Three AFL Queensland volunteers have been recognised for their outstanding service and dedication to Australian Football in the 2023 Australia Day Honours.
Paul Stevens received an OAM for his service to the Gold Coast community, including 20 years with the Southport Sharks Football Club where he was the director until 2021. The 2014 Gold Coast Australia Day Citizen of the Year has served many roles in his community, including Chairman of the Australian Special Olympics National Games in 2006, Honorary Secretary/Treasurer of the Gold Coast Sporting Hall of Fame from 2001 to 2021 and the Director and Secretary of the Gold Coast Academy of Sport from 2017 to 2021.
Carmel and Daryl Gould received OAMs for their service to Australian Football, particularly the Mayne Tigers Football Club where they are both life members.
After joining in 1966, they have both had several roles across the junior and senior clubs including Secretary, Treasurer, Registrar, President, Team Manager, Canteen Manager, Goal Umpire and Ground Manager to name a few.
Mr Gould is a member of the Past Players Committee and was also on the seniors’ board for 15 years. Mrs Gould is on the Advisory Board of the Australian Football League Queensland and the pair has been heavily involved in the Brisbane Juniors Leave as well.
Head of AFL in Queensland, Trisha Squires, congratulated the recipients on such prestigious awards.
“Congratulations to all Australia Day award recipients, especially our fantastic volunteers who were recognised today for the time and effort they dedicate not only to their local clubs but also their communities.
“Without volunteers like you our clubs and competitions would not run like they do.
“There are more people than ever playing Australian Rules in Queensland thanks to volunteers like Paul Stevens and Carmel and Daryl Gould.
“I am very pleased to recognise them today for all their hard work and dedication.”
