It’s National Volunteer Week and Bundaberg Regional Council is celebrating those who give of their time and talent to support local communities.
The initiative runs from 18 to 24 May and acknowledges the contribution of volunteers across the country while encouraging others to discover how they can volunteer themselves.
As part of the celebrations, Council is hosting a free Volunteering Showcase in collaboration with the Bundaberg Neighbourhood Centre, where visitors can find out more about the variety of volunteering opportunities available across the region.
Council is also hosting a lunch event to thank those who already assist at Council galleries, libraries, neighbourhood centres and tourism facilities, such as Linda Payne.
Linda volunteers at the Gin Gin Neighbourhood Centre two days a week assisting with everything from IT to community events and told us about her experience:
What is your volunteer role at the Gin Gin Neighbourhood Centre?
At the Gin Gin Community Hub, my role as a volunteer mainly involves helping people troubleshoot minor tech issues, navigate online application forms and find their way through government websites.
Beyond the digital stuff, I also lend a hand with community functions and events whenever I can.
What does a day at the neighbourhood centre look like for you?
A typical day for me is a mix of technical assistance and social connection; it involves a bit of chatting and a whole lot of listening.
When I’m not helping a community member, you’ll find me scanning and filing, keeping the tea and coffee station tidy, tending to our indoor plants or joining in on whatever activities are happening that day.
What made you decide to become a volunteer?
I chose to volunteer as a way to give back and share my skills.
After watching my parents struggle to keep up with the constant pace of technological change, I realised I could help others feel more comfortable using basic tech for essentials – like paying bills or accessing government services.
Why do you think volunteers are so important in our local communities?
Ultimately, I believe volunteers are the backbone of a community.
We fill critical service gaps in areas like healthcare and education that paid staff can’t always cover.
By connecting people from all walks of life, volunteering builds the trust and resilience that keep a community spirit alive.
At its simplest, volunteering is about trading a bit of your time to help someone else and getting some pretty great perks in return.
What would your advice be to people considering taking on a volunteer role?
Helping others triggers ‘feel-good’ chemicals in your brain, lowering stress and making you happier.
You learn new things (like leadership or teamwork) and beef up your resume without needing a traditional job to do it.
You meet new people, make friends, and feel like you actually belong to your community.
You give a little help and in return, you get purpose, experience and better mental health.
It’s one of the few things in life where everyone involved comes out ahead.
For more information on volunteering opportunities available, visit the Volunteering for Council webpage.
2026 Volunteering Showcase
When: Tuesday 19 May, 8.30 am – 12.30 pm
Where: Bundaberg Recreational Precinct (Kendalls Rd entrance)
Cost: Free, light refreshments available
More information here.
