The Hunter’s community spirit shone brightly at the 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, held at the NEX in Newcastle on October 22. The event celebrated the outstanding contributions of volunteers from across our region and beyond, recognising the people who give their time and energy to make a real difference.
Hosted by The Centre for Volunteering, the awards showcase volunteers whose dedication strengthens our communities, whether through local clubs, charities, support networks or emergency services.
The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said that in challenging times, volunteers continue to step forward with strength and kindness.
“Volunteers are the quiet force, whether helping ease cost of living pressures, supporting those in crisis or responding on the front line of floods, fires and emergencies,” Gemma said.
“Their dedication isn’t just admirable; it underpins a more resilient and compassionate society. These exceptional individuals give selflessly – often while juggling careers, study and family life – yet they still choose to show up for others when it matters most.”
Hunter region award recipients will now go on to represent their communities at the Gala State Ceremony later this year, where the NSW Volunteer of the Year will be announced across each category.
Hunter Young Volunteer of the Year: Alyssa Wharton
Newcastle cricketer Alyssa works hard on the pitch, but even harder on the sidelines as a volunteer, supporting young players and encouraging more girls to take to the field. She gives her time as the Cricket Blast Coordinator and Women’s Coordinator at the Newcastle City & Eastern Districts Cricket Club. She also umpires, coaches and mentors young players and organises cricket carnivals for the Newcastle District Cricket Association.
Hunter Adult Volunteer of the Year: David Dorhauer
Dave gives his time as a guest support worker at Soul Hub Newcastle where he welcomes clients who wish to enjoy a healthy, hot meal in a safe and welcoming environment. He’s on deck for between 4 and 7 shifts each week, managing the volunteer crew, training new team members and organising breakfast. His work has a big impact on people experiencing homelessness, poverty or isolation.
Hunter Senior Volunteer of the Year: Fay Smith
Fay has volunteered at Belmont Hospital for close to a decade, giving more than 5,000 hours at the hospital’s volunteer kiosk, the Meet and Greet program, and fundraising and patient services. She also serves on the Belmont Hospital Volunteers Auxiliary and on the hospital’s Consumers Committee, leading to numerous hospital and district-wide improvements for patients and health consumers.
Hunter Emergency Volunteer of the Year: Warren Eades
Warren has volunteered at Lake Macquarie Marine Rescue for the past 30 years, keeping people safe in open water, towing broken vessels, guiding larger boats, leading search and rescue operations, and on radio duty. He has been instrumental in recruiting and mentoring new members and is a qualified Marine Rescue trainer and assessor.
Hunter Volunteer Team of the Year: LIVEfree Project Backyard Brekky Team
The 20 Backyard Brekky volunteers prepare fresh breakfasts and free grocery hampers for people facing homelessness, financial hardship, social isolation and family violence. The team cooks, serves, and cleans up one day a week, serving around 160 people and families, and ensuring everyone is met with a warm meal and a welcoming environment.
