Quiet acts that make our community stronger
Every day across the Sunshine Coast, volunteers generously give their time, skills and care to support programs that help bring people together, build confidence and strengthen community life.
This National Volunteer Week from 18 to 24 May, Sunshine Coast Council is saying thank you to the volunteers who contribute alongside Council teams to help create welcoming, inclusive and connected places across our region.
Volunteers take on a wide range of roles across Council, from environmental programs and events to arts, heritage, literacy and learning.
Thousands of local volunteers making a difference
More than 4,000 volunteers share their time and skills to help deliver services and experiences that support the Sunshine Coast community.
Debra has been volunteering at the Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden for more than 18 years. She remembers starting out with the garden crew, helping mulch and weed before moving into nursery work where she now propagates and nurtures native plants.
“Watching plants grow from cuttings and knowing they will thrive out in the gardens is incredibly rewarding,” Debra said.
“The camaraderie among the volunteers is what keeps me coming back. The energy of the team is infectious and everyone supports one another.”
Why volunteering matters to our region
Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the commitment shown by volunteers was something that made all members of the Sunshine Coast community proud.
“Our volunteers bring compassion, skill and a deep sense of community to the work they do,” Mayor Natoli said.
“They help create welcoming environments where people feel supported, respected and included and we are incredibly grateful for the contribution they make across the Sunshine Coast.”
Strong Community Portfolio Councillor Taylor Bunnag said volunteering played an important role in strengthening community wellbeing and connection.
“Volunteers enrich our services by sharing their knowledge, life experience and time,” Cr Bunnag said.
“They help create positive experiences for residents and visitors and their involvement strengthens the sense of community pride we value so highly on the Sunshine Coast.”
Meaningful actions, lasting impact
He said volunteers like Debra showed the lasting impact one person could make.
“Debra’s contribution over many years highlights how volunteering can be deeply rewarding, not just for the community, but for the people who give their time,” he said.
“If you have an interest, a skill or simply some time to give, volunteering is a great way to get involved, meet new people and make a meaningful difference on the Sunshine Coast.”
National Volunteer Week 2026 runs from 18 to 24 May and carries the theme Your Year to Volunteer, recognising the contribution of volunteers and encouraging people to consider giving back in ways that suit their skills, interests and availability.
Sunshine Coast Council thanks all volunteers for the time, energy and care they share with our community.
Residents interested in volunteering opportunities with Council can visit Council's volunteering website to learn more.
