As one of the largest volunteer-based organisations in the world, CFA will acknowledge and celebrate the commitment of its 60,000 members during National Volunteer Week (11-17 May).
This year the theme is ‘Give Happy, Live Happy’. More than six million Australian volunteers give happiness to others each year. Research shows that those volunteers are happier as a result.
Throughout the week, a number of statewide and local events will be held, ranging from BBQs, family fun days to medal ceremonies, marking the largest celebration of volunteers and volunteerism in Australia.
CFA Chief Officer Euan Ferguson said that although it’s important to recognise volunteers all year round, National Volunteer Week is a great time to say thank you to all CFA volunteers.
“The volunteer culture is a very important part of what CFA stands for in the community,” he said.”
“Together we work as one team but in this particular week we celebrate the commitment and professionalism of our CFA volunteers.”
Click here to see the video of the Chief's message for all CFA volunteers.
CEO Michael Wootten mentioned that we should never forget the important contribution volunteers have made in the past, and make today, to protect life and property across Victoria.
“Our volunteers also have the challenge of balancing their CFA role with their family and work life, so we would like to give a special thanks to families, employers and those who are self-employed.”
Watch Michael Wootten's video message here.
As National Volunteer Week recognises the relationship between volunteers and their communities, CFA will highlight the stories of volunteers in a number of ways. Photos and messages written by members of the community are being posted to the CFA Facebook page www.facebook.com/cfavic . Some of these messages will form a collection of visual displays that will feature at Federation Square in Melbourne and Civic Square in Dandenong throughout the week and up until June.
On Monday 11 May the Digital Storytelling Workshop Stories were launched. Read Celebrating CFA Volunteers for more info.
To find out more about National Volunteer Week and what is being planned across the country please visit http://www.volunteeringaustralia.org/.
CFA is highlighting stories from volunteers who missed special events to attend fires:
Fire and the works at Bonnie Doon
Fireman Sam to the rescue
A birthday at base camp
The night embers became fireworks
A microwave meal for Peter
'I missed my 21st birthday party'
Fire call over birthday cake
Author: CFA Partnerships and Marketing