Personal experience and a community focus saw Peter first take up volunteering almost 50 years ago.

When working in local government years ago Peter found himself in Urana, being a small town he soon became tied up in many different community groups.

Today, Peter volunteers for Can Assist Wagga and Lillier Lodge after first getting involved with Can Assist 40 years ago after he sadly lost his twin sister to cancer.

Peter was part of the original Wagga Can Assist Branch and was involved in establishing Junee's branch.

At Lillier Lodge Peter takes on many different roles including gardening, collecting donations from around Wagga, handyman jobs, simply talking with guests or driving guests when needed.

Before Covid volunteers could drive guests to appointments, shopping or just take them for a drive around to get out of their room Driving guests and getting to know them is Peter's favorite part of volunteering at Lillier Lodge.

"The social aspect is great. I love to meet new people," Peter said.

"You get a feeling of community and that you're making a difference."

Lilier Lodge volunteers, affectionately referred to as Team Lillie, are treated like a family, given flexibility and their mental health is looked after.

"We are focused on the health and wellbeing of volunteers," Lillier Lodge manager Margaret Dalmau said.

"Our volunteers know they're not on their own and if they're feeling overwhelmed they can come and talk to us and we'll work through it.

"Our volunteers enhance the experience for our guests at Lillier Lodge and They need to look after themselves."

If you're interested in volunteering at Lillier Lodge contact Margaret by calling (02) 6925 5240 for an information pack.

Read this story and more in the 2021 Wagga Charity and Services Guide.