This week, as newly appointed patron of Wauchope Pink Ladies, I attended after their annual general meeting and had the chance to bid good wishes to Roger Adams outgoing president of ten years.

Win Secombe, wonderful stalwart of the Wauchope community is the incoming president, and it was my great pleasure to welcome her to the role and to meet some of our local pink ladies.

Many of the local group are very long standing volunteers, some having been regularly on duty at our hospital for approaching 20 years, as well as volunteering elsewhere, such as at Bundaleer, Lifeline and Sallies.

The common theme was “I wouldn’t do it unless I wanted to and enjoyed it” – which is the essence of volunteering and just as it should be.

It’s a common theme I hear from people of all ages who volunteer – that it enriches their lives to give for the benefit of others without expecting anything material in return.

It enriches their lives to help build up something which is of general benefit, building community and teamwork - which is never a bad thing regardless what the endless ugly news of the world might tell us.

Why not try volunteering on for size, by contributing to any community group, team or school which takes your fancy?

Arts business mentoring

On another note, council is conducting a business mentoring program for local artists, starting November 27, and with applications closing November 17.

These are monthly one-on-one sessions for local artists of all genres and levels of experience to learn how to: commercialise your product; brand and market your business; learn the principles of good customer service; strategically plan, and price and conduct financial matters.

The artist’s business mentoring opportunity is part of council’s cultural development program.

If you are interested to further develop your art into a successful business then be quick and contact council on 6581-8111.