"I started volunteering about 6 to 8 months ago.

I just dropped off some clothes to donate to Geelong mums and they were looking for staging post - where people can drop items - in Torquay.

I said yes and then started volunteering during the week. I have three children. I used to be a nurse but stopped when I had the children and now work as a bookkeeper for my husband’s plumbing business.

I enjoy bookkeeping but I don’t get much for fulfilment from it.

I joined Geelong Mums because I just wanted to get back to the community.

I was used to doing that as a nurse.

Now I can give back and volunteering is lots of fun it’s very social there’s lots of laughter.

It’s very flexible I can turn up when I want. I get that  fulfilment.

You hear the stories from the social workers about the need in the community, and you soon realise that by donating and volunteering you can make such a difference.

My main job is being a tinker fairy. I do all the safety checks on the prams and car seats.

There is quite a lot to go through to make sure they all meet the protocols.

It’s not that hard, but it’s important.

A bad car seat could take a life.  

Having quality items is so important. You want to families to go to the park and feel like they fit in, feel that they belong.

You also never know when you could be in a situation where you need help.

I often think this - that could be me, life can change overnight.

Particularly with the recent bushfires, we’ve had so much demand.

I love volunteering because it such a fun environment.

I love how it makes me feel and you made lots of friends.

My house is still a drop off point.

Because I live on a property I have a large bin where people can donate to, but sometimes  they call me up and want me.

I’m amazed by the generosity of the community. It’s so valuable."