Riverway JCU Football Club has been named Football Queensland’s June Club Changer Club of the Month, recognised for their leadership in safeguarding and commitment to creating a safe, inclusive environment for every member of their football community.

Over the past 12 months, safeguarding has become a central focus for Riverway JCU, with the club taking significant and proactive steps to strengthen child safety practices. The introduction of a comprehensive Safeguarding Policy, now communicated across all coaches, managers, volunteers and members, has played a key role in embedding a culture of awareness, accountability and care throughout the club.

A major step forward has been the appointment of dedicated safeguarding roles, with Lisa Morgan serving as Safeguarding Officer and Daniel Kennedy as Member Protection Information Officer. By clearly identifying and promoting these roles within the club and on its website, Riverway has ensured that all members know where to go for support, reinforcing a strong and transparent safeguarding framework.

These initiatives, supported by the Club Changer program, have helped drive education and awareness across the club. All volunteers are required to hold valid Working with Children Blue Cards or equivalent, and committee members and volunteers have been actively encouraged to complete safeguarding training. The result is a football environment where children and families feel safe, respected and valued, regardless of gender, race, culture, religion or ability.

Importantly, this strong safeguarding foundation has also supported retention and participation, particularly among female players and those from low socio-economic backgrounds, ensuring that football remains accessible and welcoming for all.

Beyond safeguarding, Riverway JCU continues to thrive as a growing community club. One of the standout developments has been the rise in volunteer engagement, with 17 current or former senior players now contributing as coaches or managers across the club’s 23 teams in 2026. This connection between senior and junior players has helped build a positive, family-friendly culture that is widely praised by parents and members.

Female participation is another area of sustained growth, increasing from 30 percent to 33 percent over the past year, with more than 105 female members now part of the club. This represents a significant rise from just 20 female players in 2019. The club now fields three junior girls teams and two senior women’s teams, highlighting its long-term commitment to the women and girls’ game.

There have also been strong on-field results, with the Girls United team winning the Term 4 2025 social competition Grand Final, while both the FQPL Women and Under 23 Women’s teams reached the Semi Finals, including a memorable Semi Final win for the Under 23s over Estates FC.

Off the field, Riverway JCU has strengthened its ties with the local community through engagement with schools such as Rasmussen State School and Thuringowa State High School. The club has also improved its financial sustainability, growing its number of team sponsors from seven in 2025 to 18 in 2026.

Facility improvements, including the installation of new LED lighting at Charles Moroney Park in Kelso, have enhanced the club’s ability to host games and training, while also supporting the continued growth of female participation in the Upper Ross community.

Riverway JCU’s commitment to best practice has been recognised at the highest level. The club is proud to be the first in the Northern Region to achieve three-star Club Changer status and notably only the third club in Queensland to reach this milestone, as well as being one of just three clubs to obtain Tier 2 Development Committed Status with Football Queensland.

Looking ahead, the club has clear ambitions both on and off the field. Riverway JCU is targeting a 50/50 gender participation ratio by 2033, while continuing to invest in coaching quality and player development. On the field, the FQPL Men’s team is aiming for a top four finish in 2026, alongside strong performances across its women’s and girls’ programs.

At its core, Riverway JCU Football Club remains committed to being a welcoming and inclusive football family. With safeguarding at the heart of its operations, a dedicated volunteer base and a clear vision for the future, the club continues to set the benchmark for community football.

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