Volunteers - the Backbone of our Community

Published on 24 May 2026

A volunteer at Rockhampton's Visitor Information Centre smiles as he helps a travelling couple

Looking to give back to your community? There are countless volunteer roles across the Rockhampton Region, helping you build community spirit, develop new skills and meet like-minded people.

As we head into the peak tourist season for the Rockhampton Region, there’s a special group of people ready to welcome visitors with a smile, map, and tips to help travellers make the most of their time here. Our Visitor Information Centre relies on dozens of volunteers who give up their time to share their passion for our community – and they’re just the tip of the iceberg.

This week is National Volunteer Week, a time to celebrate and highlight the significant contribution volunteers make to communities like ours. As of the last census, more than 1 in 7 people engaged in volunteering, ranging from supporting local sporting groups to being the face of some of our most beloved major events.

Events and experiences

A crowd passes between rides and stalls at the Rocky Show — We're grateful for the support of volunteers bringing beloved community events to life

Rockhampton Regional Council relies on volunteers to deliver unforgettable experiences at the Rockhampton Museum of Art, Pilbeam Theatre, Heritage Village and Botanic Gardens and Zoo – to name a few – as well as for the delivery of the Rocky River Run, CapriCon, Rockynats and The Rocky Show.

When it comes to our tourism offering, volunteers are just as integral to delivering an authentic visitor experience as the business owners who provide accommodation, activities and hospitality. Their local knowledge and passion are essential in delivering a strong impression to visitors, and can help turn an already brilliant holiday into something even more memorable.

The importance of volunteers

Three SES volunteers wearing orange uniforms are crossing a lake on a yellow board. A man is pointing off into the distance, while a woman looks off in that direction — Volunteers provide essential services to our community (Credit: Drew Wickerson)

It’s no understatement to say our broader community couldn’t function without volunteers. Where would we be without our SES and RFS volunteers? How much of a difference can a friendly face make for patients at our hospitals? Would our local sporting clubs thrive without those people going above and beyond? And that’s before we consider the countless charities and communities groups creating a vibrant future for our region.

Get involved

A man stares off into the distance while holding a football and standing in front of rugby league goalposts — Ready to get involved?

National Volunteer Week may come to an end, but it’s theme ‘Your Year to Volunteer’ remains eternally valid. If you’ve been looking for a way to give back to your community, gain meaningful life and employment skills, meet new friends, or simply fill up some free time, there are plenty of organisations who would truly appreciate your contribution.

The Volunteering Queensland website lists thousands of positions ready to be filled, while our Volunteer page provides links to local organisations, charities and Council events and attractions you may wish to reach out to.

By volunteering, even in a small way, you can become part of the story that others experience – whether visitors to our region, or the friends, families and colleagues you cross paths with daily.

For those already going above and beyond to make the Rockhampton Region a welcoming and supportive environment – we see you and thank you, during National Volunteer Week and beyond.