Local voice for state rowing board

WENDOUREE Ballarat Rowing Club captain, Alicia Ivory has been elected to the board of Rowing Victoria, the state’s peak organisation for the sport.

Nominated by WBRC president, John King, Ms Ivory said she is honoured to have the opportunity to represent and advocate for the many community and school rowing clubs across Victoria.

“I hope that this is an encouragement to other young women that there is a bright future ahead for female leaders in sport,” she said.

“I started my rowing career at school in Melbourne on both the Yarra River and Albert Park Lake. I came back to the sport in Ballarat after a few years off, so I have a dual perspective that I can bring to the board.

“In the past it has been really difficult for regional people to be elected to the board. I am very lucky to have had support from the local Ballarat community and beyond.”

Recently, the local regional sports assembly, Sports Central nominated Ms Ivory for a scholarship through Change our Game.

“I was one of 25 women in Victoria who were successful. That gave me the confidence to nominate for the board appointment,” she said.

“I have now completed the Change our Game Australian Institute of Company Directors course, Foundations of Directorship, and am commencing my term on the board with confidence that I can make a valuable contribution.”

Sports Central CEO Michael Flynn said the region’s sports and recreation sectors are “fortunate” to have people of this calibre leading the way.

“Alicia has demonstrated a commitment to growth and development as an individual, and for the organisations that she is involved with,” he said.

“We are pleased to be a part of this journey and look forward to continuing to share in her success.

“Initiatives such as the scholarship…provide the chance to further develop skills, networks and confidence of women in our community to have a greater impact on sport, not only in our region, but across the state and industry as a whole.”

Ms Ivory said WBRC has a “proud history,” with many women and men reaching high levels of competition.

“We are excited to start racing again this season now that restrictions have been lifted. Our goal is to send crews to state and national championships again this year,” she said.