Englert named 2021 Bristol Paint Touch Football Australia Volunteer of the Year

Macksville Touch President Craig Englert has won the Bristol Paint Touch Football Australia (TFA) Volunteer of the Year Award. 

Englert, affectionally known as “Noodles” was recognised for his 40 years’ of service to the touch community and his tireless dedication in establishing and growing Macksville Touch Association to one of the largest sports organisations in the Nambucca Valley region of New South Wales. 

Craig’s passion for inclusivity in the sport was also recognised by the judging panel, with his strong advocacy for women in sport a nod to his dedication to encourage girls to get and stay involved in touch. He was also instrumental in the formation of the Indomie Noodles All Abilities Program at Macksville Falcons which enables people with a physical or mental impairment to participate inclusively in a club environment.  

Englert was typically humble in accepting the award. 

“I don’t volunteer for the accolades or personal attention, I do it because I’m passionate about our sport and the joy it brings people and our wider community” Englert said. 

“I am grateful for the recognition however, especially when you consider the other nominees who are all deserving winners in their own right.” 

TFA Chief Executive Officer Jamie O’Connor offered his congratulations. 

“Craig is a most deserving winner and I extend my personal congratulations to him and to all the hard-working and passionate volunteers that were nominated”. O’Connor said.  

“Our sport is incredibly fortunate to have such wonderful volunteers who dedicate countless hours to make our community the greatest community there is. This initiative allows us to express our deep gratitude and recognise the outstanding contributions our people make to their local communities, and I look forward to continuing to do that in partnership with Bristol Paint.” 

As part of the award, Noodles receives a home renovation and paint project to the value of $15,000 courtesy of Bristol Paint. 

PPG Commercial Director, Architectural Coatings ANZ David Nicholls said Bristol Paint was delighted to be supporting the initiative. 

“Volunteers like Craig continually put the needs of others first, so we’re delighted to be able to give something back to him and his family” Nicholls said. 

Nominations for the 2022 Bristol Paint Volunteer of the Year are open.

To nominate someone from your affiliate click here.