MILLICENT’S Craig Tunkin is the toast of the sporting community across South Australia as he was named the AFL Volunteer of the Year on Tuesday night.
The football fraternity gathered at Adelaide Oval for the Magarey Medal count but all the local interest was on the man who has been president of the Millicent Football Netball Club for four years.
His nomination had come from his fellow club members and it also recognised his contribution as chairman of McLaughlin Park Sports Incorporated.
Ahead of the function, the judges deemed Mr Tunkin one of the eight finalists and then his name was announced as the winner at this week’s gala ceremony.
His prize includes participation in the AFL grand final parade through the streets of Melbourne.
Mr Tunkin was accompanied to the function by one of his predecessors Terry Mead who made a special trip from Western Australia.
“It was humbling to receive the award,” Mr Tunkin said.
“I love being around the club and footy clubs have been a big part of my life.
“I will be taking my wife Paula to the grand final and I hope my team Richmond will be playing.”
A public statement issued by the Millicent Football Netball Club revealed the pride felt by the Saints for their president.
“Our main man has done it,” the statement said.
“There is not a big enough congratulation we can give Craig Tunkin on his endless amount of hours and effort that have contributed to his winning of the AFL Volunteer of the Year award.
“The club is extremely proud to call Craig our president and he could not be any more deserving of such a huge honour.”
His success is part of a significant week in the life of the Millicent Football Netball Club.
Its footballers and netballers enjoyed great success when the annual Western Border awards were announced at a gala night at Casterton on Monday.
Meanwhile, the Saints will be welcoming the Western Border fraternity to McLaughlin Park on Saturday for the preliminary finals.
