Lake Macquarie sailor Hugh Tait has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to sport, receiving the Outstanding Contribution to Sport Award as part of the 2026 Lake Mac Awards. Hugh is an exceptionally dedicated sailor, instructor, coach, administrator and volunteer whose lifelong commitment has helped shape and strengthen sailing throughout our region. His leadership and tireless work behind the scenes has supported generations of sailors and played an important role in growing the sport in Lake Macquarie. As President of the Toronto Amateur Sailing Club, Hugh has helped revitalise membership, supported the development of new sailors and played a key role in hosting major regattas attracting competitors from across Australia and beyond, to Lake Macquarie. The club itself has become one of the state's premier dinghy sailing venues and has earned national recognition for its success and community spirit. Hugh has also represented Lake Macquarie on the international stage, competing at the highest level of the Tasar class alongside his crew and wife Anna. This award is a fitting recognition of Hugh's passion, leadership and decades of service to sailing and to the Lake Macquarie sporting community.