Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman, has congratulated a team of young people who have been volunteering their time to reach out to check on the welfare of vulnerable older people across the Hawkesbury during the current lockdown.

The group of young people, aged between 17 and 25, came together after Ms Templeman sought their advice and input into a range of local issues.

“The group volunteered to call older people to ask if they have the essentials, if they need anything, and sometimes just to chat about the garden,” Ms Templeman said.

“I don’t think any of them had done something like this before, and it can be a bit daunting picking up the phone and calling someone you don’t know.

“But in just two weeks they made more than 300 calls, with some conversations lasting about 15 minutes.

“Some people are busy or don’t particularly want to chat, and that’s fine, but those that do have commented how nice it was to receive a call – especially from these dedicated young people.”

Hawkesbury group member Chloe Tyrrell, 17, said lockdown was hard and isolating for everyone.

“Making the calls meant that I could reach out to those that really need it, and connect with people in our community that I wouldn’t have otherwise known,” Ms Tyrrell said.

“It’s also been a welcome break from HSC study!”

Liam Holt, 22, said each member of the group brought something valuable to it.

“Young people are valuable members of the community, with a lot of ideas and a lot of passion to make a difference locally,” Mr Holt said.

“The action group allows for young people to come together as a collective, with a shared vision to improve the community. Further, it allows each member to have their voice and their ability to affect change amplified - each member contributes something valuable to the group that allows for us to be involved in campaigns and in outreach that improves the lives of local people.

“We would love to encourage anyone interested in making a difference locally to join the group.”

Ms Templeman said the group’s activities came as some refreshing good news during such a challenging time.

“Lockdown has been extremely challenging for everyone in the Hawkesbury, Blue Mountains, and of course Greater Sydney area, and for many the social isolation can affect their mental and physical health,” Ms Templeman said.

“These young people, and I, know we need to emerge from this lockdown with our community intact – regardless of your age, gender or postcode.

“I’m really proud of the outreach they are doing, and I’d like to congratulate each and every one of th