ANNOUNCING OUR TOWN’S OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

Local Werribee volunteer John Forrester has received a 2019 Victorian Volunteer Champion Award for his leadership in the Wyndham community with the Werribee River Association.

Member for Werribee Tim Pallas today congratulated John Forrester for his incredible in work in the Werribee community. For 26 years, John has been contributing to the local environment through the Werribee River Association – his dedication has ensured this vital waterway will be protected for future generations of Victorians.

Now in its seventh year, the Victorian Premier’s Volunteer Champions Awards were created to recognise and celebrate the value and impact of volunteering across Victoria in building our communities, services and connections.

More than 1.5 million Victorians volunteer their time, skills and experience – making a huge contribution to our local communities. Their contribution to the Victorian economy is estimated to be worth up to $42 billion by 2021, if volunteering rates continue.

This year, 247 nominations were received across the categories of Service, Leadership, Impact and Teamwork and 57 volunteers were recognised for their invaluable contributions.

To find out more, visit: volunteer.vic.gov.au/awards.

Quote attributable to Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Luke Donnellan

“Congratulations to all our award recipients. You are the backbone of our local communities, providing comfort and relief to people who need it most.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“Every year we see outstanding volunteers who are putting their heart and soul into working together to support Victorians. Thanks to <insert local winner> and all our outstanding volunteers who help make Victoria a better place to live.”

“These awards recognise the outstanding and selfless work that all our volunteers do in the community every day.”