EdConnect Australia held their inaugural National Volunteer Awards Ceremony on Tuesday the 10th of June. It was a virtual event that reached a national audience of volunteers, supporters, school members, corporate partners and leaders in the community.  

The presentation focused on awarding and recognising the influential work EdConnect volunteers contributed to local students, schools and the broader community. 

EdConnect’s Learning Support Volunteer of the Year was awarded to Deirdre Moss who volunteers at Mt. Duneed Primary School and Geelong High School in Victoria. 

Sally Edgerton, EdConnect Liaison Officer for Geelong/Surf Coast says, “Deirdre Moss is one of our standout EdConnect volunteers in the region. She has offered her time to support EdConnect in many ways from volunteering in schools to freely sharing her volunteer story with the community to encourage them to join the organisation.”

Shaun Haberfield, Principal of Mt Duneed Primary School says, “Deirdre is well respected and valued by our staff and students. She is a huge support to our school, and we are very proud that she has been recognised in this way.”

Since 2016, Deirdre has also volunteered at Geelong High School utilising her knowledge in the animal welfare sector with the Year 9’s in the unique Geelong Positive Engagement Programme.

Geelong Positive Engagement Program Coordinator for Geelong High, Cat Yee says “Deirdre is a wonderful volunteer and an integral part of our Community Service program at Geelong High. 

Her international experience and knowledge of animal welfare, paired with her kind and caring nature, adds a unique and valuable contribution to all students.”

EdConnect General Manager East Coast, Danie McNeil added, “I have had the pleasure of visiting Geelong High School and Mt Duneed Primary school to hear first–hand how much they appreciate Deirdre’s time, knowledge, passion and the assistance she provides students. 

Volunteers like Deirdre Moss provide a stable and consistent influence in a young person’s life – many of whom face challenges that affect their academic success and engagement in school. 

EdConnect CEO, Gerri Clay, says, “EdConnect recognizes the dedication, commitment and care that each volunteer contributes to help students who may otherwise struggle to succeed and thrive with their school–based education.”

The virtual awards ceremony enabled EdConnect to acknowledge National, State and local funders and supporters which included Give Where You Live who continue to provide a strong pillar of support for the Geelong region to help students thrive.   

If you are interested in joining us to support local students, please contact EdConnect at 1800 668 550 or visit their website at www.edconnectaustralia.org.au for more information about signing up.