Upstanding Pillar of the Allora community

He dedicates more than 30 hours each week to the Allora Show Society and this volunteer isn’t slowing down yet.

JUGGLING ACT: Mark Pillar balances his two loves his beekeeping business and the Allora Show Society.

A VOLUNTEER’S work is never complete, with countless hours devoted to ensuring an event’s success.

That is what motivates Allora Show Society president Mark Pillar, according to fellow volunteers.

“He spends about four to five hours a day down at the grounds or up to 30 hours a week depending on what we have going on,” volunteer June Bool said.

“He spends many hours at the showgrounds and goes over and above what is required to ensure that all participants have the opportunity of enjoying their time at Allora.

“Mark is always very eager to get in and help out where he can.

“He’s a straight down the line sort of fella, and he’s wasted no time getting the ball rolling on things.”

Now into his second year as president, Mr Pillar has been actively involved in the show society for more than nine years.

“His enthusiasm is infectious,” she said.

“Mark really sets an example and has encouraged many new faces to help out where they can.”

This enthusiasm is what inspired fellow show society volunteers to nominate him for the Condamine Sports Club Volunteer of the Year Award.

Working closely with a number of the regions sporting clubs, Mr Pillar has advocated their use of the showgrounds according to Mrs Bool.

“In a small rural town, there are a number of sporting groups that Mark works with throughout the year,” she said.

“He frequently works with the Allora Campdraft Club, the Allora Dressage Club, the Cowboy Dressage Club, and the local trail ride group.

“With the help of other volunteers as well, he goes above and beyond to ensure the grounds are suitable for their use.”

Despite operating his own successful business, Mr Pillar is known to prioritise the showgrounds at times.

“As an apiarist, Mark travels extensively however he can regularly be seen around the grounds, overseeing the canteen and assisting those sporting groups that use the facilities,” she said.

It was an easy nomination to make according to Mrs Bool, who acknowledged the work of the entire volunteering community.

“As with many volunteers, their work goes unrecognised,” she said.

“This way, we can show him just how much he’s appreciated.

“And how grateful we are for what he’s done for the community.”

If there is a standout volunteer at your club, the Daily News would love to hear about them.

Nominations are now open for the Condamine Sports Club Volunteer of the Year award.

Email [e-mail] or phone [phone] to nominate your volunteer.

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