2018 NSW Community Sports Awards Winners
Published Fri 22 Jun 2018
COMMUNITY SPORT’S FINEST CELEBRATED TO SELL OUT CROWD
Sport NSW held the annual NSW Community Sports Awards at NSW Parliament House on Thursday 21 June, celebrating the extraordinary contributions made to community sport in NSW before a capacity crowd.
The event was hosted by the Minister for Sport, the Hon. Stuart Ayres MP, who congratulated the finalists and addressed the audience about the important role sport plays in the lives of residents across NSW.
“Sport brings communities together and assists in the promotion of healthy and active lifestyles. With a rich history of high performance success as well as a strong community sporting culture, sport makes up much of the social and economic fabric of our great state.” Minister Ayres said.
“For many, the local sporting club is more than just a game of rugby, football or netball, it is a community filled with passionate volunteers and lifelong friends. Sport can become a place to meet new people, share passion and embody a sense of community. It can also become a place to gain valuable life skills and work experience.
“Community sport relies on our volunteers, who are responsible for much of the smooth running and operations of the sporting sector. Quite simply – we could not function without them.”
Over 500,000 people in NSW volunteer their time every year to ensure that our state’s sporting participants can take the field each week. In NSW alone the value of that voluntary labour would be measured in the hundreds of millions of dollars.
Hosted by ABC Grandstand's Shannon Byrne, this year the 2018 NSW Community Sports Awards named winners across nine categories, highlighting contributions made in coaching, officiating, and by teams, events and clubs. A diverse range of sports were represented on the night, from Australian Rules, Cricket and Football to Squash, Judo and Dragon Boats. The night also paid homage to 23 Distinguished Long Service recipients for those that have given exceptional long service to their sport. Award winners and finalists traveled from as far away as Gunnedah, Cootamundra and Tamworth to attend.
In paying tribute to the finalists and winners Sport NSW Chairperson Joseph La Posta also paid tribute to the role sport and its volunteers play in promoting inclusiveness in the community.
“Community sport brings together people of all cultures, abilities and backgrounds in a shared sense of inclusion, community and belonging. There are over 2.5 million participants in sport and active recreation in NSW, none of which would be able to enjoy the activities they love without an army of enthusiastic volunteer officials, coaches, and administrators behind the scenes.”
The Parliament House event attracted over 280 people with representatives from government and sports across the state in attendance to congratulate the finalists and award recipients.
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2018 Sport NSW Community Sports Awards Winners and Distinguished Long Service Award Recipient Summaries
YOUNG OFFICIAL
Stephen Blume - Australian Football - Cardiff Heights
Stephen umpires at senior level in the Black Diamond AFL competition and is considered one of the top five umpires in the league. He has umpired major competitions such as Swans v Giants U18s, Women’s Representative Matches and the Black Diamond Grand Final. Stephen assists in mentoring and developing junior officials on a Sunday and passes on his love and knowledge of the game to all new umpires.
COMMUNITY OFFICIAL
Cherry Smith - Swimming - Panania
Cherry officiated at the 2017 Australian Short Course Swimming Championships, the 2018 Australian Swimming Championships and was the only Australian Swimming Referee at the 2018 Commonwealth Games. Cherry was also the Mentor Official at the Short Course Championships, assisting and educating the other NSW Officials in attendance. She regularly travels to regional areas of NSW to assist in the educating and training of new Technical Officials.
YOUNG COACH - JOINT WINNERS
Matthew Beach – Softball - Glenmore Park
Matthew coached the NSW Metro Team in the Blacktown Junior International Challenge, finishing an impressive fourth against teams from Japan and New Zealand. He was assistant coach of the NSW Metro Team in the Australian U15s, who finished third. Matthew coaches a number of successful Penrith Junior Representative and Club teams, and the Ladies Over 35’s while also giving his time freely at coaching clinics and camps.
YOUNG COACH - JOINT WINNERS
Chanelle Hosken - Dragon Boats – Peakhurst
Chanelle has coached at beginner, club, State and National levels and coached the Junior Squad of 40 students to victory at the National Championship during her HSC year, into her first year of University. As well as coaching, managing and coordinating training, Chanelle set weekly individual fitness goals for her paddlers which led to major improvements in the team as a whole.
COMMUNITY COACH
Laura Brienesse - Wheelchair Sports - Putney
Laura has coached athletes competing at national and international competitions in wheelchair sports winning multiple championships. She is an integral part of the coaching team for the Wheelchair Sports NSW Track & Road Development group where she is a key driver for athletes. With a focus on inclusion, she motivates and encourages participants of all ages and experience levels.
COMMUNITY SPORT ADMINISTRATOR - JOINT WINNERS
Stuart Farnell - Australian Football - Oatley
Stuart oversees the corporate and community side of the Camden Cats football club. He has been responsible for a significant improvement in the club’s financial viability and played a key role in the club's successful submission for elevation to Premier Division in 2018. Stuart was the driver of the successful Domestic Violence Charity Dinner which saw $28,000 raised and he also coaches the Cats Division 2 team.
COMMUNITY SPORT ADMINISTRATOR - JOINT WINNERS
Christine Halpin – Softball – Thornton
Christine is Strikers Softball Club President and Newcastle District Softball Association Chairperson, bringing financial stability and increased membership to both in the last three years. Newcastle District Softball Association has been named Softball NSW Country Affiliate of the Year twice under Christine's leadership. She enjoys getting her hands dirty at Stevenson Park Softball Complex and is often seen assisting and mentoring new committee members.
VOLUNTEER DIRECTOR
Graham Towle OAM – Swimming - North Rocks
In 2017 Graham was awarded an OAM for his service to swimming, which included decades as a volunteer, and years as a Director of Swimming NSW. Graham is the current President, improving governance, providing critical leadership in new markets, diversifying and increasing revenue streams and overseeing financial surpluses and membership growth under each year of his leadership. He also continues to volunteer his time at swim meets.
COMMUNITY TEAM OF THE YEAR
Wollongong Roller Hawks - Wheelchair Sports - Port Kembla
The Wollongong Roller Hawks took out their fourth National Wheelchair Basketball League title since joining the competition in 2001, outplaying their metro-based counterparts with a 16-2 win loss record. The Roller Hawks also play a leading role in the local disability community and the Illawarra with all players involved in local community disabled sport projects as well as school visits and development of the next generation of wheelchair basketballers.
COMMUNITY CLUB OF THE YEAR
Bonnet Bay FC – Football - Bonnet Bay
Bonnet Bay FC is a benchmark club well beyond just football within the Sutherland Shire. The club has developed a strong culture, facilities and personal development programs as well as achieving community engagement with local and charitable causes by establishing clear goals and volunteer resources. The club’s proportion of female players (40%) well exceeds state averages and the club environment assists coaches and managers in supporting at risk children.
COMMUNITY EVENT OF THE YEAR
PCYC NSW Nations of Origin – PCYC - Whalan
Nations of Origin provides indigenous and non-indigenous 10-21 year-olds an opportunity to represent their local traditional Aboriginal nation in Rugby League 7s, Football Fives and Netball. With no cost to participate, the event engaged over 1,000 players and volunteers through sport, cultural, education and leadership programs. Participants must meet criteria including a minimum of 80% school attendance, a commitment to training and fundraising, and endorsement by a local elder.
DISTINGUISHED LONG SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENTS
Ian Adams - Little Athletics – Wauchope
Ian first became involved with Little Athletics at the Campbelltown Centre in 1984, when the centre hosted the NSW State Relays (the largest annual track and field event in the southern hemisphere at the time). After moving to the Mid North Coast, Ian took the role of Zone Coordinator, and hosted numerous Little Athletics championships, conferences, workshops, clinics and courses. He has established several new centres around NSW, guiding and mentoring countless volunteers.
Shiralee Adams - Pony Club - Maitland
Since becoming a Pony Club instructor in 1987 Shiralee has been a volunteer at Club, Zone and State levels and is currently Chief Gear Steward at State Championship events. She contributes towards the development of members of the sport as an NCAS Mentor for Pony Club NSW and regularly coordinates Gear Stewarding at State level competitions. Shiralee is the current Zone Chief Instructor of Zone 25 and was awarded Pony Club NSW Zone Volunteer of the Year in 2015.
Margaret Bennett - Wheelchair Sports - Blue Haven
Margaret has been a fantastic servant of Wheelchair Sports NSW for over 25 years, serving on the Board for eight of those years. Margaret always represents Wheelchair Sports NSW with pride and passion, working for members to receive the greatest opportunities to compete in their chosen sport. In 2013, Margaret was awarded The Lord's Taverners Award, in recognition of her significant contribution to national junior wheelchair sport in Australia.
Suzanne Bergersen - Swimming - Sussex Inlet
Suzanne’s contribution to Swimming began in 1990, as a Committee Member of her local club, and then President of the St George & Sutherland District Association. Suzanne has been awarded Life Membership of her Club and local District and has recently been nominated for Life Membership of Swimming NSW. Suzanne has also officiated at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games and many other international events held in the Asia Pacific region.
Andrew Brand - Motor Sport - Forresters Beach
Andrew has served both NSW and Australian motor sport for 30 years as an Official and Senior Official. Andrew's body of work included officiating at motor racing events held at state, national and international levels. Andrew was innovative in his approach to his responsibilities and determined to achieve positive outcomes when performing his role.
Sandra Brand - Motor Sport - Forresters Beach
Sandra has served NSW and Australian motor sport for 30 years as an Official and Senior Official. Sandra's body of work included officiating at motor racing events held at state, national and international level. Sandra continues to hold CAMS officiating accreditations within the circuit discipline of motor racing which enables her to hold leadership roles at circuit-based motor sport events up to and including national level.
James Brennan – Cricket - Mayfield
Jim has been part of cricket in Newcastle for 69 years, which includes 40 years as an officiating umpire. He was the first Public Officer of the Newcastle Junior Cricket Association and awarded life membership in 1990. From 1976 to his current involvement today, it is estimated that Jim has officiated over 1,300 fixtures. Jim has also served as a Junior Representative Selector, Catholic Schools Central Zone selector, and Representative Coach for 10 years with great success.
Neil Crisp – Softball - Leppington
Neil has been involved in Softball for over 40 years and has coached many teams. Neil holds the President position at Georges River Softball Association and for a number of years also maintained the Kelso Park Softball Facility. Neil has a special focus on developing a passion and enjoyment for the sport of Softball among young players.
Graham Coulton - Blind Sports - Kareela
Graham has 43 years of active service to Blind Sports in NSW, from being a founding member through to a life member. He has made outstanding contributions to Goalball Australian games for the disabled, blind cricket and blind golf. Graham has supported the growth of blind sports in NSW and has shown leadership through his many positions on the board of directors. He has received multiple awards highlighting his passion for blind sports.
Denise Dall – Motorcycling - Gunnedah
Denise is beyond passionate about motorcycling and devotes much of her time to volunteering and assisting on multiple events at the local, state, and national levels. Her family has also found a love for motor sport, following in her footsteps with the Gunnedah club. Denise is a fantastic leader - teaching all the new parents, riders and kids how you approach the sport in a safe manner.
Pam Durie – Croquet - Toronto
Pam is the founding member of Toronto Croquet Club, which she established in 1991. Pam has been President of the Club and has held the position of Games Captain for multiple years, which involves organising play on club days and inter-club events. Pam has been instrumental in providing opportunities to all age groups, creating an opportunity for the older generation to continue being active.
Maurice “Maurie” Fuller OAM - Motor Sport - Greenhill
Maurie is a founding and life member of the Kempsey Macleay Off Road Club. He was awarded an Order of Australia Medal in 2018 for his service to motor sport which spans over 35 years. Maurie has served as the CAMS NSW Off Road Advisory Panel Chair, on the National Off Road Commission and as a Race Director for many years. He also developed and implemented a timing system specifically for use in off road events.
Robyn Fuller - Motor Sport - Greenhill
Robyn has been a committee member and treasurer of the Kempsey Macleay Off Road Club for over 35 years. For Robyn's service to motor sport, she was awarded a CAMS Service Award at the 2017 CAMS NSW / ACT Awards evening. Robyn continues to give back to the off road and motor sport community, holding CAMS Event Assessor and Course Presenter accreditations where she teaches, mentors and develops the next wave of event officials.
Peter Hastings QC - Australian Football - Sydney
Peter was the Chairman of the AFL NSW/ACT Appeals Board for the last 24 years, an ideal fit for a man whose day job has been as the NSW Crime Commissioner. Peter has also been the President of Sydney University National Football Cub. Soon after retiring from the appeals board after the 2017 season Peter returned to the Sydney University club in the Regulatory & Legal portfolio.
David Mackay – Hockey - Moss Vale
David has provided continual service of over 25 years to the Southern Highlands Hockey Association and is the current chair of the Hockey Centre Committee. David’s support and guidance of new committee members has created a welcoming and inclusive culture, while his leadership and financial knowledge enabled the repayment of a $500,000 loan to council 13 years ahead of term for building the first synthetic turf pitch. David is committed to mentoring those with leadership qualities for roles that they can take on within the Association.
Stuart Meares - Masters Swimming - Naremburn
Stuart joined Warringah Masters swim club in 1986. In 1997 he volunteered to be auditor for Warringah Masters then took on the role of Treasurer for Masters Swimming NSW where he guided the organisation from its position of debt. Shortly after starting as Treasurer, Stuart also became a member of the Marketing and Development Committee. Stuart has since worked tirelessly to enhance and broaden the reputation and standing of Masters Swimming throughout NSW and Australia at both a competitive and administrative level.
Doreen O’Connor - Riding for the Disabled - Cootamundra
Doreen has been with Riding for the Disabled at Cootamundra since the centre's inception in 1990. She has held many administrative positions including Treasurer for 15 years. Doreen has been a dedicated teacher over the years instructing and guiding numerous RDA participants with disabilities on how to work with the horses. Doreen has also been able to supervise numerous volunteer RDA "Whip" trainees at various centres with great success.
Jan Ryan - Amateur Pistol - Buff Point
Over the past 36 years Jan has been actively involved at Club, State, National and International levels of pistol shooting. She is an International A grade judge in pistol and rifle and has officiated at Olympic and Commonwealth Games as well as World Cups, National and State Championships. She continues to coach and officiate at all levels helping new shooters achieve their personal best in competitions.
Basil Slaughter – Paddle - Normanhurst
Basil joined River Canoe Club in 1947 and has remained an active member ever since, holding every position on the committee including Secretary, Treasurer, and President. He is one of the longest serving members of a club who has actively participated in State and National paddling events and has made an enormous contribution to the development of the sport, disciplines, craft and equipment during this time.
Maree Tanti - Pony Club - Mudgee
Maree has made an outstanding contribution towards Pony Club in NSW, being the Zone Chief Instructor for Mudgee Area for almost 30 years. In this role, Maree has been heavily involved with regular State Association Meetings, instruction at Club and Zone level, coordination of Zone nominations for State Championships and is currently an NCAS Mentor & Examiner for Pony Club NSW. Maree has been and continues to be a great advocate for Pony Club.
Betty Wallace - Pony Club - Wollondilly
Betty was a founding member of Wollondilly Pony Club in 1968 and held the position of Deputy Senior Instructor in 1970 and Senior Instructor in 1972. In 1981 she was awarded Life Membership of the club. She became Deputy Zone Chief Instructor around 1998 and continues in that role. Betty also initiated and runs the Riding for the Disabled centre at the Wollondilly Pony Club grounds.
Jeanette Watts – Swimming - Wingham
Jenny Watts has been involved in the running and promotion of Wingham Swimming Club for over 40 years, encouraging the youth and children of Wingham and the surrounding area in all activities. She is a qualified Learn-to-Swim instructor and timekeeper, officiating at North Coast carnivals. Additionally, she has held multiple executive positions within the club including being President for 10 years and is currently in the role of Vice-President.
Lindal Whitton – Football - Glenwood
Lindal has given 27 years of dedicated service to Football in NSW across various roles and is currently the Executive Assistant to the CEO. Lindal was part of the amalgamation of the NSW Football Federation and the Amateur Federation. She is now instrumental to ensuring the success of Football NSW events, is the ‘go-to’ person of Football NSW and is constantly passing on her extensive knowledge of both the game and logistical operations to those within the sport.