The official nomination read “Kate identified a gap in sporting opportunities for women over 40 and successfully championed the creation of Whitehorse Netball Association’s Over 40s competition. Beginning with 7 to 8 teams and growing to 10 teams within its first year, the initiative promotes fun, fitness and friendship while reconnecting women with community sport. Her tireless promotion, recruitment and advocacy have built a strong, inclusive sporting community and inspired similar competitions elsewhere, creating lasting social and health benefits for participants.”

Humbled by the nomination, Kate would like to take this opportunity to send out a massive thank you to her teammates. “Because none of this would have happened if they didn’t say yes to playing with me in the first place! I am also incredibly grateful to Liz, Carmel and the Whitehorse Netball Association for getting behind the idea and making Over 40s a reality every week. And to everyone who joins us on a Thursday night - thank you for being here. Hopefully you are having as much fun as I am!”

On behalf of WNA, we would also like to like to take this opportunity to send out a huge congratulations to Yvonne Barrett from Surrey Hills Netball Club who was crowned Volunteer of the Year last night (and who is also a "Volunteer of the Year” finalist in the 2026 NV Community Awards ) and Sam Benson from Whitehorse Colts Junior Football Netball Club who was a Volunteer of the Year finalist.

Thank you for working so hard to make sure Whitehorse is a welcoming and supportive place for everyone to play and get involved in netball.