Marking our volunteers

Mountain Views Mail Healesville, Melbourne (General News) by Kath Gannaway There are more than 1.5 million volunteers across Victoria, and a lot of them are making a difference in community groups and clubs across Yarra Ranges. The Victorian Government is providing an opportunity to say thanks to volunteers as part of the Victorian Premiers Volunteer Champions Awards, and reward the Volunteer of the Year with a $10,000 donation to the charity of their choice. Labor Upper House Member for Northern Victoria, Jaclyn Symes, says the prestigious awards will recognise up to 60 volunteers of different ages and cultural backgrounds, in the categories of leadership, impact, service, and teamwork. These awards are just one of the ways that people in country Victoria can celebrate the selfless work of our volunteering community, Ms Symes said. Award nominations close on 14 August at 5pm. To nominate a volunteer or for more information, visit: www. volunteer.vic.gov.au/awards