Community, Champions & Commitment: Holman Barnes Group Celebrates 63rd Magpie Sports Awards in Style
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Inner West Sydney – Friday, 30 May 2025 – The spirit of sportsmanship and community pride took centre stage as the 63rd Annual Magpie Sports Awards unfolded in a dazzling black-tie celebration at the Wests Ashfield Leagues Club. Hosted by the Holman Barnes Group (HBG), the event honoured the extraordinary achievements of local athletes, dedicated volunteers, and rising stars from across the Inner West.
Now in its 63rd year, the Magpie Sports Awards have become a cornerstone of community recognition, spotlighting those whose dedication, passion, and performance elevate sport beyond the field. This year’s ceremony was no exception, blending prestige with heartfelt celebration as attendees applauded excellence at every level of participation.
2025 Magpie Sports Award Winners
- Magpie Award: Timothy Hodge, Swimming NSW
- Magpie Junior Award: Sienna Toohey, Swimming NSW
- Magpie Volunteer Award: Alan Hill, Balmain Touch
- Magpie Team Award (Senior): ACC Seniors 4th Grade 2023/24, ACC Cricket Club
- Magpie Team Award (Junior): Emily McHale, Samantha Hutton, Elise Tran-Dinh, Gymnastic NSW
- Directors’ Encouragement Award: Frances Walsh, Balmain Touch
Each recipient and their respective sporting organisations received a share of $18,000 in prize money, along with an exclusive 1-year gym membership at CSP Athletes Factory, providing them with further support and resources to continue their athletic endeavours.
A highlight of the evening was a powerful panel discussion with Wests Tigers NRLW stars Brooke Talataina and Harmony Crichton, who shared personal insights into the demands and rewards of professional sport. Their stories inspired a new generation of attendees and reinforced the event’s core theme: that community sport is both a proving ground and a pillar of personal growth.
HBG’s broad portfolio—which includes Wests Ashfield, Croydon Sports, Markets Club, and the future Balmain Leagues Club—exemplifies its holistic approach to nurturing grassroots sport. With strategic representation in Wests Magpies and shareholding in the Wests Tigers, the group plays a vital role in fostering local talent and sporting infrastructure.
Notably, HBG has contributed $2.4 million to 33 grassroots sporting clubs for the 2025 season to date, reflecting its unwavering belief in the power of sport to transform lives and build resilient communities.
The 2025 Magpie Sports Awards not only paid tribute to individual and team accomplishments but also signalled a bright future for community sport in Sydney’s Inner West. With the continued support of Holman Barnes Group, the region is poised to inspire, develop, and celebrate a new wave of champions—on the field, in the stands, and behind the scenes.
For more information, interviews or photos:
Michelle Nielsen | Executive Manager – HR/People & Culture
P: (02) 8752 2000 | E: michelle.nielsen@holmanbarnesgroup.com.au
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