This year he has stepped down as chair of the appeal’s volunteer organising committee, but will still give his time on the May 28-29 weekend to collect donations.

“I’m a true believer of what the Salvos do,” Mr Edmunds said.

“They’re what is needed in the community.

“It doesn’t matter who are, where you’re from, the Salvos will help you.”

The Salvos are looking to mobilise 60,000 people across the nation to help with the 2016 doorknock appeal.

The aim is to raise $8 million this year.

Between 40 and 50 people volunteer in Port Stephens each year.

Mr Edmunds and Port Stephens envoy Howard Koutnik said more volunteers were desperately needed so the entire local government area could be covered.

“Sunday after the Red Shield Appeal you might have sore legs, but you’ll also have a very very good feeling that you helped raised money for the Salvos to continue doing the working they’re doing in the community,” Mr Edmunds said.

Money collected from Port Stephens homes during the appeal stays in the area to help the hundreds of families the Salvation Army are currently supporting.

“We know people in Port Stephens are generous and very caring,” Major Bruce Harmer from the Salvation Army said.

“Please get your workmates together and do this as a workplace.

“Come forward as a school. Get your mates together and have some fun raising money to create hope. What could be better? It feels good and scientific research consistently shows when we help others, we benefit in a big way too.”

To volunteer call 13 SALVOS (13 72 58) or register online at salvos.org.au/volunteer.

Children can take part in the doorknock appeal, but must be accompanied by a registered adult. Volunteers can give as little or as much time to the doorknock appeal as they wished across the weekend.