Bass Coast Volunteer Expo: showcase of community spirit
In May this year, Bass Coast community groups will come together under the one roof to showcase their organisations
Volunteers
In May this year, Bass Coast community groups will come together under the one roof to showcase their organisations and attract local volunteers who want to learn new skills and make a difference where they live.
Held on May 20, in celebration of National Volunteer Week, the Bass Coast Volunteer Expo - Your Year to Volunteer, will highlight the range of volunteer roles across Bass Coast and the vital role thousands of locals play in strengthening the community, by contributing their time and talents.
Potential volunteers will learn about the positive benefits of giving back and can connect directly with local community groups.
For participating groups, the Expo offers a valuable chance to demonstrate their work, network with other groups, and build meaningful partnerships.
A dedicated workshop after the Expo will also support community groups to further develop their skills and capacity.
The event is run in partnership with Bass Coast Shire Council, Bayside Health Regional Care Group, MYLI (My Community Library), Phillip Island Community and Learning Centre (PICAL), Phillip Island Nature Parks, and Volunteering Gippsland.
Essential
Phillip Island Nature Parks Community Impact Manager, Kate Adams said volunteers were an essential part of the Nature Parks team, helping to protect wildlife and inspiring others to act.
"We have more than 200 volunteers at the Nature Parks assisting with visitor experience, threatened species monitoring, conservation and research, nursery and revegetation programs, wildlife research, rehabilitation and care," Ms Adams said.
"There is a real social aspect to volunteering, and it's a way for people to make an impact close to home. Whether you're available for several hours a week, or over the holidays, there is a volunteer role for everyone in Bass Coast."
David Rooks, Manager at PICAL, said the expo is an important opportunity for local organisations.
"PICAL is pleased to be part of the organising committee for the 2026 Bass Coast Volunteer Expo. It's an invitation to all community groups to network, build volunteer numbers and upskill their volunteer base," Mr Rooks said.
"By participating in the expo a further opportunity arises to explore partnerships with different groups. By working together, we can build a greater combined offer to the community and reduce administrative tasks."
Phillip Island Nature Parks Volunteer Peter Wagstaff began volunteering in 2021 and has contributed across a range of programs, including visitor experience at the Penguin Parade, wildlife research projects, and the Volunteer Advisory Group.
"I volunteer with the Nature Parks because I love Phillip Island. It is a privilege to give back to the place that provides me with so much joy," Mr Wagstaff said.
"However, the true value lies in the community I have found here, working alongside like-minded people to act as a bridge between the island's wildlife and the public.
"Knowing that we are transforming visitors into wildlife advocates through our shared passion is what keeps me coming back."
Get involved
Expressions of interest for organisations who want to be part of the Expo are now open.
The Bass Coast Volunteer Expo will be held at Berninneit in Cowes, on Wednesday May 20.
The Expo will run from 9am to 12pm, followed by a professional development workshop for participating community groups from 1.30pm to 3.30pm.
Community groups wishing to take part in the Expo are invited to express their interest by emailing volunteerexpo@pical.org.au
Groups interested in attending the professional development workshop can register via TryBooking: www.trybooking.com/DITJL
