AS AUSTRALIA marks Neighbourhood Centre Week between 12–18 May and gears up for National Volunteer Week between 20–26 May, Woolgoolga Neighbourhood Centre is taking the opportunity to honour the backbone of its operations – its dedicated volunteers.
“Neighbourhood Centres exist to deliver local solutions that help communities thrive, and at the heart of ours are our volunteers,” said Centre Manager Rashmere Bhatti.
“The Centre is fortunate to have such a generous, talented group of people giving their time to support others.
“Our volunteers bring their life experience, skills, and heart to everything they do.
“They’re the face of the centre, and we simply couldn’t operate without them,” Rashmere said.
The centre will host a volunteer appreciation lunch at Ground Earth Café as part of the dual celebrations, recognising the contribution of those who help keep their vital community services running.
Neighbourhood Centres originated in the 1960s as part of a widespread Australian movement for self-help and welfare rights.
The Woolgoolga Neighbourhood Centre was established by the community in 1994 and is housed in one of the town’s oldest buildings, a former police station dating back to 1880.
The Centre has evolved into a vital hub of support, connection, and advocacy with strong community involvement and a reputation for delivering quality services.
Its work has been recognised with several government awards, including ‘Regional Achiever’ and ‘Neighbourhood Centre of the Year’.
With a strong focus on inclusivity, the centre also plays an important role in building cross-cultural knowledge and awareness.
“We are a service provider as well as a connector,” Rashmere said.
“We build capacity, advocate for local needs, and help our community by working with other welfare providers to find solutions.”
Despite not having secure ongoing funding, the Centre continues to thrive through grant applications and strong partnerships.
“Unfortunately, the Neighbourhood Centre has to pay rent to the Coffs Harbour City Council for which funds also have to be found.”
Today, the Centre offers a wide range of services including counselling, information and referral, homework support, English language classes, IT help, and Centrelink support.
It also provides space for other organisations such as Mission Australia, Carers NSW, Real Futures, and NSW Community Corrections.
“The Christmas gift giving program for children at Christmas is a valuable service that many families look forward to, made possible by Woolgoolga Diggers and Ray White Real Estate.”
To celebrate the two major weeks, the centre is actively welcoming new volunteers.
“Volunteering doesn’t just help the community – it also helps those who volunteer by providing social connection, skills development, pathways to employment and linkages to the broader community,” she said.
To find out more, drop in to the Centre or contact Rashmere on 02 66541598 or by emailing manager@woolgoolganeighbourhoodcentre.org.au.
By Leigh WATSON
