Junee Vinnies volunteer Kathy Howell named NSW’s best

A HUMBLE Junee volunteer whose kindness and dedication have quietly supported countless people across the region has been recognised on the state stage, earning one of Vinnies’ highest honours during National Volunteer Week.

Long-time Junee Vinnies volunteer Kathy Howell was named the 2026 NSW Retail Volunteer of the Year at the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards on Tuesday, May 19.

“It has been very overwhelming and an honour to receive this award,” Kathy said.

“It is my absolute pleasure to be able to give a little back to our beautiful Junee community.”

For more than five years, Kathy has been a familiar and much-loved face at the Junee Vinnies store, generously giving her time two days each week to support the local community.

But her contribution stretches well beyond the doors of the local shop.

Kathy Howell with her 2026 NSW Volunteer of the Year award | Image: Supplied

According to presenters at the award ceremony, Kathy’s commitment, generosity and willingness to help wherever needed made her a standout recipient among volunteers across the state.

“Kathy has been an exceptional and deeply committed volunteer for many years, consistently demonstrating generosity, flexibility and an unwavering dedication to supporting the community through Junee Vinnies,” presenters said.

While based in Junee, Kathy has regularly travelled to other Vinnies locations, including Wagga, Leeton and Griffith, to lend support whenever extra hands were needed.

“It is a privilege to be able to help and support so many people in need throughout our community and surrounding areas,” Kathy said.

From sorting donations and assisting with visual merchandising to helping teams manage busy periods, organisers said Kathy approached every opportunity with positivity and enthusiasm.

“She continually goes above and beyond by assisting other locations whenever extra support is needed,” the citation read.

“Her reliability and willingness to adapt to the needs of the organisation are truly remarkable.”

Junee’s Vinnies store in Broadway | Photo: Google Earth (enhanced for clarity)

Presenters said Kathy’s support across multiple stores, combined with her genuine kindness and selfless nature, made her an invaluable member of the Vinnies family.

“Kathy’s ongoing commitment to Vinnies has supported multiple locations and her genuine kindness make her an invaluable member of our volunteer community and a truly deserving recipient of the 2026 NSW Retail Volunteer of the Year.”

The recognition comes during National Volunteer Week, which celebrates the millions of Australians who generously donate their time to support organisations, charities and local communities.

Kathy Howell’s 2026 NSW Retail Volunteer of the Year award | Image: Supplied

For Kathy, however, the reward has never been about recognition.

“I am always grateful to have the opportunity to volunteer and continue doing something that truly makes me happy,” she said.

In a small town built on people helping people, Kathy Howell’s award is not only a personal achievement, but a celebration of the spirit of volunteering that continues to keep communities like Junee thriving.