Connection and community at The Big Umbrella
Staff recently rolled up their sleeves to take part in a transformative volunteer experience that supports those in need.
Our team recently took part in a transformative volunteer experience with The Big Umbrella, a charity dedicated to providing nutritious meals to Australians experiencing food insecurity and homelessness.
Staff from across our clinical and corporate teams worked together to prepare meals from rescued food, helping to save more than 1 tonne (1,000kgs) of food from going into landfill. We served more than 350 restaurant quality hot meals at Fed Square while staff spent time connecting with the community and listening to their stories.
In the City of Melbourne, 47 percent of residents reported food insecurity in 2025, 32 percent worried that they would run out of food and 28 percent skipped meals. The day wasn’t just about feeding the community – it was about being part of it.
The volunteering session was spearheaded by Chief Operating Officer Mark Sullivan. Having thoroughly enjoyed his first time volunteering with The Big Umbrella (TBU) in early-2025, Mark was keen to provide his team with a similar experience.
“This was my second time volunteering, and it was just as rewarding as the first. The team’s dedication is inspiring and sharing a meal with the homeless community was a truly meaningful experience. I encourage anyone who can to get involved – together, we can make a real difference,” said Mark.
The team embraced every part of the day, from working together in the kitchen to enthusiastically serving the community at Fed Square.
“To have the opportunity to be involved with such a giving organisation was very rewarding. To have the full experience of preparing, cooking and serving was such fun. The volunteers made our experience seamless.
“Meeting the people on the street on their terms, having a chat and listening to their stories was so satisfying, knowing you had helped them and put a smile on their face,” said Merrin Tonks, Director Oral Health Relationships, Northern Victoria.
The day served as a powerful reminder of the important role organisations can play in supporting their communities.
“Taking part in The Big Umbrella/RDHM volunteer day was a really grounding experience.
"It was good to step away from the usual routine, work together as a team, and do something that made a real difference for people who were exceptionally grateful for the help we gave,” said Denise McInnes, Operations Manager Primary Care.
More reflections from our grateful team
“I was in awe of the generosity of the donors, the hard work of TBU team and volunteers, and the gratitude of the community we served. The people we met shared their experiences and challenges with grace and resilience,” said Christine Fuller, Director of Surgery, Oral Medicine and Surgery.
“It was such a rewarding and humbling experience, and it was wonderful to see the camaraderie amongst the clients,” Melanie van Altena, Director School Dental Program.
“Being involved with TBU was a unique team building opportunity and a chance to connect with those less fortunate than us. We worked with volunteers who are full of love and kindness. My feelings at the end of the day: Perspective, Giving, Gratitude, Tired and Satisfied,” said Wayne Chow, Director of Integrated Specialist Care.
“It was a great opportunity to meet people who have led interesting lives and overcome many challenges. It was great to make sure they had a good, nutritious dinner,” said Jenni Baker, Director Oral Health Relationships – South.
“It was amazing! My thoughts and feeling are that it is something you can only truly understand by experiencing it and being there in the moment. I felt truly humbled as I watched their faces light up with genuine smiles, grateful for the meal we offered. When we finished serving, I sat beside them—sharing food, listening to their stories,” said Kartini Rambukwelle, Executive Assistant to the Chief Operating Officer RDHM.
The contributions from our team reflect Oral Health Victoria’s wider commitment to equity, inclusion, and community wellbeing.
The most meaningful part of the day was the connection – with each other and with our community. We’re proud to continue our support for The Big Umbrella!
If you and your team are interested in supporting this fantastic organisation, book a volunteering day or donate at https://thebigumbrella.org/
