The Need

To offer the opportunity for Western Water staff to undertake a volunteering activity which supported the disadvantaged Western Water community and customers.

Size9 Volunteering

Toy making for disadvantaged members of local community

BIG organised a practical volunteering opportunity where Western Water staff could spend time in the fresh air helping make and paint toy cars. The local Sunbury Men’s Shed offered their invaluable assistance by providing the wood and parts for the toys as well as their practical support, great company and tools needed for the construction process. The day included a BBQ lunch, music and conversation as the team worked together to paint and assemble over 100 wooden toy cars.

Some team members preferred to try their hand at mosaicking a large bird bath which was a major prize for the Lions Club Christmas Raffle. The toys were donated to the local Salvation Army and bought smiles to many disadvantaged children.

The Outcome

Western Water enjoyed a positive team building activity which had a practical, tangible outcome. The event was convenient – being held at the local Western Water depot, so staff could volunteer ‘close to home’.

There were some interesting conversations to be had, with the Men’s Shed demonstrating a true belief in quality and pride in what you do. Throughout the afternoon, their focus was on the belief that “If it’s worth doing, it is worth doing well” – a great lesson for us all in the workplace.

Team members were able to do something out of the normal routine of their day and enjoyed spending time with their teammates in a relaxing yet productive atmosphere. New skills were developed and a collaborative relationship formed with the Sunbury Men’s Shed. The local Salvation Army and Lions Club now have an on-going relationship with Western Water. A couple of fun days where employees were able to meet their volunteering obligations and enjoy themselves in the process.