While volunteering contributes hundreds of millions of dollars to the Australian economy each year, it is an unfortunate fact that in regions such as Port Stephens numbers are dwindling.
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That fact has not dampened the enthusiasm of the hard-working volunteers from the Anna Bay Hall and Landcare group, and in particular its newest member Emily Harkness.
Ms Harkness, a 39-year-old mother of two, was one of the driving forces behind the hugely successful Anna Bay 7-day makeover, where a record number of 242 volunteers participated.
"If Anna Bay continues with the positive vibe and cohesiveness we have all experienced [during the makeover], many great things will happen in this awesome little village," she said.
Now Ms Harkness, who is also coordinator of Clean Up Australia Day [to be held this year on Sunday, March 1], is putting her efforts where her mouth is.
"I enjoy the community work. People often comment that my brain must never stop, they are spot on.
"I get great satisfaction in knowing (and seeing) the difference time and effort makes to a community. We can achieve so much, as individuals or groups, for our community and our children when we approach things with the right attitude.
"In my two years volunteering I have certainly experienced how willing our council is to help out, and how much more they can achieve if they have proactive volunteers willing to step up to help."
Ms Harkness aid that she first got involved in volunteering by rallying locals to attend a viewing of the draft plan for the Birubi Point Aboriginal Place (Robinson Reserve and surrounds).
"I first joined the Landcare crew on their Tuesday morning social two years ago and I watched in that time how much the group has achieved."
The Anna Bay group will hold its annual general meeting on Monday, March 2, where the two entities will be split into a hall committee and a more informal Landcare group.
The AGM will take place from 6pm at the Birubi community hall in Fishermans Bay Road.