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2026 - Sue O'Connell

Without any hesitation, we proudly announce the recipient of one of this year’s Silver Heart awards is to go to an amazing lady, who has been at the helm of our Brave Hearts Dragon Boat history since its very beginning — the one and only Sue O’Connell.
 
It was Sue, who in 2005, worked closely with Frank Lange and Ian Bruce at the NSW Institute of TAFE to successfully present and promote the concept of a Dragon Boat Building Project to the head of TAFE. At the time, Sue was a highly regarded advocate and a strong voice for people with disabilities within TAFE. Throughout the entire project, Sue worked tirelessly behind the scenes as our constant spokesperson, making sure we were treated fairly — so much so that at times, she made us feel like royalty!
 
Sue’s support for Brave Hearts never diminished after the launch of our boat. She was always the first to put her hand up and offer her help in any way she could. She joined the BHDBC as a social member in July 2015 and, just a few short months later, in September 2015, became a much appreciated and respected member of our Brave Hearts on the Murray Committee, where she proudly served until June 2018.
 
She continued as a social member of the BHDBC until October 2021, when she decided to try her hand at paddling. And she’s still paddling today! Sue has represented Brave Hearts at the Australian Championships in Perth in 2024, Penrith in 2025 and Kawana Waters in 2026, as well as the Masters Games Senior C in 2025, along with numerous other dragon boat regattas.
 
Sue undertook several key leadership roles, including Team Manager, Assistant Coordinator, and then finally the role of Coordinator of our Dragon Boat Club, making an amazing contribution from May 2024 until May 2026. In each of these positions, she demonstrated exceptional commitment, leadership, reliability, and a genuine passion for supporting others.
 
In 2025, Sue even achieved another important milestone — she got her ‘P’ plates to drive the Gateway Lake Users Group ride-on mower and keep the area around our shed and car park looking its best. The way Sue handled those two steering arms was nothing short of a masterclass in precision mowing!
Sue is also a much-loved volunteer at our Wig Library, where her warm and welcoming personality, genuine empathy and compassion for each person who walks through the door, are greatly appreciated by everyone she meets. Sue exemplifies the values and spirit of Brave Hearts. She is a constant ambassador for our organisation, representing Brave Hearts positively within the broader community and helping to strengthen our reputation through her actions and dedication. Sue is well known for her kindness, compassion, and support of fellow members.
 
Sue O’Connell’s selfless service, leadership, and dedication have made a significant and lasting impact on Brave Hearts and its members. Hence there is no doubt that Sue is an exceptionally worthy recipient of the Brave Hearts Silver Heart Award.