Football Queensland is pleased to announce the appointment of two dedicated Participation Officers, Philip Rimmer and Meaghan Watts, to the Wide Bay region, reinforcing its commitment to growing regional football and creating more community engagement opportunities for local clubs, schools and players. 

Rimmer, based in the Fraser Coast, and Watts, based in Bundaberg, will lead Game Development initiatives across the region with a local, hands-on approach, focusing on programs such as Girls United, the FQ & Roar Football in the Community program, Walking Football, and Sporting Schools to drive participation and improve accessibility. 

Incoming Participation Officer – Fraser Coast, Philip Rimmer, shared his excitement about working closely with clubs and the community and drawing on his extensive experience in football to help strengthen the local game. 

“We have a great opportunity to grow the game not only within clubs but across the wider community, ensuring more people see football as their game of choice – whether it’s playing, coaching, refereeing, or taking on a role in administration,” Rimmer said. 

“A big focus for me in this role will be mentoring young coaches, showing them the pathways to continue working in football and spreading the love of the sport, as well as showing the kids our great game and putting a smile on their faces.” 

Meaghan Watts, incoming Participation Officer – Bundaberg, is eager to bring fresh ideas and energy to the role, drawing on her lifelong passion for football and her background in sports management. 

“This role felt like the perfect fit for me, combining my passion for football with my sports management degree, and I’m excited to get stuck into facilitating programs and seeing both children and adults enjoy the game,” Watts said.

“Having played football my whole life, I understand the barriers that can exist for girls in the game, and I want to help break down these challenges by creating positive experiences that encourage more women and girls to get involved.”

Meaghan and Phil will collaborate to create and deliver fun and engaging football programs while expanding school and club participation across the Wide Bay region, with a long-term goal of achieving 50/50 gender parity and establishing football as the region’s sport of choice.

Jordie Gerbes, FQ General Manager – Central Coast Conference, welcomed the appointments, highlighting their role in bringing more dedicated and hands-on support to every corner of the Wide Bay region for the first time.

“Phil and Meaghan’s appointments are a key step in our ongoing investment in football across the Wide Bay, with their passion and expertise helping us connect more effectively with local clubs, schools, and participants, driving the sport forward and ensuring its long-term success in the region.”