What’s happening?
Volunteering North Queensland has secured a major boost, with Queensland Country Bank covering membership fees for all Volunteer Involving Organisations across North Queensland for 2025 to 2026.
This support means community groups and local not-for-profits can stay linked to VNQ training, events and celebrations without the pressure of membership costs.
VNQ President Anne Camplin said the help could not have come at a better time. “This is such a welcome help for our current members, many of whom are feeling the pinch with rising costs.
To have a major local business like Queensland Country Bank step up and support the volunteers who hold our communities together really means a lot,” Ms Camplin said.
Why it matters?
Rising costs have made it tougher for many small volunteer groups to stay active. VNQ relies on memberships to fund training, events and programs that keep volunteers connected.
The support from Queensland Country Bank lets groups stay involved while keeping VNQ stable for the future.
Ms Camplin said the membership program was introduced after the AGM to keep VNQ sustainable. She said demand for volunteers continues to rise.
“The demand for volunteers is stronger than ever, this year alone we have referred more than 800 volunteers, and that number keeps growing.”
Local impact
The funding removes a cost barrier for dozens of local groups. It keeps them connected to VNQ training and events and helps VNQ stay sustainable.
It also highlights how corporate partnerships can lift regional volunteer programs when support is needed most.
By the numbers
- VNQ has already referred more than 800 volunteers this year, showing strong demand across the region.
- Queensland Country Bank employees can take up to 2 full paid volunteer days each year, supporting local groups.
- Membership fees for all Volunteer Involving Organisations across North Queensland will be fully covered for the 2025 to 2026 year.
Zoom in
The VRS, or Volunteer Referral Service, will remain a fee for service based on the number of volunteer roles advertised. VNQ introduced the new membership program at its AGM after a full review to keep membership affordable while meeting rising costs.
Funds raised through membership flow back into workshops, events, volunteer recruitment and programs that build stronger community links.
Zoom out
Queensland Country Bank CEO Aaron Newman said the partnership reflects the bank’s community values.
“Queensland Country Bank is proud to stand behind the volunteers who make North Queensland such a special place. Community engagement has always been central to Queensland Country Bank and we are committed to encouraging our employees to make a difference through our Community Volunteering Program. Queensland Country Bank staff can take up to 2 full paid days each year to give back. We are your local community bank supporting local communities and sponsoring the volunteers who give their time to give back,” he said.
VNQ Chair Anne Camplin said the partnership is a clear show of support. “This support sends a clear message that volunteering matters. It shows that our corporate partners see real value in backing the people who make our region a better place to live, work and play.”
What to look for next?
VNQ will continue rolling out workshops, events and volunteer recruitment programs through 2025 and 2026.
Community groups will now be able to take part without membership costs, helping drive stronger volunteer engagement across North Queensland.
