Celebrating Our Dedicated Volunteers at the 2026 Volunteer Service Awards

Every volunteer brings something special to the Sundale community. Whether it’s offering companionship, sharing a skill, helping with activities or simply taking the time to brighten someone’s day, their generosity helps create the welcoming environment that makes Sundale feel like home. 

On Thursday 2 July, Sundale proudly recognised these invaluable contributions at the 2026 Sunshine Coast Volunteer Service Awards, held at the Nambour RSL. The morning celebrated volunteers who had reached significant service milestones, acknowledging the dedication, compassion and countless hours they have devoted to enriching the lives of residents and supporting our communities. 

Recognising Years of Dedicated Service 
 
Every year of volunteering represents countless moments of kindness, connection and support for our residents and communities. This year’s awards honoured volunteers across a range of service milestones, from those beginning their volunteering journey to individuals whose commitment has spanned decades. 

1 Year Service Award 

• Sandra Cherry, Rod Voller Care Centre  

• Julie Wynn, Bowder Care Centre  

5 Year Service Award 

• Sharyl Walsh, Coolum Care Centre  

• Sue Lapham, Palmwoods Care Centre  

• Sharon Husar, Rod Voller Care Centre  

• Sheila Hodges, Palmwoods Care Centre  

10 Year Service Award 

• Jill Barnes, James Grimes Care Centre  

• Val Carter, Rod Voller & Bowder Care Centres  

• Julia Quinn, Rod Voller & Bowder Care Centre  

15 Year Service Award 

• Kay Crossno, James Grimes Care Centre  

Lifetime Volunteer Service Award 

• Betty Jenkins, James Grimes Care Centre  

• Muriel Peters, Rod Voller Care Centre (retired December 2025)  

Congratulations to every volunteer recognised this year. Each milestone represents years of kindness, generosity and meaningful connections that have made a lasting difference within the Sundale community. 

Volunteers Help Make Sundale Feel at Home 

Volunteers are an important part of everyday life across Sundale’s communities. They support social activities, provide companionship, share conversations, assist with special events and contribute in countless ways that help residents feel connected and valued. 

Their time, care and willingness to give back help foster friendships, encourage participation and create moments that residents look forward to. These everyday interactions play an important role in creating the warm and welcoming environment that defines Sundale. 

Honouring a Lifetime of Service 

One of the highlights of the morning was recognising two remarkable women with Sundale’s Lifetime Volunteer Service Award. 

Muriel Peters and Betty Jenkins have together contributed more than 80 years of volunteer service, leaving an extraordinary legacy of compassion, generosity and community spirit. 

Muriel’s lifelong connection to Sundale dates back to the organisation’s earliest beginnings, with decades spent helping build not only the organisation itself but also the strong sense of community that continues today. Betty’s 40 years of dedicated volunteering continue to inspire, with her ongoing commitment to residents reflecting a lifetime of quiet kindness and selfless service. 

Their stories are a powerful reminder of the lasting impact one person can have through generosity, compassion and a genuine desire to help others. We look forward to sharing more about Muriel and Betty’s remarkable journeys in a dedicated feature celebrating their Lifetime Volunteer Service Awards. 

Thank You to Our Volunteers 

To every volunteer who gives their time to Sundale, thank you. 

Whether you’ve been volunteering for one year or several decades, your contribution helps enrich the lives of our residents and strengthens the communities we share. Your compassion, generosity and commitment create meaningful moments every day and help make Sundale a place where people truly feel at home. 

Congratulations once again to all our 2026 Volunteer Service Award recipients. We are proud to celebrate your service and grateful for the positive difference you continue to make.