The true volunteering spirit of Geelong was highlighted once more in the very successful, 2025 Volunteer of the Year Awards. The awards recognise and celebrate the impact volunteers, volunteer leaders and volunteer programs have in building resilient communities, services and connections across our region. Congratulations to the 15 finalists and the 5 winners who were presented with Certificates and Awards at the at the City of Greater Geelong Wurriki Nyal Civic Precinct on Wednesday evening, 30 July.
The five category winners were:
- Leadership Award - Stephen Bentley, L2P Program
- Service Award – Maree Brusaschi, Geelong Calesthenics College
- Inclusive Award – The Pulse 94.7FM
- Youth Award – Maggie O’Neill, The Outpost Inc
- The Volunteer of the Year Award – Heather Miller, Barwon Health
Our thanks to Colin Dempsey of Volunteering Geelong and sponsors including Geelong Connected Communities, Standby Security, Beyond Bank, Keiser Geelong and the Rotary Club of Kardinia.
Mayor Kontelj and Patron Keith Fagg led a number of excellent speakers on the achievements and success of volunteers in the Geelong region. It was a heartwarming event where many of those who serve the community with energy, enthusiasm and without expectation of reward had their generosity recognised and celebrated by their peers.
Select Read More for detail on each of the winners….
