Connecting communities
How volunteering at NSA’s Coorparoo Branch builds belonging and purpose.
National Volunteer Week (19–25 May) is Australia’s largest celebration of volunteering. This year’s theme, “Connecting Communities,” highlights how the power of giving back brings people together and strengthens our sense of belonging.
At the Coorparoo Branch of National Seniors Australia (NSA), in Brisbane’s east, that spirit of connection is thriving, thanks in part to dedicated volunteers like Graham and Freya Tienan.
Graham and Freya’s journey into volunteering began after retirement. Like many members, they’d been part of NSA for some time but only became actively involved once they were free to attend daytime meetings.
Coorparoo was their local branch, and they quickly found themselves immersed in branch life. When the former president stepped down, Freya stepped up – and, shortly after, Graham took on the secretary’s role.
Though Coorparoo was a small branch when they joined – just 20 members – it has since grown into a vibrant and active community. “They’re a lovely group of people,” Freya says. “We’ve had some good fun times with them.”
For the Tienans, the rewards of volunteering are both personal and communal.
“What we love most is being able to help people who may be a little isolated,” Freya says.
“During COVID, the branch had to shut down, so I was calling members every few weeks just to make sure they were okay. When we finally returned to meetings, everyone was so happy to be able to socialise again.”
Graham agrees. “It’s a good feeling to give back. And when members tell us they really enjoy coming, or they loved the guest speaker or even the joke of the day, that’s what makes it worthwhile.”
Beyond companionship, the Coorparoo Branch is known for its generosity. Members contribute to a variety of local causes, from Care Kits for Kids and support for Mission for the Seafarers to collecting coats and non-perishable food for the homeless and other grassroots initiatives.
“Our people are very generous,” says Freya. “It’s a big part of our identity as a branch.”
Graham and Freya also emphasise the joy of working with other volunteers. “As a couple, we work really well together. We bounce ideas off each other and get things done,” Graham explains. “And the other volunteers are always willing to help, pitch in and make things happen.”
Part of the magic of the Coorparoo branch is the welcoming and inclusive environment. “There’s no cliques,” Freya notes. “New members are always welcomed. If someone can’t drive, another member will pick them up. And most people make at least one strong connection with someone else. That kind of friendship is so important as we get older.”
To keep things lively, the Tienans are always introducing creative activities – everything from guest speakers and themed games to the now-legendary annual paper plane competition. “Some people said they couldn’t do it the first year,” Graham laughs, “but now they’re already making their planes as I am still speaking!”
These activities are sometimes inspired by what they’ve seen other branches doing. “Thanks to the New Farm Branch, we’ve started doing ‘Lola Days’ which are day trips using public transport,” Freya says.
“Travelling on public transport is either free outside peak hour or just 50 cents each way. It makes for an affordable day out for our members. We’ve already explored Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens and our next ‘Lola Day’ will be on the CityCat [the ferry service on the Brisbane River].”
Volunteering has given both Graham and Freya a strong sense of purpose. Freya also volunteers at Greenslopes Hospital, where she helps in the discharge lounge, making tea and offering support to patients recovering from procedures.
“I’ve been told I make the best cup of tea,” she says with a smile. “It’s about being a friendly face when people are feeling vulnerable.”
Graham brings his professional background in commercial radio to his volunteer work at a community radio station. “I handle the music programming, training, and write community announcements,” he says. “It’s a way of using the skills I’ve gained over the years to keep contributing.”
For older Australians unsure about volunteering at NSA, they both encourage others to start small. “You don’t have to be a president or secretary right away,” Freya says. “Just help out – clean up after a meeting, welcome new members, or write an article for the branch newsletter. Every little bit helps.”
For older Australians wondering whether volunteering is right for them, the Tienans are clear: “Think about what you enjoyed in your working life. Those skills are still valuable,” Graham says. “There’s always an organisation looking for your talents.”
As for balance, the couple makes a conscious effort not to overcommit. “We each do two volunteer roles and make sure we still have time to travel, garden, and enjoy life,” Freya says.
Being part of NSA has brought the Tienans not just purpose, but connection. “It’s great to be part of a national organisation focused on seniors,” Graham says. “We’ve learned so much from other branches and picked up ideas that have made our own branch stronger.”
Freya sums it up best: “When you give to others, you’re helping yourself too. That’s what volunteering is all about.”
Whether you're ready to lend a hand or simply want to learn more about your nearest branch, we'd love to hear from you.
Email us at branchmail@nationalseniors.com.au to find out how you can start your volunteering journey with NSA.
