VOLUNTEERS from a diversity of clubs, groups and organisations across the Newcastle community have been honoured at this year's Volunteer Service Awards in Merewether.
Hosted by Federal Member Sharon Claydon, Friday's ceremony acknowledged the contribution of "more than 50 selfless Novocastrians".
"I'm so delighted to acknowledge the extraordinary work that seemingly ordinary people people do everyday in our community," Ms Claydon said.
"Honouring these people who have given freely of their time, their love, their compassion, their skills and expertise to ensure that we can be the best city we can be."
Returning this year from a COVID-induced hiatus, the awards ceremony highlighted actions of community volunteers during the pandemic.
"COVID really underlined the importance of community and that, as individuals, we couldn't get through this alone," Ms Claydon said.
"It didn't matter what curveballs COVID threw at us, we were able to respond collectively as a community."
Claire Williams, who received a service award for more than a decade volunteering with the Newcastle Theatre Company (NTC), said COVID had a "horrendous" impact on the performing arts.
"However we've taken the opportunity to do lots of maintenance," Ms Williams said.
"We've archived more than 20,000 images from our 67-year history and we've steered our course carefully."
As president of NTC, Ms Williams' "tireless" work enable the group to become "a leading supporter of theatre activities in the region".
"People are generally well-served with culture through Netflix and all sorts of free online products but it's the local engagement and local stories that make the difference," she said.
"We encourage the work of local playwrights to be shown and we literally tell local stories. For example we compiled a historical walking tour for the Love Lambton 150 years celebration last year which was enormously successful.
"I also love it because Newcastle Theatre Company, like most community groups, is amazingly inclusive. All we care about is the contribution people make and how much fun they are to work with. It's pretty amazing."
Other award recipients on the day included volunteers from Marine Rescue, Surf Life Saving, environment and animal welfare, sport and education.
12-year-old Willow Morrison was acknowledged for her work with Meals on Wheels. On Wednesdays, before starting her day at Newcastle High, Willow helps prepare and package meals "for the elderly who can't prepare meals on their own".
"My mum was looking for somewhere where we could volunteer and she found Meals on Wheels. I really love it," Willow said.
"I love helping people and making an impact on the community."
Regulars at Lowlands Bowling Club might recognise the face of Trevor Reeves, who has been volunteering there for 12 years - helping with the day-to-day, at men's galas and with the upkeep of surrounding gardens.
"During COVID we did all the sign-ins and made sure all the protocols were observed. We also support Centennial Park and their gardens," Mr Reeves said.
"The cans and empty bottles we sell and give the money to Centennial Park trust.
"You meet a lot of people and it keeps you in the community. It gives you a purpose and keeps you going."
