The innovation and professionalism of Bundaberg’s community clubs has again been recognised with another key award from the prestigious Keno and Clubs Queensland Awards for Excellence.
Tony Castro from The Waves Sports Club was named Club Director of the Year among 24 awards handed out to clubs and individuals across the state at a gala ceremony in Brisbane last night.
Judges said the award recognised someone “who has provided valuable service … contributing to the viability of the club, including participation in director training”.
Tony has long history with The Waves
Tony has been with The Waves Sports Club since 1992 while holding the position of Director since 2012.
In that time The Waves has prospered, with a redevelopment in 2020 and membership growing to more than 70,000.
The Waves was placed third in the category of Best Multi-Sports Club while Glenn Whitehurst was third in the Chef of the Year category.
The popular Bundaberg establishment employs more than 100 staff, supports 16 local sporting clubs, and contributes to many community events, charities, benefactors, and projects each year.
The recognition adds to The Waves’ elevation to the Clubs Queensland Hall of Fame last year.
Clubs Queensland CEO Kelly Egan said Bundaberg community clubs had been outstanding in their service and their support of their communities, pushing through the challenges of COVID-19 when clubs were temporarily closed.
“This is a great example of clubs that have really gone beyond their remit to support their community, becoming a focal point for people to come together again once it was safer after COVID- 19 lockdowns,” Mr Egan said.
“This is what community clubs do best. We connect the community for a common cause even in testing times like last year and this collaborative effort, driven by these clubs has truly delivered a service that has helped the lives of people in Bundaberg.”
The 22nd annual Keno & Clubs Queensland Awards for Excellence returned to a gala dinner last night after last year’s awards were held virtually for the first time.
