HELEN Millison was acknowledged for her support for seniors in her community and volunteering efforts in the South Gippsland Shire.
Helen is a lively member of the South Gippsland community, volunteering her time for three local organisations, Probus Korumburra, Carinya Lodge and Grow Lightly.
As part of her volunteering efforts, she has served as Secretary for Probus Korumburra for five years. Helen is renowned for her positivity and enthusiasm, whether she is packing fruit, running meetings or organising raffles, Helen can be found with a smile on her face!
A Council on the Ageing COTA Victoria Senior Achiever Award recognises Victorian seniors for their significant contributions to local communities. The Awards are presented annually each October as part of the Victorian Seniors Festival.
For more than 25 years, the Victorian Seniors Festival has recognised the volunteer work and community contributions of older Victorians – the Victorian Senior of the Year Awards is just one way the festival celebrates the vibrant lives of older people in Victoria.
“In 2017, we made the life-changing decision to move to Victoria after retiring. Our daughter was about to welcome her second child, and we wanted to be closer to family. Settling just outside of Korumburra on a small property, we quickly became involved in the community,” Helen explained.
Receiving this award was an incredible honour for Helen.
“I’m one of a team; I’m volunteering with like-minded people that are warm and caring, and we are contributing to simply help in our community.”
A particularly memorable moment in her years of volunteering for Helen was when the volunteers faced the uncertainty of Grow Lightly’s future; receiving notice that the team might have to vacate their space by June. Alarmed, they rallied as a community, raising awareness through a campaign to find a new home for the not-for-profit initiative.
“It was incredibly rewarding to witness the outpouring of support from the community, ensuring that our work could continue,” she noted.
“Our Wednesday team, a small group of six, works tirelessly to ensure that residents have access to fresh, locally sourced food, and we are grateful to have the community support behind us as we find a new home for Grow Lightly,” said Helen.
Additionally, Helen has been involved with Probus Korumburra for the past six years. Joining a lovely group of friends and stepping into the role of secretary five years ago, she manages minutes, newsletters, and presentations at the Probus Club meetings.
Her additional work with Carinya Lodge too started four years ago, where she participates in organising monthly afternoon teas for residents.
“The warmth of the magnificent staff and the joy of connecting with the elderly is very rewarding,” said Helen.
I’ve helped lead initiatives like raffles to raise funds for essential items, including a weighing chair for residents at Carinya Lodge and funding outings to explore the beautiful local area.
“We’ve successfully raised over $1000 through two raffles, thanks to the generosity of local businesses and the community,” Helen shared.
“My contributions, while meaningful, are part of a larger team effort. The people I work alongside are kind and dedicated.”
However, volunteering isn’t without its challenges. One significant hurdle has been the ongoing need for more volunteers. Helen has learned that it’s essential to engage and encourage others to join.
“The work is fulfilling and now part of my day-to-day life – on top of being a grandmother to four beautiful grandchildren. So, to seniors who are hesitant about volunteering, I say: just do it! It’s one of the best decisions you can make.”
