Riley Dolman didn’t expect to find his life’s passion in volunteering, but that’s exactly what happened when the 27-year-old began working with Fair Game.
Since 2017, Mr Dolman has been deeply involved with Fair Game, which brings health education and sports programs to youth in some of Western Australia’s most remote communities.
He is one of the many young people who volunteer in WA with 78.2 percent of people under 25 giving up their free time to help community groups – far higher than any other age group in the State.
Mr Dolman’s rewarding experience with Fair Game led him to move to Kununurra after finishing his studies at the University of Western Australia in Perth to work in the sector full-time.
Now he is the West Kimberley manager for Garnduwa, which run sports and health programs in communities throughout the North West.
“(At university) I was placed with Fair Game to get some on-the-ground experience, and that first trip out to a remote community really opened my eyes. You see the gaps in access to resources and opportunities, and it just sticks with you.”
After completing his studies, Dolman continued volunteering with Fair Game, eventually taking on the role of trip leader for regional visits to the Pilbara, Kimberley, and Midwest. By 2018, he had joined the organization’s Board of Directors, balancing governance responsibilities with hands-on involvement in the field.
Dolman said he wants his work to make a difference.
“It’s not just about showing up and running a program. It’s about returning to these communities, building relationships with the young people, and seeing the impact over time. You start to recognize faces, and they recognize you. That’s when you know you’re doing something meaningful.”
One of his favorite parts of the job is the chance to bring new games and sports equipment to these communities, giving kids the tools to play and stay active. “
You bring out a new ball or set of gear, and you see the excitement It’s a small thing, but it’s something they look forward to and something they can really own.”
In 2021, Dolman’s efforts were recognized with the Youth Volunteer of the Year award from Volunteering WA,
His advice to others is simple: “Take every opportunity that comes your way. You never know where it might lead.”