Country Football WA wish to congratulate Life Member, The Honourable Terry ‘Tuck’ Waldron AM, on his appointment as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the 2026 Australia Day Honours, in recognition of his significant service to the Parliament of Western Australia, to regional and rural communities, and to sport. 

A respected leader and tireless advocate for country communities, Tuck’s contributions span decades across public service, community development, and sporting leadership in Western Australia. 

Tuck served as the Member for Wagin from 2001 to 2015 and held the roles of Minister for Sport and Recreation and Minister for Racing and Gaming from 2008 to 2014. He also served as Deputy Leader of the WA Nationals for over a decade. 

Since retiring from Parliament, he has continued to champion regional WA, holding key leadership positions such as: 

• Chair, Wheatbelt Committee, Regional Development Australia (since 2018) 

• Chair, Rural Health West (since ~2019) 

• Chair, Central Eastern Accommodation and Care Alliance Inc. (since ~2020) 

• Patron, Wheatbelt and Beyond Youth Mentoring (since ~2019) 

Along with his time in politics, Tuck’s lifelong dedication to country football in Western Australia is a hallmark of his service to the community. As General Manager of the Western Australian Country Football League (1992–c2000), he played a pivotal role in strengthening the game across regional WA, supporting grassroots clubs, and improving access to resources and facilities for players and volunteers, his service honoured in 2005 with Life Membership. 

Under his leadership, country football in WA saw improved pathways for young talent, greater recognition for regional players, and the development of strong community ties through sport. He was instrumental in promoting inclusivity and sustainability within local leagues, ensuring that country football remained a vital part of rural life. 

Tuck also served as Secretary of the Australian Country Football League Council (1996–2006) and contributed at the club level as a committee member with the Kojonup Football Club. His deep understanding of the social and cultural value of country football has made him a respected figure in the sport’s regional development nationwide. 

As a player, Tuck represented Claremont Football Club (WAFL) and South Adelaide Football Club (SANFL), Tuck brought firsthand experience and genuine passion to every aspect of his football involvement. 

In addition to football, Tuck has had an equally significant impact on cricket in Western Australia. He served as Chair of the Western Australian Cricket Association (2019–2022) and as a Board Member (2017–2022). His playing career included: 

• Captain, WA Country Cricket XI (12 years) 

• Captain, Australian Country XI (3 years) 

• Secretary, Great Southern Cricket Association 

• President and Secretary, Kojonup Cricket Association 

• Inductee, Australian Country Cricket Hall of Fame (2024) 

• Cricketer of the Year, Great Southern Cricket Association (3 times) 

• Recipient, Australian Sports Medal (2000) 

Tuck’s appointment to the Order of Australia reflects a life devoted to public service, community wellbeing, and the development of sport, particularly country football and cricket, in regional Western Australia. His contributions have left a legacy that continues to benefit generations of West Australians.