Paul Podbury Wins AFL Victoria's Top Volunteer Award
The Woodend Hesket Football Netball Club is bursting with pride following the announcement that Co-President Paul Podbury has been awarded the prestigious 2025 AFL Victoria Metropolitan Community Volunteer of the Year Award.
Each year, the AFL, in partnership with naming rights sponsor Toyota, recognises volunteers and administrators who have made an outstanding contribution to Australian Football through the Toyota AFL National Volunteer Awards. Paul's dedication, leadership, and tireless commitment to the club and broader community have earned him this incredible honour.
For those who know Paul, this award comes as no surprise. His fingerprints are all over the success and growth of the Woodend Hesket Football Netball Club. From strategic planning and community engagement to the day-to-day operations that keep a club of over 20 teams running smoothly, Paul's contribution extends far beyond what most people see.
"Paul's dedication to our club and community has been nothing short of exceptional," said fellow committee members. "This award is richly deserved recognition for the countless hours, passion, and leadership he brings to Woodend Hesket Football Netball Club."
Under Paul's co-presidency, the club has grown from strength to strength. The 2025 season saw remarkable success across all levels, with 10 teams making finals, including the A Grade netball team securing their historic third consecutive premiership.
But Paul's vision extends beyond wins and losses. He's been instrumental in developing succession planning strategies to ensure the club's long-term sustainability, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone from Auskick to seniors feels welcome, and strengthening the connections that make the Nest more than just a sporting club - it's a community hub.
Paul's leadership style is characterized by collaboration, dedication, and a genuine care for people. Whether it's mentoring new committee members, supporting coaches and volunteers, or ensuring every player has the resources they need to thrive, Paul leads by example.
His work alongside Co-President James Chettle and the broader leadership team has positioned the club for continued growth while maintaining the values and community spirit that make Woodend Hesket special.
While this award recognizes Paul individually, he would be the first to point out that success at the Nest is a team effort. The award reflects not just Paul's commitment, but the culture of volunteerism and community spirit that defines the club.
"This honour belongs to everyone who contributes to our club," Paul has said. "From our coaches and volunteers to our sponsors and supporters - we all play a part in making the Nest what it is."
Paul was presented with the award at a special ceremony, with members of the Woodend Hesket community in attendance to share in the celebration. Jordan Doyle, CEO of the Riddell District Football Netball League, was among those present to congratulate Paul on this outstanding achievement.
The award adds to what has been an exceptional year for the club, which has also celebrated Cooper Duff-Tytler's journey to the AFL Draft and outstanding on-field success across multiple grades.
On behalf of everyone at the Woodend Hesket Football Netball Club—players, families, volunteers, and the broader community—congratulations, Paul. Your leadership, dedication, and genuine care for others make our club stronger, and this recognition is thoroughly deserved.
Here's to many more years at the Nest, and to the positive impact he continues to make in our community.
Go Hawks! 🤎💛
The Toyota AFL National Volunteer Awards celebrate the dedicated volunteers who are the backbone of Australian Football, recognizing their outstanding contribution to clubs and communities across the country.
