Across our district volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that they are continuously changing lives, and it goes without saying that they are definitely changing communities.

In these uncertain times, I feel that it is more important than ever that we recognise and acknowledge their hard work.

I am not able to thank everyone individually across the Lithgow Local Government Area even though I would love to, and it is also very unfortunate that several events have been cancelled.

I do, however, want to recognise my very good mate, Bryan Williamson.

Bryan moved to Lithgow over 43 years ago.

During his 40-year career on the railway, he was a proud union delegate for 23 years, standing up for those who didn't have the strength to stand up for themselves.

In Lithgow, for the best part of 25 to 30 years, Bryan also volunteered his time with Scouts NSW.

In his final role as District Commissioner, he was responsible for the delivery of Youth Programs and the development of Scouting within the District.

At the ripe young age of 70, Bryan currently volunteers at the Lithgow Information and Neighbourhood Centre (LINC).

Every Tuesday, and some Wednesdays, for the past nine years prior to COVID-19, Bryan has been driving the LINC 13-seater bus, collecting our most vulnerable seniors and chaperoning them on daily outings to restaurants.

Bryan is one of many volunteers across the Local Lithgow Government Area that deserve our thanks.

I invite you to put your hand up and wave and give a special smile of appreciation from your own home via social media using the hashtags #NVW2020 and #waveforvolunteers.