When Ian Adderly was a young man, he made the decision to always be involved with his local community, which is why he has volunteered throughout his life.

A resident of Doncaster East for more than 60 years, Ian remembers one of the first things he got involved in was being foundation president of the Tunstall Square Kindergarten committee.

“I had four young children, so I devoted my time to volunteering in things that affected them,” he says.

As his family grew, Ian got involved in other areas of the community, being a committee member at Beverley Hills Primary School and a foundation committee member of Donvale Primary School. He also served as a foundation member of the then Donvale High School Advisory Council for 13 years.

Ian says apart from cricket and tennis, athletics was his main sport. Already a life member of the Frankston Athletics Club, he helped established the Doncaster Little Athletics Centre and trained all the field games officials.

“I was a foundation committee member of both the men’s and women’s athletics clubs,” he says.

Recently turning 90, Ian was a member of our Community Panel, helping shape Manningham Community Vision and provide recommendations for the Council Plan, Asset Plan and Long-Term Financial plan.

“When I see a need or want to make a difference, I join a committee and volunteer my time,” he says. “I’ve been around a long time and have an interest in government and politics.”

This National Volunteer Week, Ian’s advice to other retirees is to get involved.

“Not only will you make a difference, but you get a sense of community and satisfaction,” he says.

This year, Manningham celebrated National Volunteer Week with a special reception honouring its volunteers from community organisations across Manningham.

Manningham is also part of a joint campaign with six other local councils to raise awareness about ageism, challenge the stereotypes of what it means to be older and encourage people to speak up and take action. For more information click here.