Minister John Ajaka, left, with Vivien Clyne (Moree Plains Gallery), Jo Sweedman (Friends of Moree Regional Botanic Gardens), Felicity Curtis (Moree Family Support) and Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall pictured yesterday. (Photo courtesy of Moree Champion)
MEMBER for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall and the NSW Minister responsible for volunteering John Ajaka yesterday congratulated three local organisations for their work in supporting local volunteers and announced Moree would host a volunteering expo.
Mr Marshall said the state government acknowledged the tremendous benefits of volunteering and how vital it was to support volunteering across country NSW.
“Volunteers do so much to make our local community stronger and better. Whether it’s lending a hand at weekend sport or helping families in need, they all deserve our thanks and recognition,” Mr Marshall said.
“Our country communities depend on the work of volunteers – people who feel a deep sense of service and have a strong desire to put something back into their community.
“I am pleased to announce that the government will support a volunteering expo here in Moree. The expo will focus on promoting volunteer roles and driving recruitment.”
Yesterday three local organisations – Friends of Moree Regional Botanic Gardens, Moree Plains Gallery and Moree Family Support – were each presented with a Statement of Principles for the Recognition of Volunteers Certificate for developing good practice and establishing rewarding roles for volunteers.
The Statement of Principles for the Recognition of Volunteers is part of the NSW Volunteering Strategy initiative to encourage organisations to recognise and celebrate the contribution of volunteers. These guiding principles ensure that the expectations of volunteers and organisations are well managed.
“From North Sydney to the Northern Tablelands, volunteers play a vital role in our local communities. Their efforts help us become a better, more connected and compassionate community,” Mr Ajaka said.
“The NSW Government is determined to better support, recognise and encourage volunteering across the State.”
Across NSW over 370 organisations have engaged in the program leading to more than 775,000 volunteer receiving coverage under the Statement of Principles.
More information on how to register can be found via the NSW Volunteering website, www.volunteering.nsw.gov.au