BANKFOOT House volunteer Alan Graham has been featured in a new series of videos celebrating the generosity of volunteers across the Sunshine Coast.
The short clips are part of Volunteer Week, which Sunshine Coast Council Community Portfolio Councillor David Law said was a chance to say thank you “as we celebrate and recognise the vital work of Sunshine Coast volunteers”.
“I’d like to express my gratitude to volunteers right across the Sunshine Coast, who willingly give their time, efforts and experience for nothing in return,” Cr Law said.
“We are very grateful to have about 870 passionate active volunteers who partner with council to deliver vital services across so many areas such as helping people learn to read, looking after our environment and wildlife, preserving our history, delivering exciting events and sharing our region’s stories.
Already in the first five months of 2022, these volunteers have generously donated a staggering 15,000 hours of their own time.
“In [the videos], one volunteer, John, explains how Bush Care allowed him to connect with a gentleman who needed support during a difficult time,” Cr Law said.
“And Alan describes how volunteering at Bankfoot House meant he has been able to reconnect with a lost passion.”
Alan said he acts not only as a tour guide but as support for staff in cataloging the vast collection of historical items and information.
“That involves a bit of research because it’s not just a case of writing down or taking a photograph,” he said.
“I love watching young kids go through the property and ask mum or dad, ‘what do you do with that?’ and explaining the whole kind of process.”
Those interested in volunteering through council are urged to visit local libraries, environmental visitor centres or other facilities.
Main image: Bankfoot House volunteer Alan Graham