Following the AGM, we’re excited to announce Chantella Perera as the new President of Women Sport Australia, stepping into the role after serving as Deputy President. A former professional basketballer and AFLW player, and now an executive in the sport and entertainment industry, Chantella brings strong leadership, deep industry experience and an unwavering commitment to advancing women and girls in sport.
“Women’s sport in Australia is at an inflection point. We’re seeing significant shifts for women and girls overseas, and we have a powerful opportunity to push the industry to new heights and lead meaningful reform. It’s an honour to continue driving this organisation’s mission and help shape a better future for Australian women and girls in sport.”
With Chantella stepping into the Presidency role, WSA's Secretary Tamatha Harding will also hold the Vice-Presidency.
WSA also warmly welcomes Alison Neil to the Board. Alison is an active community leader with extensive experience across local councils, recreation and community development, and will be a valuable addition to our team.
With these changes, we farewell a two devoted board members. Firstly, we see the departure of our outgoing President Helena Wurf. Helena has led WSA with dedication and commitment over the past two years. Since joining the Board in 2022, Helena has helped pave the way for a new chapter of WSA and set the organisation up for success as we move into an exciting era for women’s sport. She has guided us through monumental sporting moments and invigorated our major events — the Women in Sport Photo Action Awards and the Women in Sport Breakfast.
We also bid farewell to our longstanding Treasurer, David Bond, who has been a behind-the-scenes force for WSA for more than six years. David, a passionate educator and researcher, has played an instrumental role in ensuring WSA remains financially stable and positioned to drive equitable change for women and girls.
Lastly, Athena Koelmeyer will step down after 12 months with Women Sport Australia. Athena is highly skilled in workplace relations, employment law, discrimination law and work health safety law and of course, sports law, and has been integral to WSA's Govenernance over the past year.
Thank you, Helena, Dave and Athena, for your outstanding leadership, hard work and volunteered time.
