Peter Swann, 24, is a serial volunteer. The Melton Uniting Church Op Shop assistant manager tells Sumeyya Ilanbey that he loves to help out whenever, and wherever, he can.
What’s your connection to Melton?
I’ve grown up here and the Melton Uniting Church is one of the many places where I help out. I’m also an active operational member of the State Emergency Service in Melton and I do other volunteering work at the church.
What’s your favourite thing about living in Melton?
The good thing about Melton is it’s a great community. We have a lot of good people and it’s a, sort of, urban and rural mix, in between a country town or city suburb. Melton is not too far if you want to go into the city or want to go out to the nice waterfalls in the countryside.
What would you change about the area if you could?
A few more facilities for the public to use maybe – more parks and things for people to be able to do to keep active.
Where’s your favourite place to hang out in Melton?
That’s Hannah Watts Park; it’s big enough and has a few places for you to walk around. I like the scenery … nice trees and the creek, when there’s water in it.
How did you get involved with the Melton Uniting Church Op Shop?
I was a member of the church when I was born. They were asking for volunteers to help at the Op Shop one day and I put my hand up to be a volunteer. I got up through the ranks to where I am today; that was at least five years ago. I had a bit of spare time at the time. When there’s a call-out, I always like to help.
What do you enjoy about volunteering at the Op Shop?
It’s been a good experience. I have something to do instead of being stuck at home doing nothing. It’s given me some retail skills and improved my management skills.
Any tips to budding Op Shoppers?
You have to be quick to get the bargains. Come in on a Thursday morning when we first open for the week. When you shop here, you’re giving back to the community and you know all the proceeds are going back into the community.
