Coinciding with National Volunteer Week, the Club Changer Club of the Month award for May 2026 recognises a club leading the way in the workforce and volunteers space, and Beerwah Glasshouse United (BeeGees) is a standout example of what can be achieved when people and community are placed at the centre of everything.

Based on the Sunshine Coast, BeeGees has continued to grow both on and off the field, building a strong reputation for inclusion, connection, and a genuinely family-first approach to football. Under the leadership of Club President Amanda Milburn, the club has created an environment where volunteers feel valued, supported, and inspired to contribute.

Over the past 12 months, the club has celebrated a number of important wins, particularly in participation and inclusion. One of the most significant has been the continued growth of female football, with strong increases in both player registrations and female coaches across junior and senior teams. Reflecting on this progress, Milburn said, “Creating opportunities for women and girls in football is incredibly rewarding… we’re seeing more females stepping into leadership and playing roles each season.”

Beyond participation, BeeGees has strengthened its identity as a family-focused club through initiatives that directly support its community. A standout example has been the introduction of childcare support on training nights, providing flexibility for parents and allowing players to focus on football. “It has provided peace of mind for families while enabling players to fully focus on training and competition,” Milburn said, describing the initiative as both practical and impactful.

This focus on people has translated directly into growth within the club’s volunteer base. More members are stepping forward to contribute across coaching, game day operations, and committee roles, helping to create a vibrant and sustainable club environment. “We are proud to have built an environment where people feel welcomed, valued, and connected,” Milburn said.

At the core of BeeGees’ success in the workforce and volunteer space is its emphasis on relationships and belonging. Rather than simply recruiting volunteers, the club actively involves families and community members in its culture, creating a sense of shared ownership. This approach has driven strong retention and development, with many volunteers progressing into leadership, coaching, and committee roles. As Milburn explained, “Our volunteer network has evolved into a genuine community… people feel invested in the future of the club.”

The Club Changer program has played an important role in supporting this growth, providing structure and guidance to strengthen the club’s operations and volunteer framework. “It has encouraged us to think differently about how we engage, recruit, and retain volunteers,” Milburn said, while also helping the club identify opportunities to improve its culture and long-term sustainability. The program has reinforced the importance of inclusive environments and empowered volunteers with clearer processes, stronger communication, and a shared vision for the future.

For other clubs considering the program, BeeGees offers a grounded and encouraging perspective. “It’s not about making massive overnight changes,” Milburn said. “It’s about identifying opportunities to improve your club environment, strengthen your culture, and create sustainable growth for the future.” Importantly, the program encourages clubs to look beyond results on the pitch and focus on what underpins long-term success. “It helps you focus on people, inclusion, community connection, and volunteer wellbeing,” she added.

Looking ahead to the 2026 season, BeeGees remains focused on building a strong, inclusive, and sustainable football community. The club aims to continue growing participation across all age groups, strengthen development pathways from juniors through to seniors, and provide high-quality coaching opportunities. At the same time, there is a clear commitment to supporting and expanding the volunteer workforce, strengthening community partnerships, and improving facilities to ensure long-term sustainability.

Above all, the club’s vision remains simple and consistent; to create an environment where everyone feels welcome and proud to be part of BeeGees.

Beerwah Glasshouse United is more than just a football club; it is a community. It is a place where players, families, volunteers, and supporters come together to build friendships, create opportunities, and share experiences that extend far beyond the game. “Whether someone is playing their very first game, volunteering for the first time, or returning to football after many years, there is a place for them at BeeGees,” Milburn said.

It is this commitment to people, culture, and connection that continues to drive the club forward. With a growing volunteer base, a strong sense of belonging, and a clear vision for the future, BeeGees is not only thriving today but building a foundation for generations to come.

If your club is interested in learning more about the Club Changer program, please contact our Club Changer State Program Manager, Sean Kelly, at community@footballqueensland.com.au