Meet the Volunteering North Queensland’s Volunteer of the Year Awards finalists
Volunteering North Queensland’s Volunteer of the Year Awards is shining the spotlight on the people who tirelessly work to uplift and strengthen our communities.
Townsville
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Volunteers embody the spirit of generosity and compassion, tirelessly working to uplift and strengthen their communities.
Anne Camplin, who is on the Volunteering North Queensland Management Committee, describes volunteers as the “lifeblood” of the region.
“Volunteers contribute time, talent, and heart to build stronger, more resilient neighbourhoods. Whether it’s helping during natural disasters, supporting aged care and disability services, or mentoring youth, volunteers connect people, bridge service gaps, and create a sense of belonging.”
As part of National Volunteer Week, volunteers from the North will be recognised at the Volunteer of the Year Awards.
Townsville will host a series of Volunteer Thank You Gatherings,which will bring together volunteers and community leaders to celebration service and connection, as well as a morning tea.
The main celebration will be a Mayoral Civic Reception to honour the finalist of the 2025 Volunteer of the Year Awards on Tuesday, May 20.
Anne said celebrating volunteers was not just about recognition, it was about valuing humanity.
“Volunteers give selflessly without expecting anything in return,” she said. “By celebrating them, we affirm their impact, encourage others to step forward, and show our collective gratitude for the kindness that holds our communities together. Recognition boosts morale, retention, and builds momentum for ongoing civic engagement.”
For more than 30 years, Volunteering North Queensland has been a vital connector between volunteers and not-for-profit organisations across Townsville, Hinchinbrook, Chaters Towers, Burdekin and western Queensland.
Volunteering North Queensland supports more than 130 local Volunteer-Involving Organisations by recruiting, training, and mentoring volunteers, offering free training.
Finalists for 2025 VNQ Volunteer of the Year Awards
Volunteer of the Year Award finalists (3)
Proudly sponsored by Townsville City Council
Deanne King
Deanne King is truly a pillar of the community.
With over five years of dedicated volunteering service, Deanne nourishes both bodies and souls through her cooking. She prepares and delivers meals to vulnerable community members while also serving as a referral agent for Volunteering North Queensland.
Her compassion shines through countless acts of kindness - from accompanying a dying woman in her final days to helping neighbours attend appointments.
Despite personal struggles, Deanne remains remarkably generous, offering not just her delicious home-cooked meals but also her time, empathy, and unwavering support to all in need.
This extraordinary volunteer, recognised by multiple nominations in this years awards, embodies selfless service with her loving spirit and tireless commitment to bettering lives one meal at a time.
Ken Christie
For over 12 years, Ken Christie has been the heart and hands behind Ronald McDonald House in Townsville, tending to the beautiful rose gardens and outdoor spaces twice weekly.
His kindness extends beyond gardening - he transports families to appointments, shops for supplies, collects donations, and steps in to cook meals for charity events whenever needed.
Ken’s compassion stems from personal experience, having cared for his young daughter through her battle with Wilms Tumour in 1989.
This fuels his dedication, just as his earlier 10-year presidency with the Children’s Leukaemia and Cancer Society demonstrated his lifelong commitment to helping families in medical crisis.
A Northern Irish immigrant who left behind the Troubles in 1973, Ken’s resilience and generosity shine through his volunteer work.
Always ready with a smile, he embodies the spirit of community service, making an immeasurable difference for families during their most challenging times.
Susan Triffitt
As president of Crystal Creek Sports and Recreation, Susan Triffitt (named among Townsville’s 50 most influential women) demonstrates extraordinary leadership. During the 2025 floods, she mobilised emergency relief when her community was isolated, co-ordinating supplies at the community hall and helping restore fuel access.
A domestic violence survivor and single mother of three, Susan brings deep empathy to her volunteer work. She balances her professional career as a business analyst with tireless community service, including ongoing support through the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre. Her crisis response and dedication to long-term community resilience make her an inspirational figure in the Hinchinbrook region.
Youth Volunteer of the Year Award finalists (3)
Proudly sponsored by McDonalds
Jasmin Peak
For six years with Queensland Youth Parliament (including four in executive roles), Jasmin has demonstrated exceptional commitment.
As Media Officer and now Youth Governor, she volunteers 20 to 30-plus weekly hours managing social media, organising regional civic education roadtrips, and leading the program.
Despite living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and hearing impairment, she broke barriers as QYP’s first rural-based executive, inspiring increased regional representation (now 3/25 executives).
Jasmin extends her passion through turtle conservation volunteering (applying veterinary skills), fundraising $15,000 plus for cancer research, and supporting electoral participation. Her tireless advocacy for rural opportunities and inclusive civic engagement, paired with her resilient spirit, makes her an extraordinary community asset.
Lachlan Anderson
Over four years of volunteering, Lachlan Anderson has profoundly impacted young athletes as coach of under-8 and under-12 basketball teams for the Townsville Giants.
He specialises in welcoming nervous beginners, patiently building their skills and confidence until they become enthusiastic team players.
Drawing from his own childhood experiences, Lachlan fosters inclusion and sportsmanship while making the game enjoyable.
His commitment extends beyond weekly practices - he’s guided multiple teams to finals while teaching life lessons about teamwork and perseverance.
Lachlan’s positive influence resonates through the entire basketball community, as he helps children discover not just basketball skills, but greater self-belief that extends beyond the court.
Poppylillac Gough
Poppylillac Gough founded The Poppy Project to support children of first responders after experiencing first-hand the emotional toll of her father’s 35-year police career.
Witnessing his PTSD and the impacts of missed family events, she created school-based mental health programs to help kids facing similar challenges feel less isolated.
Currently active in Townsville schools and looking to expand, the initiative provides group counselling and peer support for these “forgotten heroes.” Poppylillac ‘s personal journey from struggling with anxiety to creating this vital resource demonstrates remarkable resilience.
Her work not only honours first responders’ sacrifices but ensures their children receive the understanding and support they need to thrive.
Lifetime Contribution to Volunteering Finalists (3)
Proudly sponsored by Townsville Bulletin
Keith Buxton
For over 25 years, Keith Buxton has been the heart of Giants Basketball, as club president, he dedicates countless hours, seven days a week to ensure teams thrive.
He coordinates all teams, training sessions, promotions, and fundraising events while being the first to arrive and last to leave.
Keith’s true impact shines through his mentorship.
He has transformed lives by building confidence in young players, teaching sportsmanship, and fostering inclusive communities for children, teens, and women.
His guidance extends beyond basketball skills - he helps players develop responsibility, respect, and lifelong friendships.
Despite sacrificing family time, Keith maintains a healthy sporting environment where everyone feels valued.
His passion for nurturing both athletic talent and personal growth makes him an irreplaceable pillar of the basketball community.
John Neal
For 21 years, John Neal has been an invaluable volunteer researcher at the Army Museum North Queensland, bridging the region’s military past with its present as Australia’s largest army base. His meticulous research provides families, historians, and visitors with accurate accounts of local military contributions, leaving no question unanswered.
John’s deep regional knowledge and dedication to preserving history make him indispensable. His friendly nature and sharp wit endear him to colleagues and visitors alike, while his ability to work both independently and collaboratively exemplifies volunteer excellence.
As a guardian of North Queensland’s military heritage, John ensures our community remembers its service legacy. His work doesn’t just document history—it connects generations and honours the sacrifices that shaped our garrison city.
Ann-Maree Hislop
For over 40 years as a volunteer, Ann-Maree has embodied the spirit of Scouting as Group Leader of Kirwan Scout Group.
Her exceptional leadership guides youth and adult volunteers alike, fostering personal growth, resilience and community values through adventure and skill-building activities.
Ann-Maree expertly manages all group operations - from recruiting leaders and co-ordinating camps to organising fundraisers and handling administration.
Her dedication extends beyond Scouts through active community engagement, building relationships with local organisations and leaders.
A natural mentor with infectious passion, Ann-Maree creates an inclusive environment where young people develop into responsible citizens.
Her calm, solution-focused approach and selfless commitment - often going above and beyond without seeking recognition - inspire both Scouts and fellow volunteers.
Through her tireless service, Ann-Maree not only strengthens Scouting but enriches the entire community, demonstrating how volunteering creates lasting positive change.
Excellence in Volunteer Management Finalists (3)
Proudly sponsored by Incitecpivot
Shakira Todd – Wildlife Surrounds
For five years, Shakira Todd has dedicated her time expertly managing Wildlife Surrounds’ volunteers. As the heart of the organisation, she coordinates onsite activities, delivers tailored training, and maintains meticulous records while fostering an inclusive, communicative environment.
Shakira’s innovative leadership shines through her volunteer recognition programs, strategic recruitment from universities and conservation groups, and meaningful engagement initiatives. She empowers volunteers through hands-on experiences like koala surveys and regularly incorporates their feedback, ensuring they feel valued.
Her recent appointment of a Volunteer Coordinator strengthened team support structures, demonstrating her commitment to sustainable volunteer management.
Shakira’s ability to balance day-to-day operations with larger conservation projects while maintaining team motivation makes her an indispensable asset to Wildlife Surrounds’ mission.
Michael Pugh – Townsville Hike and Explore
Michael Pugh is the driving force behind Townsville Hike and Explore (TH&E), a volunteer-run initiative offering free, inclusive outdoor adventures across North Queensland.
For years, he has dedicated 100-plus unpaid hours monthly to organising thousands of hikes and community events.
Michael excels at volunteer engagement, using his infectious enthusiasm to motivate teams while fostering key sponsorships and media partnerships.
His leadership extends beyond hiking – he creates supportive social experiences that unite diverse community members.
Through collaborative spirit and relentless positivity, Michael has built TH&E into a movement that promotes accessibility, adventure and connection with nature.
His selfless commitment makes him both an inspirational role model and invaluable community asset.
Narelle Burns – Brighter Lives
For over 35 years, Narelle Burns has dedicated herself to serving North Queensland communities, including 17 years managing Visitor Information Centres and now as the Volunteer Program Manager for Brighter Lives, the official charity of Townsville Hospital and Health Service.
Her compassionate leadership has transformed volunteer engagement, creating a thriving team that supports patients, visitors, and staff across healthcare facilities.
Narelle’s expertise shines through her thoughtful management approach.
She has developed streamlined recruitment processes that welcome both adults and students, including a popular school holiday program.
Every volunteer receives comprehensive training and ongoing support, ensuring they feel confident and valued in roles ranging from patient assistance to community events.
Her genuine appreciation for volunteers is evident through personal thankyou notes, team celebrations, and regular check-ins that foster long-term commitment.
What sets Narelle apart is her ability to connect individual passions with meaningful opportunities. By actively listening to volunteers and tailoring roles to their skills, she’s built an inclusive community where over 150 people contribute purposefully.
Her innovative spirit and warm professionalism don’t just manage volunteers—they inspire a culture of kindness that ripples through every hospital corridor. Narelle’s legacy is a testament to how visionary leadership can brighten lives, one volunteer at a time.
Community Volunteering Program Impact Award Finalists (3)
Proudly sponsored by South32
Transport to Treatment
Cancer Council Queensland’s Transport to Treatment service provides free transport to help ease the financial burden for Queenslanders undergoing cancer treatment.
The Gluyas Rotary Lodge in Townsville supports this vital program through a team of 15 dedicated volunteer drivers, many with personal connections to cancer as survivors or through affected loved ones.
These compassionate volunteers provided over 2000 transport services last year alone, ensuring patients from regional and remote areas could access lifesaving treatment in Townsville.
Beyond practical transport needs, the volunteers offer invaluable emotional support and companionship during what is often an isolating and difficult journey.
Their presence reminds patients they are not alone.
The service significantly improves access to treatment for rural patients while reducing stress and enhancing mental wellbeing.
This leads to better health outcomes and eases pressure on the healthcare system by ensuring patients can consistently attend appointments.
The program would not be possible without the fundraising efforts of Rotary Club of Townsville, whose support covers all transport needs - from homes and lodges to treatment centres and airports.
This essential service demonstrates how community compassion can make a profound difference in the lives of cancer patients across Queensland.
Crystal Creek Community Disaster Response Team
After torrential rains on February 2, 2025, isolated six communities (Helen’s Hill to Ollera), cutting power, phones and supplies, local volunteers sprang into action.
With roads blocked by landslides and floods, the newly formed 20-member team transformed Crystal Creek Hall into an emergency hub, powered by a borrowed generator.
Their tireless efforts provided:
* Device charging (as residents’ car batteries drained)
* Cold showers and clothing donations
* Food distribution (including farmers’ donated produce)
* Medication access
* Helicopter-delivered hot meals
The team served 200 households initially, then 115 more, extending aid to Bemerside, Halifax, Cordelia and Macknade before waters rose again.
Volunteers worked relentlessly despite emotional tolls, often prioritising community over their own families’ needs.
This crisis highlighted the urgent need for a disaster-ready hall. Now, the team focuses on upgrading facilities to better serve the flood-prone region.
Their selfless response proved vital in the absence of official flood wardens, ensuring no one faced the disaster alone.
Meals on Wheels Mount Isa Branch
For 45 years, Mount Isa Meals on Wheels has delivered nutritious meals to seniors and people with disabilities who cannot shop or cook for themselves.
One dedicated volunteer has served since its inception.
Beyond meal delivery, the service provides vital social connection through daily volunteer visits, reducing isolation and improving mental health.
Meals are tailored to dietary needs, including pureed or low-salt options, ensuring proper nutrition for vulnerable clients.
The program offers families peace of mind while helping recipients maintain independence at home.
This cost-effective alternative to aged care has become an indispensable community service, addressing both physical and emotional wellbeing through nourishment and human connection.
Corporate Volunteering Award Finalists (2)
Proudly sponsored by Queensland Country Bank
TP Human Capital - Angel Paws and Triathlon
For 17 years, TP Human Capital’s Corporate Teams Triathlon has been a cornerstone of the Townsville Triathlon Festival, generating $1.4M in economic impact while promoting health, teamwork and community spirit to thousands of participants.
Beyond sport, TP demonstrates lasting commitment to local causes.
Their partnership with Angel-Paws Inc.
Animal Rescue supports vulnerable animals through foster care and an annual Christmas Foodbank Appeal, providing vital supplies for pets awaiting forever homes.
These dual initiatives – fostering active lifestyles and animal welfare – showcase TP Human Capital’s impactful corporate citizenship.
Their leadership inspires broader community engagement, proving business can be a powerful force for social good.
Ausfield Services - Kate’s Campaign for Change Recycling Program
For the past five years, Ausfield Services has been a cornerstone supporter of Kate’s Campaign for Change through their ongoing container recycling initiative.
By consistently collecting and donating their eligible 10 cent containers for recycling, Ausfield has helped generate thousands of dollars to buy essential items for vulnerable members of our community.
This partnership demonstrates a powerful dual impact:
* Environmental Benefit - Diverting thousands of containers from landfill
* Social Impact - Directly assisting locals in need through recycled funds
As a proudly Townsville-owned business for 20 years, Ausfield Services lives its community values by:
* Employing local workers
* Sourcing equipment/materials from local businesses
* Investing $1.2M+ annually in the local economy
Their $70,000 in 2024 community donations including $22,000 to animal welfare and $22,500 to Paluma Push - further demonstrates their commitment.
Through both environmental action and strategic philanthropy, Ausfield showcases how businesses can drive meaningful local change.
Sports Volunteer Administrator Finalists (2)
Proudly sponsored by Marwill
Dale Reeves
As president of Townsville’s Jubilee Bowls Club, Dale Reeves has transformed the club into a vital community hub. Beyond maintaining two synthetic greens and club facilities, he’s created programs that save lives and foster connection.
The club provides a safe space for men’s mental health discussions, school programs teaching teamwork, Ladies Days for social bonding, and Friday Night Meals uniting the community. A dedicated Defence Program supports military personnel and veterans.
Contributing thousands of volunteer hours annually, Dave handles operations, mentors’ members, and personally welcomes newcomers. His leadership has made bowls more than a sport—it’s a lifeline reducing isolation, improving wellbeing, and creating belonging.
Through inclusive initiatives and quiet dedication, he’s built a club where everyone—young, old, civilian or veteran—finds community. His selfless service makes Jubilee a shining example of sport’s power to unite and heal.
Chystal Wallace
As Club Registrar for junior and senior teams, Crystal Wallace handles player registrations, uniform coordination, and secretarial duties with unwavering dedication. She ensures no child misses out on playing, assists in recruiting volunteers, and often steps in to fill gaps wherever needed.
Known for her positivity and warmth, Crystal welcomes newcomers and supports families, even providing financial assistance when required. Her exceptional time management and passion for community sport shine through in everything she does.
Through administrative challenges and last-minute demands, Crystal’s hard work and inclusive spirit uphold the club’s values, creating a thriving environment for young athletes. Her tireless commitment makes her an indispensable part of Souths Rugby League Football Club.
Neighbour of the Year Finalists (3)
Proudly sponsored by Bravis
Jim Overall
When floods cut off Forrest Beach, Jim Overall - a paramedic and 1300 MEDICS operations manager - sprang into action after seeing a plea for help on Facebook.
Using his own funds and contacts, he co-ordinated helicopter deliveries of vital supplies like baby formula, nappies, and medical equipment.
He secured donations from stores like Kmart and even purchased essentials himself, ensuring premature twins had formula and arranging standby medical transport for a high-risk pregnancy.
For Jim, it was personal.
Having experienced pregnancy loss with his wife in 2021, he was driven by empathy, saying he couldn’t bear leaving anyone in need.
While managing the crisis, he also planned aid for nearby flood-hit areas like Cardwell.
Jim embodies what it means to be an extraordinary neighbour - selfless, proactive, and compassionate.
He didn’t wait for orders; he saw a community as family and acted. In disaster, Jim didn’t just help—he gave hope.
Kevin Coleman
Kev is a kind and skilled handyman who selflessly helps his neighbours in Condon.
Always the first to offer assistance, he fixes problems others can’t, helping them maintain their homes and fostering a stronger, safer community—especially for seniors.
He refuses payment and never seeks praise.
One touching example is when he built and installed a ramp for an elderly neighbour’s dog without being asked. His generosity and expertise make him an invaluable part of the community.
Bernie Bostock
Bernie is a selfless community hero, always ready to help others. During the 2009 floods, he kayaker to collect and deliver vital medication.
After Cyclone Yasi, he cleared fallen trees and assisted in establishing the Seymour Rural Fire Brigade’s fire shed as First Officer. As Fire and Local Area Warden, he continues to serve.
He has fixed lawnmowers—essential in the wet tropics—for many, including a neighbour, and cleared cyclone-damaged trees from properties.
In recent floods, he maintained generators, even ensuring a neighbour’s fridge stayed powered while they were away.
Bernie’s generosity and dedication make him an invaluable neighbour and community member of Bemerside and Seymour, deserving of recognition.
Originally published as Meet the Volunteering North Queensland’s Volunteer of the Year Awards finalists
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