John Matthews is one of Bicycle Network’s most loyal and long-serving volunteers, having recently notched up 16 years of volunteering in Bicycle Network’s office.
John became involved with Bicycle Network in May 2006; having retired several years earlier, he became interested in volunteering as a way to keep busy and share his skills in retirement.
“I was looking for something to occupy my time and learnt that Bicycle Network was seeking volunteers to envelope letters to be sent out to members” John recalls.
“During my initial interview I happened to mention that I was a qualified accountant. I was immediately ushered into the office of Julie King, the accountant at the time, who was looking for additional staff. So began my role as a volunteer in the Accounts Department."
John spent 15 years volunteering with Bicycle Network’s Finance team and in 2021 transferred across to the Events team where he has been assisting with administrative duties.
In 2016 John was recognised for his efforts by being inducted into Bicycle Network’s Honour Board and in 2017 he was awarded with Life Membership.
John reflects on what it means for him to volunteer in the Bicycle Network office.
“I feel very privileged to still be involved in meaningful work at age 85,” he says.
“If ever there was a workplace offering a challenge and culture change to someone born in 1937 and employed in a most staid and conservative firm of insurance brokers, it is surely Bicycle Network!”
“This is a unique workplace where people are encouraged to exercise their creative abilities in the pursuit of a better environment for the growing number of cyclists in Australia. It's also a unique training ground where young people can rapidly gain experience and confidence to move on to even more challenging employment”.
“I thank Bicycle Network for allowing me to be a part of this wonderful organisation."
Thanks John for all you do for Bicycle Network.
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