Those who give their time delivering food to others found themselves being waited upon when International Volunteers Day was celebrated in style for over 40 volunteers who offer their services to the Meals on Wheels Plus service on Thursday, December 5. The volunteers enjoyed an afternoon tea provided by the ladies of the Pambula Merimbula CWA at the CWA rooms, Pambula.
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Manager of the Bega Valley Meals on Wheels Plus service, Fiona Scott said: “We have about 40 people who deliver Meals on Wheels across the shire in Eden, Pambula, Merimbula, Tathra, Bermagui and Bega.”
Ms Scott explained that the ‘Plus’ part of the service was provided by drivers who run bus trips for shopping, those who assist with shopping and volunteers who provide social support.
The board of the Meals on Wheels service is also made up of volunteers.
Volunteer of the Year was awarded to Bob Scott, of Bega who is now retired. Ms Scott said: “He was the first shopping bus driver and drove the meal van between Tathra and Eden. Over the years he would have done thousands and thousands of kilometres with us.”
The volunteers were also acknowledged by Southern NSW Local Health District (SNSWLHD).
The CEO of SNSWLHD, Dr Max Alexander said the selfless commitment and efforts of these volunteers are acknowledged and recognised through internal health district celebrations and awards. However, he said, celebration of International Volunteer Day offered the opportunity to publicly recognise the efforts of the individuals who raise funds or provide their skills and labour in a multitude of roles supporting the health service.
“It’s fitting that volunteers be publicly recognised for their dedication, passion and skill. They embody the best qualities in our community, and they’re a role model for others,” Dr Alexander said.
