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Rochester praises volunteers’ vital role in rural community life

By Jaci Hicken

May 19, 2026

St Joseph’s Primary School parent volunteer pancake chefs Beck Wolfe, Laura Mundie, Allison McDonald and Becky O’Sullivan. Photo by Emily Donohoe

Rochester Business Network vice-president Kate Taylor has praised the vital role volunteers play in keeping rural communities thriving during National Volunteer Week.

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“National Volunteer Week is a time to recognise and celebrate the people who quietly keep communities like ours running, not for recognition or reward, but simply because they care,” Mrs Taylor said.

“In Rochester and its surrounds, volunteers are the heartbeat of our community.”

She described volunteers as the backbone of community life, working tirelessly behind the scenes.

“They are the people setting up before the event starts and packing up long after everyone has gone home,” Mrs Taylor said.

“They are the hands behind the fundraisers, the faces at the gate, the people cooking the barbecue, driving community buses, coaching junior sport, helping at school events, delivering meals, checking in on neighbours and offering support when it’s needed most.”

Rochester Golf Club’s Darren White (left) and Peter Anderson (right) with Men’s Shed volunteer Steve Harris (centre). Photo: Emily Donohoe. Photo by Emily Donohoe

Mrs Taylor emphasised the critical dependence rural areas had on volunteer support.

“Small rural communities rely heavily on volunteers,” she said.

“Without them, many of the things we value most simply wouldn’t happen.

“Sporting clubs, Scouts, school programs, community events, local fundraisers and support services all depend on people willing to give their time freely for the benefit of others.”

The volunteer network spans numerous organisations across the region.

“Some volunteer through organisations such as Lions and Rotary Club,” Mrs Taylor said.

“Others lend a hand at local community houses, assist with FoodShare programs, or spend time visiting residents in aged care facilities to brighten someone's day with conversation and companionship.”

Community transport volunteer Felicity McArthur. Photo by Supplied

She highlighted the growing involvement of younger generations in volunteer work.

“Importantly, volunteering is no longer something done only by older generations,” Mrs Taylor said.

“Our youth are recognising the benefits of volunteering; building confidence, connection, skills and a sense of belonging within their community.”

Rochester Business Network committee members treasurer Donna Campbell, president Sanjay Ranchhod, secretary Edie May and vice-president Kate Taylor. Photo by Emily Donohoe

Mrs Taylor encouraged community members to consider volunteering opportunities.

“Reach out to a local sporting club, community organisation, support service or one of the representatives from the Rochester Business Network, another group made up entirely of volunteers working to support and strengthen our community,” she said.

“Because in towns like ours, volunteers are not just helpful, they are essential.”

For more information about all the opportunities for volunteers and to help out your community of Rochester, search Rochester Business Network — Love Rochy on Facebook.