With National Volunteer Week set to begin
on Monday, May 18, East Gippsland Shire
Council is issuing a final call to residents to nominate their local legends for the 2026 East Gippsland Volunteer Honour Roll before the fast-approaching deadline.
Community members have until Friday, May 15, to submit nominees to be inducted and celebrated as part of this year’s roll.
Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said now is
the time for the community to help shine a light on the people who give so much of themselves to others.
“Across East Gippsland, there are thousands of people who give their time, energy and compassion without ever expecting recognition,” Cr Ashworth said.
“They are the people running local sporting clubs, supporting community groups, protecting our environment, helping neighbours in times of crisis, and ensuring our emergency services are ready when they are needed most. These volunteers are the heart of our communities, and this is an opportunity to publicly thank them for the contribution they make to life in East Gippsland.”
The region boasts a powerful culture of service, with 19.2 per cent of residents actively volunteering—a figure significantly higher than the regional Victorian average.
Cr Ashworth emphasised that National
Volunteer Week (May 18–24) is the perfect time to celebrate those whose efforts often happen behind the scenes.
“Many volunteers never seek recognition, but their impact is felt right across our region every single day,” she said.
“A nomination only takes a few minutes, but it can mean so much to someone who has dedicated years of service to supporting others and strengthening their community. If someone in your town or community comes to mind, don’t wait – nominate them before the deadline.”
As part of the celebrations, council is also recognising locals who live and work in the region while volunteering their personal time to various clubs and organisations.
One such example is Jodie York, who has
been a pillar of the Mallacoota community for more than a decade.
Her extensive volunteer work spans the Mallacoota District Business and Tourism Association, Mallacoota and District Kids Inc, and Mallacoota Events Inc.
Jodie’s contribution reaches almost
every corner of community life, from early childhood services and schools to major
regional programs like the Wild Harvest Seafood Festival, Visit Mallacoota, Judo, Auskick, and local playgroups.
Council noted that her energy, generosity and long-standing commitment continue to make a lasting difference in Mallacoota.
Residents are encouraged to act quickly to ensure their local volunteers are part of the 2026 celebration.
Nominations can be submitted at any
Council Customer Service Centre, online or by calling.
The window for the 2026 induction closes at the end of business this Friday, May 15.
