Ulverstone Surf Life Saving Club member, Lara Emmett, was recently honoured as the Youth Volunteer winner at the Tasmanian Volunteering Awards. With a strong passion for promoting communication and leadership skills among young people, Lara has been involved in surf life saving for 17 years at both the club and state level.
Lara's commitment to volunteering stems from her desire to give back to an organisation that has given her so much. Starting as a competitor, she has now taken on roles in education and management, becoming a manager at her home club, a founding member of the youth advisory working group and now serves as a Director on the Surf Life Saving Tasmania Board.
Despite studying to become a doctor in outback Queensland, Lara always makes time to return home during summer to continue her volunteer work. Despite her achievements, Lara humbly acknowledged that the award was a result of a group effort and expressed gratitude to her mentors and fellow volunteers who provided support and guidance her along the way.
The Tasmanian Volunteering Awards, according to Volunteering Tasmania CEO Shirleyann Varney, provide an opportunity to celebrate the power of volunteering in driving positive change and creating inclusive communities. Volunteers like Lara turn their passion into purpose, becoming forces for change and significantly impacting the lives of others.
Lara’s recognition as the Youth Volunteer winner is well-deserved. Her contributions have made beaches safer and inspired and motivated others in the process. She exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism and serves as a role model for aspiring young surf lifesavers across Tasmania.
Congratulations Lara on this remarkable achievement!
