2023 Swimming NSW Life Member and Service Awards

Swimming NSW's 2023 Annual General Meeting was filled with pride and admiration as four exceptional individuals were recognized for their outstanding contributions to the sport of swimming. The 2023 Service Excellence and Life Member Awards celebrated the achievements of Mark Payne, Lynn Lonngren, Graham Towle OAM, and Chris Hayes, each leaving an indelible mark on the swimming community.

Service Excellence Award - Mark Payne: A Visionary Leader and Dedicated Official

Mark Payne, a name synonymous with dedication and excellence, was honored for his unwavering commitment to swimming. For over 30 years, Mark has played a pivotal role in shaping swimming clubs and organizations in New South Wales. His seven-year tenure as President of the Hills Swimming Club (2009-2016) left an enduring legacy of growth and success, nurturing young swimmers and creating a supportive environment for athletes of all levels.

In addition to his pivotal role at Hills Swimming Club, Mark also contributed significantly to the Auburn Swimming Club, serving as a Director and Treasurer from 2018 to 2021. His financial acumen and strategic insights were instrumental in guiding the club's financial stability and growth.

As a Technical Official, Mark's dedication to precision and fairness in competitions has been unparalleled. His expertise on the deck ensured an environment where swimmers could perform at their best and reach their full potential.

Beyond the pool deck, Mark's professional accomplishments were equally impressive. Armed with a Bachelor of Economics, Bachelor of Laws, Master of Laws, and a Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance and Investment, Mark's qualifications were as impressive as his passion for swimming. His extensive professional associations, including Solicitor of the Supreme Court of New South Wales, Fellow of the Financial Services Institute of Australasia, and Member of the Australian Institute of Management, made him an invaluable asset to the Audit and Risk Committee for over a decade, where he served as Chair for two years.

Life Membership Award - Lynn Lonngren: Empowering Swimmers and Shaping Leadership

Lynn Lonngren, a visionary leader, and trailblazer, was celebrated for her remarkable contributions to swimming. As the founder of the Sea Eagles swim club on Sydney's Northern beaches in 1990, Lynn's passion and leadership inspired countless swimmers to achieve greatness. Many of her protégés earned prestigious selections onto Swimming NSW and Swimming Australia Squads, a testament to Lynn's exceptional coaching and mentorship.

In addition to her club-level impact, Lynn's influence reached international heights. She was selected as Head Coach for the Swimming NSW Sprint Squad in 1996 and served as a Team Coach for Swimming Australia Age Group Teams in 1994 and 1995. As Chef de Mission for the Swimming Australia Mare Nostrum Tour in 1997, she guided and inspired athletes on the international stage.

Lynn's unwavering dedication to swimming in New South Wales was evident as she served on the asctaNSW (now sctaNSW) Board for over 25 years, filling various positions on the Executive, including President and Vice-President. Her invaluable contributions and leadership for female coaches earned her Life Membership to asctaNSW, and she is also a Life Member of the ascta National branch.

Life Membership Award - Graham Towle OAM: A Legacy of Excellence and Dedication

Graham Towle OAM, a name synonymous with excellence, was honored for his decades-long commitment to swimming. Since the early 1980s, Graham has actively contributed at all levels of the sport. He began as a voluntary Learn to Swim Instructor and subsequently earned qualifications as a Technical Official. Throughout his journey, he graced pool decks at Club, Area, State, and Australian levels, embodying integrity and fairness.

Graham's leadership extended to various committees and boards, including the SNSW Technical Swimming Committee (TSC) and the SNSW Audit and Risk Committee, where his insights played a crucial role in shaping policies and initiatives.

In 2009, Graham was elected to the Swimming NSW Board of Directors, a position he held until 2022, showcasing his reputation as a visionary and dedicated leader.

Service Excellence Award - Chris Hayes: A Lifetime of Service and Mentorship

Chris Hayes, a true icon of the swimming community, was celebrated for his remarkable contributions. Since 1978, Chris has been an active volunteer as a Technical Official for weekly club nights at his local swimming club in Deniliquin. His dedication and expertise as Club Referee earned him Life Membership of the club in 1991.

Over the years, Chris extended his influence to district meets and school swimming, voluntarily officiating at various events for over 25 years. His proficiency as a mentor for Technical Officials across NSW has elevated the standards of the sport.

Furthermore, Chris's involvement in swimming administration saw him elected to the prestigious SNSW Technical Swimming Committee (TSC), serving from 2014 until 2022. Additionally, he served as a valued member of the SNSW Audit and Risk Committee, ensuring governance and financial matters were held to the highest standards.

The Swimming NSW community came together to celebrate these four exemplary individuals, each of whom has made an indelible impact on the sport. Their dedication, leadership, and expertise have shaped swimming in New South Wales, inspiring generations of swimmers and officials alike. The 2023 Service Excellence and Life Membership Awards highlighted the true champions of the swimming community and their contributions that will resonate for years to come.