International Volunteering Day (5 December) marks one year of the Western Metropolitan Regional Council’s revamped volunteering program bringing like-minded people together to spread the word about reducing waste at community events.

When long-time volunteer Ava came across the updated WMRC program in late 2022, she got her mum Jeanette involved, and the two threw themselves into all the events on offer.

“We both work full-time so this is an opportunity to spend time together, to share our passion for the cause of reducing waste, and to have a positive impact on the wider community,” said Jeanette.

From diverting unwanted clothes from landfill via a clothing swap, to showing attendees how to sort their waste at the Town of Claremont’s Christmas Carols, the pair are always keen to get out there and start the conversation about reducing, reusing and recycling with others in the community. Since they began volunteering together they’ve become a powerhouse team, completing an impressive 14 events between them in just over a year.

“Our favourite volunteering events held by WMRC are the clothing swaps,” said Ava. “We get to learn about sustainability and help people improve their wardrobe while diverting excess clothing from landfill. The reward is seeing the smile on the face of someone who finds a new treasure.”

Jeanette agrees. “It’s a fun way to spend our evening or weekend, while knowing we have helped make our corner of the world a better place.”

The WMRC is always looking for more volunteers to join in for market stalls, clothing swaps, waste stations and other engaging events held in the member council areas. To get involved in the 2024 event season kicking off in February, fill out the EOI form.