By Laura Green
SIX of Frankston’s best volunteers have been celebrated for their contributions to the community across social, charitable, and sporting volunteering services over the last year.
The Impact Volunteer of the Year awards were held on 20 September. Winners Gary Zeuschner, Helena Blomeley, Peter Lewis, Melissa Burgess, Tanya Thomas, and organisation Theodora’s Cheerful Givers were celebrated at an online awards show on the Frankston Council Facebook page.
Donation Chain founder Helena Blomeley won an award for initiative for her work in providing showers, toiletries, and clothing for those who need it. She congratulated the winners and other nominees for their hard work. “Together we’re making Frankston a better place, all of us,” she said.
Theodora’s Cheerful Givers was the recipient of a $1000 prize for its work providing food for Frankston residents in need and for maintaining the deliverance of this service while working under COVID-19 restrictions. Gina Poulos, the creator of Theodora’s, said the prize money would aid in feeding up to 1000 residents.
President of Langwarrin Netball Club Gary Zeuschner received a volunteer’s award for leadership. Over his career, Mr Zeuschner has built rapport with other clubs at Lloyd Park and provided counselling services and personal support to his members after the Treasurer of the club passed away. He said that his focus is on “keeping women and kids engaged in sport”.
Tanya Thomas was nominated for her community work for neurodiverse children. Ms Thomas helped Peninsula Health reform the way they work with children living with disabilities, particularly those who are austistic and non-verbal. The hospitals now have “passports” for healthcare staff to understand their needs quickly.
Frankston North Community Centre volunteer Melissa Burgess was nominated for teamwork after she established the Friday Food Playgroup. The playgroup continues to bring families together for support and socialising and to teach children about healthy eating habits. Ms Burgess said the kids “are more likely to try new things” when they’re together.
Founding member of Community Support Frankston Peter Lewis was nominated for service after 52 years as an advocate for vulnerable clients of the organisation.
Impact Volunteering coordinator Sue Dunn said “I think the spotlight has really been on volunteers this year and how vital their work is to keeping our community ticking over, especially during times of crisis.”
