Decades of volunteering recognised by the Try Boys Brigade

DECADES of service have been recognised as the Try Boys Brigade inducts two new life members.

Aaron Green and Wayne Myers joined the Try Boys Brigade committee 16 years ago, working tirelessly in their roles to ensure the best outcomes for the Geelong community.

Sitting president Green said he was shocked to receive the accolade, having not known his name had been presented to the committee for consideration.

Involved with Try Boys since he was young, Green has a generational connection to the club. Today, he has helped guide the brigade into the modern era while maintaining its core values.

“Aaron’s commitment has always reflected the core values of our organisation – respect, teamwork, dedication and community spirit,” his nomination read.

“His influence has had a lasting and positive impact, shaping not only the operational strength of the brigade but also its culture and reputation.”

Green first started playing basketball with Try Boys when he was seven, moving into volunteer and coaching roles as he got older.

He joined the committee as vice-president in 2010 and stepped into the top role in 2020.

Reflecting on his time with Try Boys, he said he was proud of the work he had done.

“You think, ‘Oh well, I’m just helping, I’m not really doing anything special’, but when they read out everything, you go, well I’ve done a little bit,” Green said.

“It was a shock, and it was certainly something you don’t go seeking.”

Green accepted the honour alongside Myers, who was recognised for efforts “well beyond what is ordinarily expected of a member”.

Myers became involved with the brigade through the Scouts program, initially joining as a Scouts representative before moving on to the committee.

He said he finds satisfaction in contributing to something bigger than himself.

“I’m somebody who doesn’t like just being part of a committee but have to be involved in things,” Myers said.

With 19 years already under his belt, Myers said he has no plans to step away anytime soon.

“I don’t give up on things,” he said. “I’m heavily involved in Scouts, I’m heavily involved in the Uniting Church, Order of Australia, Order of St John, all those things that you just commit to and say, ‘Yes, I do’.”