IT IS Happy National Volunteer Week and this year's theme is Thanks a Million.

It is timely to consider how you thank and recognise the volunteers in your club. Recognition does not have to be expensive, just sincere.

Below are a few free or low cost ideas:

• Say thank you: A personal thank you is the minimum each volunteer should receive.
• Public recognition: Via your club website or social media.
• Sponsors: Ask your sponsors to provide gift cards or products that can be used to give to volunteers.
• Outside awards: Seek opportunities to nominate outstanding volunteers for awards.
• Morning tea: Organise a share plate volunteer morning tea.
• Training: Provide opportunities to improve skills and confidence to do their job.
• Thank you cards: Handmade by junior members of the club.
• Pat on the back: Paper hands on which club members can write a thank you to a volunteer.

Ideas are limited only by your imagination, so get creative.

Ipswich Sports House joins the community in saying Thanks a Million to our local volunteers.

Legion fans cheer

LET'S hope the Ipswich Green Legion launch last weekend wasn't coincidental with great wins by the Western Pride and Ipswich Jets.

The newly-formed supporters group had a presence at both matches with many fans seeing value in joining the Legion.

For more information, check out facebook.com/ipswichgreenlegion.

See you at show

IF you're heading to the Ipswich Show this weekend, keep an eye out for the Ipswich Sports House tent.

Several regional sport and recreation organisations will be hosting free Come and Try activities at the Showgrounds on Friday and Saturday. There will also be giveaways and the opportunity to meet some of our local sports stars. The full schedule of activities is at: ipswichsportshouse.com.au

Have your say

DO you think it is fair or unfair that sports stars and elite athletes are expected to be role models?

Given the exposure sport is given in our country and the media scrutiny our major sporting codes face, is it reasonable of the public to expect these childhood heroes to keep their image squeaky-clean?

Share your views at facebook.com/ipswichsportshouse.