Macedon Ranges residents paused to thank and recognise the outstanding local volunteers last week on International Volunteer Day.
Macedon Ranges council used the day, which was held on December 5, to encourage and call out for community-minded residents to help expand volunteer initiatives.
The Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS), which is included in the council’s volunteer program, matches volunteers with aged care residential or home care package recipients with similar interests for regular visits.
RM Begg Kyneton resident Alois Koenig recently joined the ACVVS program and has been matched with volunteer Diane Aliker for regular visits.
Mr Koenig said he looks forward to Ms Aliker’s visits and having meaningful conversations.
“I’m not a big talker, most men are not, and Di would lead me,” Mr Koenig said.
“She would start something and we could converse. For me it’s good to have someone coming to talk to, I enjoy it.”
Ms Aliker said she also looks forward to the visits and chats.
“He takes me for a little walk around every now and then to show me what’s going on, and sometimes we listen to music,” she said.
“It’s something different to what I’m up to at home.”
The council said it relies on volunteers to help deliver services across many areas including visitor information centres, environment and the Kyneton Museum.
Volunteers will also be needed to help manage planned resale shops at resource recovery facilities in Kyneton and Romsey.
Council director community Maria Weiss said volunteering delivers a range of benefits for both the individual volunteering and the recipient, by strengthening social bonds and supporting inclusion and encouraged other people to volunteer.
“Our volunteers play a significant role in keeping our community connected, helping those who need assistance and providing company to those who may be feeling isolated or lonely,” she said.
“I would like to thank all of our wonderful volunteers for their commitment and for making such a positive impact on the lives of others in our community. “
