Celebrating our volunteers

As part of National Volunteer Week 2025, mecwacare was delighted to host a special High Tea on Tuesday, 20 May at the elegant Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club. The event was a heartfelt gesture of thanks to the extraordinary volunteers who so generously share their time, care and compassion.

More than 220 volunteers came together for a morning of delicious food, lively conversations and sincere appreciation. The atmosphere was one of celebration and gratitude, honouring the invaluable contributions our volunteers make in enriching lives and building stronger, more connected communities across Victoria.

CEO Anne McCormack shared a touching reflection on mecwacare’s beginnings in 1959, when a small group of volunteers in Malvern came together to support their ageing neighbours. “That simple act sparked what has now become mecwacare,” she said. “You are a key reason why we’re so successful today, grounded in a serviceled approach to our purpose and mission.”

Guests enjoyed a delightful spread of savoury bites and sweet treats, while learning about the many ways volunteers support mecwacare – from gardening and dog companion visits to book clubs and intergenerational programs.

The event also featured the 2025 Volunteer Awards, honouring volunteers across three categories: New Volunteers of the Year, Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) Volunteers of the Year, and overall Volunteers of the Year.

In addition, Service Awards recognised milestone years of dedication, from 5 to 30 years, with certificates and glass trophies marking each recipient’s long-standing commitment.

This special celebration was a joyful tribute to the volunteers who help bring mecwacare’s mission to life every day.

Congratulations

Service Award recipients

Robyn Baxter, Barry Fenton Centre — 30 years

Clive Wright, Barry Fenton Centre — 30 years

Margaret Skellett, Vincent House — 25 years

Olwyn Syle, Malvern East Op Shop — 25 years

Susan Barton, Board Member — 20 years

Donald Jones, Malvern Centre — 15 years

Heather Law, Barry Fenton Centre — 15 years

Winnifred Nelson, Elstoft House — 10 years

George Terhorst, Elstoft House — 10 years

Graeme Eddy, Community Transport — 5 years

Jo-Ann Stubbings, Malvern East Op Shop — 5 years

Jack Robertson, Malvern East Op Shop— 5 years

Susan Williams, Malvern East Op Shop — 5 years

Gillian Miles, Malvern East Op Shop — 5 years

David Stevens, Malvern East Op Shop — 5 years


New Volunteers of the Year

Jennie Evans, Malvern Centre

Haminda Khan, Vincent House

Lauren Goldberg, Jubilee House

Toni Bahler, Annie’s Court


ACVVS Volunteers of the Year

Jo Foley, Marcelle Quinn and Chris Henry


Volunteers of the Year

Nadine Grey, Elstoft House

Marjorie Waite, Malvern East Op Shop

Sonia Goubran, Malvern East Op Shop

Sandra Luxford, Community Transport

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