Ipswich & District Athletics’ Vic Pascoe wins QLD Volunteer of the Year award

“Not only is Vic our President, but he is also a Sprints and Hurdles Coach, Newsletter Writer, PR Person, Photographer, and Bunnings BBQ Sausage Chef. He attends regular shield meets and films track races, so that he can put them on YouTube for others to view,” said Club Secretary, Theresa Stolberg. 

Mr Pascoe achieved the Good Sports award for making his club stronger and more family-friendly by going above and beyond the usual undertakings of a volunteer.   

Hosted by the Alcohol and Drug Foundation at Parliament House, Canberra in February 2023, the Awards ceremony recognised Good Sports clubs and their dedicated volunteers from across the country who are passionate about community, their members and making their club the very best it can be.

Loved and admired by the whole club

“Vic is the backbone of our club. He is loved and admired by all who meet him. He is at every single function, event and presentation without fail. Not only does he attend all local meets, he self-funds to all national and international meets, to support our local athletes in action. Even a recent knee replacement hasn’t stopped Vic from attending track and field events.”  

“If one of our club members has won a medal, Vic will be there to proudly get their photo and show support to them and their family. He is also there to inspire those who may not win a medal but have achieved a personal best performance,” Theresa said. 

The club said that the 73-year-old spends hours of his time dedicated to producing the club’s monthly newsletter, which includes a trivia question. 

“The first person who emails him with the right answer, wins a box of chocolates, which Vic purchases out of his own money,” said Theresa.

Additionally, the club said that Mr Pascoe has volunteered at more than 300 Park Run events, including setting up and packing up tents and tables.

“Not only does he volunteer but he’ll often have a go at the 5km run on a Saturday morning, trying to improve his times,” Theresa explained.

Ipswich & District Athletics Club is a Gold Medal accredited Good Sports club, which means it has a policy that covers alcohol and tobacco management, illegal drugs, mental health and safe transport.