2020 Optus WA Football Volunteer of the Year

Dampier Football Club President Russell Turner has been recognised for more than 20 years of voluntary service as the 2020 recipient of The Optus WA Football Volunteer of the Year Award, supported by The Sunday Times.

Russell ‘Emu’ Turner, who has been president of the Dampier Football Club since 1997, was presented with the award at the West Australian Football League’s Sandover Medal Count at Crown Ballroom on Tuesday, September 29. He was one of 17 regional and district finalists chosen from 684 nominees.

Optus Head of Marketing Melissa Hopkins congratulated Mr Turner and all other finalists for their continued commitment and success.

“Optus recognises the importance of this award in nurturing the game and in celebrating the tireless efforts of all football volunteers who are the very lifeblood of the WA footy community,” she said.

“Optus is proud to sponsor the awards as it acknowledges the efforts of these volunteers, and is proud to be associated with the West Australian Football Commission who we know play an important role in the ongoing development of football in WA and in building better communities through various development programs.”

Russell ‘Emu’ Turner

To begin the day, Russell unlocks the club and ensures all volunteers are in place and ready, and ensures the opposition have everything. Post-games he’s coordinating paperwork, preparing awards, and dealing with issues within the club or league.

During the week, Russell is overseeing the operations for both his club and the League, and assists the Women’s and Junior Associations. Russell has been instrumental in incorporating a women’s competition in the league. Russell has been imperative in instigating a change in the club culture and has instigated many wellbeing activities.

He is passionate about the wellbeing of his players and doesn’t hesitate to coordinate or implement mental health sessions, men’s health or suicide awareness sessions. He has an outstanding relationship with the playing group, who know that if they need anything, they can trust Russell to listen and do his best to help.

Russell never misses committee meetings, supports the WAFC, and assists with regional and local activities. Russell supports his committee, coaches, officials, playing group and families both on and off-field, regularly training people within the clubs and mentoring young emerging leaders.

Russell ensures the club and league are present in the community, sourcing sponsorship opportunities and working with the Shire and stakeholders to ensure the facilities are functional.

2020 Finalists

Name District/Region

Peter Panagopoulos Claremont

Lindsay Marley East Fremantle

Ross Condo East Perth

Terri Tholstrup Goldfields

Terry Eaton Great Southern

Eunice Yu Kimberley

Russell Keene Midlands

Ethan Mollross Midwest

Peter Burton Peel

Mark Longton Perth

Russell Turner Pilbara

Kristie Tregoning South Fremantle

Josh Rayson South West

Mimma Rombola Subiaco

Jeff Fahey-Gilmour Swans

Sharon Wood-Kenny West Perth

Brian Roderick Wheatbelt