Life Members awarded OAMs

The Illawarra Hawks would like to recognise and congratulate two of the Club’s Life Members, Arthur Booth and Geoff Phillips, on receiving 2023 Kings Birthday Honours.

Booth and Phillips received the highest Order of Australia award, the Medal of Order (OAM) in appreciation of their significant contributions to the Illawarra community. 

Booth, owner and managing director of Booth Signs, has dedicated his life to serving the city of Wollongong, with his remarkable contributions spanning Rotary, local youth and mental health organisations, and his unwavering support for the Illawarra Hawks Basketball Club for over 40 years.

Committed to Rotary since 1966, Booth's involvement has spanned a diverse range of committees. From Rotary District 9675 (formerly 9750) to Rotary International, he has left an indelible mark on the organisation.

Booth's commitment extends to championing local youth and mental health organisations for over 50 years, sponsoring groundbreaking research into youth suicide at the University of Wollongong.

He is an integral part of the Illawarra Hawks family, and after four decades of service to the club providing unwavering support as a sponsor and dedicated fan, he is still an active volunteer today.

Geoff Phillips, a veteran Illawarra newsreader with an illustrious career spanning nearly five decades in radio and TV, has become an unmistakable figure within the Illawarra community.

Joining WIN News in 1988, he seamlessly merged his passion for sports and extensive radio experience to become the Hawks court announcer, captivating audiences with his dynamic commentary of Hawks' games.

In 1999 Phillips also hosted WIN Network’s locally-produced weekly 1-hour program “Hawks Air Time”, which covered the progress of the then Wollongong Hawks in the national competition including player profiles, interviews and match highlights.

Beyond his on-screen presence, Phillips actively engages in fundraising initiatives and proudly holds a prestigious Life Membership with the Illawarra Hawks Basketball Club.

Through his remarkable contributions, Geoff Phillips has cemented his legacy as a broadcasting legend and a passionate advocate for the Illawarra Hawks.

The Illawarra Hawks have a rich history and passionate fanbase, and life members like Arthur Booth and Geoff Phillips epitomise the unwavering support and commitment that its members are known for.

Their recognition in the 2023 Kings Birthday Honours emphasises the impact these individuals have had on the local community, and the Illawarra Hawks express immense gratitude to both Booth and Phillips for their exceptional service to the community and the club.