 St George Football Club life member Gordon Lowrie was awarded the Order of Australia for his contribution to junior rugby league.
The Arncliffe resident was recognised for 25 years of helping to groom young players. "I really can't understand how I won the award," Mr Lowrie, a former lower grade player for the Dragons, told the Journal. "I am just an ordinary person that sits here quietly, but I am very, very delighted that it has happened to me."
Currently a director of the St George Junior Rugby Football League, Mr Lowrie has held many positions during years of loyal service. "I've served on almost all the committees including registrations and was associated with the Matthews Cup side for many years," he said.
The New South Wales Junior Rugby League life member has watched the St George District prosper in recent years.
"There are a lot more resources going into the junior league now," he said. "Consequently we are getting better results, particularly in the representative teams."
Mr Lowrie's passion for Rugby League began as a youngster playing for the now defunct Banksia Waratahs.
"I have always had an interest in football, a pretty strong interest," he understated.
Having watched scores of talented young Dragons come through the ranks, Mr Lowrie rates Reg Gasnier and Billy Smith as the two most talented.
Mr Lowrie praised his wife Mavis for her support during their 56-year marriage and for getting him involved with local junior club Penshurst RSL after he retired as a general insurer.
"Mavis didn't want me to sit and vegetate," the 82-yearold recalled. "She needs an award for perseverance. I wouldn't have done all the things that I have had she not allowed the privilege of doing so. She has enjoyed it too - she used to make the sandwiches for the (Harold) Matthews Cup team."
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St George Leagues Club
LEAGUES CLUB JOURNAL
