UPDATE: Lynnette Vuradin has been named the 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year at a ceremony held on October 10, 2025, at Gosford RSL Club. As a dedicated Patrol Captain with the Shelly Beach Surf Club, Vuradin has spent countless hours ensuring beach safety and mentoring new surf lifesaving volunteers, making a profound impact on her community.
This recognition comes during the 19th annual NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, hosted by The Centre for Volunteering, aimed at celebrating the selfless contributions of volunteers across the state. Vuradin’s commitment extends beyond her patrol duties; she is an age manager, events official, rescue watercraft operator, and trainer, and she founded the Ladies on Patrol group to empower women in surf lifesaving.
“Volunteers are the quiet force, whether helping ease cost of living pressures or responding on the front line of floods, fires, and emergencies,” said Gemma Rygate, CEO of The Centre for Volunteering. This sentiment echoes the urgent need for community support during challenging times.
Also honored at the event was Tahlia Blanshard, named Young Volunteer of the Year. The Jilliby resident has dedicated the past six years to the Cerebral Palsy Alliance, leading programs that promote physical activity and strength for individuals with disabilities. Notably, she balances her volunteer work with her role as a key defender for the Australian ParaMatildas football team.
Taking home the Senior Volunteer of the Year award was Laurie Sweet from Gwandalan. Sweet’s extensive volunteer work includes teaching sustainable fishing practices and preparing support packages for families in need. His efforts with the Gwandalan and Summerland Point Peninsula Improvement Group have made him a vital advocate for local issues.
The Marine Rescue Hawkesbury team, comprised of 50 volunteers, was recognized as the Emergency Volunteer of the Year. This team operates 24/7 to respond to boating incidents and provide essential aid during floods and medical emergencies, showcasing the critical role volunteers play in ensuring community safety.
The Fairhaven Op Shopping Village Volunteers were honored as the Volunteer Team of the Year. Their dedication to sorting and selling donated items raises funds for disability services, significantly impacting the lives of those they support.
Minister Jodie Harrison expressed gratitude to all recipients, emphasizing the importance of their contributions: “These awards are an important way we recognize your passion and dedication to your local communities.” She reiterated the NSW Government’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive volunteering sector.
As Central Coast award recipients prepare for the gala state ceremony later this year, where the overall NSW Volunteer of the Year will be announced, the spotlight remains on the incredible impact of volunteers like Vuradin, Blanshard, and Sweet.
This celebration of volunteerism not only highlights individual achievements but also inspires others to contribute to their communities during urgent times of need. The call for compassion and action is resonating louder than ever, reminding us all of the power of giving back.
