Toowoomba hosted the first of the regional academy launches on Wednesday 30 April, attended by Netball Queensland CEO Kate Davies, Federal MP for Groom Garth Hamilton, Toowoomba Mayor Geoff McDonald and Queensland Gems Ambassadors Jack Matthews and Katelyn Mitchell.
Queensland Gems Head Coach Merrin McCulloch also joined the celebration, reinforcing the program’s strong leadership.
The Townsville launch followed on Thursday 8 May with Netball Queensland’s General Manager of Netball, Glenn Dennis, Acting Mayor Cr Anne Greaney and Gems Ambassadors Jack Matthews and Wilhemena Thaw in attendance.
McCulloch was once again present, joined by the newly appointed Townsville Academy Head Coach, Rachel King.
“I’m incredibly proud to be part of the Queensland Gems Regional Academy in Townsville,” said King.
“Programs like the Gems are vital for nurturing talent and creating strong, resilient players both on and off the court.”
These academies are a key element of Netball Queensland’s Disability Inclusion Project, supported by the Australian Government’s Department of Social Services through an Information, Linkages and Capacity Building – Social and Community Participation grant awarded to NQ in 2024.
Key activities under this funding include scaling up the celebrated Netability program, which has been providing opportunities for individuals with a disability for over 40 years since its foundation at the Metropolitan Districts Netball Association.
NQ is also set to establish a state-wide collaborative network to drive and monitor disability inclusion across Queensland. As part of this initiative, an Inclusion and Engagement Officer will be employed at both Toowoomba and Townsville regional sites.
Federal Assistant Minister for Social Security, Ageing and Women, Kate Thwaites visited Nissan Arena earlier this year to recognise the groundbreaking work of the program.
“Sport is a centrepiece of so many Australian communities. Sporting programs that are inclusive and accessible allow people with disability not just to participate, but also to build community connection,” said Assistant Minister Thwaites.
“It is wonderful to see the benefits people with disability, their families and carers are getting through this program.
“This funding will ensure that sport remains something everyone can enjoy, as well as the numerous benefits that come with it – be they physical, mental or social.”
Also launched this year is the Queensland Gems Ambassador Program, featuring 2025 ambassadors Jack Matthews, Katelyn Mitchell, and Wilhemena Thaw. This initiative will showcase the leadership and advocacy of athletes with a disability, highlighting netball as a sport for all.
