Volunteers celebrated as heart of a stronger Frankston City community

Published on 25 May 2026

More than 20 local volunteer and community organisations, along with 30 Council volunteer groups, were recognised for their extraordinary contribution to the Frankston City community at two special events last week.

Held as part of National Volunteer Week, the events featured guest speaker the Hon Milton Dick MP, Speaker of the Australian House of Representatives and a passionate advocate for volunteering.

In Frankston City, more than 16,800 residents volunteer through community groups and organisations—representing 10.5 per cent of the population—and collectively support more than 100 registered organisations across the city.

Frankston City Mayor Cr Sue Baker and Federal Member for Dunkley Jodie Belyea MP hosted the first event, which brought together leaders from a range of community organisations for a roundtable discussion on the role of volunteering in not-for-profit organisations.

With backgrounds spanning emergency relief, family violence support, mental health and disability services, participants discussed key challenges and opportunities facing the sector—from expanding volunteer training and sharing resources, to rising operating costs such as insurance and fuel.

Following the roundtable, more than 150 volunteers from Council programs, committees and services were acknowledged for their dedication and valuable contributions to the community.

Volunteers from Council’s community centres, environmental programs and mentoring initiatives joined committee members, family support volunteers and Meals on Wheels volunteers to celebrate their shared commitment to helping others.

Frankston City Mayor Cr Sue Baker said the events highlighted the generosity and community spirit that defines Frankston City.

“Volunteers are often the unsung heroes of our community,” Mayor Baker said.

“Whether it’s providing meals to vulnerable people, mentoring young people, supporting women into employment, helping families in crisis or simply creating social connection—volunteers are changing lives every single day.”

“Strong communities are built on people coming together to support one another, and Frankston City has an incredibly proud volunteer spirit.”

“One of the strongest messages from the day was that there is no such thing as ‘just a volunteer’. People contribute in different ways—some alongside work and family commitments, while for others it becomes a lifelong passion and purpose.”

“To every volunteer across Frankston City—thank you. Your contribution matters deeply, and our community is stronger because of you.”

Federal Member for Dunkley Jodie Belyea MP said the events created an important opportunity for volunteers to connect and share experiences, and hear directly from local organisations about the impact they are making across Frankston City every day

“National Volunteer Week is an opportunity to bring together and recognise the incredible people who give their time to support others and strengthen our community,” Ms Belyea said.

“The roundtable highlighted real challenges facing community groups, but it showed that when organisations come together, ideas are shared, connections are formed, and there is a genuine willingness to support one another. That’s the strength of Frankston City’s community sector.”

The events formed part of National Volunteer Week celebrations across Australia, recognising the vital role volunteers play in building inclusive, resilient and connected communities.