Congratulations to the two finalists representing volunteering in palliative care in the prestigious 2024 Volunteering Victoria Awards! The ceremony took place on Tuesday 25 February 2025 at RACV City Club in Melbourne.
Honoring Helen Gibson – A Finalist for the Volunteer Impact Award
Helen is one of the eight finalists in the Volunteer Impact Award category—a well-deserved recognition for her extraordinary contributions. Finalists in this category are known for their innovation, commitment, and dedication to creating meaningful change.
As a founding volunteer of Anam Cara Colac Hospice since 2011, Helen has been instrumental in shaping its vision and success. She played a vital role in fundraising, rallying community support, and helping establish the hospice, which relies entirely on grants and donations. Over the past 17 years, she has provided compassionate support to more than 500 guests, ensuring they can spend their final days with dignity and comfort.
Helen is truly a woman of action, and her unwavering commitment has left a lasting impact on individuals, families, and the wider community. Her dedication to excellence and service continues to inspire those around her.
Room 64 Podcast – A Finalist for the Volunteering Innovation Award
We are also proud to share that Barwon Health’s Room 64, a volunteer-hosted podcast, has been named a finalist for the Volunteering Innovation Award.
(L-R) Claire Taprell, Volunteer Services Manager, Christine Brooks, Volunteer and Annie Chatham, Volunteer Coordinator
Now in its sixth year, Room 64 has become a trusted resource, fostering open and honest conversations about palliative care. With over 4,000 downloads, the podcast promotes health literacy by sharing personal stories, expert insights, and discussions on important topics such as living with life-limiting illnesses, grief, and end-of-life care.
By breaking down barriers and encouraging meaningful dialogue, the Room 64 volunteer team has created a safe and supportive space for individuals and families navigating the complexities of palliative care. Their dedication to education and awareness continues to make a profound impact.
Celebrating Volunteer Excellence
We congratulate Helen Gibson and the Room 64 volunteer team on this incredible achievement and thank them for their ongoing commitment to supporting people with a life limiting illness and their families. Their passion and dedication embody the true spirit of volunteering, and we are proud to see their efforts recognised on such a prestigious platform.