Caitlyn Tuohey (centre) won the Bella Ainsworth Young Volunteer Award. She is pictured with City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Shane Sali (left) and Bella Ainsworth’s partner, Mitch Barrett.
Three people and one group were acknowledged for their contributions to the community, taking home the top awards at a ceremony for volunteers in Shepparton.
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Lauren Wolfe, Caitlyn Tuohey, Clive Wood and the Shepparton Riding for the Disabled organisation took out the top gongs at the Greater Shepparton Volunteer Recognition Awards ceremony on Monday, May 19.
More than 350 people attended this year’s awards ceremony, with more tuning in to a live stream.
This year’s awards saw the introduction of the Bella Ainsworth Young Volunteer Award, which was won by Caitlyn Tuohey.
This tribute honours Bella Ainsworth, a passionate advocate for youth engagement in the community, who lost her battle with cancer in 2024.
Caitlyn was recognised for her unwavering and continuous support, care and nurture for her community.
She volunteers for various FamilyCare programs, as well as previously volunteering in the Gowola Homework Club.
Through FamilyCare, she volunteers in the IntoRec program that supports children and adults with varying disabilities to form connections with others and help with everyday tasks after school or during the day.
Caitlyn also volunteers for the FamilyCare Christmas Drive, raising funds through gift-wrapping, as well as organising and providing presents for families who experience financial difficulties or need help during the Christmas period.
The adult volunteer award went to Lauren Wolfe, for her work with young people and in other community projects.
Ms Wolfe has a heart for the young community and is highly respected, recognised and sought out by the leaders at The Bridge Youth Service, to strongly and passionately advocate for the youth of the community.
She has mentored young mothers in the community.
Ms Wolfe’s passion has not wavered over the years, volunteering in multiple roles including Young Parents’ Group, the Youth Ambassador program, roles in community meals and various other community projects.
Shepparton Riding for the Disabled secretary Cathy Hamilton and president Ray Donnan accepted the Volunteer Team award on behalf of Riding for the Disabled. They are pictured with City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Shane Sali.
The Volunteer Team award was won by Shepparton Riding for the Disabled.
The Donnan Family — Albert, Yvonne and Ray — started Shepparton Riding for The Disabled in May 1978 for their daughter and sister Wendy.
For 47 years, RDA teams have made a difference to the lives of many hundreds of people with a disability and their families by providing an environment of respect, teaching of skills and acknowledgment of progress through programs while increasing participants’ confidence.
With 41 clients on the RDA books and a waiting list of additional riders, the 25 volunteers make available a combined 341 years of enthusiastic dedication to the community.
Clive Wood received the Long Serving Volunteer Award for his exceptional contribution and the significant difference he has made to the lives of countless people.
Clive Wood received the Long Serving Volunteer Award. He is pictured with Mayor Shane Sali.
Mr Wood has been a dedicated volunteer driver with Community Accessibility for 20 years.
Throughout his long service, he has provided reliable transportation for individuals with mobility challenges, helping them stay connected to essential services, appointments and social events.
Now in its 16th year, the awards received 41 nominations, with a diverse group of volunteers dedicating their time to various organisations, service clubs and sporting groups across the region.
The keynote speaker, AFLW Richmond player Grace Egan, spoke about the importance of strong community connections, and shared how her journey in elite sport continued to inspire and support others.
City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Shane Sali acknowledged the vital role of volunteers across the region.
“This year’s ceremony was a powerful reminder of the incredible impact volunteers have in connecting and supporting our community,” he said.
“With 41 nominations received, it’s clear that Greater Shepparton is home to countless dedicated individuals and groups who give their time to help others.
“Our community is stronger because of them, and it’s only fitting that we take the time to acknowledge and celebrate their contributions.”
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