John Smith thanked for decades of service to RSL Sporting Body

John Smith has been acknowledged for his decades of service to the RSL Sporting Body.

Smith recently stepped down as president of the organisation which is dedicated to promoting all community sports and providing opportunities for local athletes.

His beginnings with the group stretch back to his days representing netball.

Smith then enjoyed two decades as president, following on from the late Barry Stanford.

Stanford, who was a much-loved figure in the community, holds the record as the group’s longest serving president at 21 years.

“I didn’t want to surpass Barry,” Smith said, acknowledging it was important to honour Stanford’s legacy.

“I felt I owed Barry that honour.”

As president, Smith has made his own mark on the RSL Sporting Body which has sponsored many clubs and individuals during his long tenure.

“There have been so many over the years,” he said.

“There are many names that come to mind.”

Smith acknowledged the dedication of the committee which has served as a great support in all his years.

“I’ve had a great committee behind me all of that time,” he said.

“My time as president has been wonderful.”

He’s quick to highlight Lyn Wedesweiler’s lengthy dedication as treasurer, serving for almost 30 years including under Stanford’s years leading the RSL Sporting Body.

Similarly, Smith also offered his thanks to long-serving secretary and fellow life member Joan O’Neil.

“Joan has been wonderful to the RSL Sporting Body, and to me personally,” he said. “I’ve always had the support of my committee.”

Smith also acknowledged the support of Club Narrabri CEO Paul Gordon, president Bruce O’Hara and the RSL staff.

His greatest thanks went to his wife and family for supporting his community endeavours.

Smith recalls the group’s many activities in its history, including its big presentation nights.

The RSL Sporting Body also would hold theme nights.

While some of these events no longer operate, the core purpose of the RSL Sporting Body remains unchanged.

John Smith with incoming president Angela Young.

“If we can help in any way to the athletes to fulfil their potential, that’s what we’re all about,” Smith said.

Smith said it is rewarding to see the impact the group’s support has on clubs and individuals.

He said this was particularly the case with their Saturday night raffles and seeing the recipients offer their support.

“It’s great to see them give back and help out,” Smith said.

Smith said the Christmas raffles had also proved to be a hit over the years and is particularly proud of the Anzac Day breakfast.

The RSL Sporting Body provides the breakfast as a way of further giving back to the community.

“It’s one of the highlights of the year,” Smith said.

The group receives wide praise from visitors and ex-service personnel and their families for providing this service.

Smith was recently acknowledged by the RSL Sporting Body for his outstanding dedication after new office bearers were elected.

He had been awarded life membership in 2025 for his extensive dedication to the group.

Smith handed the reins to Angela Young, who was recently appointed as president.

“I know that Ange will fill that position wonderfully,” Smith said.

Smith said the organisation was in good hands and will continue to prosper.

Young offered her thanks to Smith and described him as a great role model for the community.

“He has done so much for sporting in general,” she said.

“We’re going to miss him.”

Smith has been a constant presence across all the organisation’s activities, including catering for the Anzac Day breakfasts, selling tickets at the RSL and presentation nights.

“John was very much an organiser and a people person,” said Young, who had served as Smith’s vice president.

“It has been a pleasure to work with him.”

Other new office bearers for the RSL Sporting Body committee include Craig O’Connor, senior-vice president; Jason Trindall, junior vice-president; Lyn Wedesweiler, treasurer; Joan O’Neil, secretary; and Tracey Tomlinson, publicity officer.

Robin Trindall and Rod Tomlinson will serve as general committee members.