5 August 2013
New volunteers set to make a difference in Solomon Islands
Five new Australian volunteers have arrived in Solomon Islands to begin their placements with government ministries, schools, non-government organisations and community groups.
The volunteers, funded under AusAID’s Australian Volunteers for International Development (AVID) program use their skills and expertise to help build their host organisation in Solomon Islands to improve the lives of Solomon Islanders.
Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Matt Anderson said the volunteers make a great contribution to local organisations through sharing their knowledge and skills.
“I know the volunteers learn as much from their host organisation as the training and skills they share with local counterparts, so there are mutual benefits for everyone. And through their participation in work, sport and community, the volunteers also promote links and friendship between our two countries,” Mr Anderson added.
Around 60 Australian volunteers work in Solomon Islands every year.
The volunteer program is in addition to support given by Australia through the annual SBD$780 million (A$104.1 million) Solomon Islands - Australia Partnership for Development.
The new volunteers and their Solomon Islands placements are:
Finlay Batts - Youth Partnership Project Officer, Save the Children
Ashleigh Warner - Adult Literacy Education Trainer, Lau Valley School
Carolyn Woolial - Adult Literacy Education Trainer, Koloale School
Ben McNair* - Organisational Development Officer, Transparency Solomon Islands
Suzanne Wargo* - Communications Advocacy Officer, World Vision
Myra Hardy – Registrar, Paediatrics, Ministry of Health & Medical Services
Kari James – Archivist, National Achives
*Volunteers who are extending placement in Solomon Islands.