Over 2 million Victorians, including many older Victorians, volunteer their time and talents to support their local communities.
The annual Volunteering recognise and celebrate the impact they have on building resilient communities, services and connections across Victoria. Last year’s winners were announced at a special ceremony at Government House on 27 February 2024.
Read on to learn more about the incredible contributions of some of Victoria’s volunteers.
Tony Davis
Tony was one of the founding members of Kyneton Little Athletics in 1970. Tony has since been a committed member of the organisation, turning up every Saturday morning for the last 53 years and holding a range of roles.
Congratulations to Tony for winning the Volunteer Commitment award.
Jean Bohmer
Jean has been volunteering for over 60 years, providing care and support for people of all ages.
Jean has made an impact across diverse areas and organisations such as Lifeline, St John Ambulance, and Radio for the Print Handicapped. For the past 24 years, she has volunteered with Melbourne City Mission in the Palliative Care area, supporting carers with home and hospital visits. As part of the Bereavement team, Jean finds profound meaning and purpose in being trusted with compelling end of life stories.
Congratulations to Jean for winning the Volunteer Impact award.
Caitlin Grigsby
Caitlin has been a passionate community leader for over half her life, co-founding Gippsland Pride Initiative (GPI); a volunteer-led LGBTQIA+ organisation. As President of Gippsland Ranges Roller Derby, she pioneered the first Australian Roller Derby ‘Pride Cup’ and the Gippsland Pride Gala, now a premier queer event in the Victorian calendar. Since its incorporation in 2019, GPI has produced valuable LGBTQIA+ insights through the ‘Rainbow Brick Road’ Project and Report, hosted multiple sell-out Pride Galas, and orchestrated 150+ community activations across 6 regions.
Congratulations Caitlin on winning the Premier’s Volunteer of the Year award.
For more information and to see the full list of winners and finalists, please visit the Volunteering Awards .
Get involved in volunteering
Volunteering has a positive impact on people, communities and places. Whether you are working, newly retired or semi-retired, sharing your skills, energy and experience with your community can be rewarding, exciting and fun. Volunteering is also a great way to stay active, build new connections and friendships.
Volunteers come from all walks of life. Regardless of background, skills or experience, volunteers make a valuable impact in communities across Victoria.
Find out more about finding volunteering roles in Victoria.
Reviewed 26 April 2024