Sylvanvale’s much loved volunteers gathered for celebration cuppa and cakes made by the Sylvanvale Catering service on 9 December after another year of selfless work.

The Sylvanvale Foundation hosted the morning tea to thank the volunteers for their ongoing support and dedication.

Chairman of Sylvanvale Board of Directors Mrs Lorna Stone personally thanked the volunteers. “You are one of the most important parts of our organisation and a very valuable resource. I thank you for your contribution to the community.”

With 54 volunteers rostered at the Sylvanvale Next Step op shop, it was represented by many devotees at the morning tea.

Former president of the Sylvanvale Foundation David Gibney and his wife Jan have been committed supporters of Sylvanvale for years. Jan remembers working with the Sylvanvale Next Step op shop for 17 years.

Mother and daughter team, Nola Ludewig and Margaret Heaton work together in the op shop. Nola’s son and Margaret’s brother, Alan, is 53 and one of Sylvanvale’s Day Program participants. Sylvanvale has helped him for 50 years. Nola has worked at the op shop since it opened. She recalls that “It has doubled in size and looks great now.”

Sylvanvale CEO Pauline Stanley praised the work the volunteers do. “You make an incredible difference to Sylvanvale. The assistance you give really helps children and adults in our service.”

And indeed the children and adults make an impact on the volunteers too. Barbara and Peter Miller have been volunteers in the hydrotherapy pool for nine years. The couple said, “We always remember each child – they are all special.”

If you’re interested in helping the Sylvanvale community too, contact Lee Thompson on (02) 8536 0100 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

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