Council is proud to share the outstanding results from the recent National Indigenous Australian Agency (NIAA) Sport and Recreation (S&R) Performance Report. This report showcases a significant increase in sport and recreation activities across our communities, reflecting the dedication and hard work of our community staff.
Over the past six months, employment hours within Sports and Recreation have seen a rise, climbing from 2,591.6 hours in December 2023 to 4,748.4 hours by June 2024. This substantial increase of 2,156.8 hours, or 45%, highlights the increased engagement of our local staff in S&R activities. This growth is evidence to the focused recruitment efforts by our Council Service Managers (CSMs) and Coordinators, who have worked tirelessly to strengthen our team.
The number of activities conducted over this period also saw a notable increase. From 247 activities in the previous six months, we have now delivered 335 activities, a 26% boost in the delivery of sports and active recreation across the region.
One of the most important trends observed in the report is the steady rise in attendance among our youth. Participation among those aged 12-14 years has increased by 6.4%, while the 15-17 year age group has seen a 7.82% rise compared to 2022 data. This positive trend is a clear indication that our consistent delivery of S&R programs is encouraging ongoing engagement as participants grow older.
Our young community members continue to play a crucial role in this success. Their enthusiastic participation and encouragement to peers have significantly contributed to the increasing numbers. This sustained involvement from youth ensures a vibrant future for our programs as children transition from younger to older age groups.
Council is proud of these achievements. The hard work and dedication of our CSMs, Community Safety Coordinators, and local staff are the reasons behind these impressive results. Their efforts have not only increased participation but also created a sense of community and well-being among our residents.
These programs would not be possible without funding and support from the National Indigenous Australian Agency (NIAA).