Held on Friday, October 1 as an online ceremony, the association recognised the contributions and achievements of its members through a host of awards.
More than 10 major gongs were handed out, however, the Ian Coates Memorial award was not awarded due to the interrupted campaign.
Association president Andrew Moore said it was important that umpires across the Goulburn Valley were recognised for their efforts this year.
“Umpires play such a crucial role on the game of football in the area and with the local leagues holding presentation nights it was only fitting that the umpires receive some recognition for their efforts in season 2021,” Moore said.
The night kicked off with the awarding of the Best First Year Umpire.
Out of the 54 new umpires to grace the field in 2021, the award went to goal umpire Brett Hoskin.
After watching his son Tom umpire one day, Hoskin filled in behind goals and hasn't looked back since.
The awards for Most Improved Field, Boundary and Goal umpires went to Tom Janke, Tristan Birch and Mark Morrison respectively.
The Philip Moran Rising Star was won by Oscar Lambourn, while Leonard Hort was awarded the Howard Phillips Best Club Person honour.
James Meek clinched the Field Umpire of the Year and the Goal Umpire of the Year went to Bryce Barker.
Liam Hall was rewarded for a strong year and claimed the Boundary Umpire of the Year gong.
Meanwhile, James Mark was handed the Fitness Coach's award.
Although football seasons were cancelled late in the year, the association decided to hand out the Greg Sidebottom Golden Whistle award, which was won by Jack Norris
The Golden Whistle is named in honour of Sidebottom, who was a highly respected association member.
“It's an absolute honour and privilege. It's something I cherish,” Norris said.
“Greg was a very influential figure at the GVFUA for such a long time, this is my eighth year of umpiring and although I didn't do a lot with Greg, he was a massive figure (in the GVFUA) and his legacy will live on.”
AFL Goulburn Murray's regional director of umpiring, Sam Wood, congratulated this year's talented crop of umpires.
“Congratulations to all award winners this season, GVFUA umpires trained quite hard throughout the pre-season and the interrupted season, and we want to thank all members for their efforts and service to the game of football in the local area,” Wood said.
“We encourage any new umpires to come down and join the ranks in season 2022.”
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