A Seddon resident has been honoured for his tireless work introducing new Australians to the nation’s indigenous game.
Gary Lee was named AFL Multicultural Community Ambassador of the Year by Victoria’s Governor, Linda Dessau, in a recent presentation at Government House.
Mr Lee, a Malaysian migrant, said he had revelled in his role over three years as one of the league’s multicultural community ambassadors, taking international students and people from diverse communities to footy games and banner-making workshops.
He said he had been humbled by the opportunity to help build communities through what he considers an “amazing sport”.
“Australian football is such an enigma,” he said. “For a sport predominantly played in one part of the globe, it has such powerful ability to transcend cultural barriers and bring communities together.”
Mr Lee, who was earlier this year named by the Australia Day Council as the New Australian of the Year for 2016, sees the AFL as an agent for bringing together people from all walks of life.
“AFL has the ability to unite people and break down stereotypes and cultural barriers, and I want to be part of this positive transformation,” he said.
AFL Victoria multicultural participation co-ordinator Salim Mahazi said the award was deserved recognition for Mr Lee.
“Gary has been a truly dedicated AFL Victoria multicultural ambassador and very active in his support programs.”
