Wentworth volunteering veteran Janice White has been named the Far West Volunteer of the Year for 2024 for her work over half a century as community newspaper editor, as a Meals on Wheels and Country Women’s Association (CWA) member, and for her dedication to teaching water safety to the town’s children.

Jan was recognised today at a special ceremony at the Broken Hill Musicians Club as part of the 2024 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards. Recipients in other Far West regional award categories were also announced, including young, adult, senior and volunteer team of the year.

The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards celebrate the work of thousands of individuals and volunteer teams from a diverse range of organisations across the state.

The Awards are hosted by The Centre for Volunteering, whose mission it is to promote and support volunteering across NSW.

Far West Young Volunteer of the Year: James Dall’Armi from Broken Hill

James gives his time as a member of the Youth Advisory Group for the Far West Local Health District, where he helps to improve health literacy and outcomes for young people in the region. He chairs meetings and supports Youth Week, NAIDOC Week and Reconciliation Action Week.

Far West Adult Volunteer of the Year: Kerry-Sue Pascoe from Broken Hill

Kerry-Sue has been a leading volunteer across sporting and community groups in Broken Hill for nearly four decades. The former school teacher has led the 3rd Broken Hill Sea Scouts for nine and a half years and provided leadership to local softball clubs and preschools. She also serves as President of the Broken Hill Little Athletics Centre and the local historical collector’s club.

Far West Senior Volunteer of the Year: Janice White from Wentworth

For over half a century, Jan has volunteered as the editor of the New South Western Standard Bulletin, helping to keep the remote, regional community of Wentworth informed and connected. She has also given her time with the Country Women’s Association, Wentworth Bowling Club, Meals on Wheels, and taught water safety and swimming to generations of children living at the junction of the Darling and Murray Rivers.

Far West Volunteer Team of the Year: Broken Hill Breast Cancer Support & Fundraising Group

The 15 team members at the Broken Hill Breast Cancer Support & Fundraising Group provide practical services such as wig fittings and free prosthesis to breast cancer and other cancer patients. The team are prolific fundraisers through the Paint Our Town Pink initiative, which they began 15 years ago to raise breast cancer awareness.

The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said:

“These awards recognise the exceptional effort of volunteers across the Far West region.

“Whether it’s in the local sports club, in health care, education and cultural centres, legal support or emergency response, volunteers are essential for the ongoing health and viability of local communities.

“It’s important for volunteers across the region to know that their commitment is recognised and valued.”

The Awards are supported by Principal Partners the NSW Department of Communities and Justice and ClubsNSW.

The NSW Minister with responsibility for Volunteering, Jodie Harrison said:

“Congratulations to the recipients of the Far West Volunteer of the Year Awards. Thank you for the incredible contributions you make to NSW and your local community.

“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our communities, and the NSW Government is pleased to be partnering with The Centre for Volunteering to recognise volunteers and the valuable role they play in making NSW the best state to live and work in.”

ClubsNSW CEO Rebecca Riant said:

“The awards are a tribute to the vital contributions made by volunteers across the state. Volunteers are the backbone of the NSW club industry, and their efforts are crucial in uplifting local communities.

“We’re delighted to have a special Club Volunteer of the Year Award category, and I can’t wait to see who takes home that honour.”

Far West Award recipients will be invited to represent their region at the Gala State Ceremony in Sydney at the end of the year, where the NSW Volunteer of the Year will be announced across each category

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