Part 2: Workshops help to build sport and recreation on the Sunshine Coast

Di Brown's attendance at the Building Active Communities workshops not only had a positive impact on Sunshine Coast District Junior Rugby Union, but also had far-reaching benefits for rugby union across the region.
How did Ms Brown find out about the Building Active Communities workshops in her local area?
What made Ms Brown decide to attend the workshops?
How did the workshops help Ms Brown?
What benefits has Sunshine Coast Rugby Union gained from Ms Brown's attendance at the workshops?
What advice would Ms Brown have for members of other local sporting clubs that are considering attending future workshops?
Want more information?


How did Ms Brown find out about the Building Active Communities workshops in her local area?

Ms Brown began liaising with staff at the Sport and Recreation Queensland (SRQ) Maroochydore office to gather information and resources for her study into volunteer management and club administration.  When speaking to an advisor from the office, Ms Brown was told of the upcoming workshops.  In addition, advertisments were placed in local papers to promote the workshop series to members of local sporting organisations.

What made Ms Brown decide to attend the workshops?

The main reason Ms Brown decided to attended the workshops, was because she thought they would provide valuable information towards her study in workplace training.  She was particularly interested in the workshop series as some complex topics would be covered, including child protection, risk management and club governance.  In addition, knowing that the information would be delivered in an interesting, interactive format appealed to Ms Brown.


How did the workshops help Ms Brown?

After developing a better understanding of many issues facing the sport and recreation industry on the Sunshine Coast, thanks to the workshops and other studies, Ms Brown was offered a paid position as an administration officer at the Sunshine Coast District Junior Rugby Union.  Ms Brown said the workshop helped her gain skills and knowledge across many areas that enabled her to take on the challenging role.  She is now able to pass on the experience and skills she has gained to other members of the organisation.

What benefits has Sunshine Coast Rugby Union gained from Ms Brown's attendance at the workshops?

Ms Brown provides support to the nine clubs that form the Sunshine Coast District Junior Rugby Union.  The clubs have secured more than $60,000 in Queensland Government funding with the help of Ms Brown.  She says the workshops played an important role, by enabling her to simplify and streamline processes so that the clubs didn't need to spend hours finding information or drafting funding applications.

What advice would Ms Brown have for members of other local sporting clubs that are considering attending future workshops?

Ms Brown believes that local sporting organisations should take the burden off management by appointing an administration officer with knowledge of sport and recreation industry issues such as club administration, risk management and volunteer management.  These officers could attend workshops to build and enhance their knowledge of the industry and learn more about Queensland Government funding and support.  Ms Brown has found SRQ to be a valuable source of information and assistance and recommends that members of local sporting organisations contact their nearest SRQ office.

Want more information?

For more information about the Sunshine Coast District Junior Rugby Union's initiatives, phone Di Brown, Administration Officer on (07) 5444 4782 or 0407 945 530. For details about the Building Active Communities workshops click here or phone your nearest SRQ office 1300 656 191.