Community
26 February, 2026
Volunteers desperately needed
GIVING just 45 minutes could make all the difference for Terang’s most vulnerable residents amid a plea for new volunteers to put their hand up.
Terang and Mortlake Health Service (TMHS) has put out a call for volunteers who are able to assist in delivering the town’s Meals on Wheels program.
TMHS assists in delivering the program which provides in-need residents, who are predominantly older, with meals promoting good nourishment and social interaction.
TMHS volunteer coordinator Paris Wakelin said volunteers simply pick up the meals from the hospital kitchen and deliver them to around 40 residents, most of whom are aged and struggle with independence.
“The kitchen cooks the meals which is then delivered to home care package clients who are unable to do it on their own,” she said.
“Volunteers then deliver the meals around Terang, basically just dropping it off to their house.
“It delivers not only the meal, but a little bit of social interaction for people who otherwise might not get a lot of it.
“It’s something we do every day and it only takes about half an hour – a maximum of 45 minutes.”
Ms Wakelin said the process of volunteering was simple, with just a little bit of paperwork and flexibility based on how little more much each individual can offer.
“We do have an onboarding process with a police check, but we organise and pay for that,” she said.
“There’s a bit of easy paperwork involved which covers confidentiality but it’s a quick process.
“A lot of our volunteers have been retirees who have more spare time but there’s a roster which the volunteer can pick from – for someone it might be doing it on the first Monday of the month, but for others it might be more frequent if they want.
“They can also swap if something pops up and they’re unavailable.
“It’s all pretty straight-forward.”
Ms Wakelin, who herself has volunteered time to supporting Meals on Wheels, said it was a meaningful experience knowing you’re making a positive contribution to people in the community.
“It’s rewarding,” she said.
“It’s nice to be able to check in on people who are so grateful you’re there.
“They love to have a little chat, and the feedback from our volunteers has been really positive.”
Anyone interested in volunteering was encouraged to contact Terang and Mortlake Health Service on 5592 0222 or pop in to the hospital at 13 Austin Avenue, Terang, and have a chat with Ms Wakelin.