Long-standing Swimming Gunnedah secretary and carnival referee, Brian Coombs, has been awarded one of the club’s highest honours, after receiving life membership at the recent annual presentation night.
Brian, who is highly respected in the club and has dedicated many years to swimming through refereeing, technical roles and holding various board and committee positions, was acknowledged for his extraordinary contribution to the sport.
Overwhelmed by the honour bestowed upon him, Brian thanked those who have supported him over the years, including his wife Karen, children Maddison and Brodie, as well as the swimming club, life members and swimming families.
“To be given this accolade after all these years of being involved with the club, it’s such a privilege and honour to be recognised,” Brian said.
“I’m very humbled.”
Brian’s involvement with the Gunnedah club started 13 years ago when his children began to swim competitively.
He started as the barbecue cook at local carnivals, before helping with fundraising and later holding the positions of registrar, vice-president, president and is currently club secretary and carnival secretary. He has also been on the board of Swimming New England North West and is a referee and technical
official with nine accreditations.
Despite his kids retiring from swimming, Brian continues to travel the region to referee at carnivals and gives countless hours of his time to the club where he helps the squad understand techniques and the rules of swimming.
“I enjoy helping the kids and helping the club and making sure they are doing the right thing.I also enjoy the social aspect and helping out where I can,” he said.
There are now 22 life members in the Gunnedah swimming club.
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