Celebrating the Contributions of Volunteers – National Volunteer Week 2025

Volunteers are seldom paid, not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless.”

This quote says it all. Volunteers are the quiet force behind so much of what happens in our gliding community. They give their time, energy, and passion — not for recognition or reward, but because they care deeply about the sport and the people in it.

Gliding Runs on Volunteers

From launch point to workshop, committee meetings to open days — volunteers make it all happen. They show up early, stay back late, and do the jobs that keep our clubs flying, often with little fanfare.

Some help run daily operations. Others take on formal roles, support events, or keep things organised behind the scenes. Every role matters. Every bit of time donated adds up to something bigger — a strong, supportive, and safe flying community.

Why They Do It

Many volunteers talk about the friendships they’ve made, the skills they’ve gained, and the pride they feel in giving back. Volunteering can be a way to connect, to grow, to belong. And while it may start with a single task or job, it often leads to a lasting sense of purpose.

This Week, We Say Thank You

National Volunteer Week is a moment to pause and acknowledge the people who make our sport possible. Their dedication often goes unseen, but it never goes unfelt.

To every volunteer who has helped a launch, cleaned up after a working bee, joined a committee, trained a new pilot, or just lent a hand when it was needed — thank you. Gliding wouldn’t be the same without you.

Let’s celebrate the generosity, passion, and spirit that volunteers bring to our skies.

#NVW2025 #ThankYouVolunteers #GlidingAustralia #SoaringTogether