In the heart of Far North Queensland, Redlynch Strikers United FC is doing more than just developing footballers, it’s building a safe, inclusive and values-driven community, one player at a time.
Over the past three years, Redlynch has experienced remarkable growth across all age groups. In 2025 alone, the club has seen a 33% increase in female player participation, a reflection of its commitment to accessibility and equity across the game. But with growth comes responsibility and Redlynch has embraced that challenge head-on.
For Redlynch, safeguarding isn’t a box to tick, it’s a cornerstone of how the club operates. With the support of Football Australia’s Club Changer program, the club has implemented a suite of proactive measures to ensure every member feels safe, valued, and supported.
From formalising a Safeguarding Policy and adopting a Child Safety Framework, to introducing anonymous reporting channels and appointing a dedicated Member Protection Information Officer (MPIO), Redlynch has worked deliberately to foster a culture of care and protection.
“The safeguarding modules through Club Changer have been a game changer,” said Theola Bell, MPIO and Registrar at the club. “They’ve helped us shift our thinking from compliance to culture. It’s not just about having the right documents; it’s about creating an environment where every player and family feels protected.”
Education has become a central pillar in Redlynch’s approach. Players and families now have easy access to safeguarding information through digital resources like QR codes and club information packs. The club also delivers sessions on mental wellbeing, respectful communication, cultural awareness, and even female-specific recovery equipping players with the tools to thrive both on and off the pitch.
What sets Redlynch apart is its dedication to building a truly inclusive football family. With members from a wide range of cultural backgrounds, the club actively celebrates diversity through themed match days and cultural events. It also removes barriers to entry with inclusive policies and community-focused programming, aligning with ‘Welcoming Clubs’ values.
Whether it’s empowering youth voices, promoting gender equity, or expanding leadership pathways, Redlynch is paving the way for what grassroots football should look like; welcoming, safe, and sustainable.
“We’re not just planning for the next season,” said Bell. “We’re planning for the next generation.”
Recent wins for the club include:
- A 33% increase in female participation
- Funding for a new clubhouse and three full-size fields
- Implementation of the Member Protection Information Framework
- Growth in youth development programs and multicultural engagement
Operating from two training locations and supported by two Vice Presidents, the club’s structure reflects its dynamic approach to community football. Vice Presidents Ryan Newman and Christian Cook are both deeply embedded in the club’s coaching and strategic direction, ensuring the Redlynch culture is felt at every touchpoint.
For other clubs not yet part of the Club Changer program, Redlynch has a clear message: start now.
“Club Changer gave us the frameworks, the education, and most importantly, the confidence to take meaningful action,” said Bell. “It doesn’t matter if your focus is safeguarding, governance, or growth, the program will meet you where you’re at and help you build from there.”
If your club is interested to learn more about the Club Changer program, please reach out to our Club Changer State Program Manager Sean Kelly via email: community@footballqueensland.com.au
