Rory McKenzie said volunteering had plenty of unexpected benefits for an individual. Photo: Supplied.
You might think a lawyer and father-of-three who runs his own first aid business would have no free time.
But Wagga’s Rory McKenzie also gives his time to the local branches of the NSW State Emergency Service, NSW Rural Fire Service and Australian Red Cross, while serving as co-chair of the Wagga Wagga Local Health Advisory Committee.
He has also supported the Wagga Wagga Multicultural Council, The Leisure Company and The Forrest Centre through volunteer board roles.
His prodigious contribution to the community has seen him named the 2026 Riverina Volunteer of the Year, a Centre for Volunteering award recognising his commitment to community health and safety, inclusion and stronger governance for not-for-profit and community organisations.
“My mum and dad taught me at a young age that it’s important to give back,” Mr McKenzie told Region.
“Growing up in Lockhart, my mum did work for the Lions Club, and volunteering was what you had to do. I started raising money for the Fred Hollows Foundation when I was a child.”
In an era when many community groups struggle to attract younger members, the 33-year-old has a simple message for young people reluctant to put their hands up.
“A lot of young people don’t see the benefits of volunteering — but it teaches you life skills and gains you new friends. It comes back to help you in your professional life by giving you links in the community,” he said.
“I think everyone should give it a try. I know people have their own things to do, but if we were more generous, we could solve a lot of our community problems — like homelessness.
“If you can find your passion and see if something is the right fit for you, you’ll find a lot of people stay in groups like the SES and NSW Rural Fire Service for many years.”
Other individual and team awards were recently announced at a ceremony at the Wagga RSL.
Riverina Young Volunteer of the Year: Sarah Smith, Wagga Wagga
Wagga teenager Sarah Smith advocates for young people across the Riverina, helping support events and services, amplify young voices and reduce barriers to participation. She also mentors young girls through the Turvey Park Girl Guides.
2026 Riverina Young Volunteer of the Year Sarah Smith (centre) with Wagga Deputy Mayor Georgie Davies (left) and Haley Wilkinson. Photo: Supplied.
Riverina Adult Volunteer of the Year: Steven Ballard, Lavington
Sunshine Ride co-founder and chair Steven Ballard has helped collect more than $680,000 over five years to support local cancer patients, contributing to fundraising, sponsorship, event planning and logistics.
Riverina Senior Volunteer of the Year: Margaret Hill, Junee
Margaret Hill has spent 40 years supporting Cooinda Court Aged Care, helping with grants, records and administration. She also assists the Junee Showground Trust and Junee Show Society with funding and community projects.
Riverina Volunteer Team of the Year: Carevan Foundation Team, Albury
The 20-member Carevan team provides more than 20,000 healthy meals each year and supports the Street Care Pack program, bringing together school students, retirees, professionals and community leaders.
