Volunteers matter

I AM concerned the cancellation of the 2024 Garlic Festival in Meeniyan was couched, by the festival organisers (Meeniyan Festival and Events Committee – MEF), in terms of the town’s commitment to volunteering [Sentinel Times 19/10/2023].

Meeniyan has a vibrant civic culture. Long-standing volunteer organisations run our beautiful community garden, the dynamic Meeniyan Area Community Store (MACS) and regular Meeniyan Progress Association Tavern Nights, among other things.

Volunteer goodwill can be squandered if not well managed. Many who had previously supported the Garlic Festival were not inclined to do so again due, in part, to some poor decisions.

The 2023 Festival organisers promised money would go to a ‘Sustainable Meeniyan’ project, without having a properly constituted organisation to receive funds. That festival also saw damage to the recreation oval that required repair. Subsequently the ‘Rec’ increased its 2024 fees for MEF events. For 2024 an initial date was set before consultation with the Meeniyan Hall Committee and the Hall was unavailable. A new festival date was set but it was an indication the MEF was not communicating well with important town institutions. That MEF loaded up their event organiser with onerous tasks is not a reflection on town volunteers.

MEF wants to change their name so that they can hold a Garlic Festival in another South Gippsland town. MEF should also consider changing ways that they manage, communicate and build relationships so that volunteers have a positive experience, feel well informed and are motivated to provide ongoing support.

John Tebbutt, Meeniyan