media release

DATE 11/05/09

National Volunteers Week

Senator Polley welcomes the start of National Volunteer Week, 11th – 17th May 2009. The theme of this year's week is

'Volunteers: Everyday people, extraordinary contribution.’

"Every year, 5 million Australian men and women contribute 710 million hours of volunteer assistance than for no other reason than to make a positive contribution to their communities." Senator Polley said. "These volunteers are an invaluable resource for all of us and it is only fitting that they should be acknowledged and appreciated during National Volunteer Week."

An outstanding example of the impact that volunteers can have would have to be the work of the Central Auxiliary of the Launceston General Hospital, headed by long-time stalwart Margaret Moore AM. Now celebrating its 76th year, the Auxiliary has had an exemplary history. Volunteers started by working in the TB Ward, then the Pathology Department and, from 1936, they opened a kiosk which is still in operation today.

The Auxiliary currently has approximately 70 volunteers, working 7 days a week, running a very lucrative business selling food and other essentials at the Hospital. All profits raised assist the purchasing of equipment for the Hospital and to date the Auxiliary has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for this purpose.

"These people serve as an inspiration and an example to us all." Senator Polley commended. "We may all think that we don't have enough time to make a difference or volunteer. However, these members of our community prove that even a small contribution to a well-organised group can yield great benefits for a great cause."

For additional comments, please do not hesitate to contact Sancia Colgrave on (03) 6331 2599.