Supporting the officials who keep grassroots cricket running across the region
Gold Coast Cricket Umpires & Scorers Association plays a vital role in grassroots cricket, appointing trained umpires to matches across the Gold Coast, Beaudesert and Logan regions. Over the past three seasons, their dedicated volunteers have supported more than 2,500 players and officiated over 3,000 matches — ensuring games are safe, fair and enjoyable at every level.
Like many volunteer-led organisations, the Association is facing a decline in membership. Solo umpiring demands and a wave of retirements have placed increased pressure on a shrinking pool of officials, even as the number of matches continues to grow.
Through our continued support, funding this year is helping remove barriers for new umpires by reimbursing online accreditation fees once they have officiated 10 matches. It also contributes to the Association’s annual training day, delivered by elite Cricket Australia umpires, providing valuable development and support for existing members.
For those who love cricket but no longer play, umpiring offers a meaningful way to stay involved in the game. The Association is particularly keen to welcome junior and female umpires to help strengthen representation and support competitions across the region.
Contact
📧 Michael Guy (Secretary) – gcua_chairman@outlook.com
Making waves at every age
An inclusive, community-minded organisation and proud member of our Sports Council, Nerang RSL Swimming Club welcomes swimmers of all skill levels – with handicapped races making participation possible for everyone. With members aged 20 to 86, it’s a club that brings locals together to swim and socialise.
This round, they received funding from Nerang RSL to assist with the hire of Nerang Aquatic Centre for their upcoming Top End Shield Winter Swimming Carnival.
By covering this cost, the Club can keep registration fees low – making the event more accessible for older swimmers and those on limited incomes.
📧 kleemeyers@hotmail.com
📞 Debbie Kleemeyer – 0432 317 461
Training tails and wagging ones
Wild About Agility Gold Coast (WAAG) is a not-for-profit organisation based at Country Paradise Parklands in Nerang. Run entirely by volunteers, WAAG supports people of all ages to train their dogs using positive reinforcement methods – whether they’re preparing for national-level competition or simply enjoying weekly group classes.
WAAG is affiliated with the Agility Dog Association of Australia (ADAA), promoting high standards of safety, sportsmanship and fellowship. They host up to three world-class agility competitions each year and welcome dogs of all shapes and sizes.
This year’s funding from Nerang RSL supports the purchase of a new Junior A-Frame, helping beginner dogs take their first steps in training safely and confidently.
Big Opportunities in Miniature Form
Radio sailing is a globally recognised sport – and right here on the Gold Coast, Coomera Radio Yacht Club is proudly making it more inclusive and accessible for people of all ages and abilities.
Since forming in 2021, the club has provided a welcoming space for those who may not be able to participate in more physical or contact-based sports. They’ve also recently introduced a “Learn to Sail” program in partnership with a local college – helping young people build new skills and confidence.
This year, Nerang RSL is proud to continue our support with funding to assist with fleet maintenance and to improve safety equipment – ensuring members can sail confidently both on and off the water.
📍 Watersport Ln, Oxenford QLD 4210
📞 Brian Treleaven (Secretary/Treasurer) – 0418 160 052
🌐 www.cryc.org.au
Connecting Through Music
Led by long-time Nerang RSL member Paul Grech, Breakaway Music Society is a volunteer-based group using music to support wellbeing, education and social connection – particularly among seniors and those in aged care.
This year, Nerang RSL is proud to continue support of their work with funding to help cover public liability insurance, venue hire at Country Paradise Parklands, replace amplifiers damaged during Cyclone Alfred and contribute to their music education program.
Their performances light up nursing homes and community spaces – reminding us all of the power of music to uplift and unite.
📍 231 Beaudesert Rd, Nerang (Country Paradise Parklands)
📞 0456 821 743
📧 breakawayopenmic@gmail.com
Where Confidence Rides
For nearly 40 years, Arundel Park Riding for Disabled has supported people living with disability through therapeutic and recreational horse riding – helping riders build strength, confidence and connection in a safe and inclusive space.
This year, Nerang RSL is proud to continue its support of their mission with funding to assist with the installation of industrial ceiling fans in their stables.
These fans will improve airflow and reduce the risk of heat stress in horses during summer, creating a safer and more comfortable environment for horses, riders and volunteers alike.
📍 387 Brisbane Rd, Coombabah
📞 (07) 5594 0305
📧 reception@arundelparkrda.com.au
🌐 arundelparkrda.com.au
Support, Connection and Care for Women Facing Cancer
The Gold Coast Women’s Cancer Advocacy Group is making a powerful difference in the lives of women and families navigating cancer diagnoses – offering strength, support and connection through their online network and the WCS Haven in Nerang.
Since opening in August 2024, the Haven has become a vital resource hub, providing free access to wigs, mastectomy supplies, port cushions, medical aids, counselling, reiki, yoga, meditation, group therapy and more – all delivered with care by over 30 dedicated volunteers.
With over 925 members and growing, the Haven regularly hosts guest speakers, support sessions and wellbeing workshops – but needed help to improve sound and communication during group activities and events.
This year, Nerang RSL provided funding for a complete wireless sound system, including speakers and microphones to enhance accessibility and ensure every voice can be heard.
📧 Sandra Johnson OAM – support@wcsgc.au
🌐 www.wcsgc.au
📍 WCS Haven – 12 Nerang Street, Nerang
Passion for Orchids and Connection in Bloom
Southport and Districts Orchid Society is blooming with activity – and with over 80 members from across the Gold Coast, their shared passion for orchids is the heart of everything they do.
Catering predominantly to older residents, the group provides regular social gatherings, shows and monthly meetings where members share knowledge and cultivate friendships. With expert talks, trade table sales, and raffle prizes, it’s a vibrant community for orchid lovers of all levels.
Nerang RSL continues its support this year, with funding assisting in the development of a comprehensive orchid species database and helping purchase a printer to produce show materials and certificates.
📍 Nerang Senior Citizens Club – 33 Mylor Street, Nerang
📅 Meetings: First Wednesday of each month from 7pm
📧 southportorchids1@gmail.com
Empowering Girls Through Leadership and Life Skills
Nerang District Girl Guides is led by a team of passionate volunteers who make a lasting impact on the lives of local girls – from ages 6 through to 18.
Across two weekly units (Junior and Senior), Guides helps girls develop life skills, confidence and leadership – all in a supportive, fun and empowering environment.
Since 2018, Nerang RSL has supported the Nerang units in a number of ways, and this year’s funding helps cover the cost of leadership training and essential First Aid certifications.
These qualifications are vital – allowing volunteers to safely lead unit meetings and outdoor adventures that broaden the horizons of the girls they mentor.
Growing Skills, Growing Gardens
Gilston PCYC Fun Squad provides a safe, nurturing and genuinely fun before- and after-school care environment – one that’s passionate about play, community and development.
This year, Nerang RSL is proud to continue our support with funding to assist with two fantastic initiatives:
– Marking out a permanent indoor and outdoor pickleball court, with equipment to match
– Supporting the expansion of their community garden, where children grow herbs and vegetables, including rosemary for ANZAC Day
Pickleball has fast become a favourite with the kids – parents often jump in for a quick game at pickup and families have even started playing together on weekends. It’s an inclusive, easy-to-learn sport that’s bringing people together while building confidence and coordination.
📍 Based at Gilston State School
📧 Kylie Morris – Service Manager | kylie.morris@pcyc.org.au
Quiet Support That Speaks Volumes
The Chaplaincy Support Team Nerang provides meaningful social, emotional and spiritual support to local students and their families through dedicated chaplains based at both Nerang State School and Nerang State High School.
Chaplains offer guidance in areas such as grief and loss, family conflict, loneliness, friendships and self-esteem – creating a safe and trusted space for students to feel heard and supported.
While Nerang RSL has long supported chaplaincy services in our community, this year marks our first direct contribution to CST Nerang, with funding going toward wellbeing initiatives including Colour Runs and Mother’s Day stalls at Nerang State School, and the Alpha Spheres Retreat and Chappy Week at Nerang State High School.
📍 Based at Nerang State School & Nerang State High School
📞 0402 237 772 – Janet Fuller, Chairperson
📧 janetdorothea@gmail.com
Smooth sets and safer steps
Hinterland Tennis Club has created a space where locals aged 4 to 80 can swing into action, meet new people, and enjoy the sport they love — right here in Nerang. From coaching and competitions to casual court hire and holiday camps, they offer something for every level of player.
Nerang RSL’s support has helped fund new nets and squeegees to keep courts safe and dry — so play can continue, rain or shine.
📍 Corner Southport-Nerang Road & North Street, Nerang QLD 4211
🌐 play.tennis.com.au/hinterlandtennisclub
- 1
- 2