Anne Stanley (Werriwa, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Last week, I hosted a morning tea to celebrate 27 of Werriwa's worthy volunteers and recognise their efforts in our community. This is the second year I've had the privilege of recognising those in our community who selflessly provide their time to help others. They are the backbone of our community, allowing participation in sporting events, providing food and comfort to the elderly, looking after children and new arrivals to our country, and providing calming and green spaces to those in aged care. Volunteers take many forms, whether they are in local football or netball clubs; at schools like Lurnea High, where year 11 students prepare breakfast for their fellow students who can't have breakfast at home; or in organisations like The Salvation Army at Macquarie Fields. Volunteering also contributes enormous amounts to our economy, providing support that money is not available to buy. In New South Wales, the latest figures indicate the volunteer rate has risen slightly to just over 18 per cent, a two per cent rise in the last four years. But I especially thank those from our community who took the time to nominate the volunteers that were recognised last week. It's important to acknowledge the hard work of all our volunteers and their efforts. My community is a better place for the contributions of our volunteers: they turn our suburbs into communities.