Last week she was honoured with the Dennis Braybrook Referees Association Award for 2022 following her 30-year contribution to the game that nearly didn’t happen.
Growing up in a footy loving family with Great Uncle Bert O’Connor one of the founding members of the Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs, Kim recalls him encouraging her and brother John (Ellis) and taking them to see many games.
“When I tried to join the club, however, I was told it was only for men and women were more suited to the kitchen,” she said.
“But I thought if I became a referee, then I’d be able to run onto Belmore sportsground and they couldn’t deny me because that is what they told me.”
Along with John, Kim got her Referee Certificate shortly after just before they decided to allow women to join the club.
“That’s how it started and how I got to learn the rules of rugby league properly,” she said.
“I’ve seen so many changes in the last three decades with women now playing, it’s wonderful but it’s important for them to remember that when they stop, they can still be involved as referees.”
Though not refereeing as much now, Kim continues to contribute to the game, regularly attending the grounds to develop junior referees often alongside husband Paul who is President of the Referees Association.
She has also spent the past 28 seasons on the Appointments and Advisory Board and has held a range of committee positions.
She was made a Life Member of the Canterbury-Bankstown Referees Association in 2005.
Referee Kim wins award to mark 30 years on field
SHE didn’t have any children of her own but committed Canterbury Bankstown Referee Association’s Kim Archer regards members of the association and the Bulldogs Club as her family.