The Sydney Swans congratulates the community leaders who have today been recognised for their service to the Australian community in the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours.

In particular, the club would like to acknowledge members of our Sydney Swans family: governor-general designate Sam Mostyn, former player Max Papley, and former administrator Rob Snowdon.

Sam Mostyn, AO
The former Sydney Swans director has been recognised with a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) in the general division for eminent service in the social justice, gender equity, sporting, cultural and business sectors, to reconciliation, and to environmental sustainability.

Mostyn was a trailblazer for women in the AFL, being appointed as the league’s first female commissioner in 2005. In 2017 she joined the Sydney Swans Board, which she served on for six seasons.

Max Papley, OAM
The grandfather of Sydney’s No. 11 Tom Papley, Max Papley has been recognised for service to the community of the Cardinia Shire, including roles at Williamstown Football Club, with a Medal of the Order of Australia.

Papley senior played 59 games for South Melbourne from 1964-1967, winning the club’s best and fairest in 1966.

South’s leading goalkicker in 1964, he kicked a career total of 66 goals for the Swans.

Papley later went on to play for Williamstown in the VFA where he was captain-coach and led the side to the 1969 premiership. 

Rob Snowdon, OAM
Former General Manager of Football Operations at the Sydney Swans, Rob Snowdon has been awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia.

He has be honoured for service to the community, and to Australian rules football, including his roles at the Swans and also at the Port Adelaide Football Club.