Behind the Scenes

Lifeline Kunda Park Volunteer Team, Family & Disability Services

The volunteer team at Lifeline Kunda Park exemplifies the spirit of behind-the-scenes dedication—working humbly, tirelessly and wholeheartedly to support their community and each other.

Despite operating in a site without air conditioning or heating, the team consistently shows up with  positivity and a deep commitment to creating a welcoming environment. Their customer-first mindset has enhanced the Lifeline experience and contributed significantly to the store’s financial success, raising vital funds for the Lifeline Crisis Support Line.

What makes this team truly special is the way they support one another. They’ve built a space where volunteering brings joy, purpose and belonging, with many team members sharing how this work has positively transformed their own lives.

The Kunda Park volunteers are the heartbeat of their store - quietly powerful, deeply compassionate, and a shining example of community spirit in action. 

Patricia Ratcliffe, Hospitals

Patricia Ratcliffe, affectionately known as Pat, is a quiet yet powerful force within the hospital community. As Volunteer Team Leader, Pat exemplifies heartfelt dedication and inclusive leadership.

Pat plays a key role in recruiting and placing volunteers, ensuring each person is matched to a role that suits their strengths and supports the wider hospital community. Her thoughtful approach fosters a team that uplifts patients, families and staff in meaningful ways.

She actively supports the Cindy Mackenzie Breast Cancer Program, coordinating volunteer participation in events and strengthening community connections. Behind the scenes, Pat is the glue that holds the team together - checking in on volunteers, offering support and creating a nurturing environment where everyone feels valued.

Pat embraces ongoing learning to meet the evolving needs of the hospital and is often found at reception, where her warm presence sets a positive tone for all who arrive. Her resilience, especially during personal challenges, reflects her unwavering commitment to others.

Pat is the heart behind the scenes—leading with kindness, humility and strength. Her impact is felt deeply across the hospital, making her a truly inspiring nominee for the Volunteer Award.

Virtual Volunteer Team, Hospitals

The Virtual Volunteer Team at St Andrew’s Hospital demonstrates creativity, compassion and dedication in their behind-the-scenes support of fundraising and patient care.

Working from home or in small craft groups, the team produces a wide range of handmade items for events like the Mother’s Day Stall and Christmas Market. Their upcycled decorations and festive gifts reflect innovation and sustainability, contributing to an impressive $35,000 raised last year—funds that helped transform the paediatric ward into a vibrant, welcoming space.

Beyond fundraising, the team creates thoughtful patient resources including support pillows, drain bags, toiletry packs, felt hearts and activity books. These items offer comfort, dignity and emotional support, often accompanied by heartfelt messages of gratitude from patients and families.

Though they work quietly in the background, their impact is felt hospital-wide. Their generosity  and team spirit enrich the lives of patients and staff members.

Changing Lives, Theirs Included

Bernard Kerin, Aged Care & Community Services (BlueCare)

Bernard Kerin is a dedicated volunteer whose 24 years of service across BlueCare’s Residential Aged Care facilities reflect his unwavering commitment and resilience. Beginning at BlueCare Amaroo in 2001, Bernard extended his service to Kingscliff in 2011 before moving to Kirrahaven in 2019 where he continues to make an extraordinary impact despite personal health challenges.

 At Amaroo, he supported the maintenance team three days a week for over a decade, taking on everything from repairs to payroll and administrative support. Later, he created a new role as an entertainer, curating and leading singalongs with residents. By compiling more than 600 songs across 20 artists, Bernard brought joy and connection.

Bernard is admired not only for his reliability and professionalism, but also for his compassion and creativity. His ability to step into many roles, whether in the office, laundry, or leading entertainment, is a testament to his flexibility and commitment to serving wherever he is needed. Even at 81 years old, he brings energy and optimism, reminding colleagues and residents alike that meaningful contribution knows no age limit.

Bernard’s enduring service has strengthened BlueCare’s culture of care and connection and his leadership by example inspires fellow volunteers and staff. His legacy is one of selflessness, resilience and joy.

Mary Albury, Family & Disability Services

Mary Albury is a volunteer Crisis Supporter at Lifeline Brisbane, where she has brought dedication, empathy and resilience to her role for the past two years. Living with cerebral palsy, Mary has never allowed her disability to hold her back. Instead, she has become a beacon of courage and perseverance, demonstrating what is possible through determination and compassion.

Mary regularly handles some of the most challenging calls, approaching each with calm strength and positivity. Her ability to connect with people in moments of deep vulnerability sets her apart as a trusted and compassionate supporter. Beyond her frontline service, Mary also mentors student crisis support workers, generously sharing her experience to help them grow in confidence and skill.

Whether or not she is having a good day herself, Mary shows up with commitment and a smile. She leads by example, demonstrating resilience, positivity, and a genuine care for others that has become a source of inspiration across the team.

Mary’s contribution has enhanced the quality of support Lifeline provides. Her leadership through lived experience reminds us all of the strength in vulnerability and the power of showing up with heart.

Jordan King, Aged Care & Community Services (BlueCare)

Jordan King has been a valued volunteer at Talleyhaven BlueCare Tallebudgera for 22 years, where his warmth, commitment and generosity have made him an irreplaceable part of the community. Beginning his service at just 20 years old, Jordan has dedicated over two decades to greeting residents, staff and visitors with a smile, becoming the welcoming face at the front desk and a trusted presence for all who walk through the door.

Jordan’s role has evolved over time, and he has become best known as the community’s much-loved “Bingo Caller Extraordinaire.” His enthusiasm, humour and energy have turned this simple activity into a highlight of the week for residents, creating connection and joy. His ability to step up and take on responsibilities when needed reflects his reliability and deep commitment to service.

Despite living with physical disabilities and personal challenges, Jordan’s determination and positive spirit are an inspiration to peers, staff and residents, who deeply respect and admire the resilience he demonstrates each day.

Jordan’s 22 years of service has not only enriched the lives of residents but has also strengthened the culture of care at BlueCare, leaving his very own legacy of kindness, encouragement and community spirit.

2024 Finalists

Volunteer Award

Behind the Scenes

Adrian Paterson, Hospitals

St Andrew's War Memorial Hospital (SAWMH) has a long history of cardiac care and innovation. On average, Cardiac Ward 2F  will see 400 open-heart surgery patients per year.  

And each Wednesday for the past nine years, SAWMH Volunteer Adrian has been providing heart surgery patients a helping hand through patient 4 Patient Program (P4P) which offers support and companionship to patients undergoing cardiac surgery, from a volunteer with lived experience. 

Adrian joined the volunteer team after spending more than two months in hospital in 2014 after an operation to repair his leaking heart valves. 

As a P4P volunteer, Adrian supports, listens, offers advice and shares his experiences to provide peace of mind. Adrian offers comfort items including Healthy Heart Welcome Packs, toiletry packs, handmade blankets, and our recently introduced cardiac comfort pillows.  

Adrian received the 2023 Moderator Medal for his passion and dedication to volunteering and his inspiring story has also been featured in UnitingCare’s Donor Care Newsletter. 

 Brian Smith, Family and Disability Services

Brian Smith is a Court Support Volunteer: a role which involves supporting men within the court system who are victims or perpetrators of domestic family violence.

These men can be confused, feel misunderstood and they don’t fully understand why they are facing court, or the process involved. Brian greets them at court, explaining what will happen and answering questions (he does not provide legal advice).

It can be a challenging role so there is a police presence, and partners can be in attendance - which can be upsetting. Brian can talk to attendees in a private room, saying, “there’s real value in listening and being non-judgemental”.

When leaving court, the men are often stressed and upset, but grateful for Brian’s support.

Admitting that volunteering has enriched his life, Brian has also built great relationships with people working at the court, the security staff, JPs and other community workers.

Cheryl Byrne, Family and Disability Services

Earlier this year we celebrated Cheryl Byrne's 20 years of selfless, loyal service to Lifeline Retail at the Pacific Paradise store.  Knowledgeable, hardworking and a joy to work with, Cheryl is dedicated to her role as a volunteer, whatever the task. She’s always smiling and happy, even when dealing with dirt, grease, and cockroach poo, or standing at the sink all day washing dishes, toys, and other products so they’re clean and saleable. She irons clothes for hours, too, to ensure a high standard for customers, often taking soiled items home to wash them.

Cheryl has a friendly, positive attitude and never complains, always putting in her best effort - even while vacuuming and mopping at the end of day when she must be tired.

During her time with Lifeline Retail she has experienced a lot of change and has adapted and grown, while her passion for helping others has enabled her to thrive and shine.

Changing Lives, Theirs Included

Carole Lyall, Hospitals

For 37 years, Carole Lyall has been a welcoming face at St Andrew's War Memorial Hospital.

She has been involved in many volunteering roles with the hospital, but with a decline in health and mobility, her current role on the Help Desk is the perfect solution.

Driving 30kms from her home in rain, hail or shine, Carole is often the first person that patients and visitors speak to, greeting them warmly and directing or escorting them to where they need to go. She also offers administration support to various wards and units such as preparing wrist bands, compiling paperwork, laminating, and binding.

“Volunteering at St Andrew's is my life,” Carole said. “I love people, and it feels like my second home.”

Carole also generously makes and donates handmade items for our fundraising stalls and toiletries for our patient toiletry packs.

In 2011 Carole was presented with a Moderator's Community Service Medal, for her volunteering at efforts at the hospital, and her contribution as a volunteer for the Scouts.

Muriel Wroe, Hospitals

For the past 15 years, volunteer Muriel Wroe has been a humble but impactful force within the St Stephen’s Hospital community.

Each week, she picks up patients from their homes and transports them to their treatment appointments, providing a kind and comforting presence to people who are facing some of the most challenging times in their lives.

Muriel is also a passionate advocate for St Stephen's Hospital and plays a pivotal role in inspiring and encouraging others to volunteer. She is a steadfast pillar of our volunteer program, embodying reliability, compassion, and humility.

Her dedication is not just a testament to her personal character but also to her deep belief in the mission of our hospital.

The ever humble, Muriel has said: “Volunteering has given back to me, just as much as I have given.”

She truly embodies the essence of community service and makes our hospital a better place for all.

Sue Thompson, Family and Disability Services

Sue Thompson grew up in a family, in which, she says “we were brought up to give”. She began volunteering with UnitingCare in Townsville in 2016 and moved to North Queensland Rural Family Support Service (NQRFSS) from BlueCare in 2022.

While NQRFSS is administratively based in Townsville, its support area is huge. Sue regularly travels to Greenvale – around two and half hours from Townsville – or Julia Creek, approximately seven hours away. Support workers often need to stay overnight in accommodation, and Sue stays with them when requested.

Sue’s work is varied: In Townsville she prepares welcome packs and documents and assists clients in getting to their medical appointments. In the community with support workers, she assists where possible, including events they facilitate.

“I love volunteering. I am accepted as part of the communities we visit. I receive hugs and thanks for the little things I do,” Sue said.

“I’m grateful for this opportunity to assist a vital service.”

2023 Finalists

Volunteer Award

Behind the Scenes

Cluny Seager, Hospitals

For the past 15 years, ex Army nurse, Cluny Seager, has volunteered at St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital.

Cluny has a passion for military history, visiting veterans and serving members of the Defence Force, and letting these patients know how appreciated and valued their service is.

At the start of each weekly shift, Cluny identifies patients affiliated with the RSL or Department of Veterans and makes notes about previous connections she has made with the patient, before visiting them. Her friendly and familiar face instantly puts patients at ease, and patients consistently ask for Cluny to visit them again.

“Cluny makes the simple things count: a conversation, a question (are you ok?), a smile — all small gestures making a world of difference.”

Virtual Volunteers, Hospitals

Virtual Volunteering was introduced at St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital in 2021, providing the oppportunity for volunteers to continue to give back through COVID-19. Since its inception, the team has grown to 12 volunteers, who form a vital part of St Andrew’s volunteer team.

The Virtual Volunteers devote their time, resources and energy, working from their own home, or together as craft group, to create patient resources: toys for peadiatric patients; support pillows in the shape of hearts for cardiac patients; knitted and crocheted blankets; toiletry bags for unexpected admissions; and fiddle mats and sleeves for patients with dementia.

The dedicated team also contribute handmade items for seasonal fundraising stalls, in aid of purchasing new hospital equipment − raising $15,000 in the past year.

The Virtual Volunteers are an incredibly valuable extension of St Andrew’s volunteer program, and the wider hospital community.

Cheryl Nott, Aged Care and Community Services

Cheryl Nott, a volunteer and a former nurse, began her volunteering journey with Blue Care in her early teens. With encouragement from Bert and Olive Crombie, the first Blue Nurse, Cheryl became involved in the Blue Nurse Doorknock appeal. From the age of 12, Cheryl, accompanied by an adult, began collecting money for the doorknock appeals - and would continue her involvement for many decades.

After joining the Friends of the Blue Nurses at Springwood and arranging various BlueCare fundraising activities, Cheryl joined the BlueCare Springwood team as Volunteer Administration Assistant. 26 years later, Cheryl is still in the role – supporting the team every Friday.

Cheryl said Volunteering contuinues to bring her so much joy. “It’s a vital part of my life - as is attending ballroom dancing meetups and being a volunteer of various historic car clubs. There’s never a dull moment!”

Changing Lives, Theirs Included

Grevillea Gardens Volunteers, Aged Care and Community Services

The Grevillea Gardens Volunteer Team are an amazing group who have continued to volunteer their time each week to the centre, including some who have served for more than 20 years. Their ongoing support and assistance has been invaluable to the staff and residents.

The volunteers say contributing and helping out is one of the best things in their lives, and something that they’re so happy to be a part of. They enjoy making meaningful and personal connections with the residents.

“Being a small country town, some volunteers know the families of new residents, which makes the move into the facility more comfortable everyone.”

They are changing lives and make the world of difference to Grevillea Gardens.

NU2U & The Bower Bird Op Shops, Aged Care and Community Services

The enduring support and dedication from NU2U and Bower Bird Op Shop volunteers have seen their sites grow from a simple drop-centre in 1988, to garage sales in 1999, expanding to weekly op shops across two sites at Alexandra Hills and Redland Bay.

More than 61 volunteers have given their time in setting up each week: sorting and pricing goods, greeting and welcoming customers, and thoughtfully designing the op shop space; in addition to planning fun fashion parades to support BlueCare residents.

“Through their hard work, creativity and diligence the team make a significant impact in the lives of those who benefit from the money raised, but also play a huge role in each other's lives with their fellowship and comradery.”

This outstanding team take the time to engage with the local community, and care for one another − always supporting, comforting and providing relief during hard times. It’s clear to see the positive benefits that their volunteering adds to each other's lives and to the lives of those they serve.

BlueCare Community Connections-Safe Alert, Aged Care and Community Services

The Safe Alert Team volunteers support a program which enables people to continue living independently, safely, in their own homes.

The volunteers are the ears and eyes on the ground and key to the smooth running of the program. With some clients having little contact with the outside world, the volunteers’ dedication has helped keep vulnerable people connected through regular phone calls, visits, and engaging conversation; in addition to troubleshooting alarm issues and replacing equipment where required.

Being a part of the program has supported volunteers to build structure in their life after retirement, improving their confidence and forming new friendships.

“The Safe Alert program has brought meaning and purpose to all our lives, with fun laughter and companionship, while increasing our self-esteem and wellbeing.”