Terence ‘Terry’ Blanch began volunteering with The Hills Shire Council at 39.
More than 45 years later, Terry remains committed to serving his community, particularly his work in protecting the local environment.
This dedication was acknowledged during Council’s Volunteer Thank You event held during National Volunteer Week.
Terry is a founding member of Council’s nursery, Bidjiwong Community Nursery, in Baulkham Hills, which produces up to 60,000 local native plants annually for residents to use in their homes, and for Council to plant in its parks and use at other community facilities.
“Volunteering has been an enjoyable experience and it’s been a big part of my life,” Terry said.
He has been involved with the nursery for more than four decades and still loves what he does, which includes seedling raising, plant care and sometimes mentoring the new volunteers.
“It’s the camaraderie I enjoy most about volunteering,” Terry said.
“I get to learn about new things and have training opportunities. You also make friendships that last a lifetime.”
Council offers diverse volunteering programs, such as Bushcare, Meals on Wheels, Justice of the Peace and 355 committees. Numerous other opportunities are also available through the Community Environment Centre, Roxborough Park Rose Garden, Council’s youth volunteer program, Hills Youth Army, and the community nursery.
To find out more or to sign-up, visit Council’s website, www.thehills.nsw.gov.au and search ‘volunteering’.
