A Determined Brass Bloke

Men who, despite adversity, find the time, courage and inspiration to help others have the character traits of a genuine Brass Bloke! The 2015 winner Phil Camden says “I may have MND but MND does not have me!”

Throughout the community there are many men who have overcome adversity in their lives and gone on to contribute to the community through selfless service. Lifeline Newcastle for thirteen years has honoured women who have faced the same adversity and given back to the community with their annual Steel Magnolia Award and so decided to honour the men of the Hunter Region with the concept of the annual Brass Blokes Award.

The second annual event was held on Friday 17th July at Panthers Newcastle and all five finalists, Gary Brown, Phil Camden, Steve Harrison, Luke Reynolds-McFadden and Mark Hughes were very deserving in their own right.

Before the announcement of the winner, 170 guests were treated to an inspirational and entertaining 20-minute in-depth insight into the lives of the guest panellists Kurt Fearnley, Mark Hughes and Nic Newling, mediated by Brett Lavaring.

However, Phil Camden was given the honour for his compassion and determination in making a difference to others in the face of his own grief and health challenges.

Read more in Edition 75 of Hunter & Coastal Lifestyle Magazine.

Pictured above: left to right: Gary Brown, Luke Reynolds-McFadden, CEO Lifeline Hunter Central Coast Kay Chapman, Phil Camden, Mark Hughes and Steve Harrison.

Story: Marilyn Collins.   Photography: Justin Worboys Photography.