June 8, 2025
Heart of the Haven: Benny Smith Benny Smith with his fiancée Bri Ponsonby. Photo: Kim Ambrose/SaltyFoxFotography.

Heart of the Haven: Benny Smith

HAVING relocated to the Camden Haven area in 2021, Benny Smith wasted no time in rolling up his sleeves and getting involved in numerous community initiatives.

Benny’s journey of service began with his work in the disability sector, where he worked to support and uplift those in need.

However a motorbike accident turned his life upside down two years ago, forcing him to pivot his community work in a new direction.

“After being involved in a serious motorbike accident with a car in 2023 I was left with injuries that negatively impacted upon my work,” said Benny.

“As a result I decided to branch out on my own, founding ALPHA Family Support Services and Mobility Hire, a service aimed at helping members of the community in various ways, including coordinating support work, providing transport assistance, and offering house maintenance and yard services.”

In addition to his professional endeavors, both Benny and his fiancée Bri have also taken on multiple volunteer roles within the community.

When the Lake Cathie-Bonny Hills Junior Rugby League Football Club faced the threat of closure, Benny stepped up to become club president.

“In 2024 my oldest son decided he wanted to play rugby league. We wanted to support him so we registered him with the Raiders,” Benny said.

“Then late last year we found out that the club were yet to elect a new president for the 2025 season.

“I have had previous experience with junior footy at Chinchilla in Queensland so I said if no one else puts up their hand I will do it.”

Despite Benny’s busy schedule, he has found yet another way to support the community in the wake of recent flooding.

“After witnessing the devastation of the recent weather we are now offering the use of our small trailer to help individuals clear up any flood damage to their personal properties for free for the next three weeks, starting from Monday, 26 May,” Benny shared.

By Kim AMBROSE

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