**SENIOR CITIZEN OF THE YEAR - Rik Dillon**

Rik works for many not-for-profit, sporting and charitable organisations. A founding member of the Ballina Region for Refugees, Rik was recently voted the first ever 'Life Member’ of the refugee group in recognition of his dedication and monumental efforts as a committee member and treasurer. Rik is a founding member and inaugural president of the Northern Rivers Pickleball Club. He has guided the pickleball club through its growth and development from a little-known sport in the region to now boasting 300 members – the largest regional pickleball club in NSW.

In 2024, Rik was appointed as Northern NSW Ambassador for the Pickleball Association of NSW, advising players across the region on club development, facilities, and equipment.