Volunteers Vital To Safe Enjoyment Of The Outdoors

Media Prelease

4 December 2008

Volunteers Vital To Safe Enjoyment Of The Outdoors
International Volunteer Day – 5 December 2008

Celebrating International Volunteer Day, the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council acknowledged the vital contribution its more than 1,400 volunteer instructors make to the outdoor recreation sector.

Chief Executive Darryl Carpenter said that the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council was fortunate to have the support of a large pool of dedicated, well trained volunteer instructors to deliver the outdoor safety message into their local communities.

“We would like to thank the many Kiwi volunteers who willingly give their time to enable others to enjoy the outdoors safely – from youth leaders, teachers, instructors to local tramping guides.

“Without a doubt, many people, particularly young people, would not have had the opportunities to enjoy the outdoors if it had not been for the dedication and willingness of volunteers to share their knowledge and experience. Volunteers play a vital role in giving the skills and resources people need to participate safely outdoors.

“Earlier this year, we were proud to establish the Mountain Safety Council Outdoor Excellence Volunteer Award to recognise the contribution of volunteers to safe outdoor recreation.

“The inaugural recipient Angela Anderson was given the award for her outstanding contribution to girl guiding in the Auckland region. Angela is a terrific example of the many volunteers who regularly donate their time and energy to their community and give people positive experiences of the outdoors.

“Volunteering is incredibly rewarding experience. We encourage those with skills and passion to take the opportunity to pass on their love of the outdoors to someone else.

“The Council supports volunteers by providing training, advice and resources. It has a major role in training outdoor leaders from other organisations so they are furnished with the skills and knowledge to safely lead outdoor activities.

“Providing volunteers with the opportunities to safely participate in the outdoors and to lead others is one way the Council is supporting the community and working towards safer participation in the outdoors,” said Mr Carpenter.

To become a Mountain Safety Council volunteer, contact your local Mountain Safety Council branch or contact Jane Hoedemaeckers. Contact details for branch offices and information on outdoor safety can be found on the Council’s website www.mountainsafety.org.nz.

A United Nations’ initiative, International Volunteer Day has been celebrated throughout the world on 5 December every year since 1985.

ENDS

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