Marilyn MacLaren Recognised with Victoria Day Award
It was a week to remember for one of the Blackburn Vikings' most dedicated volunteers.
On Tuesday evening last week, Marilyn MacLaren attended the Whitehorse Sport & Recreation Awards as a nominee for Volunteer of the Year. The very next night, she was presented with a Victoria Day Award at the Ringwood Electorate Victoria Day Awards.
Two nights, two ceremonies, and plenty of recognition for someone who has quietly has helped keep so much of our club running for well over a decade.
About the Victoria Day Awards
The Victoria Day Awards take their name from Victoria Day, 1 July, which marks the anniversary of Victoria's separation from New South Wales in 1851. The awards were established to celebrate the people who make Victoria a vibrant and welcoming community.
At a state level, the Victoria Day Council presents its awards each year, including the well-known Victorian of the Year. Local electorates also hold their own Victoria Day Awards, recognising community champions, volunteers and grassroots leaders in their area.
The Ringwood Electorate awards honour the people who give their time to local clubs, schools and community groups, often without ever seeking recognition. It's a fitting description of Marilyn.
Whitehorse Volunteer of the Year nominee
The Whitehorse Sport & Recreation Awards, run by Whitehorse City Council, celebrate local athletes, clubs, recreation groups and the volunteers behind them. Alongside on-field achievement, the awards shine a light on club management and the behind-the-scenes work that keeps local sport going. Nominations are assessed by the Whitehorse Sport & Recreation Reference Group.
Marilyn was nominated for Volunteer of the Year by Kim Round. Her nomination described a highly committed volunteer who manages multiple operational roles while supporting thousands of members, and whose work across facilities, competitions and uniforms has left a lasting mark on the basketball community.
More than 15 years of service
If you've been around the Vikes for any length of time, chances are Marilyn has helped you in some way. Her roles at the club of the years have included:
Committee member since 2009
Uniform Officer since 2015
Under 35 Competition Manager since 2018
Venue Manager
Roster Coordinator
That list only tells part of the story. Marilyn is always quick to put her hand up for extra jobs, from helping at family days to serving as an emergency contact for stadium access, even responding when the alarm goes off at night. Members needing help with uniforms know she's available night and day.
In recognition of that commitment, Marilyn has already been awarded Life Membership of the club.
Thank you, Marilyn
Clubs like ours run on people like Marilyn. The games, the uniforms, the venues and the rosters all come together because of volunteers who give their time week after week.
It's fantastic to see her dedication recognised by the wider community. On behalf of everyone at the Blackburn Vikings, congratulations Marilyn, and thank you for everything you do.