For Benalla Rural City local, Linda Bourke, retirement hasn’t meant slowing down – it’s meant stepping up.
After a career in customer service and education, and time spent working in both Shepparton and Benalla, Linda found herself looking for something meaningful to do after retiring earlier this year. With a strong community spirit and years of life experience, she turned to volunteering – and hasn’t looked back.
“I just wanted to do something that kept me connected,” Linda says. “Ten years ago, I had a close call with cancer. That changed how I look at things. I don’t worry about the small stuff anymore – I just want to give back,” Linda said.
Linda is currently volunteering with the Benalla Visitor Information Centre and the Benalla Art Gallery. Commencing in June, Linda will also commence volunteering as a Driver Mentor with the L2P Learner Driver Mentor Program, helping young people who don’t have access to a supervising driver.
“I’ve taught four kids to drive – including my own – but some young people don’t have that support. L2P gives them a chance,” she says. “It feels good to be part of something that makes a real difference,” Linda said.
While she admits she “knew nothing about art” before volunteering at the gallery, Linda says the experience has been eye-opening.
“It turns out it doesn’t matter. I’ve learned so much. The team have been amazing. I just love giving back and sharing my own knowledge too,” Linda said.
Benalla Art Gallery Director Eric Nash said Linda is a wonderful addition to the Gallery team.
“With the Gallery being reliant on generous volunteers for front of house duties, Linda has ensured visitors benefit from her warmth, skills, and knowledge – delivering a great first impression for each and every person who walks through the door.
“It is a pleasure for Gallery staff to have Linda here with us,” Eric said.
Volunteering has also allowed Linda to keep using her customer service skills and stay socially connected, while still having the freedom to travel.
She and her husband Joe – himself an active volunteer with the local Photography Club – are currently preparing for a four-week road trip to South Australia, with more adventures planned for Katherine and Western Australia next year.
“You’re not tied down with volunteering. You can still travel, enjoy retirement, and give back. It gives me self-satisfaction and a way to keep contributing to my community,” Linda said.
Linda, who has lived locally for more than 40 years (15 were at Tatong and 25 in Benalla) says it’s the little moments – like receiving feedback from a happy gallery visitor – that makes volunteering worthwhile.
“Other people have helped me in small ways over the years, and this is my way of paying that forward,” Linda said.
Mayor Cr Bernie Hearn praised the impact of volunteers like Linda.
“Linda’s story is a perfect example of how volunteering benefits not just the community, but the individual as well,” Cr Hearn said. “We are incredibly grateful to all our volunteers who give their time to enrich the lives of others.”
Cr Hearn encouraged other positive, passionate, and enthusiastic community members who are interested in volunteering to help make a difference in the lives of others.
“Council is always looking for volunteers who are community-minded, approachable, and ready to make a difference,” Cr Hearn said.
To find out more about volunteering opportunities, contact Benalla Rural City Council at council@benalla.vic.gov.au or phone 03 5760 2600.