Illawarra Award Ceremony

Young Volunteer of the Year – Abigail Bowes from Albion Park

Abigail has been giving her time as a University of Wollongong Pulse Volunteer for the past four years – and she has continued that selfless effort in 2022 even after completing her university studies.

Adult Volunteer of the Year – Leo Stevens from Wollongong

Leo has been Club President at Coalcliff Surf Club for six seasons, after starting his time at the club as a six year old nipper more than 20 years ago.

His volunteering at the club knows no bounds with Leo fronting up as patrol captain, inflatable rescue boat and rescue water craft driver, support operations team member, water safety and canteen coordinator.

Throughout the season, Leo also managed club fundraising, working bees, grant writing, the nippers BBQ, committee member recruitment, member welfare, club publicity and the refurbishment of the Coalcliff SLSC clubhouse.

Senior Volunteer of the Year – Doug Werner from Moss Vale

Doug has been volunteering at the National Trust’s Harper’s Mansion in Berrima for the past four years and is an active volunteer member at the Trust’s Hawkesbury Regional Branch.

He is now Deputy Chair of Harper’s Mansion, but also runs guided tours, hosts events, and supports and mentors other volunteers.

Volunteer Team of the Year – Keiraville Country Women’s Association

The 41 volunteers at the Keiraville Country Women’s Association range in age from 50 to 90 years and have been supporting numerous causes and organisations in so many ways.

Money raised at stalls and BBQs have supported SAHSSI women’s refuge, the Homeless Hub, Wollongong Neo Natal Ward, Miracle Babies Foundation and Seamen’s Mission at Port Kembla – amongst many others.

The team has recently raised money for Lismore flood victims, with many members sending handmade beanies, blankets and baby blankets. The Keiraville CWA has been helping in the community since 1963.