20 April 2011 | Citizenship and Communities Minister Victor Dominello MP
Citizenship and Communities Minister Victor Dominello MP has praised more than 2,000 volunteers at the 2011 Sydney Royal Easter Show, now the biggest event in the Southern Hemisphere.
Mr Dominello, who has responsibility for the Volunteering portfolio, said volunteers are at the front line providing valuable services to about 900,000 people who pass through the show's gates every year.
"Whether working in areas such as administration, information and ushering, our volunteers help ensure the Sydney Royal Easter Show is a world-class event," Mr Dominello said.
"Many of the judges, officials and support staff involved in Easter Show competition and events are also volunteers.
"All volunteers are over the age of 17 and carry out a minimum of eight shifts over the 14-day event. For their service, volunteers, depending on their role, receive benefits including free access to the show throughout its duration, meal vouchers, an official volunteer uniform and exclusive entry to the Volunteer Green Room.
"This dedicated group of people help make the Show a dynamic entertainment experience for the whole family and I want to congratulate them on their efforts.
"NSW is indebted to volunteers for the many local sporting, cultural, education and environmental activities that enrich our community and those who dedicate their time in the health system and emergency services," Mr Dominello said.
Ken Caldwell, of Berala, is a volunteer Team Leader at the Sydney Royal Easter Show and has volunteered for the past six years.
"I really enjoy the interaction with people in my role as a volunteer. You meet people from both the country and the city and most importantly put a smile on people's faces," Mr Caldwell said.
"I am delighted that this year my teenaged son Tim is joining me as a volunteer at the Sydney Royal Easter Show.
"Volunteering is a big part of my life. As well as working at the Royal Easter Show I am an actively involved with the NSW Scouts movement and have coached netball for the past 26 years."
Media contact: Peter Shmigel 02 9228 4333