The 2021 Greater Shepparton Volunteer Recognition Awards recipients will be announced in a ceremony at Riverlinks Eastbank on Monday 17 May.
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Currently in their 11th year, the Volunteer Recognition Awards aim to recognise and thank volunteers who contribute their time and energy to support and help improve the wider community.
The 2021 Awards categories are:
- Young Volunteer: 12 to 25 years
- Adult Volunteer: 26 years and over
- Volunteer Team: A group of two or more people
- Long Serving Volunteer: 15 years or more service
This year's awards attracted 24 nominations across the four categories. Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Councillor Kim O'Keeffe acknowledged the calibre of each of the entries received.
"Each of the 24 nominees have worked tirelessly to give back to their community through years of volunteering," she said.
"It is fantastic to see so many people offering their time to support and improve community initiatives and programs across the Greater Shepparton region."
With limited attendance numbers available at Eastbank due to COVID-19 restrictions, the ceremony will be livestreamed on Council's Facebook page to ensure everyone can tune in.
Along with announcing the award nominees and recipients, the audience will hear from keynote speaker Susan Alberti AC.
As co-founder and Managing Director of a large building company, the chairman of her own medical research foundation, and ambassador for the National Women's Football League, Ms Alberti has had great success both professionally and personally.
Pioneering through tragic personal circumstances, her work has assisted in raising millions of dollars for diabetes research with her passion resulting in being recognised internationally for her efforts.
"Susan is passionate, driven and ambitious, and she has forged paths in areas traditionally dominated by men," Cr O'Keeffe said.
"We are excited to have her as this year's keynote speaker. I have no doubt audience members will take away something valuable from her presentation."
Cr O'Keeffe encouraged everyone to tune in to the livestream as a way to congratulate and thank the many volunteers right here in our region.
"A large part of our community relies heavily on the work of volunteers. These people offer assistance and an extra set of hands to locals and organisations who need extra support," she said.
"This year's awards are a way for the community to say thank you to these volunteers and recognise and acknowledge their commendable efforts."
2021 Greater Shepparton Volunteer Recognition Awards
Date: Monday 17 May 2021
Time: Livestreaming commences at 6.15pm
Livestream link: Council's Facebook page: facebook.com/GreaterShepparton/live