By Carole Levy
More room has to be found on the trophy shelf at Altona Sports Club.
The reason? Club general manager Gavin Comport was named Club Manager of the Year at the annual Community Clubs Victoria gala awards celebration early this month. And another club winner was Joseph MacFadyen, who was named Club Official of the Year.
Last year, the club’s president David Smith took out the President of the Year award, while the club was also named as winner of the Best Entertainment Program award.
These latest wins confirm Altona Sports Club’s reputation for staying ahead of the pack, constantly introducing new ideas and ways to entertain guests and to make every visit a chance to tap into diverse activities and experiences.
David says Gavin and Joe thoroughly deserve their wins.
“Gavin – who’s known as a ‘Clubbie’ with the industry in his DNA – is a popular manager who galvanised the club on his arrival in 2017. His management has been integral to our club’s evolution and his achievements are many.”
Gavin, who is chuffed with the win, says his vision for the club is all about keeping it growing.
“We are heading in the right direction,” he says. “When the board first employed me two years ago, they asked of me one thing: to bring the club into the 21st century. It’s all about changing the culture of the club.
“I would like to acknowledge the role the staff played in helping me win the award. Their support and assistance is integral to not only my success but the success of Altona Sports Club overall.”
David says Joseph MacFadyen has played a huge role in making the club what it is today.
“Joe was president in 1980, a committee member since the ‘70s, a former board chairman, and current director.
“He has witnessed all the club’s significant events, from the beginning in the 1950s right up to today. He’s overseen construction and all upgrades at the club, has always been a staunch volunteer and ideas man, and has steered successful fundraising.
“To establish a new club took a lot of hard work and volunteering and Joseph not only was witness to this, he lived it. It is this history that continues on, through Joe, today.”
Joe, who knows his family would be proud of his award, says the club is his second home.
“I grew up in the club, watching it grow from swamp to what it’s become and is going to be in the future. There a sense of pride and passion there,” Joe states.
Altona Sports Club, 11 Altona Road, Altona. Inquiries: 9398 2283 or visit altonasportsclub.com.au
