Swimming WA is pleased to share that three of WA swimming’s biggest contributors have been announced as finalists in the Swimming Australia Awards.
Ron Barnes (Breakers Swimming Club), the “Voice of WA Swimming” and winner of the Swimming WA 2019 Westpac Volunteer of the Year, has been announced as a finalist in the Local Legend of the Year Award category. Ron is a fitting ambassador for volunteering in our sport. Ron spoke to Swimming WA about how he got involved in volunteering:
“Helen Hull (former President of Breakers Swimming Club) asked me to help out at a Breakers Splash Swim Meet five years ago,” Barnes said.
“During that time, I was on the Breakers Committee as Records Officer. I started volunteering to help out but also because being involved was enjoyable for me.”
Members of the Breakers Swimming Club recall memories of Ron volunteering his time behind the BBQ.
“I have cooked a few sausages in my day, having been involved in many Clubs including those in rugby, squash, surf, tennis, and golf, as well as swimming.”
Mick Palfrey (WAIS, UWA-West Coast) has also been announced as a finalist for an individual award; the Youth Coach of the Year. Mick’s contribution to many young up-and-comers in WA’s top ranks has been recognised with this nomination.
With a programme boasting the likes of Ashton Brinkworth, Brianna Throssell, Josh Yong, Nic Brown, and Grant Irvine, there is no doubting that Mick is one of WA’s powerhouse coaches and a worthy finalist in this Award.
Finally, the Guildford and Kalamunda Districts Swimming Club has been announced as one of only three finalists in the Club of the Year Award category. GKDSC’s influence on swimming in Western Australia has long been known in the Swimming WA community, but this nomination demonstrates that their forward-thinking approach is making waves nationally.
With a number of athletes representing their Club and Swimming WA at nationals each year, an excellent Junior programme to rival some of the best in the country, and excellent Coach, Technical Official and volunteer engagement, the Club has set an incredibly high standard.
Swimming WA is very proud of all Western Australian finalists in the Swimming Australia Awards and we look forward to the announcements following the ceremony, this Saturday evening.
