Volunteers working in local hospitals, community health services and with ambulance services will be eligible for the second annual Minister for Health Volunteer Awards.
Member for Northern Victoria Region, Candy Broad says the awards are designed to highlight and celebrate the volunteers who make a significant contribution to public healthcare in our local community
“These awards recognised the tireless efforts of thousands of dedicated volunteers at hospitals, community health centres and ambulance services,” Ms Broad said.
“Every day, many dedicated volunteers undertake diverse tasks to support patients, their families and the community to receive the best possible care right here in our local area.
“There are many dedicated and loyal volunteers at the heart of public healthcare services; volunteers who are passionate and united in their commitment to making a difference for patients, healthcare organisations and their community.
“Whether it is frontline, clerical, fundraising or a special one-off event, these awards are open to all healthcare volunteers who demonstrate a commitment and passion to their volunteering role.
“Health services may choose to nominate an individual volunteer or team of volunteers for a long term commitment and achievement, an outstanding success, or action above and beyond the call of duty.”
Nominations will be called in categories of outstanding achievement by an individual volunteer and outstanding achievement by a volunteer team
Awards in both categories will be given to outstanding volunteers from a metropolitan health service, a rural health service, a regional health service and a primary health service.
Minister for Health, Daniel Andrews said last year’s inaugural awards received 70 nominations from Victorian hospitals, ambulance services, and community health and aged care services.
“The tireless volunteers honoured last year included individuals who brighten the lives of sick children and senior citizens who carry out remarkable fundraising efforts,” he said.
“Volunteer teams such as The Alfred ICU Volunteer Team and Kinglake Community Emergency Response Team were recognised last year for their outstanding response to the Black Saturday bushfires.”
Entries are now open and are closing on 6 April this year
The nomination website is www.health.vic.gov.au/volunteerawards
An external panel of judges drawn from the healthcare and volunteering sector will adjudicate the 2009 Minister for Health Volunteer Awards.
The winners will be announced during National Volunteers Week at a special ceremony.