Local Initiative Gains International Recognition
The Toowoomba Hockey Association is set to announce its participation in the Global Refugee Forum Multi-Stakeholder Pledge on Sport for Inclusion and Protection. This announcement will be made during the World Refugee Week celebrations in Toowoomba on Friday, June 5th.
Launched in 2023, the ‘Belong in Hockey’ initiative has already welcomed over 140 refugees. These individuals have been introduced to hockey, enhancing their community integration and improving settlement outcomes. This initiative highlights the role of local sports in fostering connections within communities.
During the event, new funding will be unveiled through the Strengthening Multicultural Communities grant. This financial support comes from the Department of Women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Multiculturalism and aims to extend the programme’s reach and impact.
Event Details and Key Participants
The celebration is scheduled to take place at the Toowoomba Hockey Association, located at 564 Boundary Street, Toowoomba, from 10 am to 11:45 am. The event will feature hockey demonstrations by programme participants and volunteers, as well as the formal pledge announcement.
Hockey Manager Jessie McCartney and Aleem Ali, CEO of Welcoming Australia, will be present, alongside other stakeholders and volunteers. They will offer insights into the programme’s achievements and its significance for the community.
Jessie McCartney stated, ‘We are thrilled to use sports to enhance the lives of refugees. It fosters a sense of belonging and well-being.’
This commitment aligns with a global movement advocating for sports as a tool for social inclusion.
The event will coincide with various activities celebrating World Refugee Week, including cultural performances and community discussions focused on refugee experiences. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with stories and testimonials from the refugees themselves, enriching their understanding of the challenges and triumphs experienced by the refugee community.
Last updated: 29 June 2026, 11:53 am
