Hockey Queensland Welcomes New Board Leadership

Published Thu 07 May 2026

Hockey Queensland has announced a new era of board leadership following its Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on Saturday, 2 May 2026.

We farewell long-serving President Paul Mantell and Director Aaron Averay, while welcoming incoming President Claire Henkey, Vice President Kendall Gilding and a strengthened board.

Claire Henkey, who has served as Vice President of Hockey Queensland, was elected President by the board. Kendall Gilding steps into the role of Vice President. Rebecca Sinclair continues in her position as Finance Director, providing important continuity in the organisation’s financial stewardship.

The board also welcomes two new independent directors: Alex Staines and Chris Rush, who bring significant expertise in government and stakeholder relations and technology consulting, respectively.

“I am honoured to take on the role of President and deeply grateful to Paul and the Hockey Queensland Board for the foundation they have helped build,” said Claire Henkey.

“We have a board with the skills, energy and commitment to deliver on our four strategic priorities. Growing participation sustainably, strengthening our member associations, securing our financial future, and positioning hockey to maximise the once-in-a-generation opportunity that Brisbane 2032 represents - these are not small ambitions, but this board is ready for them.”

Strategic Priorities for the Road Ahead

The incoming board has identified four strategic priorities that will shape Hockey Queensland’s direction in the years ahead, with an eye firmly on the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games and the legacy opportunity it presents for the sport.

Sustainable Participation Growth – driving quality growth with a strong focus on retention, accessibility and the right participant mix across Queensland.
Association Sustainability and Reform – strengthening the financial and governance capability of Member Associations, including progressing key structural changes to build a more resilient and cohesive state network.
Financial Sustainability – ensuring a resilient, diversified funding model that balances investment in growth with financial discipline.
2032 Legacy Positioning – defining and positioning hockey’s long-term legacy by aligning infrastructure, participation and government engagement ahead of Brisbane 2032.

New Board Appointments

Following a highly competitive recruitment process - Hockey Queensland is delighted to welcome Alex Staines and Chris Rush to the board as new independent directors.

Alex Staines brings over 20 years of experience in government relations, public policy and stakeholder engagement, specialising in the resources, construction, regional development, indigenous affairs and water infrastructure sectors.

Currently Lead of Government Relations and Indigenous Engagement at Kestrel Coal Resources, and previously as a Ministerial Advisor, Alex has an extensive network of government contacts and a proven track record in securing government funding and influencing policy outcomes.

He has previously served on the board of the Gladstone Area Promotion & Development Ltd and as President for swimming and triathlon clubs.

Chris Rush is a Partner in KPMG’s Consulting practice in Queensland, leading the firm’s Technology Consulting practice with approximately 100 staff.

With a 30-year career across chartered, commercial and government environments in Australia and the United Kingdom, Chris brings deep expertise in technology-enabled business transformation, governance, financial oversight and strategic planning.

Chris is also an active member of the Commercial Hockey Club, serving as Junior Girls’ Chair.

Farewell to Paul Mantell

Hockey Queensland pays tribute to Paul Mantell, who retires as President after first being appointed to the board in 2016. A player for over 30 years, a Queensland junior representative in the 1970s, and a Life Member and long-serving Treasurer of the Ipswich Hockey Association, Paul’s connection to the game spans more than five decades.

Before the presidency, he served Hockey Queensland as Director of Finance and on the Finance, Audit and Risk Management Committee, and was an outspoken advocate for junior hockey and the Brisbane Blaze teams throughout his tenure.

Hockey has been a true family affair, with wife Margret, three sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren all part of the game, and together they have carried the Ipswich Hockey legacy all the way to the Queensland boardroom.

“Paul has given this sport more than most people will ever know,” said President-elect Claire Henkey.

“As a player, administrator, advocate and Hockey Queensland President, his legacy is woven into the fabric of our game. We thank him sincerely and wish him and Margret all the very best.”

Farewell to Aaron Averay

Hockey Queensland also farewells Aaron Averay, who joined the board in August 2023. Aaron brought a rare blend of strategic thinking and relationship-building to the board table. With over 20 years’ experience across education, government, property and the creative industries, and deep expertise in fundraising, community engagement, marketing and communications, Aaron consistently added value to Hockey Queensland’s discussions and strategic direction.

“Aaron brought thoughtful, practical insight to governance and strategic decision-making and helped guide Hockey Queensland with professionalism and care,” said Claire Henkey.

“On behalf of the entire board, I thank Aaron for the energy, experience and leadership he brought to our organisation, and wish him every success in his future endeavours.”