Care Army volunteers thanked at Government House reception

Volunteers who signed up to the Care Army have been honoured at a reception at Queensland's Government House hosted by the Governor of Queensland, Paul de Jersey.

In his speech, the Governor thanked the "tremendous efforts" of the almost 28,500 volunteers who signed up to help the state's seniors during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The Queensland Care Army, by its very name, represents a united front of committed organisations and individuals making a positive difference to the lives of others," he said.

"Our natural inclination as Queenslanders is to help one another, whether in response to a major devastating event - such as a pandemic - a local community challenge, or even an instance of one individual saving the life of another.

He said he was delighted to learn that a "staggering" 25,000 people had registered to be part of the Care Army in the first fortnight alone after it was launched in April by the Premier "many volunteers spurred into action, no doubt, by the powerful legacy of the 2011 Mud Army".

He paid tribute to the 28,000 "wonderfully compassionate Queenslanders", particularly the "much-maligned Millennials" with under-34s making up almost a quarter of registered Care Army volunteers.

"The Care Army is startling really for the simplicity of its mission: to provide practical care and lend a helping hand during this pandemic, especially for those most at risk, the elderly and Indigenous Queenslanders.

"As we confront, together, the challenges and constrictions of this once in a century pandemic, I know that the Care Army will continue to fight this threat with diligence and generosity, as we look towards recovery."

Queensland's minister for seniors, Coralee O'Rourke, said across the state there had been thousands of examples of Care Army volunteers helping seniors with their grocery shopping, delivering medications and helping them use technology to reconnect with family and friends.

"I offer my sincere thanks to every single one of the Queenslanders who signed up to be a part of this fantastic initiative," she said.

Care Army volunteers around Queensland were matched with seniors through local organisations and established networks.

Mrs O'Rourke said that in many cases, Care Army volunteers had not previously met the seniors they were assisting.

She said while the demand for Care Army volunteers has slowed down as COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted and seniors reconnect with their communities, Queenslanders can still play a role.

"Every one of us can take part in the biggest Care Army of all - our communities - and check in on our elderly neighbours, relatives and friends to see if they need assistance.

"The Community Recovery Hotline is also still active for seniors who need support and who may be in quarantine at home due to COVID-19."