Marilyn’s Volunteering Efforts Celebrated
Hawthorn Bowling Club’s Marilyn Gerlach was honoured for her contribution to her local club by taking out the Volunteer of the Year at this year’s Bowls SA Awards.
Marilyn was crowned the winner amongst a field of six finalists, which also included Playford’s Andrew Crawford, Strathalbyn’s David Thomas, Two Wells’ Irene Giannikos, Modbury’s Les Scott and Spalding’s Paul Goodridge.
Lost for words after being announced as the winner, Marilyn said she just “loves” volunteering.
“I love mixing with people, I love doing things and making sure everything gets done properly,” she said.
“You just have to ask people if they will do something.
“If they say no then that’s up to them, but they want to be involved and feel part of the club as well.
“That’s what I think it is all about with volunteering.”
Marilyn encouraged others to put their hands up and get involved behind the scenes at their local club.
“There are so many people out there with all sorts of skills, and sometimes you just have to tap people on the shoulder and ask them to do something or help out,” she said.
“Most of the time, especially if they are retired, it gives them a reason to get out of bed in the morning.
“Come and play bowls, but also volunteer as well.”
