Laois Unung Hero Tim Browne embodies ‘true community spirit’ with GAA Club #laoisawards25

A standing ovation greeted Tim Browne in the Midlands Park Hotel when he was named as the Laois Unsung Hero for 2025 at the Laois Community and Voluntary Awards.

Tim emerged from a group of 22 local people nominated by their clubs and communities for the prestigious Unsung Hero Award this year at the culmination of the gala event in Portlaoise on Friday, November 21 that was hosted by Laois County Council. 

"All the nominees are people who selflessly and quietly give of their time and dedication, expecting nothing in return except the reward of improvement of life in their community. I think you’ll agree that they are all heroes in their own right," said MC Justin Treacy.

Tim Browne has been involved with Clonad GAA Club for the past 35 years. He has coached and managed sports teams and has mentored many young players to keep them active in hurling.

More recently, he has been Treasurer of the club. While managing all finances, he also leads any fundraising.  Alongside this contribution, Tim and his business, Browne's Animal Feed, sponsor the adult team in the club without asking for any public acknowledgement or appreciation.

In nominating Tim, the Club described him as kind and approachable, who works with all. They said his role as Treasurer is all-consuming, and he has ensured that Clonad GAA has survived and prospered.

The club also said that he generously supports other causes, including Portlaoise Action for the Homeless, among others.

The judge in this category, Ms Muriel Tobin, Waterford PPN commented on the Clonad GAA man's contribution.

“All entries submitted within the ‘Unsung Hero’ category must be commended for their unwavering commitment and contribution to local society in Laois. This category is a great opportunity to shine a light on the extraordinary efforts of individuals and give due recognition for giving so generously of their time.

"As a judge for this year’s Community and Voluntary Awards I am honoured to recognise a man who shows the very heart of what community spirit means.

“Our Unsung Hero has devoted over. His commitment, kindness, and leadership have strengthened the club through both good times and challenging ones.

“As Treasurer, he has helped ensure the club’s financial stability, all while giving endless hours to its day-to-day running. His generosity reaches far beyond the club, regularly supporting elderly neighbours and contributing to local causes such as Portlaoise Action for the Homeless.

“He has guided underage teams to success, supported adult teams, and now proudly encourages a third generation of his family in Clonad,” said Ms Tobin.

People First Credit Union Chairperson, Clive Davis, had the honour of presenting the award, which included a gift voucher courtesy of the Midlands Park Hotel.

READ ALSO: Profiles of the 2025 Unsung Hero nominees

The nominees for the 2025 Unsung Hero were:

• Louise Foster
• Sandra Trofimova
• Ruth Delaney
• Tom & Kathleen Flynn
• Joe Quigley
• Padraic Dolan
• Mary Cuddy
• Ger Browne
• Sarah Graham
• Patrick Blake
• Roisin Lawlor
• Gerry Furlong
• Louise McCormack
• Lindsay Martin-Fenlon
• Trudi Lalor
• Ross Doyle
• Philip McLoughlin
• Kevin McCann
• Eimear Matthews
• James Kilbride
• Tim Browne
• Carmel Farrell

The award was presented at a gala reception in the Midlands Park Hotel in Portlaoise on Friday, November 21.

This is the 16th year of the awards, which were hosted by Laois County Council in association with Laois Public Participation Network and sponsored by People First Credit Union, Laois Sports Partnership, Laois Partnership, Laois Volunteer Centre.

The Leinster Express / Laois Live is the Media Partner.