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Recognising the volunteers who help care for our coast

Published on 20 May 2026

 


Barwon Coast proudly hosted a special evening on Tuesday, 19 May, recognising the outstanding contribution of local volunteers as part of National Volunteer Week 2026.

Held at At the Heads, the celebration brought together representatives from 11 volunteer groups who dedicate their time and energy to caring for the coast and community across the land managed by Barwon Coast.

The evening featured a traditional Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony led by Wadawurrung Traditional Owner Aunty Mary, reflections from volunteers on their connection to Country and community, and recognition of the many achievements delivered by volunteer groups over the past year. Marsha and Nick Uppill, Co-Founders of Arranyinha Pty Ltd, an Aboriginal owned and operated cultural consultancy based in Djilang (Geelong), guided everyone through an activity to further encourage reflection and connection.

Volunteer groups recognised included: Breamlea Coastcare, Ocean Grove Coastcare, Friends of the Bluff, Friends of the Lobster Pot, Friends of the Hooded Plover Bellarine, Barwon EstuaryWatch, Foreshore Master Plan Community Reference Group, Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club, 13th Beach Surf Life Saving Club, Bancoora Surf Life Saving Club and the Barwon Heads Sailing Association.

Peter Farrell, Chair, Barwon Coast Committee of Management, said volunteers played a vital role in protecting and enhancing the coast for both community and environment.

“National Volunteer Week is an important opportunity to celebrate the people who generously give their time, skills and care to support our coast and community,” Mr Farrell said.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have volunteers contributing thousands of hours each year to environmental restoration, education, coastal protection, water safety and citizen science.”

“The work these groups undertake has a meaningful and lasting impact on the health of our coastal environment and the strength of our community connections.”

During the evening, attendees heard highlights from volunteer groups including more than 1,960 participants engaging in the January Coastal Discovery Program, ongoing regeneration projects across the Bellarine, hundreds of volunteer hours dedicated to protecting Hooded Plovers, and continued estuary monitoring and community education activities.

Mr Farrell said the event was ultimately about expressing deep gratitude.

“On behalf of everyone at Barwon Coast, I sincerely thank all of our volunteers for the care, commitment and passion they continue to bring to this special stretch of coastline,” he said.

“Your contribution helps ensure these places can continue to be enjoyed and cared for by future generations.”

National Volunteer Week runs from 18-24 May 2026 and celebrates the important role volunteers play in building connected, resilient and thriving communities across Australia.

-ENDS-

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