Katrina Alfred

Gosford Regional Gallery

Katrina Alfred has been a cornerstone of the Gosford Regional Gallery for over 20 years. Her unwavering commitment and warm presence have inspired both visitors and fellow volunteers. In her early years, Katrina played a crucial role in installing major exhibitions and coordinating volunteers for front-of-house duties. Today, she continues to assist at the welcome desk, ensuring every visitor feels welcomed and informed. Her extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for the arts make her an invaluable resource to the gallery. Katrina's dedication to fostering a positive and inclusive environment has made her an integral part of the gallery's success.

Paula Hardwick

Paula Hardwick's over 35 years of volunteer service span multiple organizations, including Meals on Wheels, Orange Sky, Because We Care Boutique, Marine Rescue Norah Head, and Central Coast Family Support Services. Her innovative and compassionate approach has touched countless lives across these diverse organizations.

At Meals on Wheels, Paula's creative ideas, such as dressing up for her shifts, have created a fun and inclusive atmosphere for isolated community members, significantly enhancing their quality of life. In addition to her regular duties, Paula has been instrumental in fundraising efforts, raising thousands of dollars to secure vital resources for the organization. Her role extends beyond service delivery to advocacy, ensuring the voices of volunteers and clients are heard and valued.

Paula's impact at Central Coast Family Support Services is equally profound. Earlier this year, she provided valuable advice on recruiting new volunteers and helped deliver food and supplies to families in need across the Central Coast. Her ability to connect with families, offer support, and provide practical assistance has been invaluable, particularly during challenging times.

At Orange Sky, Paula has served as the community engagement coordinator for six years, raising awareness and understanding for those experiencing homelessness, escaping domestic violence, and living in temporary housing. Her efforts in coordinating community events and driving initiatives have expanded the reach and impact of Orange Sky's services.

Paula's contributions to Because We Care Boutique over the past 18 months have empowered women and girls in the community. By assisting with fundraising and styling clients for employment or court appearances, she has helped raise over $5,000 and inspired friends to join as volunteers, amplifying the organization's impact.

As a volunteer radio operator at Marine Rescue Norah Head, Paula has leveraged her previous experience as a flight attendant to enhance safety and awareness. Her efforts in building relationships, attracting sponsorships, and raising funds have significantly increased the visibility and support for Marine Rescue.

Paula's inclusive manner and unwavering dedication across these organizations demonstrate that there is something for everyone in the volunteer sphere. Her passion, energy, and ability to inspire others make her a true pillar of community service.

Keith Aranjo

Mangrove Mountain and Districts Community Group

Keith Aranjo's leadership and dedication during emergencies have been invaluable to the Mangrove Mountain community. One of his significant achievements was successfully applying for a grant to equip the community with CB radios. These radios ensure reliable communication during emergencies such as fires, when traditional communication systems might fail. Keith also secured funding for three trailer-based firefighting units, enhancing the community's ability to respond quickly to fires.

Keith's commitment to the community is further demonstrated through his involvement with the Mangrove Mountain and Districts Community News, a local newspaper. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the paper played a crucial role in keeping the community connected and informed. It provided essential information on vaccinations, healthcare services, and community support options, serving as a lifeline for isolated residents. Keith's work with the newspaper ensured that the community stayed informed and connected during these challenging times.

His involvement in various community organizations, including the Mountain Districts Football Club and Mangrove Mountain Union Church Trust, underscores his commitment to community resilience and connectivity. Keith's positive attitude, quiet and empathetic approach, and unwavering commitment inspire and encourage others to face challenges and actively participate in the community.

Wyong Vinnies

Support Centre Team

The Wyong Vinnies Support Centre team, composed of over 50 dedicated individuals, provides comprehensive support to the Wyong community. This remarkable team answers hundreds of calls daily, assisting community members with food, vouchers, furniture, clothing, medication, toiletries, household items, and travel costs. Their holistic approach ensures effective outcomes for a diverse range of individuals, including the elderly, disabled people, and those experiencing mental health issues or fleeing domestic violence. An inspiring example of their work is their assistance to a single mother of six who lost everything in a house fire. The team provided essential items and support, highlighting their extraordinary commitment to helping those in need.

The extent of their work is vast, as they manage not only the immediate needs of individuals but also provide ongoing support through various programs. The team's ability to handle a wide range of issues and their unwavering dedication ensures that every client receives the necessary assistance. This comprehensive support system is vital for the well-being and stability of the Wyong community, showcasing the team's crucial role in fostering community resilience and support.

Gary Wilson

Hammond Care

Gary Wilson, though new to volunteering, has quickly made an extraordinary impact at Hammond Care Woy Woy. His flexibility and enthusiasm are evident in his willingness to take on any role, from driving the bus to managing inventory. Gary's cheerful demeanor and boundless energy uplift his team and the community. Initially drawn to volunteering by a desire to give back to his community, Gary's passion shines through in his unwavering commitment and readiness to tackle even the most mundane chores with a positive attitude. His impact is sure to continue growing as he brings his unique blend of energy and dedication to HammondCare.

Oliver Ricketts

Central Coast ARAFMI

Oliver Ricketts, a 20-year-old volunteer at ARAFMI Central Coast, has transformed the organization's administrative processes by creating a dynamic story workbook. Recognizing the need to make the capture of client information more engaging, Oliver's innovative approach includes adding images and creative mapping techniques. This transformation has made the process more accessible and enjoyable for clients, particularly those with mental health conditions. Oliver's contributions have significantly improved the administrative experience for both clients and staff, showcasing his outstanding promise and enthusiasm in his volunteer role. His work not only benefits the clients but also sets a new standard for administrative innovation within the organization.

Ryan Howard

Mangrove Mountain and Districts Community Group

Ryan Howard has been an exceptional volunteer for the Mangrove Mountain and Districts Community Group and several other community organizations. His dedication and leadership have significantly impacted the community, showcasing his ability to inspire and guide others.

As president of the Mangrove Mountain and Districts Community Group, Ryan has used the historic Mangrove Mountain Hall as a focal point for community activities. He coordinates monthly markets and the Annual Harvest Festival Hubs, which attract visitors from across the state and financially support many valued community assets.

Ryan's love for blues music inspired him to start Blues on the Mountain 12 years ago, bringing renowned blues and soul musicians to the Mangrove Mountain Hall. Additionally, Ryan maintains several key community assets, including the Mangrove Mountain Recreation Reserve and the Union Church, and has been instrumental in securing grants for community projects.

Ryan's exceptional leadership qualities, unwavering dedication, and ability to inspire others make him a deserving recipient of the Leadership Award. His contributions have made a lasting, positive impact on the Mangrove Mountain and Districts community.