General News
15 May, 2026
Local volunteers from all walks of life to be celebrated
The tireless efforts of local volunteers will be celebrated and recognised at the Central Goldfields Shire’s thank-you event on Monday.
All volunteers are invited to council’s free National Volunteer Week event on May 18 from 5.30 pm at the Maryborough Highland Society.
It rings in what may be the largest annual celebration of volunteering this year held between May 18 to 24.
This year’s theme is “your year to volunteer” recognising the efforts of those already contributing in the community while encouraging others to do the same.
Whether it be supporting your local footy or netball club, dropping everything as an emergency services volunteer, or quietly helping a neighbour, school, kindergarten or church — all contributions matter.
Central Goldfields Shire mayor Ben Green said the event was an opportunity to acknowledge the many sacrifices local volunteers make.
“I’m incredibly proud of the volunteers across our shire. They step up in emergencies, run events, support essential services and keep so many local activities going — often without any fanfare,” he said.
“We also recognise the families and dependents who support our volunteers behind the scenes, sharing the load so they can give their time to others.
“This event is our chance to say thank you for the dedication, passion and community spirit that make the Central Goldfields a great place to live.”
The event is held in partnership with the Maryborough Volunteer Resource Group (MVRG), who will update the community on the Community Hub Feasibility Study and speak with young volunteers.
The feasibility study is exploring how a community hub could best support local organisations.
The work was made possible thanks to funding from Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) received late last year.
Maryborough Volunteer Resource Centre president Tony Macer said there’s been growing momentum in the local volunteering sector in the past year.
“The FRRR funding is really kicking in, with the Community Hub Feasibility Study underway, workshops well attended, and expert support being provided for potential community-building projects by Alistair Shaw,” he said.
“There is a palpable sense of optimism among our community groups.”