Behind every meal rescued, every smile shared, and every life touched stands an extraordinary force of over 3,000 volunteers whose passion drives OzHarvest’s mission forward. This year, their remarkable contribution of 100,000+ hours – equivalent to 50 full-time employees or $4.7 million in salaries – has transformed food rescue into community care.

Our volunteers are more than helping hands; they’re the heartbeat of OzHarvest. Whether they’re rescuing food in our vans, preparing meals in our kitchens, supporting education programs, or serving people with warmth and dignity, they create moments of connection that matter. For many doing it tough, a conversation with an OzHarvest volunteer might be their only human connection that day.

In regional Australia, our impact relies entirely on these dedicated individuals who ensure good food reaches those who need it most. This year, we bid farewell to two inspiring Chapter Coordinators: Michele Lipner (Sunshine Coast) and Jenny O’Reagan (Southern Highlands), whose years of leadership and passionate commitment have left an indelible mark on their communities.

Every hour volunteered is an hour invested in hope, in change, and in building a better future for all Australians.