For more than 50 years, Murray Bridge local Dawn Weyland has been a familiar face at Resthaven Murray Bridge, and now her incredible contribution to the community has been recognised on a national stage.
Dawn has been named Volunteer of the Year at the 2026 Ageing Australia You are ACE! Awards, which celebrate people making a difference in the lives of older Australians.
Her connection to Resthaven Murray Bridge stretches back more than five decades, including 23 years as an employee before she transitioned into volunteering. She began working at the home in 1975 after initially being asked to come in and do the matron’s hair, only to leave with a job offer.
Today, Dawn continues to spend time with residents, visiting, chatting and helping people stay socially connected.
“Dawn’s commitment to the residents at Murray Bridge is wonderful,” Resthaven CEO Darren Birbeck said.
“Her involvement through visiting and engaging with individuals is so important.”
Born and raised in Murray Bridge, Dawn’s commitment to volunteering extends well beyond Resthaven.
She also gives her time to the Rural City of Murray Bridge Visitor Information Centre and has volunteered with the Rambler Football Club for 43 years, where generations of her family have played. Her contribution to the club has also seen her become a life member.
Despite an already busy schedule, Dawn still finds time for New Vogue dancing two to three times each week, something she has enjoyed for the past 12 years.
For Dawn, keeping busy and staying connected to the people around her are part of what makes volunteering so rewarding.
“Volunteering keeps me agile,” Dawn said. “I have a great life… so I just feel like I can give back… I enjoy the company of others.
“I’ll keep volunteering as long as I can. I enjoy it, and the residents appreciate it too – they always thank me.”
Her national award comes less than a year after Resthaven celebrated Dawn reaching 50 years of combined employment and volunteering at its Murray Bridge home.
Dawn will now be celebrated closer to home, with a special afternoon tea and award presentation to be held at Resthaven Murray Bridge.
