The District Council of Grant will be celebrating the incredible contributions of our community’s volunteers during National Volunteers Week between Monday 15 and Sunday 21 May 2023.

The annual event is an opportunity to highlight the positive impact volunteers have on communities across the country. This year, the theme of the week is The Change Makers representing those who are powerful and take action to make the world a better place.

2023 Citizen of the Year Sheryl Teigesser is one driven resident who volunteers at the Donovans Country Fire Service (CFS) Brigade, Donovans Recreation Advisory Council (DRAC) and Port MacDonnell SA Ambulance Service.

Mrs Teigesser said volunteering provides a sense of fulfillment in her life.

“When you become a volunteer, you think about how it makes you feel and until you help someone then you see how it makes them feel. Volunteering is the most rewarding experience for anyone.”

Port MacDonnell local, Deb McInnes, is also a passionate volunteer spending time assisting at the Port MacDonnell Community Complex. Mrs McInnes said she quickly grew to love volunteering.

“I have been volunteering for over 23 years. I first started when my daughter started kindy to get me out of the house. It is a very fulfilling feeling when you have helped someone and put a smile on their face.”

Mayor Kylie Boston expressed how grateful she is for the work of local volunteers.

“Volunteers are the backbone of our community, and without the generosity of their time, skills and energy, our community would not be as lively as it is today. Now it is time to thank our volunteers for their selfless service and encourage others to get involved in their communities.”

The District Council of Grant will be hosting its annual Volunteers Morning Tea to celebrate volunteers within the district. Volunteers from any club, school or organisation in the Council area are invited to come together at the Port MacDonnell Community Complex from 10:30am on Wednesday, 17 May 2023 for light refreshments and listen to local guest speakers.

Find out more about Council’s Volunteers Morning Tea or RSVP by contacting the Port MacDonnell Community Complex on 8738 3000. Free transportation is available for volunteers residing in Tarpeena.

Pictured above: Sheryl Teigesser during her acceptance speech for the 2023 Citizen of the Year award.

Pictured above: Beverley Bawden, Shirley Little and Deb McInnes enjoying refreshments at Council’s 2022 Volunteers Morning Tea function.