The Melbourne Rebels are thrilled that foundation Board Member Bob Dalziel has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to Victorian Rugby by being acknowledged as a Member of the Order of Australia.
Dalziel made his mark as a prominent Victorian rugby and business figure, serving as an ARU Director from 2006-2009 before becoming a foundation Director of the Melbourne Rebels in 2011.
He has also served as patron of the Victorian Schools Rugby Union since 1994.A former Coles Myer Director, Dalziel is also heavily involved with leading charities Oxfam, Red Shield and the Fred Hollows Foundation.Melbourne Rebels CEO Baden Stephenson says Dalziel’s contribution to the Melbourne Rebels has been immense.
“There isn’t a more deserving person of this recognition than Bob,” Stephenson said.
“Bob’s contribution to the growth of Rugby in Victoria spans decades, and it’s remarkable the time he has donated to the promotion of the game over the years given his corporate and family commitments.
Our team room is named after Bob and there is no higher honour than that at our Club.
That is the level of respect and influence Bob has within our community.”Melbourne Rebels Chairman Paul Docherty echoed Stephenson’s thoughts, saying Dalziel’s hard work has helped Victorian Rugby thrive.
“Rugby in Victoria would not be where it is today without the immense influence of Bob Dalziel,” Docherty said.
“Bob’s work at both Victorian School and in professional level has drawn the admiration of many, and we are forever grateful for the tireless effort Bob has shown to help grow the game in a traditionally non-rugby landscape.”
“Bob’s contribution is even more significant when considered alongside his dedication to philanthropy and other charities he is passionate about.Melbourne Rebels inaugural captain Stirling Mortlock has also praised Dalziel for his support of the Club during the Melbourne Rebels initial launch into Super Rugby.
“From the embryonic stages of the Club’s development in the mid-2000’s, I know Bob was a major influence in helping drive the dream of Super Rugby in Victoria,” Mortlock said.
“Everyone at the Club loves Bob for his passion for rugby and his work to help support an elite environment which gave us the best chance to continue our development as rugby players.
There is no greater gift players can be provided and I hope that today’s recognition of Bob means many take stock to recognise all he has done for Rebels players over the years.”
