General News
4 June, 2025
J Ward hosts Volunteers Week celebration
TO mark National Volunteer Week, Ararat Rural City Council invited the community to join a special celebration to honour the municipality’s volunteers last Thursday at J Ward.
Community members and volunteers were treated to a free barbeque provided by the Ararat Lions Club, and a complimentary visit to the J Ward Museum.
National Volunteer Week is Australia's largest annual celebration of volunteering, with this year’s theme “connecting communities”, celebrating the power of volunteering to bring people together.
Deputy Mayor, Cr Bob Sanders, who is himself an active volunteer, emphasised the positive impact that volunteering has on the community.
“Volunteering helps people develop stronger networks and friendships, learn new skills and helps communities come together.”
“Our volunteers truly form the backbone of our rural community. They donate hundreds of hours of their time to keep our vital services, clubs and organisations running. Ararat Rural City simply could not function without their selfless efforts.”
“Our community is supported by a wide range of dedicated individuals, including caregivers, emergency service personnel, those who run our sporting clubs and cultural institutions, the Gallery, Town Hall, and Ararat and Grampians Visitor Information Centre volunteers who promote our wonderful region,” he said.
“On behalf of my fellow councillors, the CEO, and council staff, thank you to our incredible volunteers. You are invaluable, and we greatly appreciate all you have done and continue to do for our community,” Cr Sanders said.