Published on Wednesday, 11 December 2019 at 7:37:46 AM
Narrogin celebrates volunteers
At a Sundowner on Thursday 5 December 2019, the Shire of Narrogin recognised volunteers as their most valuable asset. The event took place at the John Higgins Community Centre, and was attended by Peter Rundle MLA, Shire of Narrogin Elected Members, guest speaker Priya Cooper – the 1999 Young Australian of the Year for Sport, together with approximately 50 volunteers representing a number of community organisations in the Narrogin district.
Shire President Leigh Ballard, thanked the volunteers, acknowledging their contribution to the community and the vital role they play in the everyday lives of the members of the community. Mr Ballard went on to say ‘’The Shire of Narrogin wishes to acknowledge the generous support of the Department of Local Government and Communities for making this event possible’’.
Priya shared stories about the challenges she faced to overcome Cerebral Palsy to become one of Australia’s leading Paralympians. Her presentation was a reminder that any dream, large or small, personal or corporate, can come true with the strength of sheer determination. Priya was both entertaining and inspirational with her down to earth sense of humour and innate ability to tell a story.
In 2015 Volunteering Australia introduced a Review of the Definition of Volunteering in which volunteering is defined as ‘’ …time willingly given for the common good and without financial gain’’.
The Australian Government Department of Health website Healthdirect cites multiple health benefits of volunteering and states that Volunteering can:
- give you a sense of achievement and purpose;
- help you feel part of a community;
- help you feel better about yourself by improving your self-esteem and confidence;
- help you share your skills, learn new skills and create a better work-life balance;
- help combat stress, loneliness and social isolation, and depression; and
- help you meet new people, which can help you feel more connected and valued.
Volunteering provides an opportunity for people to become an active member in the community, while helping others. With over 120 community and sporting clubs located in and around Narrogin, there are many opportunities for anyone wishing to volunteer. Resources can be found in the links below:
Narrogin Online Directory
Volunteering WA, or
GoVolunteer
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