The volunteer with the Department for Child Protection drives an average of about 2000km a month with the service, travelling across the Hills, city and Fleurieu Peninsula.

But it’s not just the region’s younger residents who have come to know the 75-year-old well. He also volunteers running activities for aged care centre residents and still finds time to help at a service supporting the carers of older adults.

“I spread myself pretty thin, but it keeps me out of mischief and there’s nothing worse than sitting around at home – I like being out there and keeping active,” Merv said.

During the height of the pandemic, the Adelaide Hills man was clocking up 3000km a month driving children in care to school and other commitments.

Merv has gotten to know many of the children over his three years volunteering with the department’s Mount Barker office, and enjoys watching them grow older and develop.

“When they see you and hear your voice and their face lights up, it’s absolutely brilliant. Its keeps me young,” he said.

“Some of them sing along in the car and sometimes I’ll even join in singing with them.

“You’re out and about, you’re doing something that you enjoy and you’re doing it for others less fortunate. You’re there as another granddad who listens – it’s very rewarding.”

Merv, who was a finalist in the Volunteer of the Year category of the 2023 South Australian Child Protection Awards, is among those being recognised as part of International Volunteer Day (5 December).

The department has more than 190 volunteers working in areas such as transport and assisting children with homework support, helping them with their Life Story Book (memory scrapbooks) and supporting them at special events.

Such is Merv’s dedication to helping others, he has recently been supervising a teenager in foster care while she learns to drive.

“I would love to see her get her licence,” he said.

“She’s quite confident now. It makes you feel good that they’re expanding their wings.”

Department for Child Protection Chief Executive Jackie Bray said volunteers played a vital role in creating safe and supportive environments for children and young people in care.

“We’re indebted to them for the time they dedicate week after week to supporting vulnerable young people,” she said.

“Our heartfelt thanks goes out to all of our volunteers, who play such a critical role in children’s lives.

“They also provide support to families and carers, and they make our communities stronger.”

For more information on volunteering, visit childprotection.sa.gov.au/volunteers, or contact the volunteer coordinator team on 0492 000 743 or DCPVolunteerProgram@sa.gov.au.