Event showcasing work of volunteers

Waihi volunteer groups are invited to showcase their activities in a one-day event.

What started out as an idea for volunteer groups with an interest in heritage or history to showcase their activities has turned into Waihi Volunteer Day, according to Roger Pearce, chairperson of Waihi Heritage Vision.

“When we first had the idea, we were intending to involve groups which had a particular interest in heritage, but the more groups we spoke with, the more obvious it became that there was a real interest from other volunteer organisations and groups in Waihi.”

The Volunteer Day will run from 2pm to 7pm on Wednesday, October 31 in the Waihi Memorial Hall.

Roger says that with the annual Hauraki District Council Citizens’ Awards being held that evening in Paeroa, many recipients from the previous years have put in years of volunteering.

“So far we have nine groups which have indicated they will attend the Volunteer Day and we have room for more.

“All you have to do is be prepared to turn up with some information for a table or perhaps a display board and be prepared to talk with people. It will be low key and informal,” Roger says.

Several groups, such as Waihi Habitat Enhancement and Landcare Partnership (HELP), Goldfields Railway, Victoria Battery and Tramway Society, Waihi Museum & Arts Centre, St John, Grey Power, Waihi Community Forum, Waihi Lions and event organisers Waihi Heritage Vision will be part of the event.

By October 31, Waihi Memorial Hall will be dressed up for Armistice Day centennial commemorations, organised by Waihi Heritage Vision members.

It is also the 60th anniversary of the building of the hall.

“It has been used by the community since then for an incredibly wide range of activities. The Armistice Centennial is an example of what can be achieved when a number of groups get together on a project. We think that spirit needs to be fostered and encouraged.”

It’s an opportunity for any volunteer groups to explain what they do and for the community to get a better understanding of what is available to be part of.

“We have a lot of newly-arrived residents in Waihi.

“That means lots of people who may not know what the town has to offer, but also lots of people with skills, time and knowledge that can be put to good use. This event is designed to put all of that together.”

■ Groups wishing to participate in the Volunteer Day event should contact Simon Elson Simonfelson@gmail.com