This week is National Volunteers Week, and AusTriathlon is celebrating by highlighting members of the triathlon community who play a pivotal role in the sport.
Tasmanian Di Webb is a volunteer within the community that works hard to ensure that everyone feels welcomed and valued in both training sessions and races – something that saw Di awarded with the Volunteer of the Year Award in 2024.
As President of Launceston Triathlon Club (LTC), Di has played a pivotal role in revitalising communication connection and is a part of the club’s hard working volunteer committee.
“We love what triathlon brings to people, families and communities,” Webb said.
“It’s more than a sport, it’s health, wellbeing, connection, belonging, community, fun and so much more.
“We’ve all had different paths into triathlon and volunteering has always been a part of that journey but together as a committee we offer a diverse set of skills and life experiences.
“Clubs don’t run themselves and we are driven to make sure triathlon stays alive and thrives in Tasmania.
“It’s true what they say, it’s hard to get people on committees, it’s a big commitment and there is so much to learn.
“Everyone is so time poor but without volunteers, clubs like ours wouldn’t be here.
“Our challenge is to find a structure that works for what people can do and at the same time make it fun to be involved at whatever level.”
The last few years have seen Di and the volunteer committee work hard to restore the culture of LTC through bringing the community together through events.
“We have worked hard over the last 3 years developing a strategic plan and building this club back up,” she said.
“Along the way we have developed some great friendships, good partnerships, had a lot of learnings and challenges but also heaps of fun.
“The sense of achievement and gratitude of members is rewarding and tells us we’re on the right track.
“Whilst big events are great, some of the best ones are our Women’s Tri’s or club events that are just pure fun – where it’s just about being together and having a go.
“Seeing people achieving sometimes what they never thought was possible, kids cheering for parents and grandparents or competing as families or teams of friends makes it worthwhile.
“Triathlon, unlike other sports, is one where everyone can participate at some level so it’s a great family and community sport.
“We welcome volunteers especially from community organisations and clubs in areas we hold races as its clubs helping clubs and our way of contributing back into the community by offering vouchers or similar.”
To anyone interested in beginning their volunteering journey, Di and the LTC volunteer committee encourages you to join the community.
“We wouldn’t have a club without volunteers,” she said.
“Our advice to people thinking of volunteering is that there is lots to be gained, learnt and friendships to be made.
It’s always better together, and don’t let lack of time stop you – we know time waits for no one.”
If you are interested in getting involved in triathlon, head to https://www.triathlon.org.au/ to find an event or club near you.
