Several outstanding locals have been recognised for going above and beyond to help their community at this year’s Buderim Volunteer Awards and Thank you

Morning Tea.

The Awards span five categories and acknowledge and honour the contribution of volunteers and volunteer organisations.

This year’s winners include:

• Community Group of the Year – Story Dogs
• Young Volunteer of the Year – Mason Blacker (Bloomhill + Sporting initiatives)
• Sports Volunteer of the Year – Emily Sunderland (Buderim Calisthenics)
• School Volunteer of the Year – Shane Brigg (Chancellor State College)
• Community Volunteer of the Year – Jaybin Forrest (Buderim Lions + Buderim
  Scouts)

Member for Buderim Brent Mickelberg congratulated this year’s award recipients and thanked them for their ongoing service and passion for giving back to their community.

“Volunteers are the heart of Buderim. These awards are a chance to celebrate the incredible individuals and groups who give their time, energy and passion to make our community stronger, kinder and more connected,” Mr Mickelberg said.

“I want to thank each of this year’s award winners, and the many other residents in my electorate who I know selflessly devote their time and energy to supporting others.

“Each award recipient exemplifies the spirit of service that makes Buderim such a special place to live, work and play.”

At 25-years-old Community Volunteer of the Year Jaybin Forrest volunteers as a

Scout Leader and is an active member of the Buderim Lions Club.

“I want to thank my fellow volunteers at Scouts and the Buderim Lions Club who also go above and beyond to help out the community,” Mr Forrest said.

“I started volunteering when I was 13 years old through Scouts, and it’s been a lifelong passion ever since. What drew me in as a teenager – the sense of purpose and my passion for the outdoors – still drives me today.

*The most rewarding part is watching young people grow into confident, capable leaders. Seeing them thrive and give back to their communities is makes it worthwhile.”

Buderim War Memorial Community Association President Steve Budden said he was in awe of every one of the volunteers who served the Buderim community.

“During our life we give our time to our family and friends freely, we are paid for the time we spend at work, but we are not renumerated for the time given as a volunteer in our community,” Mr Budden.

*This act of giving is the essence of life; it is the rock upon which all life is based and is the fuel of our existence.”

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT: Kate Leonard-Jones 0484 620 899