13/08/2026
It's always significant when we announce Long Service Award recipients. This year we have two, the first being LORRAINE HARPER-HORAK from Cronulla Sutherland Kayak Club - CSKC
For almost three decades, Lorraine has been a dedicated and highly respected canoe sprint official whose commitment has helped ensure athletes, from juniors to Olympians, compete under fair, professional and internationally recognised standards.
Lorraine began officiating with NSW Canoeing in 1995, completed her Sprint Officials Course that year, and undertook her first National appointment in 1996. Since then, she has provided almost 30 years of continuous volunteer service at GP1 and GP2 events, National Championships and major regattas across Australia.
She also contributed to one of Australia's most significant sporting events, serving as a Field of Play Official at both the Sydney Olympic Test Event and the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.
Passionate about developing young athletes, Lorraine officiated at the Australian Youth Championships in 2003, 2005, 2007, 2009 and 2013, helping deliver professionally managed competitions for emerging paddlers.
Her expertise was further recognised when she achieved International Canoe Federation (ICF) Sprint Technical Official accreditation, enabling her to represent Australia at major international events, including the World Masters Games, Oceania Championships, Asia Pacific Cup, the 2023 ICF Junior World Championships in Bulgaria, the 2024 ICF Sprint World Cup in Hungary and the 2025 Asia Pacific Cup in New Zealand.
Throughout her career, Lorraine has volunteered her time, expertise and professionalism with unwavering dedication. Her commitment to ongoing education, travel and service has benefited thousands of athletes, coaches and officials. She exemplifies the values of volunteerism, integrity and excellence, making her an outstanding and deserving recipient of the PNSW Long Service Award.
PaddleNSW Sprint Team Australia - Sprint/Slalom
