MOREE residents and wider communities are invited to attend an important volunteering expo at Moree Community College on Thursday, May 21.

The Moree Volunteering Connection Hub and Expo, supported by The Centre for Volunteering and Department of Social Services, will showcase a number of not-for-profit community organisations and vital services that rely heavily on volunteerism.

Moree campus co-ordinator, Kylie Gray, said the expo – scheduled from 9am until midday at the Community College’s Greenbah Road campus – will also launch a volunteering hub.

“The establishment of a volunteering hub at our Moree campus will create a much-needed central access point for information, training and connections between local volunteer-involving organisations, volunteers and community members,” Ms Gray said.

“Moree CCNI has been actively involved in supporting volunteers across the Moree Plains region and recognises the urgent need for improved co-ordination, training and visibility of volunteering opportunities in our community.

“We invite everyone to come along, grab a cuppa and some food, and have a chat,” she said.

Confirmed attendees include Moree Rotary on Gwydir, Moree District Hospital Auxiliary, SES, Red Cross Emergency Services, Whiddon Aged Care, Centacare, Animal Welfare League, Rural Fire Service and Byamee Support Services.

“Quite a few organisations are attending and we anticipate confirmation from others as the event gets closer,” Ms Gray said.

Many local organisations have praised Moree Community College for its leadership in community development and support of an initiative that aims to enhance volunteering participation and collaboration across the Moree region.

Moree Community College campus co-ordinator, Kylie Gray, encourages everyone to attend the Volunteering Connection Hub and Expo at the college’s Greenbah Road campus on May 21.

NSW Volunteer of the Year, Kam Wheeler, will attend the expo on behalf of Moree SES and Red Cross Emergency Services.

She said volunteering is vital in rural and regional communities.

“It is the backbone of many organisations,” Ms Wheeler said.

“The contributions of volunteers are indispensable to the success of organisations across Moree Plains Shire, such as the SES, Rural Fire Service and Red Cross Emergency Services, school P&Cs, sporting associations, and many others.

“While considerable effort is required, it is rewarding to witness individuals obtain qualifications and represent their communities through sports or organisational participation, thereby enhancing the reputation of the Moree Plains,” she said.

“As a volunteer with the NSW SES and Red Cross Emergency Services, I have gained valuable skills, which I’m able to apply and share effectively with my fellow team members.

“Volunteering is done from the heart, a way to give back in a way to say thanks. Payment is not important, the best payment received are the word ‘thank-you’,” she said.

“Through volunteering, I’ve discovered a strong sense of camaraderie – some friends grow into family, and we support each other, even from afar.

“Occasionally, we deploy together to the same location during a weather event, such as a storm or flood.”

Ms Gray encourages Moree and district residents to attend the free event.

“Whether new to Moree, looking to build resumes, wanting to make a real difference in the community, or just keen to meet some good folks, this expo is for everybody,” Ms Gray said.

“The expo gives opportunities to chat with local organisations, find out what volunteering actually looks like, and discover where someone’s skills and passion could matter.

“Whether people have heaps of time or just one afternoon a month, there’s something for everyone,” she said.

Organisations that rely heavily on volunteerism – some fully – will be on hand to answer all questions.

People of all ages and backgrounds are welcome to attend, including young people and those interested in getting involved locally for the first time.

“We encourage people to ask these organisations anything – what days and hours might suit potential volunteers, what is actually involved, and why these groups are awesome places to volunteer,” Ms Gray smiled.

“Volunteering is a brilliant way to meet people, pick up new skills, get a foot in the door career-wise, or simply a way to give something back to the community.

“There is no experience needed – just a willingness to have a go,” she said.

Ms Gray said Moree Community College Northern Inland has been successful in receiving a grant to establish the Moree Volunteering Connection Hub and Expo Series under the Community Connections – Volunteering Information Hub Establishment Grant.

“This funding allows us to host the expo to connect potential volunteers with local community organisations and deliver training and networking sessions to strengthen the capability of volunteers and volunteer managers,” Ms Gray said.

“It also enables us to deliver inclusive pathways for First Nations people, youth and unemployed residents to participate in volunteering.”

Kam Wheeler congratulated Ms Gray and outreach and learning support officer Pat Bracken for organising the expo.

“If people have some free time, come by and check it out – they might be surprised by the variety of organisations that will be represented, and organisation interested in participating are encouraged to contact Pat or Kylie to register,” she said.

Moree Volunteering Connection Hub and Expo

When: Thursday, May 21

Where: Moree Community College, 53 Greenbah Road

Time: 9am to 12pm

More information: 6751 1430

Morning tea will be provided