General News
15 May, 2026
Celebrating volunteers in Hindmarsh
THE HINDMARSH Shire Council is celebrating volunteers through a series of events this upcoming National Volunteer Week (May 18 – 24).
The week is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering, spearheaded by Volunteering Australia.
This year’s theme of ‘Your Year to Volunteer’ recognises millions of volunteers across the country and invites everyone to discover how giving their time and talents can create connection, purpose and stronger communities.
Hindmarsh Shire Council mayor Ron Ismay said it was a time to say thank you to the people who had given their time, energy and care to others.
“Council recognises and appreciates the tremendous amount of hard work that our volunteers do and the significant role that they play in keeping our community connected and stronger, particularly through difficult times,” he said.
Volunteer Shout Out
Hindmarsh Shire Libraries will have a ‘Volunteer Shout Out’ board for the week, where you can highlight an individual, group, or project that deserves recognition.
Free classic movie and morning tea
The classic movie, ‘Young Frankenstein’ scheduled for Tuesday, May 19, from 10am will include a light morning tea and refreshments, giving volunteers an opportunity to enjoy the movie and enjoy a relaxing time, while sharing stories and networking with other community members.
Meet and greet at Cuppa Connections
Council’s highly successful Cuppa Connections program will include a morning or afternoon tea with special guests discussing volunteering opportunities in Hindmarsh Shire.
Cuppa Connections is a regular event where community members can meet new people, catch up with old friends and enjoy a cuppa in their local library.
Jeparit: Wednesday, May 20, from 10am-12pm.
Rainbow: Wednesday, May 20, from 2pm-4pm.
Nhill: Thursday, May 21, from 10am-12pm.
Dimboola: Thursday, May 28, from 10am-12pm.
Volunteering Opportunities Spotlight and Recruitment Drive
Council has recognised the challenges around volunteering and will take the opportunity to highlight the individuals currently volunteering and the community groups currently recruiting volunteers.
Council has invited the community to participate in promoting Volunteer Week by providing volunteer spotlights on individuals, projects, and community groups.
An expression of interest form has been created.
To promote your community group and vacant volunteering positions, visit www.hindmarsh.vic.gov.au/NVW and complete the expression of interest form.
Volunteer Education and Resources
Community groups and organisations registered on the council’s database will also receive educational resources on volunteering.
Resources include training opportunities, templates, and tips on reducing volunteer burnout, streamlining administrative tasks, and keeping up to date with key legislation.
Cr Ismay said Hindmarsh communities “run on the power of volunteers, and we understand the challenges in attracting new volunteers”.
“We encourage all community groups to contact Council so we can support your volunteer recruitment efforts and help ease the workload on our volunteer army,” he said.
A list of detailed events and resources for National Volunteer Week can be found at www.hindmarsh.vic.gov.au/NVW.
For more information or any enquiries, please contact Council’s Community Strategy and Engagement Team on (03) 5391 4444 or email community@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au