Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering was held from the 20-26 May, with businesses and community groups coming together to recognise National Volunteer Week across the country.
Working with three of the Port of Brisbane’s community partners, 27 staff volunteered 212 hours of their time to mentor young people, build and fill oyster baskets, and volunteer at the Drought Angels distribution centre in Chinchilla.
Community Relations Advisor, Edward Harwood, organised the Port’s volunteering efforts.
“As we do every year, we’ve had another great response from our people to lend a hand to organisations who support our community”, said Mr Harwood.
“They’ve been keen to spend time mentoring young people with The Smith Family, working with OzFish as part of its Shellfish Recycling Program, and helping to support farming families out west with Drought Angels.
“Port of Brisbane has developed valuable partnerships with organisations both here in the Bayside and further afield. Some of these, such as The Smith Family, have been partners for many years and National Volunteering Week activities are just part of a broader partnership.
“Our employees also receive two full days volunteer leave every year to support our community partners or a charity close to their own hearts.
“While we encourage and organise opportunities for our people throughout the year, we turbo charge our efforts during National Volunteer Week.
“In fact this year, over 10% of our workforce got involved. Our people get a lot out of giving back.”
If you want to find out more about National Volunteer Week or other opportunities available, head to Volunteering Australia’s website: https://www.volunteeringaustralia.org