NIMI Volunteers Class Of 2026

Most non-profit organisations rely heavily on volunteers to function effectively. Historic New Italy is no different. A small but dedicated and hardworking army of generous and selfless locals have kept this wonderful place running and looking good for decades.

Recently, as part of Volunteering Week, the opportunity presented itself to acknowledge and appreciate all these efforts and countless hours of unpaid work performed by these loyal volunteers. This came in the form of a delicious luncheon at the Sandbar in Evans Head. It was a great opportunity for the volunteers to mingle and meet each other as they don't always work on the same days.

Most NIMI volunteers are humble people, simply wanting to give something back and help out where they can, not looking for recognition or accolades. But sometimes recognition is so well deserved, there is no escape. Such is the case of Kel and Val Walker. This dynamic power couple have kept the gardens and plantings around the Museum complex looking their best for more than 20 years! Truly remarkable! The Walkers were presented with flowers and an elegant wall plaque as a small token of our appreciation. 

NIMI President Gail Williams summed it up perfectly in her speech: "Time is the most precious thing any of us can give, and Historic New Italy exists because countless people have given exactly that. It's extraordinary to look at what has been achieved over the past 40 years through generosity, dedication, and sheer goodwill of volunteers."