Happy National Volunteer Week! Our volunteers are the heart of our community - we couldn't do it without you.
National Volunteer Week is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering and will be next held on 19-25 May 2025. This special event highlights the important role of volunteers in our community, and celebrates their contribution to our communities.
Volunteering creates lasting relationships that enrich lives and strengthen communities. This National Volunteer Week, the theme is ‘Connecting Communities’, acknowledging the power of volunteering in bringing communities together.
In celebration of National Volunteer Week, RugbyWA asked our community members which volunteers in their club environment should be recognised for their continual contribution to the community and the growth of their game.
Here’s who our community wishes to celebrate.
Stacey Knott, ARKS RUC
“Stacey Knott, our Junior President, diligently works across our club. She efficiently addresses any issues that arise and consistently finds solutions with ease. Her commitment is evident through the substantial number of hours she dedicates to ensuring the smooth operation of our juniors program. Stacey consistently prioritises the interests of our junior players.”
Chris Burch, Wests Scarborough RUC
“Chris joined Wests in 2020. He had migrated to Perth after 10yrs teaching in Dubai. He arrived just before COVID closed our borders, leaving him stranded from his wife and children for over 6 months. In this time, "Burchy" joined Wests as our 3rd Grade Player/Coach. He immediately got involved in helping out around the club on busy bees and volunteering on the BBQ.
“At the end of 2023, the call went out to all members that Wests were looking for a new President. Out of the blue, Chris answered that call. Having previously chaired his club in England, Burchy brought a lot of fresh ideas to the committee and a new exuberance for bringing both our Junior and Senior memberships together. Some of the highlights of Burchy's Presidency so far have been the resurrection of our Full Boar XV Supporters Club, our annual Christmas in July event, added sponsorships, and enthusiastic fundraising ideas.
“Chris' commitment to Wests has pushed us to another level of club management and set our club on its way as a club of choice for families in the Western Coastal suburbs of Perth.”
Dave Weir, Perth Rams RUFC
“From day one, Dave Weir has been the backbone of the Rams, showing up to help out on day one and somehow ending up as our head coach. Not only has he given countless hours on the field, but he's also travelled across the world - to Canada and Italy, at his own expense - just to stand beside us and guide us through this journey.
“Now, even after stepping back from the head coach role, Dave continues to show up, giving his time, wisdom, and endless patience to support our new players, many of whom are in their late 20s and 30s and have never played rugby (or even sport) before.
“Teaching someone to play rugby safely in just six weeks, and preparing them to take on life-long players, is no small task. But Dave does it with heart, with skill, and with the kind of care that builds not just players, but confidence, character, and community.
“We may not win games, but the growth, development, and sheer guts shown by our team are a direct reflection of Dave’s passion and commitment, and that of our incredible coaching crew.”
Marlyn Small, Swan Suburbs RUFC
“Marlyn Small serves as both Treasurer and Registrar at Swan Suburbs Rugby Union Football Club, where her dedication and community spirit make her an invaluable volunteer. Her meticulous management of financial records and player registrations ensures the smooth functioning of the club, allowing it to focus on its mission of providing free rugby opportunities to children in the local community. Marlyn's unwavering commitment and behind-the-scenes efforts exemplify the spirit of volunteerism that keeps community sports thriving.”
Ronan O’Shea, Southern Lions RUFC
“Ronan O'Shea, our Club President, who has to wear the pressure of everything that is happening around the club. The hours he puts in behind the scenes is massive and a lot of people are unaware of how much work he does do. Hard to be at the top and have to handle all the little issues. So, thank you.”
Nathalia Hatcher, North Coast RUFC
“Natalia Hatcher has worn many hats over her time at NCRUFC, from team manager, to substitute coach, general committee member to Secretary, she is always dedicating her time and energy to the success of this club. She can always be relied on to lend a hand with organising donations, helping with fundraising, or planning tournaments, and works to lift up every team in this club, never just the ones that her kids are part of.”
Michael Bonhomme, Ellenbrook Vipers RUC
“Since joining the Ellenbrook Vipers last season, Michael has brought nothing but fun, passion, and a genuine love for the game to our club. This year, he stepped up as our Under 6s Head Coach and joined the committee – already proving to be a standout leader, role model, and team player. He’s always one of the first to arrive, brings great energy to training, and has a natural way with some of our youngest vipers, making rugby a positive experience for every child.
“Michael goes above and beyond – even outside his coaching role – like creating new training field poles for our setup and constantly offering a helping hand. He and his family embody RugbyWA’s values: showing respect to everyone they interact with, demonstrating excellence in their commitment to junior development, and living teamwork every time they support others in the club. We’re incredibly lucky to have them at the Vipers.”
Thank you to all our volunteers, across the rugby community. Without volunteers, and your tireless dedication to the game, early hours setting up the fields, or late nights helping the club, the game doesn’t happen. You are the backbone of this community, and we couldn’t be more grateful.
To learn more about volunteering with rugby, visit RugbyWA’s Become a Volunteer page.
