7 February 2015
The North Queensland Sports Foundation (NQSF) today welcomed the approval of major reforms which bring it in line with the mainstream Sports and Council governance principles.
An extraordinary general meeting of NQSF members held in Townsville agreed to a new constitution for the long term governance of the Foundation resulting in the organisation becoming a company limited by guarantee, with a smaller skills-based board and a new Chairperson.
Present Acting Chair Clr Pat Ernst commented about the sweeping changes which have been worked upon, since an internal review first conducted in July 2014, are a sign that the North Queensland Sports Foundation is embracing the change which is evidenced by the organisational restructure and governance reform agenda that has made significant progress in just over 6 months.
“The Foundation was originally set up in 1983 and has serviced North Queensland Sportsmen and Women remarkably well over the last thirty years through the North Queensland Games, Great Western Games, Sports Education Tours and Bursary Programs which have assisted over 250 juniors to the value of over a quarter of a millions dollars. This new direction is to make the Foundation even more relevant, pro-active, and a more cost effective organisation exemplifying contemporary board practices,” he said.
One of the major changes is the adoption of a seven person Board which will replace the present structure. This group will represent Member Councils of North Queensland and individual Foundation members. The addition of up to two independent Directors will address any skill shortages thus assisting the Board to make decisions in a timely and highly informed way.
NQSF Chief Executive Officer Andrew Bligh said these changes were significant for the Foundation and sport in North Queensland, as it embarks on a period of consolidation following recent challenges with funding and operational change.
Other adjustments which are now encompassed via the adoption of a new constitution include use of technology, to decrease costs to Councils, and a more inclusive consultative process for all members to have their views shared throughout the Foundation. This ability will enable the Foundation Board to be more in tune with what support is required for sports, in all regions of the Foundation footprint. Currently the NQSF services all areas North to Cooktown, West to Mount Isa and South to Sarina.
For details please contact North Queensland Sports Foundation CEO – Andrew Bligh 0419681053/ 0747 242500 Email- ceo@nqsports.com.au
