Call to recognise off-field heroes at this year’s Geraldton Guardian Mid West Sport Awards

Nominations for this year’s Geraldton Guardian Mid West Sports Awards have been extended until this Monday, October 31st.

There is still time to recognise those who have achieved greatness both on and off the sporting field in what will be the 50th anniversary of the awards.

As the longest-running awards of their kind in the State, they have plenty of rich history to celebrate, such is the sporting talent in the region.

It is no secret the challenges that most sporting codes and clubs have faced over the past few years, with many clubs having to fold.

A survey conducted in October last year found more than 16,000 community clubs Australia-wide were at risk of closure and over 43 per cent of clubs projected a decline in volunteering.

Australia has a proud volunteering tradition, with more than three million sporting volunteers nationally, but this pool is getting smaller and its the regions are feeling the heat first.

For many clubs, the volunteer pool is getting older and the same names are often the ones who are keeping the lights on, running the bar or making sure the books are balanced.

As we celebrate 50 years of sporting legacy in the region, let’s make sure there are still another 50 years to come by recognising the tireless efforts of those who make sure we can continue to play the games we love.

Nominations for the awards can be made through the Mid-West Sports Federation website, with tickets for the night also available to purchase from the site.