Trevor is a jack of all trades.
For nearly a decade, the Gippsland based volunteer has provided a helping hand for Uniting’s services across the region.
Trevor supports local facilities manager, Joe with the day-to-day maintenance of Uniting sites in the area.
He has also supported local disability programs, driving participants around the region.
Always keen to bring a smile to people’s faces, Trevor dressed up as Santa Claus at a local Christmas party for children living in out-of-home care.
Most recently, he has been involved in our Homelessness to a Home program, delivering furniture and setting up appliances in local properties ready for people experiencing crisis to move in.
But Trevor’s journey to becoming a volunteer wasn’t easy.
Eleven years ago, Trevor suffered a traumatic brain injury.
“I was a log truck driver and I fell off the step of a truck,” says Trevor.
“I’m pretty lucky to be alive.
“It was a really difficult time for our family. My wife, Elizabeth, works at Uniting and they were really supportive.
“She had only been working at Uniting for a year when I had my accident, but they were fantastic in supporting her as she cared for me after it happened.”
During his long road to recovery, which required full-time care and extensive rehabilitation, Trevor spent a day a week with Elizabeth at work.
At first, he started helping with archiving and data input.
“I then started helping with the Christmas gift program for families in the area doing it tough,” says Trevor.
“When I eventually got my licence back, I started washing the company cars.
“Then I started helping Joe with going out to sites to tag and test equipment.
“I just go with the flow and I’m happy to help with anything.
“I’m a second pair of eyes for Joe.
“I like the fact that I can give something back to Uniting, for all they have done for my family.
“And I really enjoy working alongside Joe.”
For Joe, the feeling is mutual.
“Trevor is worth his weight in gold,” says Joe.
“He has been a huge help to me over the years.
“He’s always willing to jump in and help, no matter what the job is.
“Uniting is very lucky to have him on board as a volunteer and I’m lucky to call him a friend.”
