On Monday evening, Auckland Rugby Union recognised Brian Wilsher with the honour of a life membership. 

Brian, who is already a life member of Pakuranga United Rugby Club, has a distinguished record of service not only at club level, but also at schoolboy, Auckland Rugby Referees, Auckland Rugby and the Blues Super Rugby Club level. 

Pakuranga General Manager John East spoke to the Auckland Rugby AGM in nominating Brian for the life membership, which was seconded by the Papatoetoe Rugby Club. 

“This nomination is made not only of the service to the union, but of service by an individual representing the interests of his club, Pakuranga United to the Union,” Eastie said. 

Brian first joined Pakuranga in 1989, his initial service was managing several junior teams before joining the Board which he served on for 13 years. He was Pakuranga’s representative on the Council of Delegates for 12 years, a committee he went on to Chair for two years. 

His service continued on the Auckland Rugby Board for 11 years, and the Blues for five years. 

Brian has spent considerable time involved in review committees with specific focus on governance and by-laws and is currently undertaking a constitution upgrade for our club. 

Above and beyond his governance service, Brian currently sponsors the Blues Coach Development Scholarship. 

To be eligible for an Auckland Rugby life membership, the recipient must demonstrate ‘outstanding service’ which Club Chairman Rob Neil noted was the perfect we to describe Brian’s involvement in the game. 

"As a club we are extremely proud to have seen Brian recognised in this way by Auckland Rugby. Community sports rely on our volunteers and the service Brian has given, and continues to give, over several decades is second to none. 

“We are at an exciting time in our club's history as we evolve with the Howick Pakuranga Community Sports Centre and it is no surprise that Brian's expertise and knowledge will be a central part in that development,” said Rob.

Article added: Wednesday 14 December 2022