University pays tribute to its volunteers

Mrs Lindsay McWha

Thursday, 4 June 2009

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

On Friday 5 June, the University will hold a morning tea to thank its 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, says this time equates to around $3.5 million in paid hours.

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

"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 says.

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 says. "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 will join 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 says.

"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 says.

Contact Details