Volunteers celebrated in National Volunteer Week

Published on 23 May 2025

Henry Raymond, Volunteer of the Year 2025.JPG

National Volunteer Week is Australia's largest annual celebration of volunteering, and Armidale Regional Council is proud to celebrate the many generous volunteers in our community.

“Volunteers make our community stronger. While they do not share their time and energy for the kudos, we say thank you whenever we can,” said Armidale Regional Councillor Paul Gaddes.

“We are grateful for the volunteers whose efforts and commitment make our region a better place!”

The New England Regional Volunteer Awards 2025 were presented at a special morning tea held in the Armidale Regional Council Chambers on Wednesday 21 May, during National Volunteer Week. 

Councillor Gaddes was joined by Member for Northern Tablelands Brendan Moylan MP to present certificates of nomination to all nominees, and to announce the winners:

  • New England Regional Volunteer Team of the year is Armidale Hospital Kiosk nominated by Kay Pell for their work with United Hospitals Auxiliary.
  • New England Regional Senior Volunteer of the Year (65 years+) is Henry Raymond nominated by AJ Murphy for his work with Armidale/Uralla Meals on Wheels.
  • New England Regional Adult Volunteer of the Year is Donna Green nominated by Pamela Bath for her work with TAFE NSW Adult Migrant English Program.
  • New England Regional Volunteer Leader of the Year is Shevaun Stait nominated by Daryl Broadley for her work with Department of Defence- Cadet HQ NSW AAC.

The New England Regional Volunteer of the Year is Henry Raymond.

“Henry started as a driver with Meals on Wheels when he retired 20 years ago. During this time, he has delivered thousands of meals and has made a difference to the lives of many people,” Cr Gaddes said.

“His visits are not just a meal, but provide a friendly face, conversation and some good cheer to people who are often socially isolated.”

Henry often delivers meals to clients who are younger than himself. Age does not have to be a barrier to volunteering!

“Congratulations to everyone who was nominated, and of course to our winners,” said Cr Gaddes.

“The quality of nominations and the depth of generosity in our community, is phenomenal.”

All of today’s nominations have been forwarded to the NSW Volunteer of the Year Award 2025 which is run by The Centre for Volunteering, the peak body for volunteering in New South Wales.

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