Hugh Schuitemaker, Murray Pioneer
Riverland sporting volunteers had the chance to learn new skills and hear from an Olympic gold medallist in Renmark.
More than 100 local sporting enthusiasts and local government representatives attended last Saturday’s Gamechanger event, held at St Francis of Assisi College, in Renmark.
Riverland Connected and Active Communities project officer Nick Dillon said “I was absolutely thrilled with the turnout,” Mr Dillon said.
“To get 102 attendees across the day was a massive result and hopefully they were able to take something away from the event.
“Having different sessions across the day meant people could come and go and not take up their entire Saturday.
“I’ll take some learnings away from some of our scheduling though and try and make Gamechanger more impactful in 2026.”
Mr Dillon said keynote speaker, and former Australian Winter Olympic gold medallist, Steven Bradbury’s use of humour, and being able to support local sporting clubs improve their operation, was personally rewarding.
“Steven was excellent,” he said.
“His story of perseverance seemed to really resonate with our attendees, and he is such a down-to-earth character, which also helped.
“A personal highlight for me was seeing so many people giving up their time to try and make their club or organisation a better place.
“Hopefully they all benefited from the event and spread the word so more people join us next year.”
Mr Dillon also praised the presentations from local speakers including Chrissy Eleftheriadis, Troy Henderson, Mick Sparnon, Emma Vallelonga nd Emerson Fielke.
Mr Dillon said ensuring the sustainability of local volunteers was crucial for the future of Riverland sporting clubs.
“Not just the culture, but building capacity is so important,” he said.
“Our volunteers already give up so much of their valuable time and have to jump through so many hoops to do something they’re passionate about.
“As Riverlanders we are often forced to travel to Adelaide or do online courses for education and training, but I think it’s vital to remove that barrier where possible.”
This article appeared in Murray Pioneer, 9 April 2025.
