Showcase Spotlight: Celebrating our Volunteer of the Year finalists

• RFBI News

Sonia Lim 5 Sep 2025

At RFBI, our volunteers are the heart of our communities—offering time, talent, and heartfelt care to enhance the lives of our residents. As part of our 2025 Showcase Awards, we are proud to honour three outstanding volunteers who have been named finalists in the Volunteer of the Year category: Kevin Jones (RFBI Glen Innes Masonic Village), Marilyn Hobbs (RFBI Bathurst Masonic Village) and Roseann Cairns (RFBI Bellingen Masonic Village).

Kevin Jones – RFBI Glen Innes Masonic Village

Kevin is an extraordinary volunteer whose selfless dedication and wide-ranging skills have made a profound impact at Glen Innes. Whether he’s driving residents to essential appointments, sourcing urgent medical equipment, or simply sitting down for a conversation in their native language, Kevin brings a sense of connection and dignity to every interaction.

Beyond emotional support, Kevin uses his technical talents to care for the village environment, repairing storm-damaged signage with a 3D printer, fixing flyscreens and ensuring communal areas are welcoming and safe. His regular presence at BBQs and social events helps foster community spirit, reduce isolation and bring joy through his warmth and storytelling.

Marilyn Hobbs – RFBI Bathurst Masonic Village

With over 27 years of volunteer service, Marilyn has touched countless lives at Bathurst through music, compassion and quiet acts of kindness. Her weekly Sing-Along sessions, where she plays beloved tunes on the piano, are a highlight for many residents, evoking memories and uplifting spirits.

Marilyn also provides vital one-on-one emotional and pastoral support, particularly for residents nearing end-of-life. Her gentle nature, deep respect for every individual and enduring presence have made her not only a trusted companion but a pillar of the Bathurst community. Her legacy is one of empathy, joy and unwavering commitment.

Roseann Cairns – RFBI Bellingen Masonic Village

Roseann has shown exceptional dedication, especially during the challenging COVID-19 recovery period, when she served as the village’s sole volunteer. Despite relocating, she continued to travel long distances to remain connected to residents, a testament to her deep compassion and commitment.

She supports residents in many ways, from joining them on bus outings to offering bedside companionship to those in palliative care. Known for her calming presence and caring soul, Roseann is described by residents and staff alike as someone who brings laughter, comfort and heartfelt connection to all she does.

These three remarkable volunteers will be celebrated alongside other finalists at our 2025 Showcase Awards Evening in Sydney this September, where the winners will be announced and honoured in front of their peers and aged care leaders.

Stay tuned as we continue to celebrate the people who embody the spirit of benevolence across all our RFBI villages.