It’s nearly three decades now and Rodney Glossop still calls the City of Gosnells home. During these times, he has built a life woven through community sport, fitness, volunteering and the joy of helping people feel connected.
Last week, his commitment was recognised when he was named the 2025 Outdoor Volunteer of the Year at the Annual Outdoors WA Industry Awards.
Rodney’s volunteer journey began with an intent of wanting to give back to the same community that had supported him through years of sport and local activities.
“I started volunteering as a way to give back to the community that has always provided safe, fun and supportive opportunities for me,” he said.
“I wanted to help ensure other people had the same opportunity.”
What followed has become a defining part of his life.
Rodney is the Event Director at Homestead parkrun, a parkrun Ambassador, a Masters Athletics WA Booking Officer and Race Director, a Thornlie Junior Football Club coach and committee member, and the founder of Woosha’s Warriors social running group. He also works at Curtin University, where he supports the Act Belong Commit mental health partnership.
Additionally, he has a lot of passion for fitness and community.
“I’ve always been passionate about health and fitness and encouraging people to be active,” he said. “I discovered the joy of helping people achieve their goals and providing meaningful experiences.”
Ask Rodney what motivates him to give thousands of volunteer hours each year, and the answer, according to him, is meaning, connection and joy.
“Volunteering is incredibly rewarding. I get equal enjoyment and enrichment knowing the positive impact it has both for me and the community.”
Of all his volunteer roles, parkrun holds a special place. He never misses a Saturday.
“Parkrun has become a way of life,” he said.
“Starting a parkrun where I live in Thornlie and witnessing the community grow and connect has been truly rewarding. I love seeing people of all ages, fitness levels, cultures and backgrounds come together.”
He said anniversary events always stand out because they offer a chance to reflect on the friendships, milestones and achievements that have grown from weekly run or walk.
Behind the scenes, the juggle has not always been easy.
Rodney and his wife are raising five children, all involved in their own sports and activities, and he is also an endurance runner training for marathons and ultra marathons.
“The biggest challenge is the ongoing balance of activities, particularly with five children playing various sports at the same time,” he said. “The challenge is exponentially increased when trying to pursue your own goals.”
Support from his family and Curtin University has been crucial.
Flexibility at work allows him to adjust his hours, freeing up mornings and weekends for coaching and volunteering.
Rodney believes in the value of community connection in Gosnells, where he has lived since 1999.
“It has proved a wonderful area to raise a family,” he said. “As a passionate Thornlie resident, I wanted to start a parkrun close by so people had a free, inclusive opportunity to experience this great initiative.”
The impact of his work is something he sees in small moments and stories shared by people whose lives have changed through the activities he helps run.
“It’s always heartwarming when people share the positive life changes
they have made, challenges they have overcome or goals they have achieved.”
As someone who works on the Act Belong Commit campaign, he also understands the mental health benefits of being active, feeling a sense of belonging and doing something meaningful.
Receiving the Outdoor Volunteer of the Year award was an honour, but Rodney said recognition has never been the aim.
“Awards are not the reason I volunteer so it’s a little awkward receiving such a prestigious award,” he said. “The award is fantastic recognition for the dedication across all volunteering roles and the community impact.”
He hopes the award shines a light on what volunteering can offer.
“I hope my story can inspire other people to volunteer and get involved in their community. Volunteering doesn’t have to be a major commitment.
There are plenty of groups looking for people to help out.”
Rodney is now preparing for one of his favourite traditions; hosting the Homestead parkrun on Christmas Day.
“It’s a fantastic festive atmosphere and wonderful to see the community come together,” he said. “There are plenty of opportunities to volunteer on Christmas Day or any Saturday.”
