Having been informed her husband Arthur was to be honoured at this year’s Australia Day Breakfast in the Park celebrations with a special award for his contribution to the sports of indoor and lawn bowls, Audrey was worried she may let the cat out of the bag before the big day.

She was also worried how she might get her husband to the park.

However, Audrey kept both sides of the deal and was as proud as punch when her husband was called forward to collect his award.

The Contribution to Sport award replaced the traditional Sportsperson of the Year gong for 2012 and no one in attendance could argue that Arthur Frederick Ward was a deserving recipient.

Arthur began his love affair with lawn bowls more than 40 years ago, however it is his work off the green as much as his participation on it that has given him so much joy.

Almost immediately after taking up the game at the Cootamundra Country Club, Arthur joined the men’s bowls committee holding literally every executive position over the years and today still fills the vital role of secretary.

He is a past president of not only the men’s section, but also at South West and District level and has held his Umpire’s Certificate since 1973.

Arthur is pivotal to the organisation of a number of social competitions at his club and for many years has transcribed the results into the pages of the paper in his role as publicity officer.

Arthur enjoys the indoor game just as much as the outdoor variety and his enthusiasm for the sport is evident as he often drives around town collecting players from their homes and driving them to the club.

He has been recognised for his efforts with Life Membership of the Country Club and is a former recipient of the Administrator Award at the annual Sportsperson of the Year Dinner.

In accepting his award yesterday, Arthur said he was “completely surprised and so honoured”.

“Now I know why Audrey was so keen for us to come to the breakfast this year,” he said.

“I can’t believe she kept it a secret from me.”