Valley Sport Announces New Executive Officer Appointment

Valley Sport, a leading organisation in sport and recreation across the Goulburn Valley, is proud to announce the appointment of Megan Carr as its new Executive Officer. Megan will commence in the role on Monday, 16th December 2024, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to building strong, inclusive, and sustainable sporting communities. 

Chairperson Belinda Conna shared her enthusiasm for Megan’s appointment: 
“We are delighted to welcome back Megan to Valley Sport. With her extensive leadership experience, passion for community engagement, and expertise in creating inclusive environments, Megan is the ideal choice to lead Valley Sport. Her vision and dedication will ensure we continue to support and empower our sporting clubs and communities across the region.” 

Megan’s distinguished career spans over 20 years in the sport and recreation sector, including her current role as Acting Head of Clubs and Facilities at Golf Australia. In this position, she has led the development and implementation of national strategies to support clubs and facilities, aligned with the Australian Golf Strategy. Megan has overseen programs focused on club sustainability, growth, and facility improvement, while promoting best practices across the golf industry. Her ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders, including clubs, state associations, government bodies, and industry partners, has been key to her success. She has also driven the rollout of national programs, providing clubs with support in governance, operations, and compliance. 

A graduate of Federation University with a Bachelor of Applied Management, Megan has completed high-profile leadership programs, including the McKinsey Academy’s Young Leaders Forum, Melbourne Business School’s Emerging Managers Program, and the AIS Female Sport Executive Talent Program. She is also a Fellow of Goulburn Murray Community Leadership and a member of Sport Australia’s Sport Volunteer Coalition. 

Megan’s dedication to fostering safe and inclusive sporting environments aligns perfectly with Valley Sport’s mission. Her strategic and operational expertise will play a pivotal role in advancing the organisation’s initiatives across the Goulburn Valley. 

Outgoing Executive Officer David Quinn will conclude his exemplary tenure on Friday, 22nd November 2024, after more than 17 years with Valley Sport, including the last 10 years as its Executive Officer. David has been instrumental in shaping Valley Sport into the respected organisation it is today, leaving a lasting legacy of innovation and collaboration. 
 
Over the past 10 years, David has instilled a strong work ethic and passion amongst the team to continually improve, with a willingness to go above and beyond expectations. David is a highly respected leader amongst his staff, peers and the board. David’s data driven decision making and authentic community engagement has resulted in a number of programs and policies that have supported our sport and recreation sector to thrive, particularly during difficult times.   

Chairperson Belinda Conna reflected on David’s contributions: 
“David’s incredible contributions to Valley Sport and the broader Regional Sports Assemblies network have left a legacy. His advocacy efforts, always grounded in a vision for improvement, has been instrumental in strengthening the network and advancing community sport and recreation across Victoria. 

David’s strategic thinking has consistently driven innovative solutions to improve access to and participation in physical activity. His deep understanding of local systems and the levers required to address barriers has been forward-thinking and widely respected. 

David’s balanced approach and unwavering commitment to the best interests of all stakeholders have earned him respect across the Victorian sport and recreation sector. As he bids farewell, Valley Sport is well-positioned to capitalise on transformative initiatives that he helped establish, ensuring the organisation remains a vital support service for the Goulburn Valley sport and recreation community. 

On behalf of Valley Sport, we extend our deepest gratitude to David for his visionary leadership, tireless dedication, and the profound impact he has made. We wish him every success in the next chapter of his journey.” 

During the interim period, Tom Van De Berg will serve as Acting Executive Officer to ensure operational continuity and support for Valley Sport’s stakeholders. 

As Megan steps into this role, Valley Sport remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting local clubs, leagues, and associations. Together with its partners, the organisation will continue to deliver innovative solutions, expand participation opportunities, and champion inclusion in sport and recreation. 

Please join us in welcoming Megan Carr as she begins this exciting new chapter as Valley Sport’s Executive Officer. Megan can be contacted after commencement date via email megan@valleysport.net.au or by calling the Valley Sport office on 03 5831 8456. 
 
 
Belinda Conna 
Chairperson 
Valley Sport