About the Ceremony
The 2024 Orana Volunteer of the Year was announced at Dubbo RSL.
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.
Please join us in congratulating the 2024 Award winners for the region:
These awards recognise the exceptional effort of volunteers across the region. It’s important for volunteers to know that their commitment is recognised and valued.
The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma RygateThe 2024 Orana Volunteer of the Year is…
Dubbo resident Mano Manorathan has been awarded the 2024 Orana Volunteer of the Year for his tireless work over the past 14 years supporting migrants from the Indian subcontinent, and building a greater understanding and inclusion between cultures across the region.
The regional Award categories were also announced:
2024 Orana Young Volunteer of the Year
Congratulations Anton Dieck
Anton is an apprentice diesel mechanic and volunteer with the Gilgandra SES Unit, where he responds to emergency call outs during storms, floods and other incidents. When he first joined, Anton would walk to the unit headquarters, and has now gained extensive qualifications across a range of emergency response work.
2024 Orana Adult Volunteer of the Year
Congratulations Mano Manorathan
Mano has been volunteering with the Orana Residents of Indian Sub-Continental Heritage group for more than 14 years, where he has been a driving force behind community, cultural and sporting events. His volunteer work focusses on ways to bridge understanding and inclusion between cultures and support newly arrived migrants throughout the region.
2024 Orana Senior Volunteer of the Year
Congratulations Bryan Smith
Bryan has devoted 18 years to Meals on Wheels Dubbo, delivering meals, having a chat, and checking on the well-being of elderly residents. He has also given his time as a transport driver taking clients to and from everyday appointments, such as medical visits and trips to the shops and hairdressers. His work ensures the elderly community can remain independent and in their homes.
2024 Orana Volunteer Team of the Year
Congratulations Warrumbungle Community Care, Community Transport Volunteers
Warrumbungle Community Care’s Volunteer Drivers cover a 12,500 sq km area, contributing 6,852 trips in a single year and providing 4,575 hours of support to members of the community. They transport the elderly and those with disability to medical, shopping, and social services, while also providing essential companionship and support.