The Annual General Meeting of Port Stephens Netball Association was held on Wednesday 12 March 2025.

Consistent with its Constitution a quorum was met.

The Chair provided an Acknowledgement of Country and noted apologies.

The Council of Port Stephens Netball Association, acknowledged the recent passing of Mark Tame, husband to Tracy Tame (President, St Brigids Netball Club) and collectively shared their condolences to Tracy and the family at this time.

Council Members agreed to the following items:

• confirmation of the previous AGM Minutes

• adoption of the annual report and audited balance sheet

• appointment of Auditor - Rees Pritchard Pty Limited

• appointment of Patron - Wendy Archer AM, Life Member

Awards and Recognition

Awards were presented to the following people in recognition of their contributions to netball in our community.

The Chair acknowledged the service of Samantha Rumbel, Life Member who would not be re-standing for election for season 2025. Sams commitment to the Association across various roles and more recently in the last 8 years as Representative Convenor were recognised. Sam was provided a farewell gift by Representative Teams at Rep training last night and was further provided with a small gift provided by Council for efforts as a volunteer to the game.

Judy Parker Sportsperson of the year award

Emma Lowndes was awarded this prestigious award. Emma has been a huge part of Karuah Pearls Netball Club for the past two years, not only playing the game but also by organizing and helping the Club with fundraising activities. Emma is always there to support the club and its members, both on and off the court. Emma has made a real impact on grassroots sports in our community, especially when it comes to growing the game of netball in our small but growing town of Karuah.

Emma is always the first to arrive, offering great advice on the game and pitching in with all sorts of tasks – from washing and cleaning uniforms to making sure we have the right number of balls, bibs, and equipment. Emma’s dedication keeps everything running smoothly, and she plays a big part in making sure everyone has a great experience at the club. 

Pearl Manton accepted Emma's award on her behalf.

Service Awards

Service Awards recognised four members of our Association who have all contributed for a sustained period of time at Port Stephens Netball Association assisting to grow various aspects of our game.

Emma Penfold exemplifies unwavering dedication to the Port Stephens Netball Association. Her contributions span coaching, umpiring, and administration, making her a valued part of our netball community.

Emma is known for her exceptional coaching, with her most notable achievement being her role as the U17s representative coach, leading the team to a win at Senior State Titles in 2024—a feat not achieved at Port Stephens for many years.  

Beyond her representative coaching successes, Emma actively supports both the winter and summer competitions, committing countless hours to coaching and officiating games. Her ability to manage these responsibilities while maintaining a supportive and approachable presence for players, parents, and fellow volunteers reflects her selfless nature.  

The Service Award, which recognises sustained and significant contributions to netball, is a wonderful tribute to Emma’s tireless work in advancing the sport and creating opportunities for others.

Pearl Manton is an instrumental figure in the growth and success of the Karuah Pearls Netball Club. Her dedication and passion for the sport have not only contributed to the development of the club but also fostered a sense of community and teamwork among players.

Pearl is always willing to lend a hand, whether it’s helping out with Saturday netball or supporting the growth of young players. Her commitment to nurturing and encouraging the next generation of athletes has made a lasting impact on not only her club but also our Assocation.

In 2025, Pearl’s outstanding contributions were recognized when she was awarded Port Stephens Sportsperson of the Year and Woman of the Year for Port Stephens. These prestigious awards reflect the incredible work she does, both on and off the court. Pearl’s tireless efforts and positive influence make her an invaluable asset to our Association, and her passion for the sport continues to inspire all those around her. 

 Sophie Bradbery is the driving force behind the establishment and growth of Bradson Netball, transforming it from a single team into a thriving club that now includes mixed teams in the twilight competitions and in 2025 has introduced intermediate teams to its Club.

Sophie’s dedication to the club and her willingness to help in every aspect of the organization have been key to its success. Her vision and hard work have truly made a positive impact, ensuring that Bradson Netball continues to grow and offer more opportunities for players of all levels. 

One of Sophie’s most significant achievements over the last 12 months has been the introduction of the Port Stephens Netball Association Mental Health Round, an initiative she led to raise awareness about mental health issues while raising funds for two incredible causes – Talk to Me Bro and UMatter Awareness.

This event has become a key fixture in our calendar, thanks to Sophie’s passion and leadership. Her efforts have not only made a lasting impact on her club, and out Association but also contributed to important conversations and support for mental health in the community. Sophie’s tireless commitment makes her a valuable member of our Association. 

Danielle Tranter has been a dedicated and invaluable member of our netball community for many years, contributing to numerous roles. She has been actively involved in Representative coaching, sharing her expertise and passion to help develop players at all levels.

In addition to her Rep coaching, Dannielle gives back her time to coach senior teams, demonstrating her commitment to the growth and success netball. Her experience as a player, coach and an umpire has given her a well-rounded perspective that she continuously uses to mentor and support others. 

Beyond her coaching and playing, Dannielle devotes countless hours to the running of the canteen alongside Sue Coulter. Her skills as a barista are particularly appreciated by our players and families, providing a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere at every event.

Dannielle’s ongoing dedication to the sport and the netball community makes her an essential part of our Association. Her generosity of time has made a lasting impact, and we are incredibly fortunate to have her as part of our netball family. 

Your new Executive Committee for 2025

• President - Jodi Cassar PSM, Life Member

• Vice President - Sue Xenos, Life Member

• Secretary - Michelle Archer, Life Member

• Treasurer - Emma Penfold

• Rep Convenor - Nadina Marsh

• Technical Services Convenor - Sue Coulter

• Games Services Convenor - Ashlea Caldwell

Elected Sub Committee Convenors

• Assistant Treasurer - Melissa Crain

• Canteen Convenor - Danielle Tranter

• Competitions Convenor - Jean Simpson

• Grounds Convenor - Leighton Knight

• NetSetGo Convenor - Sophie Bradbery

• Member Protection Officer - Wendy Thomas, Life Member

A number of Sub Committee Convenors remain vacant, nominations of these positions will continue to be sourced. These roles include:

• Carnival Convenor

• Twilight Convenor

• All Abilities Convenor

• Boys and Mens Convenor

• Coaching Convenor

• Selections Convenor

• Umpires Convenor

Nominations for these roles can be emailed directly to info@portstephensnetball.com

Jodi Cassar and Sue Xenos were elected Netball NSW Delegates with Jodi Cassar and Emma Penfold elected to Port Stephens Council Sport Council (West Ward delegates).

A big thank you to everyone on your appointments, and to making netball great at Port Stephens Netball Association.