Feasibility Study On Consolidation of Brisbane Associations

Hockey Queensland (HQ) in partnership with Brisbane Women’s Hockey Association (BWHA) and Brisbane Hockey Association (BHA) have commissioned an independent review into the feasibility of consolidating the two Brisbane Associations and to explore if combining the two associations could provide opportunities for improved governance, resource efficiency, and growth of hockey in Brisbane.

McLaughlin Sports Consultancy has been appointed to lead the review and assess the feasibility and viability of integrating BHA and BWHA under one cohesive organisation. The review will provide recommendations on associations forming a unified entity, and if that is the outcome how would it be implemented, with the aim of better aligning resources, strengthening governance, and driving future hockey participation and success across the region.

The review will involve comprehensive stakeholder engagement, including surveys, focus groups, written submissions and individual interviews, with players, coaches, officials, volunteers, sponsors, and affiliated clubs. As part of the process, McLaughlin Sports Consultancy will also benchmark with other sporting organisations that have undergone similar consolidations to identify potential best practices.

The review will examine key factors, including financial implications, operational structures, governance frameworks, and how a consolidation might impact stakeholders. It will also consider the possible effects if Logan or Moreton Bay establish new associations.

As part of the process, McLaughlin Sports will consult closely with both associations and explore how coming together could create greater efficiencies while maintaining strong local engagement.

HQ, BWHA and BHA are all committed to the review and will set up a Steering Group to work with McLaughlin Sports to guide and support the process.

McLaughlin Sports will complete the review over the following months, delivering preliminary findings in early 2025. A detailed final report, including recommendations is expected in the second quarter of 2025.

How to Get Involved:

Further details on consultation opportunities will be made available via the Hockey Queensland website and other communication channels in the coming weeks. We encourage all members of the community to get involved and share their thoughts on the future shape of Hockey in Brisbane.

If you would like to express your interest in providing a written submission as part of the Review process, and/or to potentially be involved in one of two 1.5 hour focus group sessions, or a 1-on-1 interview, please email belinda@mclaughlinsports.com.au and provide your name, role(s) in the Brisbane Hockey community and phone number.

Information about McLaughlin Sports Consultancy (MSC)

McLaughlin Sports Consultancy (MSC) specialises in the delivery of innovative, impactful and world leading consultancy services to all elements of the Australian and international sport sector. Core business areas include organisational, governance, high performance program, competition framework and system reviews, Strategy development, capacity building and workforce development projects.

Since its inception in 2002, MSC has successfully completed over 700 projects; working with over 300 client organisations.

For more information relating to MSC, please visit McLaughlin Sports Consultancy or email MSC Founder and Lead Consultant Mike McLaughlin – mike@mclaughlinsports.com.au