Date: Saturday 25 October 2025
Time: 10AM to 12PM
Venue: South Gippsland Splash, 52A Roughead St, Leongatha VIC 3953
The South Gippsland Play Well Expo is a celebration of community sport, designed especially for women and girls who want to connect, try something new, and discover the joy of playing their way.
The South Gippsland Play Well Campaign focus is on Australian Rules Football, Cricket, and Soccer, with an emphasis on engaging women and girls through community events and partnerships with local clubs.
This free, family-friendly expo brings together local clubs, community leaders, and inspiring role models for a day full of activities, conversation, and celebration.
Pop-up Skill Challenges:
Step onto the field and give something new a go! At the Expo, you’ll have the chance to take part in beginner-friendly Aussie Rules, Cricket, and Soccer activities, guided by local clubs and coaches. Whether you’ve played before or are just curious, this is your chance to join in, move your way, and have fun in a supportive environment.
Participating clubs include:
- AFL Gippsland
- Southern Gippsland Junior Association
- Leongatha & District Cricket Association (TBC)
- Gippsland Soccer League
- Leongatha Knights FC
- Nyora Football Netball Club
- Leongatha Football Netball Club
Panel: Women Community Voices in Sport
At 10:30am, join our Play Well Panel as local women share their journeys, challenges, and triumphs in sport. Hear how they got started, what inspires them, and what the future of women’s sport looks like in Gippsland.
Panellists:
- Melissa Buckley – Player & Committee Member, Koonwarra Leongatha RSL Cricket Club
- Beth Milkins – Player, Coach & Committee Member, Leongatha Knights FC
- Sophie Bolding – Community Development Coordinator, South Gippsland Shire Council & AFL Player
- Kathy Zacharopoulos – Girls Coach, Leongatha Football Netball Club
- Violet and Laura– Nyora Junior Football Club Trailblazers
Together, they’ll cover topics such as confidence, leadership, role models, community support, and the exciting future of women’s and girls’ sport.
Why Play Well Matters
- Play Your Way
You don’t need to be competitive or “good at sport” to join in. The Expo is about fun, learning, and giving something new a go. - Everyone’s Welcome
The Expo is beginner-friendly, family-friendly, and inclusive. Whether you’re a first-timer, returning after years, or already part of a club, there’s a place for you. - Let’s Connect
Sport is about more than just the game. It’s about building friendships, feeling supported, and being part of your community.
Join the Celebration
The South Gippsland Play Well Expo is all about celebrating local clubs, sharing stories, and showing that sport is for everyone. Come along, bring your friends, and enjoy a day of connection, movement, and community pride.
Saturday 25 October 2025
South Gippsland Splash, Leongatha
Panel at 10:30am
For more information contact Gene at gene@gippsport.com.au
The South Gippsland Play Well Expo is all about celebrating local clubs, sharing stories, and showing that sport is for everyone. Come along, bring your friends, and enjoy a day of connection, movement, and community pride.
Women and girls in South Gippsland are set to benefit from the Play Well Participation Grants, awarded by the Australian Sports Commission. These grants are part of a nationwide initiative to break down barriers and ensure everyone has a place in sport, regardless of their background or experience.
GippSport is proud to partner with South Gippsland Shire Council to bring this vision to life. With a focus on traditionally male-dominated sports, this program aims to boost participation and create more inclusive, welcoming sports environments for women and girls.
