National Volunteer Week is shining a spotlight on the people who quietly give their time to strengthen communities across Australia — and for CapRescue, volunteers have been part of the story since day one.
As CapRescue celebrates 30 years of service to Central Queensland, the organisation is recognising the supporters who have helped keep the service connected to the region for three decades.
CapRescue Operations Manager Kirsty Wooler said community involvement and volunteering had helped shape the organisation since it first launched in 1996.
“Thirty years ago, the region came together with a shared vision to establish a rescue helicopter service for Central Queensland, and that same sense of connection still drives the organisation today.”
“From fundraising events and sausage sizzles in the early years through to the dedicated volunteer program we have today, local people have always played an important role in CapRescue,” Ms Wooler said.
“While our crews are responding to emergencies, volunteers and supporters across the region continue to play a valuable role in helping keep the service operating.”
Today, that support continues through the StepUp Volunteer Program, proudly backed by Thiess since 2017.
CapRescue Community Engagement Coordinator Sharyn Truelson said National Volunteer Week was an important opportunity to recognise both the volunteers who generously give their time and Thiess for its longstanding commitment to the program.
“We are incredibly grateful to every volunteer who gives their time to CapRescue, along with Thiess for continuing to stand behind the StepUp Volunteer Program,” Mrs Truelson said.
“It’s important to remember with this year’s theme, ‘Your Year to Volunteer’, that it doesn’t have to be a huge time commitment in order to make a difference.
“There are so many ways people can get involved, whether it’s helping at events, cooking a barbecue, selling raffle tickets or merchandise, helping represent CapRescue in the community or even stepping into mascot duties.
“Every person brings something different, and every contribution helps keep CapRescue flying. Is this your year to volunteer?”
Volunteer Opportunities:
Helping with Entry/ collecting gold coin donations | Cooking a BBQ | Selling merchandise or raffle tickets | Mascot duties | Photography/Videography | Sewing | Public speaking | Gardening
Upcoming events in 2026:
People interested in joining the StepUp Volunteer Program are encouraged to contact the CapRescue team to learn more about available opportunities.