University says thank you to volunteers

Alumni

The University of Adelaide has paid tribute to its 1600-plus volunteers, recognising their contribution in a ceremony at Bonython Hall attended by the South Australian Governor, His Excellency Rear Admiral Kevin Scarce AC, CSC.

The morning tea event was held to thank the University's volunteers who, in 2008, contributed more than 156,000 hours of their time to the University.

The Patron of the University's Volunteer Program, Mrs Lindsay McWha, said this time equated to around $3.5 million in paid hours.

"This is of significant benefit to the University and should be formally acknowledged," she said.

"The University of Adelaide actively encourages and promotes the culture of volunteering. We recognise that volunteers are a valuable resource and do so much to enhance the University's programs, activities and community relations," Mrs McWha said.

There is a long history of volunteering at the University of Adelaide in many forms, including: the Florey Medical Research Fund; the Barr Smith Library Volunteer Group; the Alumni chapters; the award-winning Radio Adelaide; the Waite Campus; the Don Dunstan Foundation; the Theatre Guild, and many others.

"There are a lot of people who have been volunteering at the University for decades," Mrs McWha said. "Many are graduates and former staff who have enjoyed their time here and want to continue to be involved.

"It's a good way to learn more about the University community, meet more people, find out how the place works and enjoy just making a contribution, however small."

The Minister for Volunteers, the Hon. Tom Koutsantonis, joined the Governor and the University of Adelaide's Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor James McWha, and Lindsay McWha to acknowledge the volunteers.

"The University of Adelaide's volunteers reflect the great volunteering spirit in South Australia," Mr Koutsantonis said.

"About 600,000 South Australians donate their time and skills to help others and we salute their huge contribution to the State. Every day volunteers improve our environment, culture, welfare, education, safety and health," he said.

Story by Candy Gibson