Koonwarra Keongatha RSL Cricket Club - a Story of Inclusion and Growth

Nestled in the heart of South Gippsland, Koonwarra Leongatha RSL Cricket Club has long been a hub for cricket lovers of all ages. With members ranging from five-year-olds to life members in their eighties, the club prides itself on being more than just a sporting team—it’s a family. The community includes players from diverse cultural backgrounds, generations of local families, and a strong legacy of female involvement both on and off the field. Three female life members have been recognised for their contributions, and today, four women hold key committee roles, helping to shape the club’s future

Despite its inclusive culture, the club recognised that more could be done to break down barriers, particularly for women and girls wanting to play cricket. This realisation led them to embrace the Play Well campaign—an initiative aimed at fostering inclusive and equitable sporting environments.

embracing change with the play well campaign

The club’s journey with the Play Well campaign began in February 2024, when they participated in the Change the Game workshop, facilitated by Sport and Recreation Victoria, GippSport, and Cricket Victoria. The workshop introduced the Fair Access Policy, sparking conversations about how the club could do more to make cricket welcoming to all.

With committee members actively engaging in Play Well workshops, the club identified key areas for improvement. They committed to providing a safe, inclusive space for female players, addressing cultural barriers, and ensuring women felt valued both on and off the field. The response from the women’s team was immediate—many players spoke of the deep sense of belonging they had found within the club, reinforcing the importance of the campaign.

creating opportunities for women in cricket

Before the 2024/25 season, the club launched the Social Sixes program, designed to introduce women to cricket in a fun, social setting. The program not only encouraged new players to pick up a bat but also strengthened community connections. Women who joined Social Sixes quickly found themselves part of a welcoming environment, with many going on to join the Open Women’s team.

The impact of female role models was another key focus. The club expanded coaching opportunities for women, ensuring junior girls had strong mentors to look up to. Former club player Chelsea Moscript, who now plays for the ACT Meteors, became an inspiration for aspiring young cricketers, proving that pathways to elite competition were possible.

overcoming challenges with creative solutions

As the club worked to implement these changes, challenges arose. One of the biggest hurdles was finding suitable training times for the women’s team, as many players were balancing work and family commitments. The club trialled flexible training schedules, including impromptu sessions, to accommodate diverse needs.

Another challenge was ensuring female players felt comfortable training alongside senior men’s teams. Initially, some senior male players were unsure about the shift. The club responded by designating a separate net for the women’s team while encouraging gradual integration into shared sessions. Over time, this helped build mutual respect and understanding between all players.

To improve player safety, the club invested in infrastructure upgrades, including installing new lighting around training nets and pathways leading to the toilets. Plans are also in motion to upgrade the parking area lighting and construct a new clubhouse with modern, accessible facilities.

Cultural change was equally important. The committee took a firm stance on respectful language, ensuring that inappropriate comments were addressed. The club also restructured its awards system, introducing a Best and Fairest award for the Women’s team, further cementing their commitment to gender equity.

support and partnerships driving success

None of this progress would have been possible without the support of Cricket Victoria, GippSport, and Sport and Recreation Victoria. Cricket Victoria representatives Peter Ciavarella and Dylan Grandell played a crucial role in championing women’s cricket at the club, offering guidance and resources for the Social Sixes program.

GippSport provided invaluable inclusivity workshops, equipping the club with tools to create lasting cultural change. Additionally, the club secured funding through Cricket Australia’s infrastructure grants, allowing for crucial facility improvements. While an Orange Round to promote gender equality couldn’t go ahead this season, it remains a goal for future campaigns.

Looking ahead: a future built on inclusion

Koonwarra Leongatha RSL Cricket Club isn’t slowing down. Their long-term vision includes building a new clubhouse that prioritises inclusivity, featuring modern amenities, accessible change rooms, and a family-friendly environment. A playground visible from the clubhouse is also in the works, ensuring families feel welcome both on and off the field.

The club also plans to conduct annual inclusivity surveys, ensuring members have a voice in shaping its culture. By continually evolving, they hope to set a standard for community sport that is welcoming to all.

advice for other clubs

For clubs looking to improve inclusivity, Koonwarra Leongatha RSL Cricket Club offers these key takeaways:

Appoint an Inclusivity Coordinator

A friendly and approachable person dedicated to fostering a welcoming environment.

Invest in Training

Provide committee members with development opportunities to better understand inclusivity.

Seek Guidance from Experts

Partner with organisations like Cricket Victoria and GippSport for tailored support.

Be Open to New Initiatives

Even if participation starts small, persistence leads to growth.

Prioritise Safety and Visibility

Ensuring well-lit and accessible facilities is essential for fostering inclusion.

By taking these steps, sporting clubs can transform into thriving, inclusive communities. Koonwarra Leongatha RSL Cricket Club’s journey with Play Well proves that small changes can create a lasting impact—on the game and on the lives of those who play it.

Are you interested in partnering with us?

Call us on 5176 3020 or email info@gippsport.com.au

Need more information?

GippSport acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live and work, The Bunurong Peoples, Gunaikurnai Peoples and other traditional owner groups of the Gippsland/East Gippsland Region.  We recognise their ongoing connection to the land, waters and community, and pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging and the ongoing living culture of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people.

GippSport is committed to making a positive contribution to the wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and working in solidarity towards reconciliation.

GippSport – Gippsland Sports Assembly Inc.
PO Box 741, Traralgon, VIC, Australia 3844
Traralgon Sports Stadium, Catterick Cres, Traralgon