Reclink Australia calls for sport to be an essential service at annual Celebration Lunch

The afternoon was brought to life by an inspiring group of speakers, including our Chair Cam Hannebery, CEO Dave Wells, Board Member Liddy Clark, and guest speakers Shehan Perera and Nadine Russell. We were also honoured to hear from our keynote speaker, Paralympian Sam Brennan OAM, whose story was a reminder of the life-changing role sport can play.

The event reinforced a powerful message that sits at the heart of Reclink’s work: sport is an essential service.

Sport is an essential service

Too many Australians, particularly young people, are locked out of sport due to financial, structural, and social barriers. The statistics are stark, and the challenge is real.

Backed by 35 years of experience, research, and world class programs, Reclink continues to lead a different conversation about sport, one grounded in inclusion, evidence, and community need. At a time when belonging, connection, and wellbeing are under increasing pressure, sport must be recognised for the essential role it plays in building healthier, more connected communities.

A sector at a critical moment

We are living through a remarkable moment for the not-for-profit sector. The need for our work has never been greater. Across Australia, too many people remain marginalised, disconnected, and living with the health consequences that come from a lack of activity and social belonging.

Sport has long been celebrated as a great equaliser, a space where background and wealth matter less than heart and effort. We still believe in that ideal. But the reality facing many Australians today tells a different story.

Building a stronger Australia through sport

Alarmingly, Australia ranks 140th out of 146 countries for physical activity among teenagers. With barriers including cost of registration, equipment, time and not feeling fit enough, too many young people think sport is not for them.

These issues are only part of the picture. Community sport has become increasingly divided along lines of race, gender, and ability. People with disability remain largely excluded. And the relentless focus on performance from an early age means that if a child isn't excelling early, the message too often is that there's no place for them.

As Australia races towards Brisbane 2032, we want to continue to deliver inclusive sport and recreation programs that empower individuals and communities across Australia.

A new era for Reclink

As we look ahead to 2026, Reclink is guided by a clear and ambitious new framework. See CEO Dave Well’s video here:

• Our vision is that sport & recreation is accessible and recognised as an essential service for community wellbeing.
• Our mission is to deliver healthy inclusive sport and recreation programs that empower individuals and communities across Australia.
• Our purpose is we want an Australia where everyone can connect and belong through sport & recreation.

Partnerships & Acknowledgements

This event was made possible thanks to our event partners Henley Homes, Penfolds, Smart Body Australia and Blue Rock.

Thank you to Gary Maas MP, Lee Tarlamis OAM MP, Paul Rees-Jones, Henley Homes, Howden Insurance Brokers Australia, AKG, BlueRock, Penfolds, Howardco Business & HR Solutions, Wellways Australia, Melbourne City Mission, IPP Consulting Pty Ltd, Jardon Group, Corrs Chambers Westgarth, MVA Bennett, Azra Solutions, MiCare and Smart Body for your ongoing support and partnership.

You can now view all the photos from the day. Be sure to follow us and tag @reclinkau to share your favourite moments and relive the celebration.