FROM THE CHAIR VICKI GILLESPIE Looking back on 2025, I am proud of what the Confident Girls Foundation has achieved and deeply moved by the impact we have made together. This year has shown the power of communities uniting to ensure every girl has the chance to thrive—especially those in remote, marginalised, or disadvantaged communities. Across Australia, our programs reached thousands of girls and young women. In total, we supported 12,300 girls and women, delivered 65 programs —creating safe spaces where confidence, resilience, and connection could flourish. Our First Nations programs were a highlight. The Black Swans initiative provided culturally safe pathways for athletes to grow as leaders, competitors, and community role models. From the PacAus Netball Series to the First Nations Tournament in Frankston, these young women strengthened their cultural identity while showcasing extraordinary talent. The unveiling of Yapenyepuka – Together symbolised the unity and shared purpose that defined the year. Inclusion remained central to our mission. The 2025 Marie Little Shield brought together athletes with intellectual disabilities from every state and territory, offering heartwarming competition and connection. Our athletes demonstrated skill, teamwork, and sportsmanship, forming friendships that extended far beyond the court. State-based programs continued to break down barriers to participation. In Victoria, more than 220 multicultural students joined netball through school programs and the inaugural Confident Girls School Championships. In NSW, Harmony Day, All Abilities Roadshows, Koori Gala Days, and mother–daughter programs created culturally rich and inclusive experiences for hundreds. In the Northern Territory, the Indigenous Netball Carnival and Dragonflies’ participation in the Marie Little Shield highlighted the power of sport to build community, pride, and opportunity. Across WA, Queensland, and Tasmania, our funding supported First Nations pathways, school engagement programs, coaching development, and inclusive competitions. The Diamond Spirit Program in Queensland achieved a 28% attendance increase at Marsden State High School and 22 Year 12 graduates—an extraordinary outcome that demonstrates the transformative power of connection and belonging. Our corporate partnerships amplified our reach and strengthened community resilience. Through Suncorp, Natural Disaster Drants helped associations recover and rebuild after floods and disruptions. The Unilever partnership brought Woolworths NetSetGo to remote communities across Cape York, Ceduna, and Kangaroo Island, ensuring children in under-serviced regions could experience the joy of netball—many for the first time. None of this would be possible without the generosity of our corporate and community partners and the dedication of our ambassadors. Your support is the heartbeat of our work, opening doors for girls across Australia and helping every program reach its full potential. 5 |
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