May 20, 2022
The volunteer work undertaken by South Burnett Relay For Life organiser Rowena Dionysius has been recognised at this year’s Queensland Volunteering Awards.
Finalists and winners in the awards were announced in Brisbane on Friday morning by State Governor Dr Jeannette Young.
Awards were presented in six categories for individuals and organisations.
A spokesperson for Volunteering Queensland said hundreds of nominations had been received which demonstrated the breadth, depth and diversity of volunteers across Queensland.
The six categories were:
- Queensland Volunteer of the Year
- Queensland Youth Volunteer of the Year
- Queensland Lifetime Contribution to Volunteering Award
- Queensland Excellence in Volunteer Management Award
- Queensland Volunteering Impact Award
- Queensland Corporate Volunteering Award
Rowena was one of just three finalists named in the prestigious Volunteer of the Year category.
This award is presented in honour of an individual who has made an exemplary voluntary contribution and who through their volunteering has made a significant impact towards Queensland’ s well-being.
Her finalist citation noted that Rowena has been chair of the South Burnett Relay For Life committee for 11 years – answering questions, solving problems, ensuring the needs of all those involved are met while balancing this against her full-time employment as
“In 2021, the event raised well over $100,000 and Rowena and her team are committed to raising even more this year,” the citation read.
“What makes Rowena’s volunteer work even more remarkable is that a small town like Kingaroy has been able to raise over $1.7 million dollars for Cancer Council Queensland – largely thanks to Rowena’s efforts! A figure that continues to grow every year despite setbacks like COVID-19.
“Rowena’s fundraising contributes to much-needed funds that go towards vital cancer research, support services, prevention programs and advocacy.
“By raising awareness about cancer in regional Queensland, Rowena is saving lives by providing knowledge in the community. Her events create a space for the community to discuss, learn, and educate themselves on cancer treatment and prevention.
“Rowena’s efforts have resulted in the funding of vital services that Cancer Council Queensland provide in Kingaroy and South Burnett, including accommodation and travel assistance, counselling support, and education & prevention campaigns that directly target the needs of rural communities.
“Above and beyond fundraising, people in the community come to Rowena for guidance if they have a problem or a concern about cancer. Rowena directs them to the right support services when they need it the most.”
The other finalists in the Volunteer of the Year category were Brisbane SES volunteer Alison Lane, who received the nod from the judges, and Ipswich Hospital volunteer Anne-Maria Falvey.
- External link: Qld Volunteering Awards Finalists & Recipients
Sincere congratulations Rowena – a very well deserved acknowledgement of your dedication to raising funds for CCQ & raising Cancer awareness in our community.