Celebrating volunteers at the heart of Chinchilla Meals on Wheels

Meals on Wheels is about much more than delivering meals. Across the nation, Meals on Wheels volunteers support elderly and vulnerable people to continue living independently by providing nutritious meals and social connection. 

Chinchilla Meals on Wheels has celebrated 48 years of caring for the local community with a special Volunteer Appreciation Lunch at the Chinchilla RSL Club. The event was held to coincide with the 70th anniversary of Meals on Wheels in Queensland, and provided a wonderful opportunity to thank the dedicated volunteers who have made the service possible over many years. Several long-serving members in attendance have been part of Chinchilla Meals on Wheels since the organisation first began operating 48 years ago.

As part of the celebration, special appreciation plaques were presented to long-standing volunteers who have contributed 20 years or more of service. Funds from Council's Community Events Program went towards engaging local artist Terri Keller from Red Hill Creative to design and create the plaques. 

Western Downs Regional Council Spokesperson for Community and Cultural Development Councillor Peter Saxelby attended the lunch as both a Chinchilla Meals on Wheels volunteer and as a Council representative, and had the honour of presenting the plaques to the volunteers.

The Volunteer Appreciation Lunch was a heartfelt celebration of the incredible contribution of local volunteers, and helps us to recognise the commitment and compassion that is the heart of Meals on Wheels.

The Community Events Program is support for social, cultural and sporting events that celebrate our diversity, connect our communities and activate our parks, open spaces and community facilities.