The Mid North Coast and Northern Rivers Volunteer of the Year finalists are packing their bags and heading to Sydney to join around 300 of their peers to see who will be named the NSW Volunteer of the Year for 2025.
The local volunteers were selected earlier this year as regional finalists for the statewide volunteer awards in one of 25 local ceremonies covering all parts of NSW.
The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate urged people from across the region to show their support for their local finalists.
“Volunteers help make communities stronger, healthier and more resilient. They’re worth their weight in gold and we need to let them know how proud we are of their efforts.”
The Mid North Coast and Northern Rivers Volunteer of the Year finalists for 2025 are:
Northern Rivers Finalists – 2025
Volunteer of the Year
Brad Ambridge – Goonellabah
Founder of Rainbow Roos, Brad has created an inclusive and anxiety-free environment for children with disabilities or additional needs to learn and enjoy football. His work now supports over 500 children across the region.
Young Volunteer of the Year
Ella Vivian-Kay – Byron Bay
Ella volunteers at the Byron Community Centre, preparing and serving breakfast to people experiencing homelessness or hardship. Her efforts help provide not only nourishment but a sense of dignity and respect.
Adult Volunteer of the Year
Brad Ambridge – Goonellabah
In addition to his overall recognition, Brad is also acknowledged in the adult category for establishing the Rainbow Roos, a program offering inclusive football training and holiday camps to children with varying needs.
Senior Volunteer of the Year
Steve Cooke – Lismore
Steve plays a key role with the Tool Library at Resilient Lismore, ensuring donated equipment is safe and ready to support rebuilding efforts in the wake of the 2022 floods.
Emergency Volunteer of the Year
Vicki Surwald – Lismore
Vicki coordinates operations at the Tool Library, overseeing inventory and mentoring fellow volunteers as part of the ongoing flood recovery in Lismore.
Volunteer Team of the Year
Livable Palliative Care Team – Grafton
This seven-member team provides compassionate end-of-life care and support for individuals and families in the Grafton region, offering respite, emotional support and a dignified presence during difficult times.
Mid North Coast Finalists – 2025
Volunteer of the Year
Tania Hrbacek – Orara Valley
Tania has been recognised for her tireless support across seven schools in the Orara Learning Community, where she volunteers in school canteens, coordinates events and raises vital funds for local students.
Young Volunteer of the Year
Toby Mitchell – Coffs Harbour
At just 12, Toby is an artist, author and marine conservation advocate volunteering with Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary. He creates and sells original artwork to support sea turtle rehabilitation.
Adult Volunteer of the Year
Tania Hrbacek – Orara Valley
In addition to her overall recognition, Tania has also been acknowledged in the adult category for her hands-on efforts in improving school life and community engagement.
Senior Volunteer of the Year
Kristine Simeon – Forster/Tuncurry
Kristine volunteers with the Justice Advocacy Service through the Intellectual Disability Rights Service, attending court regularly to assist vulnerable people navigating the justice system.
Emergency Volunteer of the Year
Robert Britten – Port Macquarie
As a Marine Rescue skipper, Rob leads teams in life-saving operations both on the water and during natural disasters across NSW. His service includes deployments during floods in remote and high-risk areas.
Volunteer Team of the Year
Belonging to Family Elders – Kempsey
This 16-person team volunteers with Shine for Kids to support Indigenous parents in custody at the Mid North Coast Correctional Centre. They provide mentorship, cultural connection, and post-release support, and also visit youth justice centres around the state.
Something going on in your part of the North Coast people should know about? Let us know by emailing newsdesk@nctimes.com.au
