Mayor's Message - May 2025
As always, there are many things happening at Council this month, and I encourage everyone to please go to the website or facebook page, and read this newsletter to receive updates on the many activities and consultation processes happening right now. I draw your attention in particular to the Revocation of Community Land that Council is currently receiving submissions on, and encourage you to talk to your neighbours, family and friends, to spread the word about this important recommendation being put to Council in the coming weeks.
This month however, I want to focus on one very important group – our volunteers.
I recently had the pleasure of sharing morning tea with some of the many groups of volunteers in Port Lincoln, and each year, the number attending grows, which we are so grateful for.
In every thriving town and region, there exists this quiet force of dedicated individuals who give freely of their time, energy, and compassion. They are our local volunteers—people of all ages and backgrounds who step forward not for recognition or reward, but to strengthen the fabric of our community. Their contributions, especially in areas such as visitor experiences, emergency services, and community support, are the cornerstone of what makes Port Lincoln welcoming, resilient, and deeply connected.
Whether it’s sharing local history through our Visitor Information Centre, greeting guests with a warm smile at a regional event, or offering directions to hidden gems only locals know, volunteers play an essential role in creating unforgettable visitor experiences. These ambassadors not only enhance tourism and local pride but also ensure that visitors leave with a lasting impression of hospitality and heart. Their passion showcases the best of our city—its stories, its landscapes, and its people.
Our emergency service volunteers exemplify courage and commitment. From Country Fire Services and SES units to marine rescue and local search teams, these individuals respond at a moment’s notice, often putting themselves at risk to protect lives, property, and the environment. They train tirelessly, spending many hours with online training modules and practical training in the field, they prepare thoroughly, and act selflessly—all for the safety of our communities. Their efforts remind us that resilience isn’t built overnight, but through everyday acts of bravery and readiness.
From firing up the barbeque for a local event; supporting mental health outreach, running youth programs; or organising the Port Lincoln Show, or markets and festivals like the new GlobalFest, or Salt and Tunarama - community service volunteers provide lifelines in ways that matter deeply. Their presence ensures that no one is left behind, that everyone can feel connected in their community. They build bridges across generations, cultures, and experiences. They offer support during tough times and celebration during the good.
The work of volunteers reaches far beyond the moment or the task. It inspires others, uplifts spirits, and fosters a sense of belonging. Each hour given, each skill shared, and each smile offered sets off a ripple effect—encouraging others to connect, contribute, and care. Each volunteer inspires a new generation, whether that is someone in their family, or their organisation, who furthers the ethos of ‘giving back’. In many cases, volunteers are also the eyes and ears of the community, often identifying needs long before they become visible through formal channels.
As a community, it is vital that we celebrate and support our volunteers—not only during National Volunteer Week, but throughout the year. Whether it’s through formal recognition, providing better resources and training, or simply saying “thank you,” acknowledging their value is a collective responsibility.
To our volunteers: thank you. You are the spirit behind the scenes, the steady hands in times of need, and the welcoming smiles that make our community shine. Your impact is immeasurable, and your service irreplaceable.
Please join me, by thanking a volunteer this week, and every week. I’ll finish with this great quote:
“You make a living, by what you get. You make a life, by what you give!”
Diana Mislov
Mayor – City of Port Lincoln