Noosa’s community clubs have ridden a wave of success in the Keno and Clubs Queensland 2022 Awards for Excellence, collecting major gongs at the gala dinner in Brisbane.
At an evening of celebration at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1100 guests honoured the state’s best performing clubs in the awards’ 23rd year.
Among the Coast’s high achievers was Noosa Heads Surf Life Saving Supporters Club, winning Club of the Year (boutique, 1-39 gaming machines), plus the prestigious Heart of the Community Award for A Love of Humanity.
Coolum Surf Club won the Special Achievement Award, Responsible Service of Alcohol.
Noosa Heads’ A Love of Humanity program, through Seahorse Nippers, earned glowing reviews for its powerful work with disabled and disadvantaged children.
Club president Ross Fisher said the “pure delight” in the faces of kids was incredibly rewarding.
“To let these kids get sand between their toes, get wet and enjoy a few hours (in the surf) … was something we felt we must do for the local community,” he said.
Volunteer Pete Williams said seeing the “brightness in kids’ faces” and the “high-fives” was what drove fellow volunteers to be involved in the Seahorse Nippers program. Esteemed former Olympian Dawn Fraser also paid tribute to the program.
The Heart of the Community Award recognises individuals and groups who have been the “unsung heroes” either in the club or broader community.
Noosa Heads’ wave of success did not end there, with runner-up awards to Ian Young (Director of the Year) and Anton Mogg (Secretary/Manager of the Year).
Clubs Queensland chief executive officer Kelly Egan said the Sunshine Coast’s clubs had stood tall when they were needed more than ever, commending their resilience in the face of ongoing challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Despite the constantly evolving landscape, our clubs have continued to provide invaluable service and social support for members and local communities,” Mr Egan said.
“It has been particularly special this year to be able to again gather face-to-face for the awards night, which was a richly-deserved acknowledgement of the great work of clubs state-wide.
“Community clubs have a proud history of fostering local spirit and delivering top-shelf facilities. The Sunshine Coast has again been prominent for the exemplary way its clubs have maintained their connection to community.”
