Diversity & Inclusion Initiative of the Year | Finalists

The first finalist is Queensland Nepalese Cricket Association (QNCA).

Based in South-East Queensland QNCA is a growing community, promoting cricket to the wider Nepalese community and beyond. Their annual Nepalese Cricket tournament has become a community fixture, featuring inclusive initiatives like a "Big Bash" style franchise tournament. QNCA actively engages with QLD Cricket, participating in events like the Nations Cup and Multination Challenges Trophy, finishing second in the latter. The Association has actively engaged in developing their junior ranks, entering a team in the Rising Stars junior tape ball tournament which demonstrates their commitment to providing all an opportunity to excel in the sport. Their initiative to introduce a Woolworths Cricket Blast program is a testament to their efforts in developing grassroots and building a strong foundation for the future of cricket within the Nepalese community.

The second finalist is Alberton Ormeau Cricket Club.

Recognized as a "trailblazer," Alex Wells, Head Coach of the Alberton Ormeau All-Abilities Cricket Team, has championed inclusive sports programs on the Gold Coast since 2015. In 2021, she initiated the inclusive cricket team at Alberton Ormeau Cricket Club to address the absence of inclusive cricket options on the Gold Coast. Alex's belief in inclusivity drives her efforts, resulting in steady growth in the program. She ensures all participants, aged 5 to 25, feel supported, extending her support to parents and carers. Due to Alex’s dedication and vision, families travel from Lismore, Tweed Heads and beyond to be a part of the team. Alex aims to see every Gold Coast cricket club have an inclusion team, fostering a competition where everyone can participate in the cricket. Alex's commitment to creating a welcoming space for all makes her a deserving finalist for the Diversity and Inclusion of the Year award.

The third finalist is Valley District Cricket Club.

Valley District Cricket Club’s All-Abilities Program is a modified training experience that provides children and young adults with intellectual disabilities an opportunity to learn and participate in cricket. The program, which was established in 2021, is the only one of its kind in Queensland and provides children an opportunity to develop key social/motor skills whilst also being a part of an inclusive and diverse team. Founder and Coordinator, Karen “Kaz” Willis has been instrumental in the development of the program which was built off a conversation with a friend discussing the noticeable shortage and lack of opportunity for neuro-diverse children to participate in cricket. Since its inaugural program, All-Abilities now has 40 participants and continues to provide children with the opportunity to play sport. A pivotal program for the development of Queensland Cricket’s pathways systems for Special Olympics and QLD Inclusion teams, the tireless work of all involved at the All-Abilities Program is why they are a worthy finalist of the Diversity & Inclusion of the Year award.