VOLUNTEERS are the lifeblood of the Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement, ensuring that visitors have the best experience they possibly can while at the tourism hub.
After the recent retirement of some volunteers, general manager Jessica Warburton decided it was time for a recruitment drive, holding a well-supported volunteer open day on Tuesday.
“It has been very encouraging to see so many people come along,” she told The Guardian.
The main vacancies the Settlement needs filled are a Sunday car driver and some extras in the drapery and music shop. But Ms Warburton said the more volunteers they can find, the better.
“For a lot of the volunteers, it gives them purpose and structure, something to get up for every week, and a social outing too, which is very important to fill everybody’s cup,” Ms Warburton said.
“And of course you get to show off Swan Hill and showcase not only the Pioneer Settlement, but everything that visitors can do in the region.”
Friends of the Pioneer Settlement president Peter Pryor, who has been a volunteer for more than 25 years, told The Guardian that volunteering at the settlement is something he loves to do.
“It’s not just what we get out of it – we get out more than what we give,” Mr Pryor said.
“We will welcome anyone that wants to come and volunteer, and they will go away happy at the end of the day, there’s no question about that.”
Those who attended the open day were shown different areas they could volunteer in, including ropemaking, pianola and barrel organ playing, the old fashioned tractors and printing.
Swan Hill Mayor Les McPhee, who hosted the morning tea part of the day, said it was pleasing to see so many people there.
“The Pioneer Settlement relies heavily on volunteers, and volunteers are helping the community, but they also help themselves because what they get out of volunteering is amazing as well,” Cr McPhee said.
“This is a community facility, so we want the community involved, and this is a great opportunity to get involved.
“We couldn’t afford to run this place without volunteers – it is just amazing what they do.”
For more information about volunteering, contact the Pioneer Settlement on 50362410.
