AWLQ CELEBRATES VOLUNTEERS ACROSS QUEENSLAND FOR NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK
- Volunteers support more than 7,300 animals annually across locations, 40,000 patients through community vet clinics, Op Shops and foster care
- Ipswich volunteer marks almost 10 years of service across Rehoming Centre and Op Shop roles
- CEO Sam Jacklin: “We simply could not look after the number of animals we do without our volunteers and foster carers.”
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
20 May, 2026
Animal Welfare League Queensland (AWLQ) is proudly celebrating their 1,100+ volunteers across the Gold Coast, Ipswich, Brisbane and Beenleigh this National Volunteering Week (19–25 May), recognising the extraordinary role they play in caring for vulnerable animals and strengthening communities.
In 2024/25 alone, AWLQ provided a safe haven to 11,283 animals and rehomed 7,311 pets, while assisting more than 40,000 people and their animals through vital community services. These outcomes are only possible because of the dedication of volunteers and foster carers.
AWLQ CEO Sam Jacklin offered a personal message of thanks.
“A huge thank you from me personally to all of our amazing volunteers — those in our Op Shops, our Rehoming Centres, working in our clinics and on-site across our locations,” Ms Jacklin said.
“And I also want to give a massive specific shout out to our foster carers. We could never look after the number of animals we do without our volunteers and foster carers in particular.”
Ipswich volunteer Miriam McManus has dedicated almost a decade of service between the Ipswich Rehoming Centre and the Op Shop.
“I live here in Ipswich. I believe in community,” Miriam said.
“Once you actually do something for someone else, you find how rewarding it is — it brings you joy and satisfaction that you’ve been able to help someone in need.”
On the Gold Coast, Daniel Robinson has been volunteering for nearly two years in his current role with the Dog Team and as a Videographer Assistant, having previously volunteered with AWLQ in 2017.
“When you get to take a dog to reception because it’s been adopted, and you see the joy and love in the new owners’ faces… that makes it all worth it,” Daniel said.
Fellow Gold Coast volunteer Phillip McFadden has been part of the Dog Quarantine Team for around two and a half years.
“100% yes, I would recommend volunteering,” Phil said.
“Knowing you are providing some genuine care for animals often leaves me feeling peak happiness.”
This National Volunteering Week, AWLQ is encouraging Queenslanders to make 2026 Your Year to Volunteer — because every shift, every foster placement and every hour given creates another second chance for an animal in need.
-ENDS-
For all media enquiries and interview requests, please contact:
Christian Bowman
Head of Marketing and Digital
[email protected]
About Animal Welfare League Queensland
Animal Welfare League Queensland (AWLQ) has supported animals in need since 1959. Through community programs, rehoming centres and veterinary services, AWLQ provides care and a second chance for thousands of animals each year. As a charity, AWLQ relies on community support to continue its vital work across Queensland. Visit http://www.awlqld.com.au
