Jamberoo ‘everywhere’ volunteer named 2024 Illawarra Volunteer of the Year
September 2nd, 2024
Jamberoo Red Cross President and prolific community leader Barbara Adams has been named the 2024 Illawarra Volunteer of the Year for her significant contributions to countless community groups and causes.
Barbara received her Award today at Wollongong City Diggers as part of the 2024 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards. Recipients in other Illawarra regional award categories were also announced, including young, adult, senior and volunteer team of the year.
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.
The Awards are hosted by The Centre for Volunteering, whose mission it is to promote and support volunteering across NSW.
Illawarra Young Volunteer of the Year: Alyssa Norris from Windang
Alyssa is a passionate advocate for community safety. As Vice-Captain of the Windang Surf Life Saving Club, she actively participates in beach patrols, averaging 50 hours per season. Her enthusiasm for the club extends to attracting new members and ensuring that current members feel appreciated.
Illawarra Adult Volunteer of the Year: Krystle Morgan from Wollongong
Krystle Morgan is a board member with The Illawarra Shoalhaven Gender Alliance. As a volunteer, she helps to raise awareness of issues affecting transgender people through local events and education, ensuring that the gender-diverse and wider LGBTQIA+ communities in the area feel supported. Additionally, Krystle gives her time to assist the Make a Wish Foundation and Kookaburra Kids.
Illawarra Senior Volunteer of the Year: Barbara Adams from Jamberoo
Barbara is Jamberoo’s ‘everywhere’ volunteer who has dedicated decades of her life to helping others and making her community a better place.
Her volunteering has spanned the Jamberoo Red Cross, Jamberoo Football Club, Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal, Jamberoo Car Show & Family Day, Jamberoo Australia Day festivities, Jamberoo’s Christmas decorations, and the Kemblawarra Public School P&C.
Illawarra Volunteer Team of the Year: Wollongong Meals on Wheels Daily Run Team
The Wollongong Meals on Wheels Daily Run Team is committed to delivering more than just meals; they provide companionship and support, helping people maintain their independence and stay in their homes longer. They connect clients with valuable resources and information, from senior rights advocacy to mental health services.
The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said:
“These awards recognise the exceptional effort of volunteers across the Illawarra.
“Whether it’s in the local sports club, in health care, education and cultural centres, legal support or emergency response, volunteers are essential for the ongoing health and viability of local communities.
“It’s important for volunteers across the Illawarra to know that their commitment is recognised and valued.”
The Awards are supported by Principal Partners the NSW Department of Communities and Justice and ClubsNSW.
The NSW Minister with responsibility for Volunteering Jodie Harrison said:
“Congratulations to the recipients of the Illawarra Volunteer of the Year Awards.
“Thank you for the incredible contributions you make to NSW and your local community.
“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our communities, and the NSW Government is pleased to be partnering with The Centre for Volunteering to recognise volunteers and the valuable role they play in making NSW the best state to live and work in.”
ClubsNSW CEO Rebecca Riant said:
“The awards are a tribute to the vital contributions made by volunteers across the state. Volunteers are the backbone of the NSW club industry, and their efforts are crucial in uplifting local communities.
“We’re delighted to have a special Club Volunteer of the Year Award category, and I can’t wait to see who takes home that honour.”
The Illawarra Award recipients will be invited to represent their region at the Gala State Ceremony in Sydney at the end of the year, where the NSW Volunteer of the Year will be announced across each category.