To mark National Volunteer Week, we spoke with Wayne Mace, whose volunteer journey with St Mary’s spans three decades.
Reflecting on his early days, Wayne fondly recalls, “My kids, Liam and Sean, started at St Mary’s Junior Club in 1994, and from there, our involvement just grew. Liz and I jumped in to lend a hand wherever we could.” What began as parental support soon turned evolved into playing a big part in the club’s success.
From manning the bar on Friday and Sunday nights to grilling burgers at Sunday BBQs, Wayne was always on hand to help. He even took on the role of permanent boundary umpire until the league provided them, and painted the goal posts at Whatmough Park.
In 1997, Wayne joined the committee, serving as President for two consecutive years from 1999, before handing it over to his mate Kym Irvine.
Even after his sons moved on from football in 2001, Wayne continued contributing to the junior club, working on the bar with Kym and Rodney Johnson. His dedication earned him Life Membership in 2002.
As the Senior Club finally took shape in 2009, Wayne’s commitment continued. “We didn’t have a home ground at first, so I’d haul equipment in my ute from ground to ground,” he recalls.
Of course, his most known contribution is the iconic Blue Oyster Can Bar, established in the first season, although without its famous name. Today, Wayne still mans the bar, now joined by Kym and Rodney Johnson. What was once just Wayne grabbing a few slabs of beers for the dads, is now a staple at home games, providing valuable income for the Club.
“The name ‘Blue Oyster Bar’ came about when I sponsored Ryan Pieper as a player sponsor – we took the name from the Police Academy movies!” Wayne explained with a grin.
His involvement did extend beyond the bar, serving on the Senior Club Committee and even taking on the role of Treasurer for two years. “Stepping away from committee work was a tough decision,” he admits, “but I felt it was time for new perspectives.”
In 2023, Wayne and his wife Liz were honoured with Senior Club Life Membership, a fitting tribute to their commitment. “Our involvement began with our boys, but it’s grown into so much more,” Wayne reflects. “Although neither of our sons even played at the Senior Club, we’ve made lifelong friends and cherished memories along the way. That’s what volunteering is all about.”
SMFNC 