Different families but the same values, the O' Briens Cleaning up......

Conor O’ Brien 2018 Citizen of the Year Winner

“Conor moved to Dampier in 2007 and even with that funny accent he is still Pilbara true and true.  He settled here with his “ Amazing” wife Gill and their two kids and if he had his way he’d be planted here too.

In 2012 Conor joined the Dampier Community Association committee, taking on the role of President during 2013-14 and Secretary in 2015.  During his time as President Conor was involved with the community engagement campaign ‘DCA Connects’ and lead the drafting and implementation of the Dampier Community Plan 2014-2019.  This Plan has been essential for guiding DCA's activities over the past five years.  Conor was heavily involved in all DCA events during this time – often at pack up and pack down until late into the night. 

Conor worked closely with the City of Karratha during the design phase of the Dampier Community Hub building and often went into bat for the community to ensure a good outcome for Dampier's residents. 

Initially joining the Dampier Junior Soccer Club, the Red Dogs, in 2011 as assistant coach for the U5’s team, Conor then re-joined in 2016, again coaching U5’s.  He is still coaching today but has moved up the ranks to U9’s.  Not only a well-loved coach who has led the team to three unbeaten seasons, he is also the current President of the Club.  Conor sits on the Karratha Districts Junior Soccer Club committee and attends regular meetings.  He is now heavily involved with the organisation and team selection for the Northwest Soccer Competition and for Country Week later this year. 

In 2017 Conor volunteered many hours researching and then coordinating a community orienteering day, which was a huge success and attended by over 50 people.   

Conor coached Teeball for two years and in 2018 stepped back to assist the coach at training and on game days, whilst putting his hand up to umpire games.  Conor also was assistant coach for the Junior Northwest Karratha Teeball team for the Northwest Championships in 2018. 

As a member of the Karratha Swim Club Conor is a regular timekeeper at the weekly time trials during the season.  He spends many hours assisting with set up, poolside runner, canteen duties and timekeeper at the Clubs major events during the season, including Pilbara Champs, Northwest Open and Country Pennants.  

Conor is involved with the Burrup Mountain Bike Club and has spent many hours out on the Burrup doing track maintenance and repair. 

Conor currently sits on the Dampier Primary School Board.   

In 2018 Conor raised almost $4000 for ‘Shave for a Cure’ by removing his much loved (by himself only) beard and long hair. 

Conor was nominated Tanya Sholl

Rachael Grant, Conor O’Brien and Gill Furlong

Conor O’Brien & Gill Furlong and yes the photo bomber!!

Winner’s prize from Wyldwood