Community
20 September, 2024
VOLLIES CRISIS STRIKES REGION
VOLUNTEERS are desperately needed for many organisations in the Far North as people lose interest, are too busy or don’t care.
Cairns Museum and FNQ Volunteers are running campaigns to encourage people to give some of their time to help.
Cairns Historical Society executive officer Sandi Robb said since 1958, the Cairns Museum collected, preserved and made available the history of Cairns and Far North Queensland for future generations to enjoy.
“Although the museum’s primary function is to preserve the past and act as a repository for culturally important artefacts, it is also a place where many hands work behind the scenes in the research centre, archive, collection care and conservation,” she said.
“The daily activities in the museum are mainly in the hands of local volunteers, who are dedicated people generously giving their time and skills to keep the wheels turning.
“Volunteers, who make visitors welcome at reception and throughout the museum, are much-needed people with passion, personality and energy.
“Being part of the team is rewarding for people of all ages or stages in life.
“You don’t have to be an expert in history – just a courteous, enthusiastic individual who helps visitors to have a great experience.
“Everybody can join the team: students, active retirees, job seekers and visa holders.”
FNQ Volunteers is calling on locals to step up and make a difference.
Spokeswoman Annette Sheppard said in recent months there had been “a troubling decrease in volunteer interest, with only a handful of expressions of interest in recent times”.
“We’re actively working to engage more people and rekindle enthusiasm for volunteering. Our community relies heavily on the dedication and passion of volunteers,” she said.
“It’s disheartening to see such a low level of engagement, especially when there are so many worthwhile causes in need of support.”
NJL Time2Drive is stepping up to support and rejuvenate the spirit of volunteering through a new initiative. The V.I.V (Very Important Volunteer) sponsorship initiative aims to celebrate and support local volunteers, with the goal of boosting volunteer engagement and community involvement.
Time2Drive Manager Jacinta Tam said volunteering was at the heart of the community and “we want to help bring back that sense of connection and purpose”.
“Our goal is to create incentives and recognition for those who give their time and skills. Our initiative is all about ensuring volunteers feel valued and appreciated.” The V.I.V initiative invites local businesses to offer special discounts and perks, such as ‘two-for-one’ coffee deals and discounts on attractions, to both reward volunteers and support local businesses.
Local volunteer Andrew Young said volunteering had always been about giving back and making a positive impact.
To volunteer email: info@fnqvolunteers.org.au or visit https://bit.ly/3ZrAb1b
To volunteer for the museum email: volunteer@cairnsmuseum.org.au
