About the Ceremony
The 2024 Western Sydney Volunteer of the Year was announced at Liverpool Catholic Club.
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 Western Sydney Volunteer of the Year is…
St John Ambulance first responder and trainer Usha Makkena from Edmondson Park has been named 2024 Western Sydney Volunteer of the year for her critical first aid response and training throughout the community.
The regional Award categories were also announced:
2024 Western Sydney Young Volunteer of the Year
Congratulations Usha Makkena
Usha has been an emergency medical technician, first responder and incident control team member with St John Ambulance since 2019, providing critical first aid at major events and managing emergency logistics.
She also gives her time to other important causes with Australian Youth Climate Coalition, Headspace, Beyond Blue and the Butterfly Collective.
2024 Western Sydney Adult Volunteer of the Year
Congratulations Mary Nguyen
Mary is a dedicated St John Ambulance NSW volunteer who has excelled in event planning and acute care for major events like Sydney’s New Year’s Eve and the ATP Tennis Cup. As a mentor and teacher at the Hills Division, she has empowered many volunteers with life-saving skills, significantly improving first aid services.
2024 Western Sydney Senior Volunteer of the Year
Congratulations Nicolaas Starrenburg
Nic volunteers at Whiddon’s Men’s Shed, where he runs weekly classes in woodworking, gardening and furniture restoration.
His enthusiastic and patient approach creates a safe and inclusive environment, helping seniors stay active, build friendships and new skills.
2024 Western Sydney Volunteer Team of the Year
Congratulations Holsworthy Girl Guides Leaders
Holsworthy Girl Guides Leaders volunteer their time each week to run programs for girls aged 6 to 15, focusing on leadership, teamwork, and adventure. They organise regional camps, mentor new leaders, and inspire the Guides to give back to their community through projects like supporting the RSPCA and participating in ANZAC Day services.
Their fundraising efforts help to keep the group active and thriving.
2024 NSW Volunteer of the Year Award Sponsors
