Meet Byron Community Centre

Tell us about Byron Community Centre. What is your mission?

Byron Community Centre is a charity dedicated to supporting the wellbeing of the local community. It provides essential support services, cultural programs, and social initiatives that respond directly to the needs of Byron Shire.

What are your programs and initiatives, and why do you run them?

Byron Community Centre delivers a range of vibrant programs including the Byron Theatre, Byron Markets, Byron Spaces and the Byron Seniors Club, designed to foster connection and enrich community life.

At the core of its outreach is Fletcher Street Cottage, a vital service supporting individuals and families experiencing homelessness or hardship. It also offers practical services such as Tax Help and Counselling, grounded in a commitment to inclusion, dignity and empowerment.

How do you involve volunteers in your programs?

Volunteers are the backbone of the Byron Community Centre. In 2025, over 250 volunteers contributed across programs including Fletcher Street Cottage, the theatre, markets, reception, finance and communications.

The Byron Community Centre also facilitates student placements and Work Development Orders, aligning roles with individual skills and interests.

How do your volunteers make a difference in the community?

Volunteers are the heart and soul of Byron Community Centre. From preparing breakfast and offering warm showers to welcoming theatre-goers or developing digital content, volunteers help reduce isolation, build connections and strengthen community resilience.

Do you have any stories from your volunteers?

One standout story is Amanda Peters, the Cottage Keeper at Fletcher Street Cottage. In 2023, she was recognised as Northern Rivers Volunteer and Senior Volunteer of the Year for her compassion, dedication and more than 550 hours of service. Her contribution exemplifies the impact of volunteer involvement at the Byron Community Centre.

What resources and services from The Centre for Volunteering have supported your volunteer involvement?

Byron Community Centre benefits greatly from The Centre for Volunteering’s support, including sector resources, training and volunteer recognition programs. Regular newsletters and advocacy from the Byron Community Centre help guide strategic planning and best practices in volunteer engagement.

Why did your organisation become a member of The Centre? What benefit has it brought?

Membership with The Centre for Volunteering connects Byron Community Centre to a broader volunteer network and offers valuable opportunities for support, visibility and learning. Participation in National Volunteer Week has helped celebrate and acknowledge the vital role of volunteers across all programs.

What have you learned about the value of volunteering and volunteer management?

Volunteering has a transformative impact – both for the community and the individuals who give their time. Effective volunteer management at Byron Community Centre involves recognising motivations, nurturing potential and building respectful, caring relationships.

What would you say to someone thinking of volunteering?

There is a place for everyone at Byron Community Centre. Whether connecting with people, organising events or contributing creative skills, volunteering is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. It’s not just about giving – it’s about belonging, growing and being part of something bigger.

LEARN MORE ABOUT BYRON COMMUNITY CENTRE

Membership

The Centre is proud to support organisations like Byron Community Centre doing important work in the community.

Membership with The Centre for Volunteering connects Byron Community Centre to a broader volunteer network and offers valuable opportunities for support, visibility and learning. – Byron Community Centre