Last week, Warrigal kicked off celebrations for the festive season with two special lunches for our volunteers across NSW and the ACT. These events were held to acknowledge and give thanks to our community of volunteers who have worked tirelessly throughout the year to support our older people. The outstanding contributions of our volunteers, particularly during this busy end of the year, are a testament to our vision at Warrigal – a world where older people feel known, loved and connected.

The first event, held last Tuesday at Goulburn Soldiers Club, welcomed volunteers from across Warrigal’s Southern locations, including Goulburn, Bundanoon, Canberra and Queanbeyan. Our volunteers enjoyed a hearty lunch, followed by an entertaining elf costume competition, where numerous staff from the Southern Leisure and Lifestyle teams were tasked with winning the crowd over with their best “Warrigalised” elf outfit.

Warrigal CEO, Jenni Hutchins, joined by Chair of the Board, Sophie Ray, Member for Goulburn, Wendy Tuckerman, and Deputy Mayor of Goulburn, Caitlin Flint, shared their appreciation for our volunteers and their amazing contributions this year.

In her address, Jenni shared her gratitude for our volunteers, and reiterated the significance of the seemingly ‘small’ acts of kindness in making a difference in our older people’s lives.

“As we approach Christmas and the end of another year, I want to say thank you. Thank you for choosing to spend your time with us. Thank you for the countless small acts of kindness that might seem ordinary to you but are extraordinary to the people whose lives you touch.”

She continued, “Thank you for believing in our vision and helping to make it a reality.”

To finish the afternoon, our wonderful Fijian staff from Warrigal Goulburn put on a beautiful performance of traditional dances and songs for the volunteers to enjoy.

Last Thursday, volunteers from our Northern Warrigal locations celebrated with a festive lunch at Warilla Bowls Club. In a similar fashion, the Northern Leisure and Lifestyle team put on a show for the volunteers, with an applause-o-meter system used to determine the ‘Best Dressed’ Warrigal Elf amongst the crowd. Volunteers were also delighted with a wonderful performance from the Fijian staff at Warrigal Shell Cove, singing a mix of traditional songs and Christmas carols.

Sophie Ray, Chair of the Board, alongside Jenni and fellow Board Member, Helen Newman, and Mayor of Shellharbour, Chris Homer, shared her appreciation for volunteers across Warrigal.

“In my first year on the Warrigal Board, I’ve had the privilege of visiting several of our homes and villages. And do you know what I’ve seen again and again? I’ve seen volunteers. Reading with someone who can no longer see clearly. Laughing with someone over a shared memory. Holding the hand of someone who needed comfort.”

“As Board Chair, I want you to know that the Board sees you, values you, and is deeply grateful for you. Your contribution isn’t just helpful – it’s essential. You are integral to who Warrigal is and who we aspire to be.”

Attendees enjoyed a delicious lunch and good conversations, and to finish off the afternoon, volunteers and staff joined together to form one great big conga line, dancing their way throughout the room to popular jingles.

Each event was a great success, with a wholesome buzz noticeable around the room, and many volunteers leaving with warm hearts and full bellies.

Warrigal is proud of the community of dedicated volunteers who help us to achieve our vision every day. If you’re interested in volunteering with us, or want to learn more, explore our webpage here.

Explore our image gallery of the events below!