So how about making good use of it by helping out those in need leading into winter – when it’s much less inviting to be outside.

The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal is taking place in the Bega district on the weekend of May 30-31 - and the Army wants you!

Anyone keen to volunteer a couple of hours as a door-knocker and donation collector will be gratefully welcomed by the Bega Salvos said Lieutenant Lesley Newton.

Otherwise, those willing to donate are even more welcome.

Static collection points will be set up at Bega Coles and in the Sapphire Marketplace from Monday, May 25, 10am until 2pm each day.

Then on the weekend, Red Shield Appeal volunteers will be making direct approaches to homes in the area asking people to support the Salvos’ work in providing counselling, financial assistance, accommodation and refuges, addiction services and many other areas of support for the most vulnerable in our society.

Door knockers are welcome to show up at the Salvation Army Church in Bega from 9am on Saturday and Sunday, May 30 and 31 – even without pre-registering your interest.

They will be put into teams, allocated an official receipt book and lanyard – so those they approach will know they are legitimate collectors – and a map of their neighbourhood to canvass over a couple of hours.

At the end of their time, volunteers will be treated to food and drink back at the church – “part of our way to say thank you,” Ms Newton said.

Donations to the Red Shield Appeal can also be made at any Westpac branch.