A Waikaia man has been recognised for more than 30 years of service to Southland rugby with Rugby Southland's highest honour.
Malcolm McKee has been awarded Life Membership by Rugby Southland, joining an exclusive group of just four people to hold the distinction.
McKee's rugby journey began as a player for Waikaia before he moved into administration and governance roles. Over three decades, he has served as junior and senior delegate, junior coach, and long-serving member of the Rugby Southland Board Selection Panel.
For the past six years, he has chaired Rugby Southland's Advisory Committee as Northern Southland's representative. His leadership and institutional knowledge have been crucial in supporting both volunteers and Rugby Southland staff.
The Waikaia man already holds Life Memberships with Waikaia Rugby Football Club, the Northern Southland Rugby Sub Union, ENC Barbarians Rugby Club, and Southland Country Rugby.
His community service extends well beyond rugby. McKee has contributed to the Waikaia Domain Board, Show Jumping New Zealand, and Equestrian Sports New Zealand, while also serving with the Waikaia Volunteer Fire Brigade.
Earlier this year, McKee was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to sport.
Rugby Southland CEO Hua Tamariki said recognising Malcolm's contribution through Life Membership was fitting and deserving.
"Malcolm's a classic Southlander, humble, hard-working, proud of his roots, and not one to seek recognition for the valued work he does year in, year out to ensure grassroots rugby remains strong in our community. We at Rugby Southland HQ believe he is deserving of this award and are absolutely delighted to welcome him into a very special group of Rugby Southland Life Members," Tamariki said.
Rugby Southland Chairman Murray Brown said the union was honoured to have McKee join the exclusive group.
"As a Union we are honoured to have three current life members in Leicester Rutledge, Peter 'Heta' Tetai, and Donald Hay who support and contribute immensely to Rugby Southland as and when they can. Malcom for his long contribution to our sport deserves this recognition and will fit seamlessly into the role as our newest life member. We look forward to working alongside him and all life members to continue to enhance and deliver rugby across all levels in the community," Brown said.
McKee becomes Rugby Southland's fourth Life Member, joining Rutledge, Tetai, and Hay in the distinguished group.