Every year Bundaberg Regional Council hosts a range of civic and community events as well as festivals, and for many volunteers it’s an opportunity to learn new skills, meet new people and opens the doors to new opportunities.
One of those passionate volunteers is Sandra Bennett who has volunteered her time with Council’s event team over several years.
For Sandra volunteering with Council has opened up the door to new friends, new opportunities and unique experiences.
Those unique experience included meeting several celebrity chefs at the Bundy Flavours festival.
“I just think it’s a good thing to volunteer as you meet new people and you learn things about people and places that you would not normally learn,” said Sandra
“I’ve volunteered at Bundy Flavours a few times now and I’ve met Matt Golinski and that was pretty inspirational for me. I’ve also met Alistair McLeod, Dion Taylor and Janelle Bloom.”
Within Council there are volunteer opportunities to suit everybody.
For Sandra that role included helping with the set up and take down of the events along with some minor stage management.
“I really liked volunteering at Bundy Flavours, it’s so diverse,” Sandra said.
“It’s not just doing one thing you’re doing a lot of things. You’re basically making sure the food and pans and cutlery is there for people, helping clean up after they’ve cooked, serving food and almost stage managing and making sure things are running on time.
“There’s always something new and you learn so much about the different foods that grow in the region.”
Bundaberg Regional Council Event portfolio spokesperson, John Learmonth said that volunteering with council provided an excellent opportunity to share knowledge, learn new skills and meet new people from diverse backgrounds.
“Council is always looking for volunteers for a variety of roles and really relies on the enthusiasm of community volunteers as they contribute enormously to the success of various functions of Council,” Cr Learmonth said.
“Council-run annual events are a great opportunity for residents to meet other volunteers who are making a contribution to the region. As a volunteer, you can build new skills, meet new people and add variety to your work experience. You can also enjoy working for something that interests you or help to create change in areas that are important to you.
“No matter where you’re from or what skills you have, if you have a desire and enthusiasm to help, are thinking about returning to the workforce, or perhaps even would just like to get out of the house for a few hours, perhaps volunteering is for you.”
For more information about the volunteering opportunities at Bundaberg Regional Council, click here.
