A DEDICATED Cleveland Scout leader has been recognised for 28 years of service during National Volunteer Week.
Paul Suess became a volunteer Scout leader when his son, then eight years old, signed up to be a Cub Scout.
Nearly three decades later, his son is well over Scouting age but Mr Suess is still an active volunteer with Cleveland Scout Group.
He said he enjoyed watching the young people grow, develop and learn.
"We give the kids the opportunity to do things they wouldn't do at home and we really get to see them flourish," he said.
"They get outdoors and gain skills they can use for the rest of their lives."
Mr Suess has been awarded the Silver Koala, a Scouts Australia award recognising distinguished service.
His time with the Cleveland Scouts has not been without its struggles, with the Ormiston Scout Den being destroyed in a fire in March 2018.
However, Mr Suess said his volunteering experience continued to be rewarding.
"You have a lot of fun," he said.
Mr Suess is one of millions of volunteers being celebrated during National Volunteer Week.
Communities Minister Coralee O'Rourke thanked Queensland's volunteers for their hard work, highlighting how they have helped communities recover in the wake of recent disasters.
"After bushfires, cyclones and floodwaters have destroyed homes and caused damage in our communities, Queensland volunteers are there to roll up their sleeves and lend a helping hand," Mrs O'Rourke said.
"Our hard-working volunteers are out there every day helping communities rebuild after disasters and supporting vulnerable Queenslanders, such as seniors and people with disability. They're a vital part of making sure our communities thrive.
"I encourage all Queenslanders to take some time this week to thank volunteers and get involved with National Volunteer Week events being held in their communities."
Mrs O'Rourke said National Volunteer Week was an opportunity for people to consider giving a bit of their time and volunteering in their community.
Head of Volunteering Queensland Mara Basanovic said National Volunteer Week was a wonderful opportunity to say a heartfelt thank you to the community's unsung heroes.
"It's time to reflect on the whole of community impact of volunteering in strengthening the economic, social, cultural and environmental well-being of our beautiful state," she said.
