Community
29 October, 2024
City's quiet achievers celebrated at International Men's Day event
The Buchanan Park entertainment centre was rocking on Saturday night.
THE Mount Isa community has come out in force to celebrate the quiet achievers among the city.
The Mount Isa International Men’s Day celebration saw the air buzzing at Buchanan Park as more than 500 people gathered to cheer on a night of goldfish races, barmaid races and a demolition derby.
However, the awards were a particular highlight as they cast a spotlight on some of the unsung heroes in our community doing great things and asking for no recognition.
The Youth Leadership Award was presented to local motocross whiz, 14-year-old Jean Lavell.
The Spinifex Junior Campus student, who is a member of the Mount Isa Dirt Bike Club, is doing big things on and off the track, having competed at state and national titles as well as a host of North Queensland and Northern Territory meets.
He was also recognised for the great example he set for his fellow competitors as he dedicated himself to developing his skill level in the sport.
The Local Hero Award was presented to Matt McKeown for his role in steering the Concordia Junior Football Club for the past six years, helping to grow it into the formidable organisation it is today.
He said he was shocked to be nominated and then to take out the prize at the weekend.
“It is not something you expect, we are all part of a community and all guys nominated don’t do what they do for recognition, but it was really nice to be recognised,” Mr McKeown said.
“When coaching football, you always dream of creating the next Mary Fowler or Lionel Messi – but it is more satisfying just helping to be part of growing great humans.
“You see the kids go through challenges and overcome them – and you see them get confidence – and all that comes out in their games on the field.”
The Man of Achievement Award went to Darryl Avery who, despite branching out with his own business, Sunrise Fabrication Services, less than 12 months ago, still managed to find the time to volunteer to referee rugby league, sometimes up to six matches in a weekend.
Mr Avery said he wanted to use the award to promote a positive message about mental health.
“Volunteering gets you out of the house and gets you among good people that want to do something positive for the people around them,” he said.
“I like to be involved and help out wherever I can, and I just like to see good things happen.”
Event MC Tonka Toholke praised the volunteers and sponsors who provided a fantastic atmosphere for the community.
“We try to make it a laid back and entertaining night out where people can relax and unwind,” he said.
“And at the same time, we want to celebrate some of the great things the men in our city are doing behind the scenes – the guys don’t seek recognition, but they deserve every bit of it.”