Deb Rowe named Hunter Volunteer of the Year

Former New South Wales Police sergeant Deb Rowe has been awarded the Hunter Volunteer of the Year for 2026. Following a decades-long career in law enforcement, Rowe transitioned into community support work after her retirement in 2018.

Rowe currently contributes her time to several organizations, including the Australian Red Cross, Hunter Restorative Community, Kwila Community Based Rehab, and the non-profit LIVEfree Project. Her work in the Hamilton South community involves serving meals at breakfast programs, assisting with student transportation, and supporting individuals struggling with addiction.

Rowe, who was once the only female sergeant working in general duties in the Hunter region, described her volunteer work as a shift in purpose that allows her to support the same community members she previously encountered through police work.