Boroondara Volunteer of the Year
Barry Scott
Barry is the 2024 Boroondara Volunteer of the Year, recognised for his contributions through the Boroondara TAC L2P Learner Driver Mentor Program.
Barry was one of the first L2P program volunteers and was nominated for going above and beyond to provide young learner drivers with a supportive environment to drive. Barry has contributed over 200 hours supporting young drivers to build up their required driving hours to sit a driving test.
Barry says, 'There are some young people who do not have access to a licence holder with a car who can help them obtain the 120 hours driving experience necessary to apply for a driver licence. Mentoring these young people helps them reach the 120 hours and gives them essential driving experience.'
Barry was nominated for his commitment to his role, going above the required hours to make sure the learner drivers were confident and using his experience in road safety to map out potential routes to make sure students are well prepared for their tests.
Barry says the most rewarding part of the role is 'the obvious one … seeing the smile, pride and relief on the faces of the young drivers when they have successfully completed the driving test. The trip back from the VicRoads office is always a joy.'
Barry has not only helped the young people in the program, but indirectly supports the families of learners and improved the safety on the roads for those in the community.
Special Commendations
We also recognise the contributions of 3 community volunteers with special commendations.
Kelsey Smith, You Matter
Kelsey has been You Matter’s Volunteer Coordinator for over 4 years. Kelsey was nominated for her significant contributions, including building up a base of volunteers, assisting with events and working bees and volunteering with children’s primary schools.
Peter Cooney, VMCH Balwyn Op Shop
Peter supports many aspects of the VMCH Balwyn Op Shop as well as contributing to fundraising efforts and delivering great customer service. Peter was also nominated and recognised for his volunteer role with the Canterbury Friends program.
Mary Biviano, Friends of Greythorn Park
Mary is a long-standing volunteer as Secretary of the Friends of Greythorn Park’s committee of management. Mary has been instrumental in researching and creating a digital history of the park.
Volunteer Program Innovation Award
Boroondara Hard Rubbish Rehome
Boroondara Hard Rubbish Rehome group promotes sustainability and fosters community bonds through the re-use, repair, recycling, refurbishing and repurposing of pre-loved items. Co-founders Catherine Krestyn and Jennie Irving (pictured, left to right) have personally rescued over 15,000 kilograms of hard rubbish within Boroondara over the past year.
The organisation has shown significant innovation in their use of social media as a digital hub to support community members to list items for rehoming, share hard rubbish locations, connect with others and participate in collaborative discussions.
Jennie and Cath say they were inspired to create the group by 'wanting to build community and help people deal with their excess resources. We saw a gap in Boroondara and, observing other community groups, realised that Facebook could be a good platform for providing this access and connections.'
The organisation’s user-friendly Facebook page has supported them to streamline communication and expand their reach, gaining over 10,000 members since its creation in September 2022.
When asked their proudest achievement since forming the group, they say it’s 'the relational aspect of the group … [we’re] a group predicated on kindness, courtesy, respect and integrity and the outcomes from that have been extraordinary.'
The group’s outstanding efforts in reducing the community's waste and carbon footprint are contributing to a more sustainable future.
Special Commendations
We also recognise the impact of 2 community groups with special commendations.
Boroondara Stroke Support Group for ‘A loved one has had a stroke’ booklet
The Boroondara Stroke Support Group developed a guide for family and friends to help support both stroke survivors and their carers. This booklet included contributions and input from more than 100 volunteers. Since its publication, the guide has received widespread acclaim from stroke survivors, caregivers, healthcare professionals, rehabilitation centres and hospitals.
Electrify Boroondara for the 2023 Electrify Boroondara Expo
The group hosted the inaugural expo in 2023 providing an opportunity for residents to learn about electrification and energy efficiency. This event involved included a significant commitment from 21 volunteers to plan and coordinate the event, and the support of additional volunteers on the day of the Expo. More than 1,200 people attended the event.
Find out more
- Visit our Boroondara Volunteer Awards page to find out how we recognise individuals and volunteer programs making a positive impact in the Boroondara community.
- Interested in volunteering? Visit our Volunteer opportunities page to explore opportunities near you.