The volunteer who's been spreading smiles in our shops for over three decades
Mar 31, 2025
Meet Sandra Byak – aka the Counter Queen of Vinnies Chatswood! She’s been a Saturday staple at the shop for over 30 years, greeting customers with her signature warm smile and helping them find their next thrifted treasure.
But Sandra isn’t just any volunteer—she’s the heart and soul of the place.
A Queen at the Counter
If you’ve ever popped into Vinnies Chatswood on a Saturday, chances are you’ve met Sandra. She’s the one making sure everything runs smoothly at the sales counter, chatting with customers, and spreading good vibes.
“She’s the ‘Counter Queen’,” says Manoj Kc, the Retail Cluster Manager who recently nominated Sandra for Senior Volunteer of the Year in the 2024 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards. “She is always positive and always smiling and helpful and promoting [Vinnies].”
And it’s not just about her shifts—Sandra’s the kind of person who steps up even when she’s not rostered on.
“I had a couple of situations where I had to call her, even though she doesn’t work that day,” says Manoj. “She feels like ‘I need to help them,’ that’s her attitude… she’s an absolutely amazing lady.”
A Life of Giving Back
At 82 years young, Sandra is still going strong. Volunteering has always been a huge part of her life—from running the tuck shop at her kids’ school to lending a hand at school fetes.
“I was born Catholic and I always went to church. My Christian duty is to do something for someone else, and so I was always very involved at school,” she explains.
When her youngest son graduated, she knew she wanted to keep helping out in the community. That’s when she joined Vinnies and started volunteering with the local council.
“Well, I’ve got the energy and I’ve got the time, and why not?” says Sandra. “I do like being behind the counter [at Vinnies], you know, greeting people, and sort of helping … they say I’m such a good salesperson!” she smiles.
Beyond Vinnies: More Ways Sandra Gives Back
Sandra’s kindness doesn’t stop at the shop. She also volunteers through Willoughby City Council, delivering linen services twice a month to help people live independently in their homes. Oh, and she also drives around twice a week delivering Meals on Wheels, making sure local seniors get a hot meal and a friendly face at their door.
Celebrating Sandra’s Dedication
Sandra’s years of service haven’t gone unnoticed. She was previously nominated at the North Shore Award Ceremony in 2019 for her work with Meals on Wheels, and in 2024, she’s being recognised for her incredible 31 years of service at Vinnies.
The NSW Volunteer of the Year Award ceremonies, hosted by The Centre for Volunteering, take place in 24 locations across the state, shining a spotlight on everyday heroes like Sandra.
Inspired by Sandra? Join the Vinnies Crew!
Feeling inspired? You can be a part of the Vinnies fam too! Volunteering isn’t just about giving back—it’s about meeting awesome people, gaining new skills, and making a real impact.
Sign up today and start your journey. Who knows? You might just be the next Counter Queen (or King 👑)!
