National Volunteer Week is a time to recognise and celebrate the selfless contributions of those who give their time to benefit others. At Carey, volunteering is embedded in our culture, reflected in the dedication of our students, parents, staff and alumni. We sat down with four Carey community members whose service work, both within and beyond the school gates, continues to make a powerful impact.
Sarah Broadbent – President, Junior School Parents Association, Kew
You’ve been part of the JSPAK for seven years now. What drew you to join?
I have a strong sense of community involvement stemming back to my childhood when my own parents were heavily involved in fundraising events for the local hospital and school. I have discovered this passion for community connection. I like being able to use my project manager skills to help others and it’s a privilege to be involved where your input directly has positive impacts in an educational setting.
What have been some memorable moments from your time with the JSPAK?
The best moments are the small ones – the look on a child’s face when they get a Zooper Dooper at the Welcome Picnic, or the ELC little ones having a ‘big kid’ moment getting their sausage in bread on sausage sizzle day!
We are pleased to be able to support the Junior School Kew directly and help to empower the students by making donations based on what the Student Representative Council proposes. We donate our proceeds back to the school, community and other charities that we may be supporting directly at various events, such as the Baptcare Sanctuary Program we recently raised money for through our wonderful Mothers Day Breakfast.
How would you encourage other parents to get involved in the Carey community?
While it is great if parents can join the JSPAK Committee or be a Class Representative (a crucial key to community building – thank you Class Reps and Committee!) you don’t need to have these roles to be involved. You could volunteer to help at a Sausage Sizzle, give 20 minutes of time to help with event decorations, offer to help your Class Rep with an event, or just turn up for a coffee morning – there are so many ways you can get involved.
It’s an absolute honour to be able to contribute to the school in the capacity as JSPAK President, but it is thanks to the many volunteer parents who give their time, skills and contributions that really makes the school community hum.
Sebastian Gilford (2017) – Assistant Treasurer, OCGA Council
What led you to volunteer with the OCGA, and how did you become involved in the role of Assistant Treasurer?
I first joined the OCGA Careers and Networking Subcommittee organising a variety of initiatives and events which were designed to support Carey alumni in advancing their professional careers. I then joined the OCGA Council as the Assistant Treasurer, supporting Nicholas Tonkes with the financial management of the OCGA – which includes bookkeeping, invoice payments and financial reporting – while also serving as a member of the Council. In the end it was the culmination of a variety of roles that opened up and my capacity to give back to a community that has offered me so much.
Managing the financials is a big behind-the-scenes task – what motivates you to put in those hours?
I have always believed in giving back to communities that have given you time, love and support. I've just ticked past three years at Ernst & Young and thought, what better way to give back to the Carey community, not only with time, but also some skills that I have been developing since leaving school. What keeps me motivated is seeing the impact on people. I think what the OCGA stands for and can do for people is so wonderful, particularly in fostering relationships formed from a young age. It does take time behind the scenes, but I am always incredibly rewarded when I see relationships rekindled, and see new relationships formed at events.
Why do you think alumni involvement is important for the ongoing strength of the Carey community?
There is a great strength in connection. There have been so many alumni who have gone on to do great things and I think this is greatly reflected in why alumni involvement is important. For those alumni who have had great experiences in their lives, they owe it to themselves to share their journey, connect and re-connect with others, because it is what really makes our community supportive. I encourage people who feel as though they have something to share, to reach out and give back to a community that has given me so much, because that makes all of us better connected and stronger because of it.
Gracie – Year 12 Student Volunteer
What inspired you to start volunteering?
Volunteering has always been a part of my life – my family has always been involved in lots of charities and mission work. Over the past seven years, I’ve spent much of my time outside of school volunteering, both as a way to give back and as a way to step outside of my comfort zone. I’m the youngest of four children, and I’ve grown up attending SUFM (Scripture Union Family Mission) and going on regular mission trips to the Philippines through an organisation called KIMs (Kids International Ministries). These activities have been a big part of shaping who I am.
How has volunteering shaped your outlook or personal growth as a student?
Every volunteering opportunity has helped me to grow and develop as a person, and each individual experience teaches me something new. It’s given me perspective and a deeper sense of compassion. It has shaped my attitude towards life and helped me become a better version of myself; being more grounded, open-minded and grateful.
What would you say to other students who are curious about getting involved in service or volunteering?
Just give it a go! I know it can feel daunting to walk into an environment that’s unfamiliar or outside your comfort zone, but I promise you won’t forget it or regret it. You’ll meet people you never would have crossed paths with otherwise. Most of these people have incredible stories, wisdom and perspective. I am still learning and growing through every experience, and I truly believe that service not only impacts others but also transforms you.
Jen Martin – Landscape Architect
How did you become involved with the Kitchen Garden project at Carey, and what drew you to contribute your skills as a landscape architect?
After working for many years at Boroondara Council managing the design and construction of playgrounds and other playspace projects, I recently launched my own practice to design landscapes for people and wildlife with a focus on native and indigenous planting.
I was introduced to Eleanor Burns (Kitchen Garden Program Co-ordinator) who generously gave me a tour of the kitchen garden earlier this year and I was thoroughly inspired by her enthusiasm, talent and drive and offered my assistance to help bring the latest part of the kitchen garden vision to life.
Can you tell us about the vision behind the ‘gathering circle’ and how you approached its design?
Eleanor had some key ideas for the space and envisioned using natural elements such as stone, timber and water, native edible plants and a Seasons Wheel to both educate and delight. A circular gathering space seemed a natural fit – to foster learning and allow students and educators to come together to share ideas, passions and knowledge. Overall, the space needed to feel inviting and inclusive – a place where people, plants and wildlife could gather and flourish.
What has been most rewarding about volunteering your time and expertise for this community project?
Building on my knowledge of native and indigenous plants and exploring the use of 3D visualisation software have been both challenging and enjoyable aspects of this project. Working with Eleanor has made the overall design process very easy and rewarding and I’ve enjoyed our collaboration to design a practical and beautiful outdoor space for the benefit of kids, teachers, wildlife and the broader school community.
Kaushini Fernando
Alumni and Community Manager
