The racing industry’s unsung heroes are being acknowledged as part of National Volunteers Week.
State-wide, there are more than 8,200 volunteers who make an invaluable contribution to the industry in the Sunshine State.
Since 2016, more than 517 additional volunteers are providing their time and expertise to sustain three codes of racing - a 7% increase over the last five years.
RQ CEO Brendan Parnell has highlighted that volunteers are the lifeblood of the industry and, without them, many of the 125 Queensland race clubs would be unable to operate.
“The collective contributions and tireless efforts from our volunteers are vital, and will never be underestimated nor taken for granted,” Mr Parnell said.
“Every club is immensely grateful for the hundreds of hours volunteers unselfishly dedicate to the industry.
“While we appreciate their efforts week in, week out, across all three codes, it’s a timely reminder for all the clubs to honour and recognise their volunteers.”
A shining example of the unwavering dedication our volunteers offer the industry are Norma and Neville Jackson, who have been the backbone of the Rockhampton Greyhound Club for more than a decade in an era of unprecedented growth.
Last month, their efforts were deservedly rewarded when they were bestowed the Outstanding Contribution Award at the prestigious TAB Queensland Greyhound Awards.
“The contribution the Jacksons have given the Club and the code is hard to measure but we couldn’t imagine the Club without them, which perhaps say it all as to why they are deserving of this award,” Rockhampton Greyhound Club president Dallas Beckett said.
While Neville recently stood down as president of the Club, Norma has made it a family affair as the club’s volunteer statistician a decade, keeping the all-important records of races and premierships.
“Norma’s dedication to the Rockhampton Greyhound Club as a statistician further highlights the ‘unseen but not unappreciated’ roles volunteers undertake for the love of our sport,” Mr Parnell said.
“We can’t speak highly enough, not just of Norma and Neville, but every volunteer throughout the state.
“On behalf of the industry, I’d like to thank every volunteer.”