Around 150 volunteers joined the Volunteering Secretariat in celebrating ‘Thank a Volunteer’ Day at the Perth Zoo on Monday 5 December 2005.

Thank a Volunteer Day, know worldwide as International Day of the Volunteer, provides a unique opportunity for the WA community to acknowledge and celebrate the 429,000 plus volunteers who are making a real difference in our community. 

This year’s event focused on volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to improving the lives of children and young people in such areas as sport and recreation, the environment, and welfare and community organisations.

The event formalities were hosted by Phillipa O’Connell from Channel 9 and included an Indigenous welcome and dance by Mort Hansen, Ngoongar elder and his two grandsons, as well as acknowledgement and thanks by the new Minister.

A special presentation about the School Volunteer Program was given by Patricia Vaughan and the two young students she mentors, Jemma and Kahla.

Guests were treated to views of the baboons, lions and rhinoceros, while they made their mark on the handprint canvas and enjoyed a display of community volunteer programs.  Each volunteer attending the event was recognised with a special certificate of thanks.