To recognise the work of just some of the volunteers in the region a barbecue was held at Lockhart. 

Member for Riverina and Minister for Small Business, Michael McCormack took the opportunity to catch up with volunteers in Lockhart on Friday evening.

It was a chance to personally thank people for the hours and contributions they make in continually improving the community. 

The event was also attended by Lockhart Shire Council Mayor Rodger Schirmer. 

He said the free community barbecue was put on by the shire to thank the tireless workers from throughout the area for their ongoing contribution. 

The gathering marked the end of National Volunteer Week and was a chance for Mr McCormack to also pay tribute to those who give their time freely for community organisations and groups. 

He said it was a valuable opportunity to join with the Mayor and Lockhart Shire Council councillors and thank and acknowledge members of the community.

“These individuals don’t seek recognition for their efforts, but give of their time, talents and energy to others to build a more prosperous and connected community,” he said. 

“Lockhart is a great community where volunteers do anything and everything (to help), everyone pitches in to help and Lockhart is the heart and soul of the Riverina, a friendly town where everyone is willing to give a hand,” Mr McCormack said. 

Cr Schirmer, who was chief cook for the evening, said the region wouldn’t function so prosperously without the volunteers in the Lockhart Shire.

With winter sowing taking up the time of many farmers in the district there were volunteers who were unable to attend the function. But representatives of various groups including the Rural Fire Service, the Red Cross, Lockhart Museum, the Showground Committee, local aged care service, Can Assist and the RSL Sub-Branch were on hand. 

Meanwhile, show societies and community groups from throughout the Eastern Riverina have benefited from grants announced during volunteer week. A total of $50,000 was pledged for the Southern NSW and border region and a portion of that was available to groups in Henty and Holbrook. 

Federal Member for Farrer Sussan Ley said the energy and expertise of volunteers was always welcomed. 

“I’m glad to see that our local organisations have this support to continue their valuable work,” she said. 

She said across Australia there were some six million volunteers. And a total of $10 million in funding was provided to groups nationally. 

Recipients from the latest round of funding in include;