Learn more about volunteering in times of disaster

Published on 16 July 2025

Byron Shire Council together with emergency response organisations, local services and groups will come together later this month to deliver three information sessions about volunteering in a disaster. 

The sessions are a chance for the community to learn more about responding to disasters–like the 2022 floods, and more recently Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred–through spontaneous volunteering. There’ll be short presentations, information stalls and some light refreshments during each of the two-hour events. 

Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said: 

“Local communities show incredible resilience and generosity, especially in times of hardship. The instinct to step up and support one another is a powerful reflection of our shared community spirit. 

“These sessions are about equipping people with the confidence, knowledge and connections they need to make a real difference when lending a hand during a crisis or natural disaster.

“By fostering knowledge-sharing and resourcefulness, we’re strengthening the foundations of volunteerism and building more connected, empowered communities.”

Sarah Boulle, Byron Shire Council Community Resilience and Recovery Coordinator, said that she encourages anyone who is curious about helping in times of disaster to come along. 

“These sessions are a great way to find out how you can get involved, stay connected, and be prepared. Come along to hear presentations from local groups and services, browse information stalls, and share some food with others in your community,” Ms Boulle said.

Dates and locations:

• Tuesday 29 July from 6pm-8pm at St Martin’s Church Hall, 38-40 Stuart Street, Mullumbimby. 
• Wednesday 30 July from 6pm-8pm at Ocean Shores Public School Hall, 166 Shara Boulevard, Ocean Shores. 
• Saturday 2 August from 1pm-3pm at Marvell Hall, 37 Marvell Street, Byron Bay.

“As the Byron Shire continues to thrive on the strength of its community, local spontaneous volunteering continues to be a powerful force for good—bringing people together in times of need,” she said.

“We encourage anyone interested in contributing in a disaster to come along,” she added. 

The sessions will also include short presentations from local community resilience hub group representatives.

“Our local groups are so valuable in our community’s disaster preparedness and recovery, so chatting with a local volunteer group leader can be a great way to find out about how to take action in your neighbourhood now,” Ms Boulle said. 

“Volunteering doesn’t always require a long-term commitment. But taking action now to find out about how best to lend a hand during a disaster could make a big difference when people are dealing with the next natural disaster,” she added. 

For more information head to Council’s What’s On page.

These information sessions have received grant funding from the NSW Government and are supported by Byron Shire Council.