Workies Redbacks named Football NSW Club Changer Club of the Month for September
Football NSW has named Lithgow District Football Association’s Workies Redbacks as its Club Changer Club of the Month for September.
Club Changer is Football Australia’s Club Development Program which aims to protect and enhance clubs to make them stronger and more resilient while planning for long-term viability and success.
Lithgow District Football Association President Shane Milne was delighted to see Workies Redbacks engaging with Club Changer.
“Working closely with the Football NSW Club Changer Program Manager – Trevor Huxley, Workies Redbacks used their Club Changer action plan to identify three key areas of focus for their action plan: constitution and by-laws, compliance, and governance.”
Club Secretary Lia Jennings was also appreciative of what the program did for the Workies Redbacks.
“Following this review, our executive committee voted for Workies Redbacks to become an incorporated body.
“Having our own constitution and by-laws gives us clearly defined, club-specific policies while remaining compliant with the model constitution.
“This strengthens and defines the responsibilities of both committee members and volunteers and allows us to put in place policies and procedures that are transparent, consistent, and aligned with regulatory requirements.
“These steps not only improve safety and accountability but also help secure our reputation as a safe and inclusive club where players can safely enjoy the sport they love.
“This year at Workies Redbacks, we have worked to strengthen our governance for the benefit of current and future committees, the volunteers who support our Club, and the safety and wellbeing of our members.
“These improvements provide a framework that safeguards players, volunteers, and the committee while fostering a supportive and transparent environment for all.
“We are also in the process of building a new website, which will make our policies publicly available to all members, families, and supporters. This further increases transparency, strengthens knowledge of our values, and ensures easy access to important procedures.
Another significant achievement this year has been the development of a comprehensive handbook for volunteers. Over time, long-serving members can forget what it’s like to be new to the club, and it can place added pressure on already busy committee members to pass on information individually.
“Without a consistent process, new volunteers may feel uncertain in their roles or unsure of what is expected of them. Our new handbook alleviates this challenge by consolidating all essential information in one place. It serves as both a reference and a support tool—helping new volunteers feel welcome and confident, while ensuring all volunteers understand how the club operates and how they can contribute effectively.”
Football NSW’s Program Manager for Club Development Trevor Huxley praised Workies Redbacks engagement with Club Changer.
“It’s great to see Workies Redbacks making such positive strides forward in the governance space, their continued efforts to provide a more professional, fun, safe, social and supportive environment for their players, families and volunteers ensure they provide opportunities for everyone.
“Being awarded Septembers Club Changer Club of the month is testament to all their hard work.”
Interested Clubs can direct Club Changer enquiries to trevorh@footballnsw.com.au or visit the Football NSW Club Changer webpage.
