Armidale volunteer Jenny Bourke has been named the 2026 New England-Northern Inland Volunteer of the Year, recognising her work supporting older people, people living with cancer and vulnerable tenants.
Bourke received the region’s top volunteering honour at the 2026 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards ceremony at Armidale City Bowling Club.
She divides her time between three local organisations — Can Assist Armidale, Care for Seniors and the New England & Western Tenants Advice and Advocacy Service.
Through those roles, Bourke prepares meals and activities and organises bus outings for older people, raises money and provides care and support for people living with cancer and provides governance, strategic advice and advocacy for vulnerable tenants.
She was also named the New England-Northern Inland Senior Volunteer of the Year.
The awards, hosted by The Centre for Volunteering, recognise the contributions of volunteers and volunteer teams across NSW and are celebrating their 20th year in 2026.
The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said volunteers across New England and the Northern Inland played an important role in their communities.
“Volunteers help build strong and healthy communities across the state,” Rygate said.
“They are always there when we need them most, giving their time and support across all areas of life including health, emergency services, education and community sectors.
“Volunteers are role models for others, highlighting how volunteering can have such a positive impact on people and places. These awards celebrate the volunteering effort and impact.”
Other regional winners included Tenterfield volunteers Brooke Everett and Samuel Browning, who jointly received the Young Volunteer of the Year award, and Uralla’s Gai Buchanan, who was named Adult Volunteer of the Year.
South Tamworth SES unit commander Fiona Johnson received the Emergency Volunteer of the Year award, while the Country Women’s Association of NSW Armidale Branch was named Volunteer Team of the Year.
NSW Minister with responsibility for Volunteering Jodie Harrison congratulated the winners.
“Congratulations to our everyday heroes, the winners of the New England-Northern Inland Volunteer of the Year Awards.
“From the bush to the sea, volunteers are the true heartbeat of our communities. Thank you for your invaluable contributions. You make New South Wales the best state to live in.
“In partnership with the Centre for Volunteering, the NSW Government continues to build a sector that is strong and diverse, and to make sure volunteers like you are recognised for and supported in what you do.”
Bourke and the other regional award recipients will be invited to represent New England-Northern Inland at the State Gala Award Ceremony later this year, where the NSW Volunteer of the Year winners will be announced.
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