Every week in Lakes Entrance, a group of locals gather for gardening, shared cooking, gym sessions and the occasional fishing trip — but none of it happens without a driver.
Gippsland Lakes Complete Health is calling for volunteer drivers to help run its long-standing social support program in Lakes Entrance.
One of the programs, known as The Lounge, has been operating for 14 years and provides a space for people with disabilities to connect, learn new skills and be involved in community life.
Jamie Singleton is a regular participant.
“I think it’s just mixing with each other and learning from one another,” he said.
“Different days have different aspects. Whether it’s the garden or the woodwork in the sheds. Just the community and mingling with each other.”
Jamie said the program has helped him grow in confidence.
“I’m 56 years of age, and I’m still learning,” Jamie said.
“When I did come here, I was a bit shy, it’s just in my nature. It’s like your first day of school, but then you warm up.”
Jamie has a message for any new volunteer drivers, after a minor hiccup when the van nearly got bogged.
“As long as they’re confident. We got bogged out there a few weeks ago, backing the bus on dirt, and had the spinning wheels,” he said.
“We always carry first aid on the bus, and there’s a shovel. We just had to do the old stick trick.”
Lakes Entrance local Di McKinnon volunteers in the kitchen, three days a fortnight and says being part of the social support team has been rewarding.
In addition to looking for bus drivers, there are also other ways to volunteer with the social support group.
“I love to cook, and I have a helper. Someone picks each week what they are going to cook, and helps me prepare it,” Di said.
“It’s a lasagne today and the hordes will be here later to test if I’ve succeeded. So, it’s busy, busy in the kitchen on Mondays.
“It’s very satisfying and there’s never a dull moment. I love the clients; they are a great bunch of people.
I do enjoy the cooking side of it and helping. I just feel it’s my time to put into the community. I very much enjoy it.”
The GLCH bus is a 12-seater and can be driven on a standard driver’s licence.
Volunteer drivers are needed to help with morning (9–10am) or afternoon (1.30–3pm) shifts, and even one day a week or fortnight would make a big difference.
