Volunteers pivotal to the return of sport
With community sport returning to full swing as COVID-19 restrictions continue to ease across the nation, the Australian government and Sport Australia have reinforced their commitment to retain and attract volunteers to all sports around Australia.
Sport Australia’s recent AusPlay report has identified that volunteers are the lifeblood of sport with almost three million people assisting at their local club, and recognising that retention is essential in the aftermath of the pandemic.
The organisation has identified a further growth of opportunities for additional citizens to involve themselves with sport in their respective localities, with inclusive roles that cater to the entire community.
The report deduced the vital role that clubs play in rural communities throughout Australia.
With over 1800 bowls clubs in the country, volunteers are the cornerstone of the sport, dedicating their time to umpire, score and work around events and tournaments.
In fact, bowls is ranked ninth in Australia for male volunteers with 45,000 strong assisting their local club to succeed and maintain participation for their sport.
Bowls Australia CEO Neil Dalrymple acknowledges the exceptional work that the bowls volunteers do for the sport and hopes that their deeds will inspire the next generation.
“At Bowls Australia, we welcome the strengthened stance on retaining volunteers,” Dalrymple said.
“Bowls wouldn’t be bowls without the wonderful volunteers we have, not only at national and international events, but at club level and local communities.
“Following the pandemic we hope that all volunteers will return to their local clubs and again be involved with their communities.
“We hope to see even more volunteers enter the sport of bowls in future years, as they are the heart and soul of our bowling fraternity.”
