A new Bega Valley Community Directory, created by Bega Valley Shire Council, was launched on Thursday to coincided with National Volunteer Week 2018.

Eat the Park’s Geoffrey Grigg acknowledged the immensity of volunteerism when he told the crowd, the “non-monetary economy is keeping everyone alive”.

“There’s a whole world that is about connectivity, which is why this [website] is the best thing that has happened in a long time,” he said.

“Every little act you do is making this a better place to live.”

According to research by NRMA Insurance, 80 per cent of all residents, the second highest level in the state, say they regularly give up their time to help others in the community.

Forty four per cent of respondents said they formally volunteer in the community, ranking the region third in the state.

In an upgrade from previous directories, community groups and organisations can now update their own information online, with services also able to advertise for volunteers.

Mayor Kristy McBain said the directory will help support a region with a volunteer rate above state average.

“The tyranny of distance can make you feel isolated in a country town,” she said.

Djiringanj and Ngarigo elder Aunty Colleen Dixon, herself a volunteer for over 50 years, welcomed visitors to Djiringanj land and thanked everyone in attendance for their tireless dedication.

“The community has been talking about this for years,” Families with Autism Can’s Monika Ryan said.

“This is a great opportunity for us, because new people coming to the area and people who don’t live in town can easily find services”

Sonia Teston and Fay Cousin from Merimbula Marine Rescue NSW also said the website will be useful for garnering new recruits.

“It’s an opportunity to look in one spot to find and join a group,” Ms Teston said.