Councillor column – 4 May 2023

Published on 05 May 2023

Hi everyone, my name is Donnie Grigau, I was elected to the Borough of Queenscliffe Council in 2020 and am responsible for the Health and Wellbeing Portfolio.

Did you know that National Volunteer Week (NVW) is fast approaching, being held this year on 15-23 May?

NVW is Australia’s largest celebration of volunteering, a dedicated, week-long event, it recognises the vital support the many volunteers in our communities provide – and actively encourages others to consider volunteering themselves. An opportunity to connect with others, make friends and importantly, make a difference in the lives of others.

This year’s theme for National Volunteer Week is The Change Makers, which celebrates the powerful impact volunteers make when giving their time to help both individuals and their communities. It is a salute to the opportunity we have to drive change and ensure volunteering is inclusive of all members of the Australian community.

Many of us are familiar with the expression ‘It is better to give than receive’,  and while the Borough has a high rate of volunteering, there are so many worthwhile community organisations and sporting clubs you can lend a hand to. You're bound to find an organisation or sporting club where you can impart your time, skills and/or knowledge to help give back to the community. There are also plenty of people willing to help you learn new things – volunteering really does have benefits for all involved.

With the ever-growing demands of modern life, the sense of belonging to a community is greatly needed. Many community organisations have struggled to maintain let alone increase their volunteer base so why not join a group?

In the Borough, there is an assortment of community organisations and groups looking for volunteers. No matter your age or ability you will be welcomed. Local groups include the CFA, Volunteer Coast Guard, Cottage by the Sea, Queenscliff Football Netball Club, Point Lonsdale Life Saving Club, Borough Coastcarers, Queenscliff–Point Lonsdale Lions Club and Point Lonsdale Boardriders Club to name a few!

During National Volunteer Week, Council celebrates local volunteers at our Community Service Awards and Volunteers Celebration event. The evening pays tribute to the generous contributions members of our community make through their volunteer efforts. If your community group have not received an invitation to attend, please reach out to Council and speak with a member of our Events team.

The reward for giving your time to help others cannot be overstated. Leading by example, I am at the Queenscliff Football Netball Club on a Thursday cooking up meals. It is open to all and welcomes everyone. Meals are served from 5:30 pm every Thursday during the Bellarine Football Netball League season.

I hope to see everyone out in the community enjoying life, reach out to me if you see me out and about – or connect with me or any of the Borough of Queenscliffe Councillors via the contact details on Council’s website.

Cr Donnie Grigau

Councillor, Borough of Queenscliffe