Volunteering at the heart of community: Maura Marshall’s story

Published on 10 December 2025

Volunteering has been a constant thread in Maura Marshall’s life. From school committees and children’s sports to community groups, giving her time to others has always come naturally.

“I’ve always been volunteering all the way through my life… I just never had a life without volunteering,” she says.

One of Maura’s most meaningful experiences was with the 'Centre for Asylum Seekers, Refugees and Detainees', where she offered friendship and practical support. Helping an academic couple rebuild their careers and confidence after arriving in Australia with little more than their suitcases remains one of her proudest memories.

In recent years, Maura’s focus has turned to the environment. As a founding member of Friends of Galup/Lake Monger, established in 2022, she coordinates monthly 'busy bees' in which volunteers weed, plant, and collect rubbish. Thousands of native plants have already gone in around the lake, and plans are underway for a “turtle corridor” to help turtles cross safely.

“If you want something to be done, then make sure you’re there helping to do it,” Maura reflects.

She believes the group’s impact goes beyond the environment — by being visible and approachable, volunteers have become a trusted presence where people can ask questions, share ideas and feel part of the community.

Maura also works with Friends of Perry Lakes, the Flower District, Transition Town Vincent, Wetlands Alliance, Same Drum, local schools, and traders. These collaborations, she believes, help prevent groups from working in isolation and build stronger community connections.

For Maura, volunteering is about staying connected, learning from others and making a positive difference close to home.

If you’d like to get involved with Friends of Galup, join its monthly Busy Bee on the second Sunday of each month, from 9am to 10:30am. Everyone is welcome!