Victorians who make a difference by volunteering in health will be recognised in the prestigious 2019 Minister for Health Volunteer Awards – now in their eleventh year.

Tim Pallas MP today called for nominations to honour the hard-working and dedicated health volunteers from Wyndham who enrich patients’ lives through their compassion and generosity.

The awards celebrate the achievements of our tireless volunteers and their major contribution to patients in Victoria’s public healthcare system.

Each and every day, volunteers in health make a huge difference by spending time at patients’ bedsides, helping people live healthier lives and using their experience to improve care for others. Nominees can include individuals, teams or groups who volunteer across all areas of healthcare such as hospitals, ambulance services, community health, mental health and aged care.

This year’s awards will recognise volunteering excellence across six categories:

• Outstanding achievement by a young volunteer
• Outstanding lifetime achievement
• Outstanding achievement by a volunteer: Better Care Victoria innovation award
• Outstanding achievement by a volunteer: Supporting diversity
• Outstanding achievement by a volunteer: Improving public healthcare
• Outstanding achievement by a volunteer: Improving the patient experience.

In addition, the Victorian Health Volunteers Honour Roll recognises volunteers who have given 50 years of service. Everyone who has contributed 50 years or more volunteering in public healthcare is eligible.

Nominations will close on Tuesday, 5 March. The awards will be presented in a special ceremony in May. For more information or to nominate a volunteer, visit www.health.vic.gov.au/volunteerawards.

Quotes attributable to Tim Pallas MP

“Volunteers bring a lot to the health system. These everyday heroes go over and above the call of duty to support patients and help change lives for the better.”

“The Andrews Labor Government is immensely proud of Victoria’s health volunteers. Whether it’s organising fundraising activities or lending a hand with personal care, each day they make a real difference.”

“I encourage people in Wyndham to nominate a selfless health volunteer who deserves recognition for giving back. This is the perfect way to show our gratitude and say thanks.”