Congratulations to our former player and Coach Garry Leo (1974-1978) on being awarded an OAM. A fantastic achievement for many years service to Rugby League and the community. See attached notice from the Balmain Tigers.
From the Balmain Tigers.
GARRY LEO OAM
Congratulations to Balmain Tiger No 560 Garry Leo, who was awarded at Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia in the General Division in the Australia Day Honours for 2023 for service to rugby league and to the community.
A local Balmain junior, Leo played 173 first grade games for Balmain as a front rower, including as part of the 1969 premiership winning team. He was awarded life membership of the club in 1994 and has been a director since 2018.
Post his playing career at the Tigers, Garry captain-coached North Newcastle and has been a member of the Newcastle Hunter Branch of the Family of League (formerly Men of League) Foundation since 2009, and is currently its president. He has also served on the board of the Hunter Prostate Cancer Alliance since 2009 and the Leagues Clubs Association of New South Wales.
On behalf of everyone at the Balmain Tigers, congratulations to a true Tiger on your award; a well deserved honour