Maclean Lower Clarence United Hospital Auxiliary, has taken out the ‘Volunteer team of the Year’, at the Northern Rivers Volunteer of the Year Awards, which were held at the South Grafton District Ex Servicemen’s Club, on Tuesday, September 13. Maclean Auxiliary president Sandra Bradbury said that receiving the award was totally unexpected. “It was fantastic; a real surprise,” said Mrs Bradbury. “We had no idea that we would win, we’re totally blown away. “We have 107 members and this award is a real team effort,” she said. Volunteers from Byron Bay, Lennox Head and Yamba were recognised for their outstanding contributions at the awards ceremony. Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Volunteering, Gemma Rygate, said volunteers improve people’s lives by helping out, keeping people connected and creating a sense of belonging in communities. “This year ‘The Centre for Volunteering’ received a record number of nominations: More than 7,500 nominations acknowledging more than 100,000 volunteers – a record number since the awards began 10 years ago,” said Ms Rygate. Other award winners were: ‘Adult Volunteer of the Year’ – David Steward, Byron Community Centre who also received the ‘Overall Winner – Volunteer of the Year’ award for his work with the Byron Theatre and Byron Markets. ‘Senior Volunteer of the Year’ award went to Doug Stinson for his work with the Cancer Council, Lennox Head.