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Nominations opening soon for Greater Shepparton Volunteer Recognition Awards

In Summary

Nominations for the 16th annual Greater Shepparton Volunteer Recognition Awards will open on Monday 13 January 2025, celebrating the contributions of local volunteers.
The Young Volunteer Award has been renamed The Bella Ainsworth Young Volunteer Award in tribute to her advocacy for youth engagement and lasting community impact.
The awards feature four categories: The Bella Ainsworth Young Volunteer (12–25 years), Adult Volunteer (26+ years), Volunteer Team (groups of 2+), and Long Serving Volunteer (15+ years of service).
Nominations close at 5pm on Monday 24 February 2025. The awards ceremony will be held during National Volunteer Week in May 2025. Tap here for more details.

The awards, which are held during National Volunteer Week in May 2025, are an opportunity to recognise and thank volunteers who contribute their time and energy for the good of our community.

This year, Council is pleased to announce that the Young Volunteer Award category has been renamed The Bella Ainsworth Young Volunteer Award. This tribute honours Bella Ainsworth, a passionate advocate for youth engagement in the community, who sadly lost her battle with cancer in 2024.

Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said this year’s awards highlight the significance of volunteering in the Greater Shepparton region and the legacy of Bella’s work.

“The Volunteer Recognition Awards are an important way to thank and celebrate the wonderful volunteers who help out across the region,” he said.

“Renaming the Young Volunteer Award in Bella’s honour is a fitting tribute. Bella was a fierce advocate and champion for youth, whose dedication and passion improved the lives of so many in our community. It is our hope that young volunteers will be inspired by her advocacy and volunteerism.”

Nominations are open to people whose volunteering occurred within the Greater Shepparton Local Government Area. The four award categories are:

The Bella Ainsworth Young Volunteer: 12 to 25 years of age.
Adult Volunteer: 26 years of age and over.
Volunteer Team: A group of two or more people.
Long Serving Volunteer: 15 years or more service.

All nominees and nominators will be invited to celebrate at the Greater Shepparton Volunteer Recognition Awards ceremony in May 2025.

“Volunteers are the heart and soul of our communities. They dedicate their time, skills, and passion to make a positive difference, often without expecting anything in return,” Cr Sali said.

“This is your opportunity to acknowledge their selflessness, celebrate their efforts, and inspire others to step up and serve our community.”

Nominations close at 5pm on Monday 24 February 2025.

Click here for further information, award guidelines, and to nominate a volunteer, or contact Council’s Community Development Officers via phone on (03) 5832 9700 or email at volunteers@shepparton.vic.gov.au.