Pat McIntyre began volunteering when she was 16 and continues now she is 88.
Camera IconPat McIntyre began volunteering when she was 16 and continues now she is 88. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Mundaring’s Pat McIntyre makes a big difference through volunteering for 72 years

Lynn GriersonHills Avon Valley Gazette

She is one of thousands of people who donate their time to others in the Shire of Mundaring.

“Pat is a shining example of the difference one person can make to many lives and exemplifies the caring Hills spirit,” Shire President David Lavell said.

Mrs McIntyre (88) began volunteering at the age of 16 when she changed beds for Servicemen in Perth, as well as serving in the canteen.

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She continued volunteering in many capacities and was heavily involved in her four children’s schooling, starting a kindergarten and continuing with school P&Cs until they finished school.

“I think the saying is – once a volunteer always a volunteer,” Mrs McIntyre said.

“I guess I’ve always liked helping people.

“When you can see a need for something, someone has to make a move.”

Mrs McIntyre moved to the area in the late 1980s after she and her husband retired.

The pair quickly joined the Stoneville Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade, where Pat was treasurer for more than 10 years.

She then began volunteering at the Mundaring Visitor Centre in 1988, where she still volunteers every Saturday.

“You’ve got to do something when you retire and I love meeting people,” Mrs McIntyre explained.

“I’m enthusiastic about the Hills and I love to share with people how good the area is and all the wonderful places to visit.”

Mrs McIntyre is also involved with a number of other local groups, including the Happy Wanderers walking group, which she began many years ago.

“There are around 80 of us and the group meets every Friday for a walk,” she said.

“We walk with different groups of people and it’s a great way to make friends.”

There are more than 5000 volunteers in the Shire of Mundaring.

To find out more about volunteering or to access training opportunities, contact Tracey on 9290 6678 or visit www.mundaring.wa.|gov.au