Community sport organisations are the foundation stone of the sport system in Australia. They provide important, accessible and affordable pathways for children and adults alike to enter our sport system and for the most part, are managed and operated by an unpaid workforce of about 1.5 million volunteers.
Australian Rugby recognises the efforts and skills of volunteers and have implemented the Volunteer Recognition Program in an effort to encourage and lift the profile of Community Rugby volunteers who have contributed to the development, promotion and or advancement of Rugby Union within Australia. Whilst in the past, clubs, schools, associations, zones/regions and affiliate unions have recognised and rewarded outstanding achievements by players and clubs, Australian Rugby identifies the need to recognise and reward those individuals that have devoted their time by honouring them with a recognition program. The recognition program is open to any person currently associated with Community Rugby in Australia, in a non-paid capacity at a club, school, sub/zone-union, or associated affiliate of the Australian Rugby Union.
The Australian Rugby Union launched the program in 2003 to reward and recognise the efforts of volunteers who devote countless hours week in week out, year after year to provide a safe and enjoyable environment at the grass roots of the game. From the canteen veteran to the weekend touchjudge to the parents that manage junior sides, clubs nominated the volunteers who give their hearts and souls to Rugby each week.
Australian Rugby invite nominees who have made significant contributions to the sport of Rugby Union up to and including July 2012. Areas of contribution may include coaching, managing, publicity, social planning, registrar, ground marshalling etc. all of which are invaluable to the success of Rugby both on and off the field.
Program Prizes
The successful nominee from each State/Territory who meet the set criteria, will be recognised for their efforts by being hosted (together with their spouse*) at the 2012 John Eales Medal Dinner where the National Volunteer of the Year will be announced.
* * Airfares, accommodation and 2 x tickets to the John Eales Medal Dinner will be provided for the state or territory nominee and the nominee’s spouse only