Awards recognise those encouraging women in sport

Nominations close soon for awards for men and women or sporting groups deserving recognition for encouraging greater participation by women in sport. 

Treasurer and Minister for Sport, Curtis Pitt, said the winners of the first round of Start Playing Stay Playing Excellence Awards would be announced in April. 

“There will be two rounds of awards each year to acknowledge individuals — male or female — as well as sporting groups and organisations that have worked tirelessly to get more women and girls active in their sport,” Mr Pitt said. 

“Anyone who has made a positive difference to female participation is eligible and we want to celebrate their commitment to making a positive difference for the women and girls of our state.” 

Mr Pitt said nominations for the first round of awards would close on Thursday 31 March and could be lodged in one of three categories: 

• Inclusion — recognising individuals, groups or organisations who had gone above and beyond to include female participants who experienced barriers to participation such as access, socio-economic, or disability. 
• Innovation — for individuals, groups or organisations who had implemented an initiative to increase or enhance women’s and girls’ participation. 
• Inspiration — recognising individuals, teams, or sports groups who had achieved a significant goal not limited to sporting or athletic achievement. 

In addition to the above categories, an overall Minister's Start Playing Stay Playing Excellence Award would be presented each year to one of the winners of the above categories in both annual rounds. 

“Anyone who believes someone in their community or a local sports groups should be recognised for creating more opportunities for women and girls to get active should phone 3338 9259 or visit www.qld.gov.au/recreation/health/women-girls/awards/. 

Media contact: 0447 316 432