In celebration of National Volunteer Week, the Women and Infants Research Foundation (WIRF) has recognised the extraordinary dedication of its volunteer community, who have donated more than 40,000 hours in support of women, babies, and families across Western Australia.
WIRF also acknowledged the essential contributions of its statewide network of knitters and sewers. These passionate volunteers create and donate handmade baby clothing and blankets year-round, helping ensure that families in need receive the support they deserve.
WIRF Community Engagement Officer Paula O’Connell said the Foundation’s volunteers are the heart of the organisation.
“They are community builders, comfort givers, and the friendly faces behind many of our most vital services,” Ms O’Connell said.
“Whether they are assembling Baby Bundles and care packages for mothers and newborns in crisis, or lending their time in the Foundation’s café, gift shop, and op shop at King Edward Memorial Hospital, their work touches thousands of lives each year.”
Amid growing pressures caused by the housing crisis and rising rates of domestic violence, demand for essential items and practical support for women and babies continues to grow.
“Our ability to meet these needs would not be possible without our incredible volunteer team and extended community of supporters,” Ms O’Connell said.
In a time when many not-for-profits face increasing demand and limited resources, WIRF’s volunteer community stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved through compassion, consistency, and collective effort.
“This National Volunteer Week, we honour all of our amazing volunteers and celebrate the milestones that reflect a deep commitment to our mission of healthy women, healthy babies, and healthy families,” Ms O’Connell said.
“Their generosity helps us continue this vital work — and we simply couldn’t do it without them.”
This year, WIRF also celebrated several volunteers who have reached remarkable milestones in their service to women and babies, including:
25 years
- Maria Crawford
12 years
- Marianne Bartrop
10 years
- Liz Chidlow
- Deb Salomone
- Jodi Clayton
- Barb Jewell
- Marie-Francoise Scott
- Geri Walker
5 years
- Patrice Brenkley
- Helen Harrington
To find out more about volunteering with WIRF visit our volunteer page
