JOHN JANISSEN
2006

John Janissen, known as ‘JJ’, was awarded Life Membership of the Lake Macquarie Dockers at the inaugural Crows Ball in 2006. A founding member of the club, JJ has played a key role since its inception, serving in multiple committee positions over the years. He was instrumental in establishing the Dockers’ first 1st Grade team, which entered the Black Diamond AFL in 2008, a major milestone in the club’s progression.

JJ has also supported the development of the senior women’s programme, contributing to its growth and integration within the club. In addition to his work with the Dockers, JJ is a Life Member of Newcastle City AFC, recognising his broader contribution to community football in the region.

JJ’s Life Membership reflects his ongoing commitment, leadership, and significant impact on the club’s foundation and growth.

DR JOHN RELIC
2008

John was awarded Life Membership in 2008. John over the past 10 years has held the position of Club President and has during this period also coached our junior grades. John has worked tirelessly to keep both the junior and senior clubs a competitive unit in their respective associations.

PETER JESSOP
2008

Peter Jessop was awarded Life Membership of the Lake Macquarie Dockers in 2008 in recognition of his long-standing service to the club. A dedicated committee member, Peter held the role of Club Secretary for seven years, providing consistent leadership and administrative support. Widely recognised in the football community as the club’s timekeeper, Peter became a familiar and reliable presence on game days.

Throughout his time with the Dockers, Peter played an important role in liaising with local council. He was a key contributor in the planning and delivery of major infrastructure upgrades, including the installation of oval lighting and improvements to club facilities.

ANDREW DRUITT
2012

Andrew joined the club in 2003, back when it was known as the Crows. He began by coaching junior teams before moving into a leadership role overseeing the club’s football operations.

Andrew was instrumental in the club’s transition to First Grade, managing the recruitment of players and coaches to support the step up in competition. One of his most significant contributions came in 2011, when he led the implementation of the Dockers partnership, including the club’s name change and updated playing strip.

His leadership helped shape the modern identity of the Lake Macquarie Dockers and laid the groundwork for the club’s continued growth.

SHARON DRUITT
2012

Sharon Druitt has been one of the club’s most dedicated and valued contributors, known for her unwavering support and tireless work behind the scenes. A long-time committee member, Sharon played a key role in the day-to-day operations of both junior and senior football.

She is best known for her years as canteen manager, where her organisation, consistency, and warmth turned the canteen into a hub for players, families, and visitors. Her efforts created a welcoming space that became central to the club’s community atmosphere.

Beyond the canteen, Sharon was instrumental in coordinating volunteers, organising events, and ensuring game days ran smoothly. She provided support in countless ways, from preparing food and managing uniforms to simply being a reliable and enthusiastic presence.

Sharon’s lasting legacy is one of loyalty, generosity, and quiet leadership, a true reflection of her commitment to the success and spirit of the Lake Macquarie Dockers.

GREG HALLS
2013

Greg became involved with the Lake Macquarie Dockers in 2004 when his son Aaron joined the club. In the early years, he coached several junior teams before moving into committee roles, including several years as Club Secretary. Greg played a key role in many club projects, with one of his most significant contributions being the design and construction of the club’s first scoreboard structure, completed in partnership with Peter Jessop.

Although work took him overseas in recent years, Greg has returned and is once again actively involved, continuing his long-standing support of the club.


RAY GOOLEY
2013

Ray became involved with the Lake Macquarie Dockers in 1998 when his sons began playing junior football. He initially coached several junior teams before taking on the role of team manager, which he held for seven years. Ray has contributed to the club committee at various times, most recently serving as Club Secretary for seven years, providing steady leadership and support across club operations.

He continues to volunteer as timekeeper at home games and has been a key figure in driving improvements to the club’s facilities and playing grounds. His efforts have played an important role in securing and delivering infrastructure upgrades that benefit the entire club community. Ray’s long-term commitment and hands-on contribution reflect his dedication to the club’s ongoing development and success.

 Tim Clark

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Mathew Meares

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Mick Sleeth
2020 

Mick Sleeth has been a committed and respected figure at the Lake Macquarie Dockers, contributing as a player, coach, committee member, and now Club President (2025). His involvement began in the mid-2000s as a player, including being part of the senior side that made the 2008 grand final. He continued to play occasionally until 2017, even lining up alongside his son Rory.

Mick’s coaching journey spans from Auskick to senior football, including leading the U15s to an undefeated premiership in 2015. He’s coached numerous age groups and senior sides, and also held regional representative coaching roles, highlighting his leadership and football knowledge.

Off the field, Mick has served on the committee since 2013, playing a vital role in shaping the club’s direction and supporting its community.

Mick’s contributions have helped build a strong, inclusive club culture. His dedication and leadership continue to make a lasting impact across all levels of the Dockers.

Brad Farrell
2024

 Brad joined the club in 2009 during its time as the Lake Macquarie Crows. In his first full season, he was awarded Reserve Grade Best & Fairest playing at fullback and went on to make 139 senior appearances. Following his playing career, Brad joined the committee, leading Social and Events for several seasons. In 2013, he stepped into the role of Senior President and went on to serve as either Senior or Junior President for the next decade.

Under his leadership, the club achieved major milestones, including its first Junior Premiership in 2014 and the Senior Women’s Premiership in 2022.Brad also coached Newcastle’s Under 13 and Under 15 representative teams and continues to coach at club level, including leading the U15s to an undefeated premiership in 2022.

Brad stepped back from executive roles at the end of 2024 but remains an active committee member and coach.

Jodi Janissen 
20?? 

Jodi Janissen has been a valued member of the Lake Macquarie Dockers since the club’s foundation in 1996. From the beginning, she has played an active role across many areas, consistently offering support both on and off the field.

Over the years, Jodi has taken on roles such as team manager and club support officer, helping to keep teams and operations running smoothly. Her dedication, reliability, and approachable nature have made her a trusted and respected presence within the club community.

Jodi’s involvement has always been family-focused, with all three of her children playing for the club and two still actively involved. She has given countless hours to support not just her own family, but the broader playing group as well.

Her long-term commitment reflects her passion for community sport and her belief in creating a positive environment for young players to thrive. Jodi remains a vital part of the Dockers family.