Will the 2021 NSW Volunteer of the Year be from the Clarence or Richmond Valley? Clarence Nationals MP said locals would certainly be in the mix – providing they were nominated before the 9 July deadline.

“Last year, 118,000 volunteers across NSW were recognised in different regions across the state, with the top award going to a Rural Fire Service volunteer from Wollondilly Shire,” Mr Gulaptis said.

“Locally, Aidan Yourell from Evans Head Surf Life Saving Club was the 2020 Northern Rivers Young Volunteer of the Year, having completed more than 200 hours of volunteering, teaching surf safety to young nippers and keeping the waters safe for beach goers.”

Mr Gulaptis said there were many volunteers from our region who had saved lives from natural cataclysms like bushfires and floods to tragedies and near tragedies on our roads and in the water.

“From our local sporting groups to our environmental and community groups, our volunteers are the hands that keep our community ticking and contribute in so many ways,” Mr Gulaptis said.

The opening of nominations for the awards coincides with the start of National Volunteer Week – this year’s theme is Recognise. Reconnect. Reimagine.  The eight categories are adult; young; senior; team; corporate (individual); corporate (team); club and excellence in volunteer management.

Nominations close on Friday, 9 July 2021. For more information, visit volunteering.com.au.