Blacktown top cop named NSW Volunteer of the Year
Blacktown police officer honoured for tireless community work.
Blacktown
Don't miss out on the headlines from Blacktown. Followed categories will be added to My News.
- Blacktown pastry shop Pasticceria Via Reggio celebrates milestone
- New Sydney Zoo wins right to extend its hours
Bob Fitzgerald is known for his tireless commitment to the community, and now the much-respected police officer has been recognised with the state’s top volunteering award.
The Chief Inspector with Blacktown police was named NSW Volunteer of the Year at a ceremony for The Centre for Volunteering’s 13th annual awards in Sydney.
The father of seven and Eastern Creek resident, who was named western Sydney’s volunteer of the year in August, was honoured with a standing ovation for his work with dozens of organisations across the Blacktown area.
More than 120,000 nominations were received for the 2019 awards, which celebrate the work of volunteers across NSW.
Mr Fitzgerald has dedicated his life to helping the western Sydney community and sporting groups, including SydWest Multicultural Services, the Blacktown Bears Rugby League Club and western Sydney Aboriginal Men’s Group.
Speaking after the awards on Thursday, Mr Fitzgerald dedicated the award to all volunteers in western Sydney.
“I feel really humbled,” he said.
“I really want to share the accolade with everyone I have worked with.
“It’s a good thing for western Sydney and it’s an award for all the volunteers of western Sydney.
“We’ve got some really kind-hearted people who live, work and breathe western Sydney. This is for all the volunteers, no matter where you are, but especially the ones out west.”
A police officer of more than 35 years, Mr Fitzgerald has worked as an advocate for women fleeing domestic violence, the homeless and people battling drug addiction.
In the sporting arena, Mr Fitzgerald has volunteered as a coach, administrator and event coordinator with local netball and rugby league clubs. His work spans from helping up-and-coming athletes to assisting at Olympic and Paralympic events.
A supporter said Mr Fitzgerald was a true leader in the western Sydney community.
“Bob leaves a legacy of significantly influencing positive and lasting change for women, children, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse groups and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities,” they said.
“He gives so much for western Sydney – he’s a man of the people.”
The Centre for Volunteering’s CEO Gemma Rygate said awards acknowledged the efforts of those who went above and beyond to help their community.
“The awards give us the opportunity to hear their stories, be inspired by their actions and pass on our thanks,” Ms Rygate said.
“There is no better job, than being able to meet these special volunteers and celebrate their
contribution.”