By Nicholas Creely
HSBC and the Australian Rugby Union have announced the finalists for the 2016 HSBC Volunteer of the Year, and Endeavour Hills Rugby Club’s very own Lisa Campbell is one of them.
With more than 400 entries overall, Lisa has made it down to the last five with her impressive work as a hard-working volunteer at her club this season not going unnoticed.
The award aims to recognise those individuals who volunteer their time and make a significant contribution to community rugby across Australia.
Lisa has been heavily involved with the Endeavour Hills Rugby Club since moving from New Zealand four years ago.
Over the past four years, Lisa has served on the committee, helping the struggling club in a variety of time-consuming jobs.
She has served in roles such as Director of Juniors, Junior Registrar, Team Manager of the Under 10 and Under 18 teams, communications, organiser of various fundraisers, merchandise as well as facilitating a pre-season skills and drills program for the club’s junior players.
Adding to this, Lisa has served numerous other roles which were not able to be filled by the club.
Lisa is at the club for up to five days a week and balancing work and family life at the same time.
Her passion about the growth and development of rugby in Victoria has seen her reach great heights at the club.
CEO of HSBC Australia Tony Cripps paid tribute to the hard-working volunteers, citing their utmost importance in rugby thriving at grassroots level.
“Volunteers are vital to the success of rugby clubs across Australia.
“HSBC is proud to recognise those who give so much to the game and keep rugby thriving at its grassroots.
“Congratulations to all the finalists of this year’s Volunteer of the Year awards,” Cripps said.
This was echoed by ARU General Manager of Community Rugby and Strategy Andrew Larratt who acknowledged just how valued volunteers are in Australia.
“The finalists represent thousands of rugby volunteers in this country who are passionate about our game and the benefits it holds for young boys and girls,” Larratt said.
“We were delighted to see so many nominations come in this year from all across the country as we know each nominee makes such a difference to rugby in Australia.“
The finalists chosen will attend the John Eales Medal night on 27 October 2017 where the winners will be announced.
If Lisa wins the award, she will receive a grant of $10,000 to improve the facilities and services of her registered club, Endeavour Hill Rugby Club.
