Acknowledging the vital contributions of volunteers, who form an impressive 20 percent of the organisation’s workforce, more than 190 dedicated individuals attended the event and enjoyed a morning of delicious food, camaraderie, and recognition.
The morning tea featured an array of savory delights, including sandwiches and sausage rolls, followed by an assortment of sweet treats and homemade scones. The event was masterfully hosted by Rob Guest, Executive General Manager – People, Culture, and Safety, who kept the attendees engaged and informed.
mecwacare CEO Anne McCormack delivered a special address, extending her gratitude to all volunteers for their unwavering commitment and invaluable contributions across all areas of the business. Her heartfelt thanks set the tone for the morning, highlighting the significant impact volunteers have on the organisation’s ability to deliver exceptional care and support to the community.
One of the highlights of the event was the announcement of the Volunteer of the Year Awards. There were several winners for each of the three categories, which were New Volunteer of the Year, ACVVS Volunteer of the Year, and overall Volunteer of the Year. Service Awards were also presented to volunteers who had dedicated 10, 15, 20, 25 and 40 milestone years of service to mecwacare. They were honoured with beautiful glass trophies, celebrating their long term commitment and dedication.
The morning tea not only provided an opportunity to celebrate and thank the volunteers but also to foster a sense of community and appreciation among the attendees. The event underscored the essential role that volunteers play at mecwacare and the profound impact of their dedication on the lives of those they assist.
“We are immensely grateful to our volunteers for their generosity and commitment,” said CEO Anne McCormack.
“Their selfless service is the backbone of our organization, and this morning tea is a small token of our appreciation for their invaluable contributions.”
The Volunteer Appreciation Morning Tea at Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club was a resounding success, leaving attendees feeling valued and inspired.
mecwacare looks forward to continuing to honour and support its volunteers, who are crucial in fulfilling our mission to provide exceptional care and services to the community.
Volunteer Award Winners and Service Award recipients
10 years of Volunteer Service:
Tony Browne, Windsor op shop
Susan Buda, Windsor op shop
15 years of Volunteer Service:
Margaret Bell, Elstoft House
Jenny Pickering, Rivendell House
20 years of Volunteer Service:
Claire Gregory, Noel Miller Centre
25 years of Volunteer Service:
Peter Vawdon, Rivendell House
40 years of Volunteer Service:
Barry Fenton, Barry Fenton Centre
New Volunteer of the Year:
Brady Massari
Stacey McKercher
Aged Care Volunteer Visitor’s Scheme (ACVVS) Volunteer of the Year:
Eda Vistac
Volunteer of the Year:
Geoff Wenham, Fisher Street Centre
Melissa Doyle, Malvern op shop
Debbie Bryant, Pascoe Vale Gardens Retirement Village, Squires Place, John Atchison Centre
Meals on Wheels Volunteer of the Year:
Rob Blanco
