Dungog Palliative Care volunteers are among the top four groups in NSW

REPRESENTATIVES from Dungog Shire Palliative Care volunteers recently attended an invitation-only award presentation in Sydney.

The little local group was nominated for the prestigious 2026 NSW Palliative Care volunteer team of the year award.

During Volunteer Week, on Wednesday 20 May, Margaret Jones, Lynne Moseley, Joy Berry and Annette O’Neill travelled to the NSW State Library, where the award ceremony was held.

Palliative Care organisations from all over NSW were considered for the awards.

There were only four groups nominated for the team award, including the Dungog carers.

There are hundreds of organisations in NSW which provide palliative care and related services.

In comparison to some of the large, city-based groups, Dungog’s is a very small organisation.

And they do things totally differently.

Dungog Shire Palliative Care Volunteers supply a free care, transport and linen service.

Local people diagnosed with a life-limiting illness, as well as their carers and family, are helped by the Dungog Volunteers.

Dungog Client Co-ordinator, Annette O’Neill said it was “an honour” to be nominated.

The awards were presented by Hebe Thomas, Principal Policy Officer, NSW Ministry of Health, and Felicity Burns, President, Palliative Care NSW.

Individual Volunteer of the year was awarded to Sandra Hiscock from Southern Highlands Community Hospice.

The Volunteer Team of the year went to Nepean Hawkesbury Supportive and Palliative Care Volunteers.

The Dungog Palliative Care Volunteers welcome new volunteers.

There are a variety of volunteer roles available.

Some, such as driving people to appointments, involve direct contact with clients and carers.

Others are support roles, with no client contact.

Craftspeople can donate items for the Volunteers’ twice-yearly street stalls.

For more information, contact Annette on 0457846806 or email admin@dungogcarers.com.au

By Lisa WISEMAN