Noel’s lasting legacy

Last November, we sadly farewelled one of our most valued volunteers, Noel Nicholson, who passed away after a short illness.

Noel was an exceptional and deeply committed member of the Foodbank Perth community.

For many years, he dedicated his time and energy to supporting our mission, leaving a meaningful and lasting impact on both his fellow volunteers and the clients he warmly served at the point of sale. His kindness, reliability and generosity of spirit made him a cherished presence across our organisation.

To honour Noel’s service and legacy, we have been working closely with his family on a special project to refresh the Perth Foodbank volunteer kitchen – an initiative that reflects the care and connection Noel fostered throughout his time with us.

The volunteer kitchen is more than just a functional space; it is a central meeting place where volunteers can take a well-earned break, share a conversation and connect with one another. Our aim is to create an environment that is welcoming, comfortable and uplifting – somewhere that supports the wellbeing of the people who give so much to our community.

We are incredibly grateful to the Nicholson family, who are generously sponsoring the refurbishment. This thoughtful gesture speaks volumes about Noel’s fondness for Foodbank and the strong bonds he built with his teammates.

Work is already underway. Guided by feedback from our Voice of Volunteers Committee, we have begun enhancing the space with improvements that prioritise both comfort and atmosphere. New tables and chairs have been installed, offering a more aesthetically pleasing and comfortable setting. The lighting has also been upgraded, significantly brightening the room and creating a more inviting environment.

Over the coming months, further improvements will continue. These include replacing the flooring with a lighter, more practical option that is easier to maintain, and installing a large flat screen monitor to bring additional light and vibrancy to the space. The final stage will see the kitchen refreshed with a lighter colour palette, complemented by bespoke Foodbank artwork – adding a personal and meaningful touch to the transformation.

We are excited to bring this project to life and to create a space that truly reflects the spirit of our volunteer community.

Most importantly, we are honoured to celebrate Noel’s legacy in a way that will benefit so many others for years to come.