Organisations across Bass Coast are coming together to honour the powerful role volunteers play in building inclusive and thriving communities.
As part of National Volunteer Week 2025, a special community celebration will be held at 10am on Tuesday May 20 at The Nobbies Centre.
The event will feature morning tea, inspiring guest speakers and opportunities for volunteers to connect with one another and with local volunteer groups.
"Bass Coast has a vibrant and dedicated volunteer community, with more than 6000 individuals contributing across a wide range of sectors - from environmental conservation and health and wellbeing, to education, emergency services, animal welfare, and beyond," said Kate Adams, Community Impact Manager, Phillip Island Nature Parks.
"The incredible impact volunteers have on our community is often underestimated. That's why it's so important to come together, acknowledge their efforts and celebrate the spirit of connection that volunteering creates."
Phillip Island resident and volunteer Michelle found new friendships and purpose through the Phillip Island Conservation Society (PICS) after making a permanent sea change in retirement.
"It was like dropping a stone in a pond - the circles just kept expanding," Michelle explains.
"I've made great friendships and connected with several other volunteer and social groups across the Bass Coast through my involvement with PICS."
If you volunteer with an organisation, service provider, sporting club or community group - or you simply want to celebrate the power of volunteering - you're invited to attend this free event.
Register your attendance at www.trybooking.com/DAWMB.
This event is proudly presented by Bass Coast Health, Phillip Island Nature Parks, Bass Coast Shire Council, Phillip Island Community and Adult Learning Centre and MYLI - My Community Libraries as part of National Volunteer Week, running from May 19 to 25.
This year's theme, "Connecting Communities," highlights the spirit of connection and the incredible impact volunteers have in building inclusive and thriving communities.