The Warrnambool Swimming Club volunteer has watched its competitors progress from promising juniors to Australian representatives.

“When you are an official, the pleasing thing you get out of it is seeing kids develop and improve,” she said.

“It is rewarding. (I’ve seen) Isaac Jones, Sam Pendergast and as far back as Kellie McMillan - I’ve been around too long.

“My grandkids are ready to start swimming now too - that’s how old I am.”

Aberline’s almost three-decades long involvement was recognised with the Victorian Sports Awards community official of the year gong at Melbourne Convention Centre on Wednesday.

The mother-of-two and grandmother-of-two was named on a 2017 honour roll which included Tour de France winner Cadel Evans (contribution to sport award) and Richmond premiership mentor Damien Hardwick (coach of the year).

“It’s unbelievable. I didn’t expect it. I can’t put words to it,” she said.

“I don’t do what I do for anything like that. It makes you very humbled and honoured.”

Aberline, 66, became involved in swimming when her son Paul, who now coaches, swam as a junior.

She has helped with “everything” from roles as treasurer, secretary, team manager and committee member.

Her current undertaking is as a referee for Swimming Victoria.

“The main ones I do is at grassroots level –  Geelong, Mount Gambier, Hamilton and Portland –  and help run swimming meetings for them, along with help from others,” Aberline said.

Aberline said she “felt 21 at heart” and would remained involved in swimming “as long I can”.

South West Games was a nominee for the Victorian community sporting event of the year.