The WA Volunteer Service Award program, run by the Department of Communities, acknowledges the significant efforts of longstanding Western Australian volunteers for their generous contribution to the community.

This year, 131 volunteers were recognised from across the State for dedicating 25 years or more of service to a single organisation, with awards presented at a ceremony held today
(May 22) as part of the 30th annual National Volunteer Week.

The theme of this year’s National Volunteer Week is ‘Making a world of difference’, which acknowledges the substantial social, economic and cultural contributions made by volunteers to their communities.

Amongst those recognised at today’s ceremony was Robert Chalmers who has volunteered with the Rockingham Districts Little Athletics Centre for 49 years, offering his expert sporting knowledge as an executive committee member and coach.

Other 2019 award recipients included Jim Gale of Bridgetown who has been the driving force behind the woodchop events at the Perth Royal Show for 45 years, and Patricia Hatch of Swanbourne who has been a St John Ambulance volunteer for 42 years.

These are just a few examples of the 131 outstanding Western Australians recognised for their unwavering commitment to volunteering over a significant period of time, as part of the 2019 WA Volunteer Service Award program.

“National Volunteer Week provides a fantastic opportunity to thank WA’s amazing volunteers for their contributions to our State. I encourage all Western Australians to applaud their efforts, and consider volunteering for a cause they are passionate about, ” Volunteering Minister Mick Murray said.