Hinchinbrook’s Lenny Chiesa OAM has been recognised on the statewide stage, taking home the prestigious Service to Sport Award at the QSport 2025 Queensland Sport Awards on 27 November. The achievement follows his recent win at the North Queensland Sportstar Awards and reflects more than fifty years of service to Surf Lifesaving and Rugby League.
Lenny’s sporting journey began locally after he won the Ingham Lions Club Sportstar of the Year Award. From there, the club nominated him for the North Queensland Sportstar Awards. His commitment has shaped generations of athletes, volunteers and community members, and he continues to be held in high regard throughout Hinchinbrook.
The night’s ceremony highlighted the breadth of his impact, and Lenny expressed heartfelt gratitude for the honour.
"I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive this special recognition. To be acknowledged in this way, especially among so many inspiring people who give so much to sport and to their communities across our state, is truly overwhelming."
He reflected on the lifelong role Surf Life Saving has played.
"Surf Life Saving has been a huge part of my life for many years. From the age of 14, when I earned my Bronze Medallion, it has shaped me, challenged me and connected me with incredible people. But above all, it has given me the privilege of serving others—and I believe that is why we all do what we do."
Lenny also shared his appreciation for the mentors who guided him.
"I have been extremely fortunate to have amazing mentors in my life from such a young age through sport, some of the very best, who helped shape me into who I am today. Many of them are no longer with us, but I honour them with this award as well."
He spoke warmly about working with First Nations young men in recent years.
"In recent years, I’ve had the privilege of working with First Nations young men, helping them gain their lifesaving awards, become lifesavers and coaching them in surf sports. These boys have certainly left a mark on my life, and I am grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside them."
Lenny thanked those who had supported him throughout his journey.
"I want to thank the Queensland Government, QSport for this recognition. Thank you also to my club, my colleagues, and my family—your support has made every step of this journey possible. My wife, who is with me tonight, has served by my side from the very beginning. This award is very much hers as it is mine. And to my children and grandchildren, who are all part of the lifesaving movement. They remind me every day of the generational power of sport and community. Seeing them walk the same beaches, wear the same colours, and serve the same people fills me with pride beyond words."
Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club also celebrated Lenny’s achievement, noting his more than 55 years of service and the proud tradition continued by his children and grandchildren.
Sharon Fighera from Lions Club said, "Lenny is such a deserving winner and does so much for our Ingham Community. Congratulations Lenny you are our local hero."
The entire Hinchinbrook community joins in congratulating Lenny on this well-deserved statewide recognition. His decades of service continue to inspire and strengthen the spirit of sport and community across our region.
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