Sunshine Coast | Volunteer of the Year

Mel Shelley's outstanding contributions to cricket on the Sunshine Coast have earned her the well-deserved Volunteer of the Year award. Serving as President of the Palmwoods Cricket Club since June 2019, Mel has showcased exemplary leadership, navigating the club through significant milestones including the construction of a new clubhouse and the management of shared facility use. Despite facing challenges such as major floods, Mel's composed and consultative leadership style ensured the club's resilience and continued growth.

Mel's dedication extends beyond Palmwoods Cricket Club; she has played a pivotal role in the establishment and expansion of the women's cricket competition on the coast. Under her guidance, the competition has flourished from four teams to two divisions comprising six teams each. Mel's inclusive approach, coupled with her emphasis on gradual evolution, has enabled women of all skill levels to participate and thrive in cricket.

In addition to her administrative responsibilities, Mel actively contributes to the club's operational tasks, including fundraising, facility preparation, and promotion. Supported by her husband Dan, Mel's leadership is characterized by empathy, compassion, and a genuine commitment to fostering unity within the club. Her technical expertise and administrative skills have propelled Palmwoods Cricket Club forward, despite the challenges inherent in community group administration.

As a player, Mel exemplifies her passion for the sport, often taking on the role of captain and participating in prestigious competitions such as the North vs South Competition and the Queensland Vets women's team, which clinched the National title. As the only female President on the Coast, Mel serves as an inspiring role model, encouraging other women to step up and take leadership roles within the cricket community.

Mel's invaluable contributions to cricket on the Sunshine Coast and her unwavering commitment to advancing opportunities for female players ensure her enduring legacy in the sport. Her leadership, both on and off the field, will undoubtedly continue to shape cricket in Queensland for years to come.