Volunteer expo connects community with opportunity
Published on 01 September 2026
Whether you’re looking for volunteers, or looking to become a volunteer, the Noosa Volunteers Connect Expo can help find what you’re looking for.
The inaugural event will be held at the Noosa Leisure Centre on Saturday 26 September from 10am - 2pm, bringing together more than 50 local not-for-profit organisations seeking volunteers in the one location.
Council's Community Connection Manager Alison Hamblin said the Volunteer Expo was all about helping people find meaningful ways to contribute while supporting the many local organisations that depend on volunteers.
“Dozens of local organisations, including sporting clubs, environmental groups, emergency services and community organisations, will be there to talk about the different ways people can get involved and support their community,” she said.
“If you've been thinking about volunteering, whether it's to give back, learn something new, meet people or support a cause you care about, this is a great place to start.
“And if you're part of a local not-for-profit looking for volunteers, the expo is a great chance to promote your organisation and connect with people who want to make a difference.”
Research shows volunteering can improve wellbeing, reduce social isolation, build confidence and create a stronger sense of purpose, while also providing valuable skills and experience.
For Noosa teenager Gracie Springer, volunteering with the SES has been life changing.
“I joined the SES in January last year when I was in Year 12 and had no idea what I wanted to do when I finished school. I joined the SES because I wanted to get involved in the community and help people out in times of need and it really helped me decide to pursue a career as a firefighter,” she said.
Gracie participates in weekly training with the SES, developing practical skills while supporting the community during emergencies and severe weather events. She was recently named 2026 SES Young Member of the Year for the North Coast region.
“Volunteering with the SES I’ve gained more confidence and learnt more about teamwork and people of all different ages and experiences. It’s been so rewarding being a volunteer and being able to help my community.”
Gracie encourages anyone thinking about volunteering to take the first step.
“If you’ve been thinking about it, just do it. You’ll always be learning useful skills and everyone is willing to chat and share their knowledge and experiences. Volunteering is so rewarding and also very fun!” she said.
For Noosa Men's Shed volunteer Michael Barrington, getting involved started as a chance to learn new skills and connect with others who shared his interests.
“I joined the Men’s Shed just over two years ago because I wanted to learn more about amateur radio, metalworking and woodworking, but the social side was a big part of it too,” he said.
“I’m fairly introverted and spend a lot of time working from home, so it was a great opportunity to meet people and be around others with similar interests.”
Since joining, Michael has assisted with IT support, amateur radio activities and various projects around the Shed, while also developing new skills and friendships.
“I think I was surprised by just how friendly and welcoming everyone was. There are people from all sorts of backgrounds with a huge range of skills and experience and everyone is very happy to share what they know or help someone learn something new,” he said.
“Through the Shed I’ve learned practical skills, met people I wouldn’t have otherwise met and discovered the value of getting involved in a community.”
Michael said volunteering doesn't need to be a major commitment.
“Just give it a go. You can get involved as much or as little as suits you,” he said.
“Even if you join because there’s something you want to learn, you’ll probably find opportunities to help other people along the way. You can learn new skills, make friendships and become part of something bigger.”
Visitors to the Volunteer Connect Expo will have the opportunity to speak directly with volunteer coordinators, learn about available roles and register their interest or begin the onboarding process on the day.
Noosa-based not-for-profit organisations that have not yet registered to attend can email commdev@noosa.qld.gov.au.
Community Connection Manager Alison Hamblin on the inaugural Noosa Volunteers Connect Expo: