Professional Leaders of Volunteers
The finalists for the Professional Leaders of Volunteers awards were announced at Parliament House as part of the 2024 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards.
The Awards are an annual program run by The Centre for Volunteering and are supported by principal partners, the NSW Department of Communities and Justice, and ClubsNSW.
Five exceptional individuals from a range of sectors were recognised for excellence in their roles.
In addition, The Centre recognised graduates of the Nationally Recognised CERTIFICATE IV in Coordination of Volunteer Programs CHC44015, and the Continuing Professional Development program.
2024 Volunteer Leader of the Year finalists
Brad Anderson, Orange Sky Australia
Brad is a service leader with Orange Sky, a not-for-profit organisation providing free mobile laundry and shower services to people experiencing homelessness. He has developed a strong leadership team which supports volunteer crews across Sydney, ensuring the delivery of vital and reliable services to those in need.
Kathryn Bredin, Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme
Kathryn is the program coordinator for the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme – an initiative of the NSW state government to combat isolation and enhance the well-being of older members of the community. In her role, Kathryn supports the scheme’s volunteers, recruits new team members, and informs stakeholders about the organisation’s activities.
2024 Not-For-Profit Voluntary Governance finalists
Bronwyn Evans, Toukley Neighbourhood Centre
As Chair of the Toukley Neighbourhood Centre, Bronwyn has led a thorough overhaul of the organisation’s policy framework. Her careful updates have ensured alignment with the organisation’s goals and regulations, while enhancing governance, operational efficiency, and strategic direction.
Scott Green, North Avoca Surf Life Saving Club
As Director of Finance at the North Avoca Surf Lifesaving Club, Scott is committed to modernising the club’s finances and operations. Through his leadership, the club has implemented effective financial management practices, greatly strengthening its financial position and future viability.
Peter Scorgie, Tamworth Meals on Wheels
As President of Tamworth Meals on Wheels, Peter has ensured the service’s financial stability through collaboration with governments, volunteers, and staff. He also mentors team members, fostering a strong sense of pride and community service.
Recognising graduates of the CERT IV in Coordination of Volunteer Programs (CHC44015)
Certificate IV in Coordination of Volunteer Programs (CHC44015) is a specialist qualification designed for volunteer leaders, managers and coordinators. The course is delivered by the National School of Volunteer Management (RTO 90031) and includes a focus on foundational theory, practical tips, tools and industry best practice techniques for enriching volunteer worker experiences.
- Danielle Alty – Taronga Zoo Sydney
- Leanne Broadhead – HammondCare
- Tanya Filevski – Mercy Care Community Services Limited
- Allen Gomes – Uniting Aged Care
- Shoshanna Griffin – State Emergency Services NSW
- Priscilla Grimme – State Emergency Services Victoria
- Natasha Holdem – Wollongong City Council
- Belinda Holst – HammondCare
- Fiona MacClure – Legacy Club Services
- Christine Potter – Winmalee Community Centre
- Ben Schroeder – Mission to Seafarers Victoria
- Lisa Viney – Tasmanian Health Service Launceston
Completion of the Continuing Professional Development Program 2024
- Alice Anderson – The Centre for Volunteering
- Cate Archibald – Proveda
- Terisa Ashworth – The Neighbourhood Centre
- Leanne Broadhead – HammondCare
- Alex Doyle – Northern Beaches Council
- Jacqueline Elliott – Dementia Australia
- Melissa Green – Legacy Club Services
- Nerida Haines – Australian Breastfeeding Association
- Belinda Holst – HammondCare
- Rochelle Monaghan – Housing Plus
- Mark Rushton – Blowfly Cricket
- Nakita Somerville – Oxley Community Transport
- Susan Whitby – Northern Beaches Council
- Fiona Wooley – HammondCare
- Waner Zhangguan – Macular Disease Foundation