This prestigious honour recognises Gail’s extraordinary service and unwavering dedication to netball over more than five decades.
As one of Ipswich’s most successful administrators, Gail is highly regarded for her passion and leadership.
Since 1975 she has been an indomitable force within the Ipswich Netball Association - serving as President, registrar, secretary, representative treasurer, coaching director and state league coordinator.
In 1994, she became the inaugural coach of the Ipswich Flyers representative team, capping a 20-year coaching stint alongside her work with club sides.
Since the 1980s, Gail has also supported NQ in numerous committee and advisory roles. A visionary leader, she has shaped the future of netball in Ipswich, built a lasting legacy for generations, and strengthened the broader Queensland netball community.
The meeting also welcomed the election of Queensland Firebird No.35 Jane Menzies to the NQ Board.
A barrister with a civil and commercial practice and a background in civil engineering, Jane is a lifelong netball participant who played five seasons in the Commonwealth Bank Trophy – Australia’s inaugural national netball league - from 2000 to 2004 with the Firebirds and Hunter Jaegers.
Since 2023 she has served on the NQ Conduct and Integrity Tribunal Panel and recently contributed to the review of NQ’s Constitution.
Members also re-elected Cara Wennerbom for a second term as NQ Director, and the Board, Management and Members thanked outgoing Director Di Croonen for her guidance on community netball initiatives and strategic planning.
On the financial front, NQ reported total revenue of $16.8 million for the 2024 financial year - up by $411,249 (2.5%) - but a net loss of $510,108 on $17.3 million of expenditure, following a small profit of $2,750 in 2023.
The strongest revenue growth came from Firebirds Membership and Ticketing (+29%), NQ Membership Fees (+11.1%) and Sponsorship and Merchandise (+8%). Membership Fees remain the primary income source at $5.64 million (34% of total).
Nissan Arena operations generated $2.43 million in revenue (–21.1%, or $652,564) largely due to the mid-year departure of the Brisbane Bullets, with a corresponding reduction in expenditure, resulting in a net loss of $276,003 (excluding internal usage). Community Court Hire grew by 15% to just over $1 million. From a balance-sheet perspective, total assets rose slightly to $6.47 million, working capital stands at $2.29 million, and net assets finished the year at $3.22 million. The 2025 budget forecasts revenue growth across all areas and a net profit of $262,912.
The 2024 NQ Annual Report is accessible here.
