The contributions of local volunteers were celebrated at the City of South Perth’s Thank You event held on Thursday 30 November 2023.

The annual Volunteer of the Year Awards recognise the valuable contributions of volunteers. This year 52 community members were nominated across three categories: Volunteer of the Year, Youth Volunteer of the Year and Junior Volunteer of the Year.

Each of the nominees received a certificate of appreciation from the Deputy Mayor, Bronwyn Waugh with trophies presented to the winners.

Approximately 200 guests attended the event which is held to acknowledge the efforts and dedication of our volunteers and recognise stakeholders who have partnered with the City on community projects.

Deputy Mayor, Bronwyn Waugh congratulated all nominees and winners, thanking them for their service.

“Volunteers are the everyday champions who roll up their sleeves and get things done. Their contributions have a significant impact on individuals and the community,” she said.

“Importantly, volunteering can help to combat social isolation and boost mental wellbeing, providing a sense of purpose, connection, and fulfilment.”

“We are fortunate to have so many selfless individuals in the City of South Perth. Our local volunteers not only help to strengthen the bonds within our community, but they also foster a sense of togetherness and solidarity, helping to build a strong and cohesive City.

Award winners

Volunteer of the Year Award (open to individuals above 25 years old)

Rory Murray

Rory is an inspirational volunteer, who has volunteered extensively in the local community with Manning Primary School P&C, the Fathering Project, and more recently Manning Knight Riders where he initiated and led the inaugural Manning Laneway Festival in February 2023.

Rory worked tirelessly to create an engaging event with the support of surrounding businesses, community groups, sporting associations and the City of South Perth.

Manning Laneway Festival was a hugely successful event, bringing hundreds of people together at the Manning Hub to celebrate and showcase the wonderful Manning community.

Rory consistently goes above and beyond, generously giving his time to the City of South Perth community.

Youth Volunteer of the Year Award (18-25 years)

James Adkins

James makes a difference in our local community by volunteering with the City of South Perth Libraries English as a Second Language (ESL) Conversation Groups.

The ESL sessions are attended by people learning English, many of whom are new migrants to Australia.  These sessions are important in helping people gain skills and knowledge in written and spoken English and supporting their employment opportunities and wellbeing.

James is an outstanding volunteer whose dedication, commitment, and knowledge in running ESL sessions is helping attendees from our local community improve their skills and build confidence in conversational English.

Junior Volunteer of the Year (under 18 years)

Isabella Thomason

Isabella is a shining example of community spirit and exceptional commitment to volunteering. As a student at Penrhos College, she completed over 200 hours of service this year for a wide range of initiatives including:

Making hygiene packs and rugs for people experiencing homeless through Uniting WA and Salvation Army

Creating art packs for children in hospital as part of Starlight Foundation

Knitting blankets for Save the Children and baking biscuits for Homeless Connect.

Isabella’s volunteering efforts are nothing short of inspirational and her actions exemplify the profound impact one individual can have when driven by a genuine desire to make a difference.

See the whole photo gallery from the night by heading to the City of South Perth Facebook album.