LAST MEETING: Our guest speaker was Elissa Wesche from TRC Volunteers Office
Volunteers across New South Wales are being recognised as a vital force in communities, contributing everywhere from schools and canteens to local events and support services. Their presence is widespread, with individuals offering time, skills, and passion to keep communities functioning and connected. Elissa highlighted how volunteers quietly underpin everyday life, often without recognition, yet their impact is deeply felt across towns and regions.
New data from the 2025 New South Wales State of Volunteering report reveals the enormous economic value of this contribution. Volunteering is estimated to add $205.3 billion to the state’s economy, with every dollar invested returning approximately $5.60. This underscores not only the scale of volunteer efforts but also their importance as a key driver of social and economic wellbeing.
The report also outlines what motivates people to volunteer. The leading reasons include helping others, using personal skills, supporting causes, and responding during crises. On a personal level, volunteers report gaining a sense of purpose, building friendships, enjoying social connections, and learning new skills. These findings reflect the strong link between volunteering and both individual fulfilment and community cohesion.
In Tamworth, local leaders say this spirit of community is especially strong. Residents are described as highly willing to contribute, whether through small acts like fundraising or larger commitments such as organising events. A new Volunteer Services Officer role within council is working to support this culture, overseeing around 80 volunteers across 13 council-run sites and acting as a key link between community groups, organisations, and individuals seeking to get involved.
Looking ahead, efforts are underway to strengthen and modernise volunteering across the region. Priorities include increasing recognition for volunteers, improving accessibility for youth, people with disabilities, and busy workers, and reducing barriers such as complex onboarding processes. Plans also focus on expanding outreach through schools, social media, and community events, with the goal of reconnecting people of all ages to volunteering and ensuring the sector continues to thrive into the future.
Notes courtesy of Kevin Craggs and the Editor
Some of the Volunteers at Oakburn Park last Saturday