MORE than 20 local volunteer and community organisations, along with 30 council volunteer groups, were recognised for their contribution to the Frankston City community at two special events, held as part of National Volunteer Week.
National Volunteer Week ran from 18 to 24 May, under the theme ‘Your Year to Volunteer’.
In Frankston City, more than 16,800 residents volunteer through community groups and organisations, representing 10.5 per cent of the population and collectively supporting more than 100 registered organisations across the city.
Frankston City Mayor Cr Sue Baker and Federal Member for Dunkley Jodie Belyea MP hosted the first event, a roundtable discussion bringing together leaders from organisations including emergency relief, family violence support, mental health and disability services.
Participants discussed challenges and opportunities facing the sector, such as expanding volunteer training, sharing resources, and rising operating costs like insurance and fuel.
More than 150 volunteers from Council programs, committees and services were then acknowledged for their contributions, with volunteers from community centres, environmental programs, mentoring initiatives, family support and Meals on Wheels represented.
“Volunteers are often the unsung heroes of our community,” said Mayor Baker.
“Whether it’s providing meals to vulnerable people, mentoring young people, supporting women into employment, helping families in crisis or simply creating social connection –volunteers are changing lives every single day.
“One of the strongest messages from the day was that there is no such thing as ‘just a volunteer’. People contribute in different ways – some alongside work and family commitments, while for others it becomes a lifelong passion and purpose.”
Belyea said the events gave organisations a rare chance to share knowledge and forge new connections across the sector.
“The roundtable highlighted real challenges facing community groups, but it showed that when organisations come together, ideas are shared, connections are formed, and there is a genuine willingness to support one another.
“That’s the strength of Frankston City’s community sector,” said Belyea.
First published in the Frankston Times – 2 June 2026