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Waverley HC Patron 1994 – 2023

RH+2006

A Patron is a person of distinction who can be called upon at anytime for advice or guidance on club strategy, operations and activities as needed.

Vale Russell Hannan  

Extract from Parliament of Victoria website…

‘Russell Hannan was a loyal and committed member of the Liberal family. Russell was a former state president, vice-president and treasurer, holding numerous positions at an executive and local level for decades. He distinguished himself with his commitment, tireless energy, loyalty and hard work, and was well known for his command of the stage as an auctioneer at many local fundraising events. He dedicated much of his life towards the electoral success of the Liberal Party and leaves a substantial legacy as a servant of the party. Thoughts are with his family: his wife, his daughters, his grandchildren, his sister and his brother. Vale, Russell Hannan 14.04.50 – 19.03.23’

Waverley HC sincerely thanks Russell for his service to our Club. The Club called upon Russell over the years to help with numerous issues the club has faced during its growth.

Russell was elected to Waverley Council in 1980 and retired when amalgamations occurred in 1995. He was the Mayor of the City in 1985/1986 and again in 1991/1992.

Russell was introduced to the Waverley Hockey Club via Bob Trewin (dec), when he was a councillor with the City of Waverley. Bob and the club’s management were seeking a permanent home for the Waverley Hockey Club due to issues arising with the clubs location in Electra Avenue, Jordanville. With the help of Russell’s West Ward Councillors, Russell convinced the council with approvals and funding to consolidate at Winbirra Parade, Ashwood in 1986.

In 1986 further funds were required to install the first synthetic grass surface at the Club. Russell was approached again by the Club when it became evident the club was in dire need of clubroom facilities. Again permits and monetary assistance were required, and in the 1990’s clubroom facilities were added in two stages. Russell opened the Bob Trewin Pavilion in what he notes was one of his proudest moments on Waverley Council.

Russell was then asked to be Patron of Waverley Hockey Club around 1994 and was informed by the Club it had never had a patron. Russell saw that as a great honour.

Whilst not on council when a new synthetic surface was needed by the Club, Russell was approached by the then President and assisted with council and others to raise the funds required.