Community transport and care organisation, ComLink is searching for volunteer drivers to offer their precious time to help others in need.
ComLink is a not-for profit organisation and charity providing community transport and care for the frail aged and younger people with a disability to attend medical appointments, shop and maintain their social inclusion from North Brisbane and throughout the Sunshine Coast.
ComLink Chief Executive, Feda Adra said drivers were a vital part of ComLink and without them, we wouldn’t be able to continue providing our valuable services to the community.
“We are in particular need of bus drivers that hold a current small or medium rigid license, but all drivers are welcome.
“We have about 70 volunteer drivers but only a handful who can drive buses and due to this shortage, we sometimes have to cancel bus runs,” Ms Adra said.
Kitty Orreill, bus driver of 48 years and a dedicated ComLink volunteer driver for two years, said she gets a ‘buzz’ from volunteering and helping others.
“Volunteering is a great way to keep busy, meet new people, laugh and have a lot of fun.
“ComLink is great, they are incredibly flexible and make you feel like your time is valued,” Kitty said.
Warana resident, Yvonne Parsons has been using ComLink services for four years, being no longer able to drive due to poor eyesight. Ms Parsons, who is a regular on Kitty’s bus route and uses the service to complete her weekly shopping and visit the library, said the service was just marvelous and has helped her maintain her independence.
“It’s more than just a transport service, it’s also about the social connections and the friends you make,” Ms Parsons said.
“Kitty is an absolute treasure and we all love her – it is a classic day out,” Ms Parsons said.
Elsie Padley, another regular ComLink client, who has been using the service since her husband passed away seven years ago said she didn’t know how she would have managed without ComLink transport.
“We are so lucky to live on the Sunshine Coast and have a service like this,” Ms Padley said.
Ms Adra said ComLink services more than 3,800 clients and many of them rely on ComLink as their only means of transport.
“ComLink also provides transport to a range of organised outings including picnics, Christmas lights, trips to the RSL, Anzac Day dawn services and our regular social meet-ups including Kawana Companions every Monday,” Ms Adra said.
“Everyone working for ComLink is considered family and volunteers can come and go as they please, the level of commitment is completely up to them,” Ms Adra said.
If you are interested in becoming a ComLink volunteer, please contact Mobility Manager Robyn Elkojje on 1300 761 011.
Image: Volunteer driver Kitty Orreill with ComLink client Yvonne Parsons.
