The Best Kind of Thanks is Recognition for Everyone
Published on 27 November 2025
Forget the ‘town square’ — in Jindera, the real hub of chatter, cheer and community spirit is tucked between racks of pre‑loved clothes and shelves of bric‑a‑brac.
The Jindera Op Shop isn’t just where bargains are found; it’s where friendships are forged, stories are swapped and lives are quietly changed.
Volunteers call it the social epicentre of the town — and judging by the banter, the cuppas and the occasional heartfelt confession, they’re absolutely right.
The Rural Care Link organisation won the Volunteer Group of the Year at the 2025 Greater Hume Council Australia Day Awards ceremony and promote it is a brilliant way for effort to be recognised.
“The beauty of the group award is that it recognised us a whole and didn’t aim the spotlight at anyone in particular,” said co-ordinator Jason McKenzie, who, at 50, is the youngest of 30 active volunteers.
“Some people really do not want to be singled out for their contributions and are happy to help out without any fuss being made of it.
“This award recognised us all together and I can say that we were all pretty excited to win it to and to think that we were recognised and our contribution is valued.”
He explained that at the core of volunteering with an organisation like this is the social connection and the positive impact it has on mental wellbeing.
The Jindera team includes locals as well as volunteers from surrounding communities such as Walla Walla, Burrumbuttock, Albury, Howlong, Norris Park and Lavington.
“Volunteering gives back to the community, yes, but it provides social interaction and friendship to those who may not get much of it in their day-to-day life.
“We also have a lot of people who come in, not necessarily to buy something, but just to have a catch up and we have made friends out of those people as well,” he said.
Just as Jason finished speaking, a voice floated from behind a shelf: “This place saved me.”
It was one of the op shop volunteers, quietly rearranging a display. She didn’t want her name shared, but her story carried weight. After losing her job during COVID, she struggled to find work again and felt adrift.
Coming to the op shop three days a week gave her purpose, friendship and a lifeline.
“The social aspect is huge,” she said. “I was utterly lost and this place saved me — and I’m not the only one with a story like this.”
Jason agrees and says whilst people volunteer for their own reasons it’s nice to be seen every now and again and given a nod of appreciation.
“The citizen awards are a great way of doing this,” he said.
“We need people to be volunteering in their local communities and a thanks now and again doesn’t go astray.”
Who will you nominate for 2026 Australia Day Awards?