Coffs volunteer named NSW Lifeline Volunteer of the Year

COFFS Harbour volunteer Declan has taken out the top state award for NSW at the Lifeline Australia Volunteer of the Year Awards.

Named NSW Volunteer of the Year for 2025, Declan’s journey with Lifeline began as a psychology student looking to grow his skills and give back.

What he found was a community, a purpose, and a platform to make a real difference.

“It was pretty immediate that I felt like Lifeline is a place I belong,” Declan said.

“The opportunity to be on the other end of a phone for anyone who needs it is something that always resonated with me.

“If I can be that person for someone out there, that’s always been time well spent.”

Over the years, Declan has supported countless people in crisis, mentored new volunteers, and now teaches psychology students – passing on the empathy and listening skills Lifeline helped him develop.

“Being on the phones changed my life,” he said.

“It unlocked that empathetic part of me that’s always been there.

“It’s made me a better communicator, a better friend, and a better human.”

While humbled by the recognition, Declan sees the award as a reflection of the entire Lifeline North Coast team.

“I don’t really want the recognition for me personally,” he said.

“But anything that shines a light on the incredible work that happens here is nothing but a positive.

This award is just as much about everyone at Lifeline North Coast.”

Lifeline North Coast General Manager Angela Martin said the organisation is proud of Declan’s achievement.

“Declan is an excellent example of the people that we attract to Lifeline and such a beautiful ambassador for the work we do,” she said.

As the NSW state winner, Declan has now been entered into the National Volunteer of the Year Awards, with the winner to be announced at Lifeline Australia’s Annual General Meeting on Friday 24 November.

By Andrea FERRARI