Tickets are available for an upcoming Volunteers Week morning tea which will pay tribute to the region's selfless volunteers while hearing from special guest speaker, Val Dempsey.
Starting as a cadet volunteer while still in primary school, Val has dedicated her life to St John Ambulance.
With more than 50 years of selfless service to others under her belt, she is one of the Australian Capital Territory’s longest-serving volunteers.
In 2020, Val faced her biggest challenge yet as a St John Ambulance volunteer.
First with the ‘Black Summer’ bushfires, followed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In response, Val led 40 fellow volunteers as they supported fire-affected communities during the emergency that stretched over many weeks.
Then when the pandemic hit, she displayed unwavering commitment to the St John team, despite heavy impacts on team morale.
Without hesitation, Val personally contacted every volunteer to check they were ‘doing okay’ in terms of welfare, mental health and morale.
It is these tireless commitments to St John that has led many in the community to know her lovingly as ‘Aunty Val’.
Joining the Bundaberg Regional Council Volunteers Morning Tea on Tuesday 16 May, Val will be recognised along with local residents who have shown a strong commitment to community.
Bundaberg Regional Council has sponsored tickets to the morning tea event for its volunteers to show its appreciation for the support they provide to its facilities and services.
The event is also open to the community for anyone interested in hearing Val speak about her incredible volunteering journey to attend and show their appreciation for all of the region’s volunteers.
Tickets for the Council’s volunteer morning tea, are available to purchase here.
Council’s volunteer morning tea
When: 10 am to 11.30 am on Tuesday 16 May
Where: Bundaberg Multiplex
Cost: $15 per person – please note ticketing closes 15 May.
