it supported one of the Aboriginal settlements down there,” she recalls. The devastation was stark, with some homes completely destroyed while others remained untouched. “It’s hard to imagine what people went through,” Barbara says, her voice tinged with empathy.

The community of Lismore also benefited from Jamberoo Red Cross’ fundraising efforts when severe flooding ravaged the area. “We sent money up there, and one of the programs taught all the school children to swim, helping them overcome their fear of water after the floods,” she explains. Barbara and her team’s fundraising has not only provided immediate relief but has also contributed to long-term recovery and resilience-building in communities across Australia.

Jamberoo Red Cross’ efforts extend beyond Australia’s borders. “We’ve had special donations from people for causes in Ukraine and Afghanistan, and we send those funds to where they are needed most,” she says. Through the generosity of the people in hometown of Jamberoo, the Red Cross has been able to support disaster relief efforts worldwide, ensuring that help reaches those in need, wherever they may be.

One of the services Barbara is most proud of is the Red Cross’s Telecross program, which checks on vulnerable people twice daily to ensure they are safe. “We call them in the morning and evening, and if they don’t answer after three rings, we contact their family or even the police,” she explains. There’s also the Telechat program, where volunteers call people who have no one to talk to, offering companionship and support. “A lot of people out there are on their own, and this service is really beautiful,” Barbara says, highlighting the importance of community connection.

While the local Red Cross has around 75 members, Barbara notes that most of them are older, with the average age ranging from 60 to 93. Despite this, she is keen to encourage more people, of any age, to get involved. “We have a parenting program that helps families get off Centrelink and back into the community. It teaches them nutrition, helps them find jobs, and supports them for two years. It’s a wonderful program that we contribute to every three months,” she shares.

Barbara is passionate about the sense of community that volunteering brings. “Just come along and enjoy the companionship,” she says warmly. Whether it’s knitting trauma teddies, baking for a stall, or simply offering a listening ear, Barbara believes that everyone has something valuable to contribute. Barbara’s story is not just one of service but of community spirit and global compassion. Her dedication has had a ripple effect, touching lives across the world and inspiring others to join her in making a difference. As she prepares for the state finals in December, Barbara’s focus remains on the people she helps and the impact her work has on their lives.

Her story is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there are always those who will step up, give their time, and offer a helping hand to those in need. Barbara Adams is one such person, and her legacy of service will continue to inspire for years to come.