National Volunteer Week is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering. It honours millions of volunteers, highlights their impact and provides organisations with an opportunity to say thank you.
Our region is rich with volunteers who show up every day to support others. Their contributions do not go unnoticed — they are the beating heart of our community.
As you turn the pages of this feature publication, free inside the News this Friday, May 15, we encourage you to read the inspiring stories from volunteers themselves, along with the organisations that proudly recognise and thank them for their ongoing support.
The 2026 theme for National Volunteer Week is ‘Your Year to Volunteer’, and we hope this magazine inspires you to explore the many opportunities available across the Goulburn Valley.
These pages are filled with practical information on how to get involved, along with an abundance of inspiration.
State Member for Shepparton Kim O’Keeffe has sponsored this publication for three consecutive years now. She understands just how vital volunteers are to the community and the difference they truly make.
“Volunteers are the unsung heroes who keep numerous organisations and community groups afloat,” Mrs O’Keeffe said.
“Many would not survive without their support.
“This edition highlights the incredible dedication of my close friend, and a truly inspiring individual: Dale Wright, who has volunteered for more than 40 years.
“There are so many unsung heroes in our community, and to every one of them, I say thank you.”
Our Community Our Volunteers is free inside the News this Friday — be sure to grab your copy.