I call on nominations from the local community for the National Volunteer Awards.
The Minister for Social Inclusion, the Hon Tanya Plibersek MP, has announced an awards campaign to recognise individuals who make an outstanding contribution to their local community through volunteering.
Volunteering is an essential part of the Ipswich and Somerset Region communities. Volunteering connects us, strengthens our sense of belonging and creates positive relationships that build a stronger local community.
The electorate of Blair relies heavily on the contribution of volunteers - the unsung heroes who give up their free time to deliver services, in the areas of sport, emergency services and community welfare.
2011 marks the tenth anniversary of the International Year of Volunteers. The theme for worldwide celebrations is ‘Inspire the Volunteer in You' - recognising that everyone can be a volunteer and make a valuable contribution to their community.
To mark this special year we have the opportunity to recognise those individuals who make an outstanding contribution to the Blair community through volunteering.
The people of Blair will have the opportunity to nominate outstanding local volunteers and organisations in the following award categories:
1. MP's Volunteer of the Year Award
2. Junior Volunteer Award (17 and under)
4. Education Award
5. Environment Award
6. Long-term Commitment to Community Service Award
7. Business Volunteer Award
8. Innovation in Volunteering Award (for an organisation or individual)
9. New organisation Award
To be eligible for awards, volunteers should be widely recognised as being significant contributors to their communities; their contribution of time and effort should set an example to other volunteers; they should provide guidance to other volunteers and where appropriate encourage others to join their cause; they should undertake their tasks selflessly and without the purpose of material gain.
Nominations are now open. Award ceremonies are to be held on or around the International Volunteer Day on Saturday 5 December 2011.
Ten award winners in each electorate will receive a custom-designed award pack which will include a letter of recognition from the Prime Minister and the Minister for Social Inclusion, a certificate of appreciation for their volunteering efforts and an IYV+10 commemorative stamp and coin set.
For more information about the awards or to download a nomination form, please visit click here to download or call my office for a form to be sent out on phone 3201 5300.
