Australia Post One Netball Ambassador and GIANTS netball star Bec Bulley was at the North Nowra Bomaderry Netball Club in New South Wales over the weekend, to congratulate Lisa McGee on winning the 2018 Australia Post One Netball Community Award.
One of eight winners from across Australia, Lisa was selected for her efforts in coaching players with special learning needs and Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD), and for fostering an inclusive environment where members can participate in a way that meets their needs.
McGee was instantly recognised after volunteering to coach a young local player Olivia with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) who had always wanted to play the same sport as her sisters. McGee introduced Olivia as a ‘training partner’ allowing her to observe games and volunteer to join in. With Lisa limiting Olivia’s positioning on the court to reduce any peripheral distraction, Olivia has been able to slowly increase her playing time and try different positions.
Ms Bulley said the standard and quality of all nominations was very impressive, and Lisa is to be commended for her efforts in building a welcoming and inclusive environment.
“It was really inspirational to learn about the work being done by Lisa with her passion and dedication to all the players. She is breaking down barriers in the community through netball – connecting people in a shared interest, regardless of background or ability.”
Australia Post General Manager of Marketing and Community, Andrea Pearman said: “As Netball Australia’s Community and Social Inclusion Partner, it is a privilege to bring these Awards to fruition each year and recognise outstanding people like Lisa who are doing such amazing work, often in their own time, to bring people together and create inclusive, healthier communities.”
“The stories that we see each year of the wonderful diversity and inclusion work being done right across Australia reinforces the importance of these Awards, and other programs like it, in highlighting the power of sport to help communities work better for everyone. Lisa’s commitment deserves to be celebrated and it serves as a great example for others to follow.”
