Three outstanding South Australian individuals, as well as the groups behind the record-breaking Chihuly art exhibition and an online education platform, have been acknowledged for their exceptional contributions as part of the 2025 SA Volunteer Awards.
This year, the awards held during National Volunteer Week mark 20 years of celebrating the state’s dedicated volunteers who give selflessly, often behind the scenes, to drive change in their communities.
Premier, Peter Malinauskas opened the 2025 SA Volunteer Awards via a special video message, celebrating the contributions of volunteers across the state. During the event, the Premier’s Award for Corporate Responsibility, was presented to the volunteer-powered platform, Virtual School Australia for its significant contributions to the community as a for-profit business.
Human Services Minister, Nat Cook, presented the four top volunteer awards on Thursday night at the National Wine Centre, recognising excellence across a range of categories.
- The Joy Noble Medal – Danica Gates, Beacon of Hope (Tumby Bay) South Australia’s highest honour for an individual volunteer;
- The Andamooka Community Project Award – Chihuly in the Botanic Gardens volunteers, Botanic Garden and State Herbarium. Honouring a volunteer project of significant community benefit;
- The Young Volunteer Award – Lucy Stevens, The Smith Family. Recognising an outstanding young volunteer aged 12 to 25;
- The Excellence in Volunteer Management Award – Ryan Simms, Botanic Garden and State Herbarium for Chihuly in the Botanic Garden. Recognising an extraordinary volunteer manager.
“The SA Volunteer Awards have become a cornerstone in our recognition of the tireless and often unsung contributions made by volunteers across the state,” said Minister Cook.
“This year, there’s an extra reason to celebrate. Marking 20 years of these prestigious awards is a testament to the dedication of the individuals and groups who consistently go above and beyond to make South Australia a better place.
“Volunteering is the heartbeat of our communities. From supporting those in need to driving change through advocacy, volunteers are at the forefront of creating stronger, more connected communities.
“With an estimated 950,000 South Australians volunteering their time and skills, contributing more than 1.7 million hours annually, we see firsthand how invaluable their efforts are to the State.
“These volunteers contribute nearly $5 billion in social and economic value each year, and their impact reverberates through every community. It is a privilege to acknowledge their exceptional work through the South Australian Volunteer Awards.”
The SA Volunteer Awards were established by the State Government in 2005 and are proudly presented by Volunteering SA&NT, with support from the Department of Human Services.
An independent judging panel reviewed the nominations, focusing on the nominees’ commitment, service levels, and the positive impact of their work in South Australia.
For more information, visit: https://vsant.org.au/savolunteerawards/.
