And it was no suprise that Griffith featured prominently in the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards - it’s something our community has become famous for.

While there were many “winners” on the day, headed up by Griffith’s own amazing volunteer Robert Mogliotti who was named Riverina Volunteer of the Year, all nominees were worthy of, and hopefully felt they received, just a little of the gratitude that they deserve.

It was an opportunity for the region to join in the celebration of what these amazing individuals do for our respective communities.

Wednesday’s presentations also gave us time to consider the impact volunteers have on our way of life - and, indeed, the diversity of those who are prepared to give of their time and effort to benefit others.

From the young to the not so young, from service clubs to emergency service volunteers, it’s timely to give them all a long overdue pat on the back.

And how appropriate at a time when we have many volunteers helping in our towns and cities with the rising floodwaters.

On top of that, consider the input volunteers have in sporting groups.

Without the efforts of people who give willingly of their time, many such groups would struggle to exist.

It’s the old case of how those behind the scenes really are the drivers of success – whether it’s raising desperately-needed funds to purchase equipment or helping out in the canteen, our volunteers make things happen.

We need to encourage young people to experience volunteering and to get involved - to ensure there is another generation of generosity .

While most volunteers prefer the anonymity of their giving, it is just as important that we tease out and celebrate their achievements.

Holding a public presence is more and more becoming part of being an effective volunteer both in getting assistance from the wider public and recruiting new volunteers to the cause.

It would be impossible for governments to pay volunteers for the work they do so Wednesday’s celebration was just a small way to say thank you.