Carol Brown (Tasmania, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

On Friday 22 August I attended the Southern Tasmanian Netball Association Junior Presentation Night, an event that brings together players, coaches and families to mark the end of the season. It was an opportunity to recognise the achievements of young people who dedicate themselves to their sport by balancing school, work and other commitments.

I presented the Junior Leadership Program certificates. This program has been running since 1998, and more than 200 players have now graduated. Over that time, young female participants have gained experience in coaching, umpiring, health and nutrition, mental health and women in leadership, just to name a few of the issues covered. It's a program that develops skills that extend well beyond the court.

Netball is one of the few sports in Australia where women lead at every level—as players, coaches, umpires, administrators and role models. That matters because, when young people see women leading with strength and confidence, it shows them that leadership is about ability, courage and character. The young women in the leadership program are already demonstrating these skills. The lessons they're learning—teamwork, persistence and resilience—will serve them well in whatever paths they take, whether they're in the sport, in the workplace or in public life.

I'd also like to give a big shout-out to Ava Loring, another young leader in the STNA, who did a fabulous job in organising the Junior Presentation Night—congratulations. Thank you to the Southern Tasmanian Netball Association, the families who support their children and, most importantly, the players themselves for their hard work and commitment throughout the season. (Time expired)