The City of Mandurah hosted an afternoon tea on Monday to celebrate the start of National Volunteer Week.
Running from May 20-26 this year, the annual event is the largest celebration of volunteers and volunteerism in Australia.
Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2019, National Volunteer Week acknowledges the generous contributions of volunteers and highlight the role of selfless souls in our community
Volunteers from around the Peel region gathered at the Seniors and Community Centre to enjoy food and drinks and take the opportunity to mingle with fellow volunteers.
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Mandurah mayor Rhys Williams said more than 300 people volunteered directly for the City of Mandurah while hundreds more gave up their time throughout the Peel region.
"My absolute favourite part of my job is being able to stand in front of incredible people like you and from the bottom of my heart and on behalf of council and staff, thank you so much," he said.
"This place doesn't work without you and we are eternally grateful to you
"Every single day you make Mandurah a better, happier place to live."
Mr Williams said volunteers filled a number of integral roles in the community.
"For those that are in need, you offer a helping hand. Perhaps they are at a vulnerable point in their life and you give them the opportunity just to have a little bit of respite," he said.
"Perhaps it's during fires and floods, you're out there rescuing us or helping people who are involved in accidents.
"Perhaps it's supporting an important cause that you believe in or helping us to show the very best version of our city during events that we hold, supporting our seniors or helping our young people be the best people they can be or perhaps it's working in our libraries, helping people to learn to read and value their education.
"You go out and contribute to making people's lives better and these are key things that make our city work."
