Nominations open for NAB Volunteer Awards

The Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes, encourages volunteer groups in the Benalla Electorate to nominate for the recently opened National Australia Bank (NAB) Volunteer Awards, 2007.

“There is a total pool of $215,000 worth of prize money. The State winner of each category will receive $10,000 and a framed certificate and $5,000 is to be awarded to the runner up with an additional $10,000 to be awarded to the National Award winner in each category.

Dr Sykes is confident local groups would have a good chance, “We certainly have some worthy contenders in the area and the recognition and prize money would make it well worth the effort!

Dr Sykes said “These awards recognise the tireless efforts of the many valuable volunteer groups that keep our community strong. We depend on a wide range of community groups for support, safety, education, sports and recreation, to name just a few and these are the kinds of organisations that make me proud to be part of this region.”

In 2007, new sized based categories have replaced the previous sector based system. This change is in response to feedback from organisations and judges.

Category One

Small & Medium organisations.

· A not–for-profit organisation that has 1 – 15 full time-time equivalent (FTE) paid staff.

Category Two

Large Organisations

· A not-for-profit organisation that has 15 plus full-time-equivalent (FTE) paid staff

To be eligible for a National Australia Bank Volunteer Award the nominated group must be able to demonstrate ‘best practice’ in managing their volunteers, have a not-for-profit status, have operated within the Australian community for the past 12 months, and provide a reference letter from a community leader. Groups must also operate with a majority of volunteers.

“Nominations close Friday, 8 June 2007 and application booklets are available from my office at 2/55 Carrier Street, Benalla, or they can be downloaded from www.national.com.au/community.”

Dr Sykes concluded, “It would be great to see local groups being recognised in this vitally important area… so have a go.”