A true pioneer of HBNC has filed his last Treasurer’s Report after more than 15 years of service to the organisation.

Danny Mattsson, long-serving Management Committee member, treasurer and volunteer across a range of programs has decided it is time to “properly” retire.

As he clears a bit more time in his schedule for golf, it’s hard to think of anyone more deserving of the downtime.

A lasting legacy and tireless service

It’s no exaggeration to say HBNC would not be the organisation it is today without Danny’s commitment and innovative ideas.

He was one of the first to see the potential for the community space that would eventually become the stunning Hervey Bay Community Centre we know and love today.

As the Fundraising Chairman for the new Hervey Bay Community Centre project more than 10 years ago, Danny was a force for change and helped bring this vital asset to our town.

He also came up with the idea for Tour De Bay, a long-standing fundraising initiative for the Youth Mentoring Program, which Danny has actively volunteered within for the past eight years.

Tour De Bay grew into a highlight of the Hervey Bay sporting calendar and ran for 10 years, raising more than $11,000 in its final year, before transitioning into a new partnership with the Hervey Bay Tri Club through the Col Pearce Corporate Triathlon.

Having played a role in spearheading the development of the new Hervey Bay Community Centre, it was fitting that Danny played a key role in the renovation and expansion of the Urangan Community Centre.

Joining the working group that helped develop plans for the all new Tree House: Urangan Community Wellness Centre, Danny once again proved his unending dedication to making our community a stronger and more connected one.

Danny working hard to get the Urangan Community Wellness Centre ready.

A heart for helping others

Danny’s service to the community is not confined to HBNC.

His commitment extends to The Rotary Club of Hervey Bay Sunrise, where he is a charter member and, as of this year, the Assistant Governor.

His nearly 30 years of service in various roles within the club and the larger district highlight his unwavering dedication to Rotary's values.

From Club Secretary to Club President, and now as the Assistant Governor, Danny's impact on Rotary has been profound.

His focus on engaging young people demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to ensuring the organisation's sustainability for generations to come.

Know an amazing volunteer? Nominate them for the Fraser Coast Heroes Story Book!

A volunteer in the truest sense 

Tanya Stevenson, CEO of HBNC, said Danny was a shining example of the impact volunteering can have in a community.

“Danny is the embodiment of selfless service, with a volunteer spirit that knows no bounds. From his roles on the HBNC Management Committee, where he serves as Treasurer and Chair of the Finance & Risk Committee, to his involvement in the Rotary Club, Danny's voluntary contributions have far exceeded the norm,” Tanya said.

Tanya said Danny’s efforts to help launch The Wandering Teapot, HBNC’s social enterprise café, catering business and hospitality training program, further added to his legacy.

“This showcases his commitment to empowering young people, with over 50 individuals earning their Certificate II in Hospitality through the initiative,” Tanya said.

“As a youth mentor, Danny has logged over 116 volunteered hours, impacting the lives of 15 students through 107 sessions from 2017 to 2023.

“This year alone, his dedication is evidenced by his mentorship of a 12-year-old boy facing educational challenges, demonstrating Danny's willingness to go above and beyond for those in need.”

Danny in action as a Youth Mentor.

Support Youth Mentoring through our Christmas Appeal

HBNC President, Bernard Whebell, said Danny’s humility and selflessness shone through in all he did.

“Danny Mattsson is a volunteer in the truest sense of the word, gaining no financial compensation for his time and efforts,” Bernard said.

“His humility and genuine love for the community shine through in every role he undertakes.”

Danny – from all the team and HBNC, and the many community members whose lives you have impacted over the past 15 years, thank you for your tireless service.

We hope you enjoy those extra golfing hours.