Brisbane Women’s Hockey Association

Brisbane Women’s Hockey Association delivered a successful season, hosting 2,566 matches for more than 3,000 players across 252 teams and 30 grades, from U7 through to Premier League and Masters. The season culminated in 91 finals matches, including 28 Grand Finals, showcasing the depth and strength of hockey across the association.

Participation growth extended beyond competition. Season-opening gala days, junior carnivals, social hockey events, school holiday clinics and year-round development programs provided opportunities for players of all ages and abilities to get involved. These initiatives introduced new participants to the sport while supporting player development from grassroots through to Masters hockey.

BWHA continued to modernise its operations through the second year of the Altius competition management platform, reducing administration and streamlining competition delivery. The association also expanded the visibility of the game through Hockey Brisbane TV and two additional LIVEHockey cameras, livestreaming more than 1,100 women’s and girls’ matches during the season.

Community remained at the heart of BWHA’s work, with volunteers recognised during National Volunteers Week and significant investment in celebrating First Nations culture across its venues and programs. From Indigenous artwork and community spaces to representative uniforms and Indigenous Round initiatives, BWHA strengthened its commitment to creating a welcoming, connected, and inclusive hockey community.

Cairns Hockey Association

Cairns Hockey Association achieved its first membership growth since 2022, driven by expanded participation opportunities including school visits, gala days and social hockey competitions. Increased digital engagement and community outreach have also helped raise the profile of hockey across the region.

The association strengthened its operations through the addition of skilled staff and volunteers, alongside improved governance initiatives. New judiciary and grievance procedures, a Racial Action Plan, officiating mentoring, integrity and safeguarding training, and enhanced compliance processes have improved accountability, support, and member experience.

A targeted junior recruitment and retention program, developed in response to member feedback identifying cost as a key barrier, successfully boosted participation in the youngest age groups. Following its success, the initiative is now being explored for expansion to additional age divisions.

With strong sponsor support, Cairns Hockey also launched an Officiating Mentor Program, providing development opportunities, mentoring and incentives for junior and senior umpires. The program has strengthened officiating pathways, improved confidence, and capability, and created clearer development opportunities for officials at every stage of their journey.

Toowoomba Hockey Association

Toowoomba Hockey Association has continued to improve the hockey experience for all participants, making the game safer, more inclusive, and more enjoyable.

This year saw the launch of the CLIP behavioural framework, contributing to a 20% reduction in dissent-related cards and supporting 25 club interventions. THA also introduced three new programs: Hockey 5s, Hockey Tots, which welcomed 130 children aged 2–4 to the sport, and a new All-Abilities program, engaging more than 70 participants in its first year.

The award-winning Belong in Hockey program continues to grow, with more than 170 refugees introduced to hockey and 20 progressing to represent THA clubs. THA also joined the UNHCR and IOC Sport for Refugees Coalition and received the Multicultural Affairs Queensland Social Cohesion and Community Impact Project of the Year Award.

THA successfully hosted the U18 Girls State Championships and Open Indoor Championships, while also connecting with the wider community through a Carnival of Flowers float that reached more than 60,000 people.

Kerri-Ann Lund (Bundaberg)

As Secretary of the Bundaberg Hockey Association, Kerri-Anne Lund has been a driving force behind the growth and success of hockey in Bundaberg. Her dedication, leadership and tireless work behind the scenes have helped strengthen the association, guide its recovery, and ensure competitions continue to thrive.

Beyond her administrative contributions, Kerri-Anne is a passionate advocate for the sport, actively promoting hockey to new players and families through community events and engagement initiatives. Whether supporting junior development, managing operations, or representing Raiders Rovers on the field, her year-round commitment makes her an invaluable member of the hockey community.

Alyson Aleksic (BWHA)

Alyson Aleksic is an exceptional volunteer whose impact is felt across every level of hockey. As a Brisbane Women’s Hockey association board member, junior committee member, umpire committee member, umpire, mentor and player, she dedicates countless hours each week to supporting the game both on and off the field.

Alyson plays a vital role in developing the next generation of officials, mentoring junior umpires, delivering training workshops and supporting umpire development pathways. Her expertise and commitment were recognised through her appointment as an umpire mentor at the Masters State Championships. By helping young officials build confidence, skills, and resilience, she is making a lasting contribution to the future of the sport.

Through her leadership, governance work and hands-on involvement across multiple competitions, Alyson creates positive experiences for players, officials, and families alike. Her dedication, generosity, and commitment to developing others embody the values of hockey.

Alison Paddison (Sunshine Coast)

Ali Paddison has made an outstanding contribution to both Seahawks Hockey Club and the Sunshine Coast Hockey Association, dedicating countless hours to supporting the growth and success of hockey on and off the field. In her roles as SCHA Marketing and Events Coordinator and Seahawks Umpire Convenor, she has strengthened communication, increased the sport’s visibility, and helped connect members, families and new participants with hockey.

A passionate advocate for volunteers and officials, Ali actively recruits, mentors, and supports umpires at all levels, helping build a stronger and more sustainable hockey community. Her commitment to developing others has made a lasting impact across the association.

Whether she is umpiring, coordinating events, assisting players, answering questions, or supporting from the sidelines, Ali is always willing to step in where needed. Her enthusiasm, professionalism and dedication make her a valued leader within the hockey community.

Darren Crilly (Toowoomba)

Darren Crilly has made an outstanding contribution to Toowoomba Hockey Association this season through his service in officiating, judiciary, mentoring and coaching. As a highly respected judiciary panel member, he has played a key role in managing several complex matters throughout the season, always demonstrating professionalism, fairness and a strong commitment to participant welfare and the integrity of the game.

Darren has also been a strong supporter of Hockey Queensland’s CLIP program, helping implement updated judiciary processes and providing valuable feedback to strengthen the program and its outcomes. His leadership and experience have been instrumental in supporting a positive and accountable hockey environment.

On the field, Darren has been one of THA’s most dedicated umpires, officiating 47 matches across junior, senior and masters competitions while regularly mentoring developing officials. He also volunteered as coach of the Over 54 Men’s Masters team at the Cairns tournament. A former Club President and Judiciary Chair, Darren continues to lead through service, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to hockey in Toowoomba.

Hockey Brisbane TV (BHA/BWHA)

Hockey Brisbane TV is a volunteer-driven media initiative that has transformed the visibility of hockey across Southeast Queensland. From a simple idea in December 2025, the channel launched in February 2026 and has rapidly grown to attract more than 1.8 million monthly views, showcasing the region’s premier competitions to a wider audience than ever before.

Covering both BHA and BWHA competitions from day one, Hockey Brisbane TV has enhanced the player experience by ensuring matches, performances and achievements are captured, shared, and celebrated. The initiative has also helped strengthen connections across the Brisbane hockey community ahead of the associations’ future merger.

Built entirely by volunteers, the channel reflects the dedication, leadership, and passion of those behind the camera as much as those on the field. By providing equal coverage of men’s and women’s competitions and significantly expanding hockey’s digital reach, Hockey Brisbane TV has become a powerful platform for promoting the sport, celebrating its people, and inspiring future participation.

Friday Night Flicks (Gold Coast)

Gold Coast Hockey’s Friday Night Flicks Under 10s has transformed the way young players experience hockey, creating a fun, fast-paced and inclusive introduction to the sport. Launched in 2026, the competition has already attracted more than 40 new participants, while helping existing players stay engaged and excited about hockey.

Played as seven-a-side games on a fully boarded field, the format keeps the ball in play and maximises involvement, giving every player more opportunities to pass, tackle, shoot and score. The result is an enjoyable development environment that builds confidence, skills, and a love for the game.

The initiative has also strengthened the hockey community, with parents and siblings taking on volunteer roles to support teams, umpiring and event delivery. Drawing up to 60 players each Friday night, Friday Night Flicks creates a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere that connects junior and senior hockey, promotes participation, and embodies the values of inclusion, teamwork and community.

Hockey Tots (Toowoomba)

Toowoomba Hockey Association’s Hockey Tots program has provided an outstanding introduction to hockey for children aged 2–4, engaging 130 participants in 2026 through free, twice-weekly sessions. The program creates a fun, inclusive and welcoming environment where children develop fundamental movement skills, confidence, and social connections while families become part of the hockey community.

Led by Claire Harms, Hockey Tots has increased hockey’s reach by connecting with local kindergartens, playgroups, and young families, introducing the sport to audiences traditionally underrepresented in hockey. Creative themed sessions and age-appropriate equipment have helped make the program engaging, accessible and developmentally focused.

As a sustainable grassroots participation pathway, Hockey Tots is already delivering long-term benefits for the sport and has become a model for early-years engagement that is inspiring hockey development across Queensland.

THA – Weeknight U19 Competition (Townsville)

In 2026, Townsville Hockey revitalised its U19 competition, creating a fun, inclusive and accessible pathway between junior and senior hockey. Designed around the needs of young players, the 10-week competition engaged around 100 male and female participants in a format that balanced hockey with study, work, and other commitments.

Featuring mixed teams made up of players from across the association’s clubs, the competition encouraged new friendships, stronger community connections and a sense of belonging. Modified rules and player numbers created a more social and enjoyable playing environment, welcoming new, returning, and experienced players of all abilities.

By prioritising participation, wellbeing, and enjoyment, the U19 competition has strengthened player retention and provided young people with a positive space to build confidence, teamwork, and resilience. The initiative has also brought together players, parents, officials, volunteers, and clubs, creating a stronger and more connected hockey community.

Brenton Smalley (Atherton)

Since arriving in Atherton during the COVID period, Brenton Smalley has become an invaluable part of the local hockey community. Now in his fourth year with the club, his contribution continues to grow, with his leadership, knowledge and generosity helping to strengthen grassroots hockey across all levels.

Brenton has played a key role in developing players and coaches alike, mentoring young Minkey coach Rachel while overseeing junior competitions, coordinating the C Grade teenage competition, mentoring umpires, delivering weekly fitness, and training sessions for junior players. His commitment regularly sees him spend entire Saturdays supporting hockey at Atherton, ensuring players have every opportunity to learn, develop and enjoy the game.

In 2026, Brenton expanded his contribution even further by serving as fitness trainer for the Ladies Masters teams and Head Coach of the Team 2 Ladies Masters side. His genuine expertise, calm approach, and willingness to support others have had a lasting impact on players, coaches and volunteers throughout the club. For a regional hockey community, Brenton’s dedication has been extraordinary.

Allan Afonso (BHA)

Allan Afonso has enjoyed an outstanding 2026, delivering success across club, regional and state-level hockey while demonstrating exceptional leadership and commitment to athlete development.

At the local level, Allan guided Bulimba Hockey Club’s Division One team to a fourth-place finish and a Preliminary Final appearance. He also coached Brisbane South to victory in the inaugural Brisbane Cup and continued his strong representative record by leading Brisbane One to the State Open Championship title.

At the state level, Allan contributed to Queensland’s talent pathway as Assistant Coach of the Under 21 Men’s Outdoor Team and Head Coach of the Under 21 Men’s Indoor Team.

Scott Brambling (Sunshine Coast)

Scott has made an outstanding contribution to the Sunshine Coast Hockey Association’s junior development program in 2026, providing strong leadership and support to young athletes at both club and representative level. He led the second U14 Girls team at the State Championships in Hervey Bay and will also serve as Manager of the second U16 Girls team, helping create positive and rewarding experiences for developing players.

Known for his calm leadership, excellent communication and genuine commitment to player development, Scott consistently builds confidence, fosters teamwork, and creates an environment where young athletes can thrive both on and off the field.

Beyond his representative commitments, Scott also serves as President of Nambour Demons, Manager of the Nambour Division 2 Women’s team and Coach of the Nambour U14 Girls side.

Susan Kendall (Bundaberg)

Susan Kendall is a passionate and dedicated coach who has made a significant impact on hockey in Bundaberg and across Queensland school sport. Balancing her commitment to coaching with a busy family life, she generously gives her time to developing junior players at both association and school representative levels.

Susan is a strong advocate for grassroots participation and takes pride in supporting players with limited hockey experience. Her ability to build confidence, develop skills and create positive team environments has helped countless young athletes grow both on and off the field.

A highly accomplished player in her own right, Susan has represented Queensland and Australia in Masters hockey and continues to contribute to the sport as a player, umpire and coach.

Tom Brough (BWHA)

Tom Brough has established himself as one of the most successful and respected coaches in BWHA, leading Commercial Hockey Club’s Premier League 1 team for the past six years. Under his guidance, the team has reached four Grand Finals and won all four, including back-to-back premierships in 2022–23 and again in 2025–26, demonstrating an exceptional record of sustained success.

Known for his humility, leadership and commitment to his players, Tom has built a high-performance program centred on teamwork, discipline, and resilience. His ability to consistently prepare teams to perform under pressure has earned the trust and respect of players, officials, and the wider hockey community.

Beyond Premier League hockey, Tom is committed to developing the next generation of players through his coaching of U14 athletes and involvement in BWHA representative team selection.

Leonie Young (Ipswich)

Leonie has made an outstanding contribution to player development across Ipswich hockey, coaching her club’s J1 (U15) Girls, Division 2 Women, and Ipswich representative U14 and U16 Girls teams. Passionate about growing the game, she actively encourages and mentors’ others to become coaches, with four of her senior players taking on junior coaching roles in 2026.

A strong advocate for player development, Leonie introduced a successful mentoring program that paired senior women with junior players, helping build confidence, skills, and stronger connections across the club. She is committed to creating positive environments built on teamwork, respect, and learning, while ensuring players have opportunities to develop through multiple positions and higher-grade competition.

Beyond coaching, Leonie has also taken on leadership roles as President of the Umpires Committee and Junior Umpire Development Coordinator, further strengthening hockey pathways within the association.

Abby Heffernan (Bundaberg)

Abby has made an exceptional contribution to hockey through her outstanding work as both an elite official and a dedicated mentor. An Advanced Lead Umpire, Abby has officiated at major events including the Hockey Queensland Championships and the Australian U18 Women’s Championships, demonstrating her expertise at the highest levels of the game.

At the local level, Abby has been instrumental in strengthening officiating within the Bundaberg Hockey Association. She established the association’s Umpiring Academy, where she mentors junior and senior officials, delivers regular coaching sessions, and provides ongoing feedback to support their development and confidence.

In addition to coordinating umpire appointments and regularly officiating local Division 1 matches, Abby also contributes as an Umpire Coach at state championships.

Peta Wallison (Cairns)

Peta has made an outstanding contribution to umpiring in 2026, excelling at both local and representative levels while actively supporting the development of other officials. As the association’s highest-badged umpire, she has officiated across women’s and men’s competitions throughout the season, including the A Grade Grand Final, consistently demonstrating professionalism, reliability, and expertise.

Beyond her on-field performances, Peta is a dedicated mentor who generously shares her knowledge with developing umpires. She has played an important role in supporting debut officials, providing guidance, encouragement, and feedback to help build confidence and capability within the local umpiring community.

Peta’s achievements have also been recognised at state and national level, where she represented Queensland and Hockey Australia at championship events and was appointed Umpire Manager for the Queensland U16 Championships.

Adam Tronson (Townsville)

Adam has made an outstanding contribution to umpiring in Townsville, combining excellence on the field with a strong commitment to developing the next generation of officials. Throughout 2026, he dedicated countless hours to mentoring junior umpires, helping them build the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in officiating.

A regular umpire across both junior and senior competitions, Adam is known for his professionalism, positivity, and willingness to support others. His encouragement and leadership have helped strengthen Townsville Hockey’s umpire development pathway while inspiring more members to get involved in officiating.

Beyond umpiring, Adam also volunteers as a coach, led a Townsville Masters Women’s team at the State Championships, and continued to play and represent his association. His dedication to the sport was recognised with his club’s Best Club Worker Award in 2026.

Jenny Heron (BWHA)

Jenny Heron OAM is the driving force behind technical officiating at BWHA, making an extraordinary contribution to the delivery of hockey across the association. In 2026, she coordinated technical officials for 1,720 matches, ensuring games were supported, organised and able to run fairly, safely and on schedule.

Through countless hours of rostering, communication and problem-solving, Jenny has provided vital support to players, coaches, umpires, and clubs at every level of the competition. Her approachable, organised and encouraging leadership has helped attract and retain volunteers, giving new technical officials the confidence and support needed to get involved and succeed.

Nationally recognised with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), Jenny leads by example through her professionalism, integrity, and commitment to excellence.

Margie Butta (Ipswich)

Margie Butta has made an outstanding contribution to hockey as a Technical Official, serving at local, state, and national level across both outdoor and indoor competitions. A Development Lead Technical Official, she dedicates countless hours each season to ensuring matches are delivered professionally, safely, and efficiently.

Known for her extensive knowledge, professionalism and approachable nature, Margie is highly respected by players, officials, and volunteers alike. She regularly represents Ipswich Hockey at State Championships and has undertaken key Hockey Queensland appointments, including Assistant Technical Manager at the Under 14 Boys State Championships, while also contributing at State and National Indoor Championships.

Beyond her officiating duties, Margie is passionate about developing the next generation of Technical Officials. Through mentoring, education and ongoing support, she helps build confidence and capability in new officials, strengthening the future of the sport.

Dave Cussons (Toowoomba)

David Cussons has made an outstanding contribution to technical officiating at Toowoomba Hockey Association in 2026, quickly establishing himself as a highly capable and respected official. Starting as a parent volunteer, David embraced the role with enthusiasm and has rapidly developed into a dependable and professional Technical Official.

Drawing on his experience as a former ABC Radio producer, David brings exceptional composure, accuracy, and communication skills to the technical bench. His calm approach helps ensure matches run smoothly, creating a positive experience for players, coaches, officials, and spectators alike.

David has officiated across all senior grades at THA and has already earned appointments at multiple State Championships. His dedication and professionalism were further recognised through his appointment to the A Grade Men’s Grand Final, one of the association’s most important technical roles.

Pine Rivers St. Andrews (BHA)

Pine Rivers St Andrews Hockey Club is a shining example of how a strong community culture off the field can drive success on it. Through meaningful initiatives that promote connection, inclusion and support, the club has created an environment where members feel valued, supported, and proud to belong.

The club’s annual Pink Socks Day has become a cornerstone of its community impact. What began as a gesture of support for the mother of a club player battling breast cancer has grown into a major fundraising event, celebrating its 10th year in 2026 and raising a record $23,000 for the National Breast Cancer Foundation. With 100% player participation, the initiative reflects the compassion and unity that define the club. In 2026, the club also introduced Saints Mates, a mental health initiative encouraging past and present players to strengthen connections, support one another and promote positive wellbeing. Through Saints Sticks for Africa, club members donated unused hockey sticks to help grow the game and create opportunities for players overseas.

That culture of connection translated into outstanding on-field success in 2026, with 14 of the club’s 18 teams reaching the finals, seven teams advancing to Grand Finals, and three premierships secured. By prioritising community, wellbeing and inclusivity alongside performance, Pine Rivers St Andrews has embodied the values of #TeamQLD and demonstrated what it means to build a hockey club that succeeds both on and off the field.

Bowen Junior Assistant Coaching Team (Bowen)

As Bowen Hockey Association will tell you, it isn’t just about hockey there, it’s also about fun, friendship, and growth. During the 2026 season, a group of junior assistant coaches got together to shape the first 9 weeks of the season for a program that was aimed at first time players.

They divided into groups and with help from parents and the Hookin2Hockey game guide created weekly lessons. Each plan included a warmup, drills and game that fit specific themes for the weeks.

Later in the day, the junior coaching team had the opportunity to trial their plans with the help from younger athletes.

With thoughtful planning, teamwork, and a shared passion for helping young players grow, the junior assistant coaches set the tone for an exciting and successful season that brought many new players to the association.

Cairns Hockey J1 Boys (Cairns)

In 2026, Cairns Hockey Association introduced a new J1 Boys competition to provide a more inclusive and sustainable pathway for junior players. Created as a non-club-based competition, the initiative brought together players of different ages, experience levels and club backgrounds to ensure all participants had the opportunity to play, develop and enjoy hockey.

What began with some uncertainty quickly evolved into one of the association’s most positive success stories. Supported by committed coaches, managers and players, the competition grew throughout the season and progressed from 9-a-side to 11-a-side hockey, creating a stronger and more competitive playing environment.

The standout achievement was the culture created by the players themselves. Older participants embraced leadership and mentorship roles, supporting younger and less experienced teammates while fostering an environment built on encouragement, respect, and inclusion. The result was a competition where every player felt valued, connected, and welcome, providing an outstanding example of how hockey can strengthen participation, development, and community.

Kellie Chanoff (Bundaberg)

Kellie Chanoff has demonstrated outstanding leadership, resilience, and commitment to the Bundaberg hockey community during a critical period for the association. When the Association President unexpectedly resigned, Kellie stepped up immediately, taking on significant additional responsibilities to ensure competitions, operations and member services continued without disruption.

Her calm and capable leadership provided stability during a challenging transition, allowing players, coaches, officials, and volunteers to remain focused on the season while she guided the association forward. By putting the needs of the hockey community first, Kellie ensured the continued success and smooth delivery of hockey across Bundaberg.

Kellie’s willingness to lead when it was needed most embodies the values of #TeamQLD.

Debbie Brown (Sunshine Coast)

For the past 20 years, Debbie has been the driving force behind the Sunshine Coast Hockey Association Women’s Masters program, dedicating countless hours to ensuring players, coaches and managers have the support they need to succeed. In 2026 alone, she coordinated six Women’s Masters teams, demonstrating exceptional organisation, leadership, and commitment to the hockey community.

Working closely with players, team officials, the SCHA Board and Queensland Women’s Masters Hockey, Debbie consistently creates a positive and welcoming experience for everyone involved. Her attention to detail, calm approach, and ability to bring people together have made her an invaluable leader within the program. She is also renowned for fostering team spirit and connection, including her enthusiasm for the Masters contingent’s much-loved costumes and social activities.

Beyond her organisational role, Debbie leads by example through her respect, inclusivity, and dedication to the values of hockey.

Kirsten Logan (Townsville)

As Director of Participation for Townsville Hockey Association, Kirsten has made an outstanding contribution to growing the game and creating inclusive opportunities for people of all ages. Through her energy, creativity, and passion, she has helped countless participants discover a love of hockey in environments that are fun, welcoming and connected.

Kirsten has been instrumental in the success of participation initiatives including Hook into Hockey Mini Sticks, school programs, gala days, Come and Try events and school sport partnerships. Her efforts have significantly strengthened junior participation, with events such as the Ruth Young Gala Day engaging more than 250 students. She has also supported Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander engagement through the Hockey Australia Foundation and coached the Northern Under 12 Girls team for the past six years.

Beyond participation programs, Kirsten has helped transform the hockey experience by creating activities that bring the community together, including mascot races, obstacle courses and sprint challenges at Grand Final events. Her ability to create connection, belonging and enjoyment has strengthened the culture of Townsville Hockey, making her a highly deserving nominee for the #TeamQLD Award.