Keith Pester awarded OAM in King’s Birthday Honours

Freshwater’s Keith Pester has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division, recognised among 949 Australians in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours for his significant service to football administration.

A long-standing figure in Northern Beaches football, Pester has dedicated decades to the game at both club and association level and continues to contribute as a football administrator today. He is currently a Director at Manly United FC, a role he continues alongside a lifetime of service to the sport.

Pester’s involvement with Manly Warringah Football Association has spanned more than two decades, serving as Vice President from 1998 to 2020 and remaining a current Board Member. He was also a former President of Representative Football, as well as holding roles as Publicity Officer and Judiciary Officer. In recognition of his outstanding service, he was awarded Life Membership of the Association in 2000.

At club level, Pester served as President of Wakehurst FC for nine years, during which he also coached for six seasons and spent time as a referee. His contributions were acknowledged with Wakehurst FC Life Membership in 1984.

His influence has also extended to the broader game, including serving as Chair of a Football NSW steering committee. Among his many accolades, Pester received the coveted Charles Valentine Award from Football NSW in 2012 and the Meritorious Award from Manly Warringah Football Association in 1991.

Football NSW congratulates Keith Pester on his OAM and his outstanding lifetime contribution to football in New South Wales.