Nicola Carey is going to her first T20 World Cup since 2020.
The all-rounder has been named in Australia's 15-player squad for the 2026 ICC Women's T20 World Cup in England and Wales, led by captain Sophie Molineux.
It completes one of the best comeback stories in Australian cricket. Carey turned down a Cricket Australia contract three years ago over a lack of game time. She kept performing at domestic level, was voted the 2026 Women's Domestic Player of the Year by her peers, and forced her way back into the national side during the home series against India. She held her spot for the tour of the West Indies and earned a contract upgrade along the way.
Carey played key roles in Australia's T20 World Cup win in 2020 and the ODI World Cup win in 2022, so she knows what winning these tournaments takes.
Australia open their campaign against South Africa in Manchester on 13 June.
Source: https://www.cricket.com.au/news/4497401/all-the-womens-icc-t20-world-cup-2026-squads-england-australia-india-new-zealand-south-africa-pakistan-west-indies-sri-lanka
Megan Schutt Confirms the 2026 T20 World Cup Will Be Her Final ICC Event
Australian fast bowler Megan Schutt has confirmed the 2026 ICC Women's T20 World Cup will be her last ICC tournament.
Schutt made her international debut in 2012 and has taken 309 wickets across 240 games in all three formats, putting her among the most successful bowlers in Australian cricket history.
She is not winding down quietly. Asked about her motivation heading into the tournament, Schutt made it clear she wants to finish with a win. "Hungry is one word and for me it's revenge, or spite. It's definitely one I want to go and win. I'm competitive in everything I do, which is a good and a bad thing. The last two have stung and, after being part of a lot of success, it stings even more."
Days after the announcement, Schutt was named in Australia's 15-player squad for the tournament in England and Wales. She spearheads the bowling attack alongside Kim Garth in a squad led by captain Sophie Molineux.
Australia open their campaign against South Africa in Manchester on 13 June, chasing a record seventh Women's T20 World Cup title.
This October, two extraordinary ultra runner athletes will lace up their shoes in Sydney and not stop running until
they reach Melbourne, 1,019 kilometres later.
Ultra-marathon runners Sia Kindberg and Matt Knight will take on one of the most demanding endurance
challenges of their careers, running from Sydney to Melbourne between 2 and 22 October 2026 to raise funds
and awareness for Hagar Australia.
Right now, 50 million people are trapped in some form of modern slavery. That’s the highest number ever
recorded in human history. They are hidden in supply chains, locked behind closed doors, exploited in fields
and factories and homes, unseen by most of the world. Hagar sees them.
For 30 years, Hagar has been working across Asia to prevent slavery and walk alongside survivors of
trafficking, exploitation, and abuse. Through trauma-informed care, education, and long-term support, we help
survivors heal, grow, and lead.
Sia and Matt are running to make that work possible for more people.
Sia was born in Bangkok, raised across Thailand, Sweden, Germany, and Greece, and landed in Australia as a
backpacker in 2003, and decided to stay. A single mother of two, interior designer, and speaker of five
languages, Sia is one of this country’s most tenacious endurance athletes.
With more than 50 ultras behind her, she made history in February 2024 as the first Australian to complete the
Ice Ultra - a 230km self-sufficient race across frozen Arctic tundra in temperatures as low as -40°C. She runs
because she believes in doing the things that matter now, not waiting for the right moment.
Matt is a British-born ultra-endurance athlete with close to 80 races under his belt - including the brutal
Marathon des Sables and the Jungle Ultra. He’s also rowed the entire length of the Amazon River across three
countries, raising funds for Great Ormond Street Hospital and other charities along the way.
Every dollar raised goes directly toward Hagar’s programs, supporting survivors to rebuild their lives and break
the cycle of exploitation for good.
Sia and Matt will be running through almost 20 towns and if you would like to share your support,
please refer to the back page for locations, sponsors, donation and social links.
Sia Kindberg and Matt Knight are experienced ultra-endurance athletes with a track record in multi-day and extreme-distance events.
Sia has completed more than 50 ultramarathons. In 2024, she became the first Australian to finish the Ice Ultra, a 230-kilometre self-sufficient race held in Arctic conditions. Alongside her running, she works as an interior designer and is a mother of two.
Matt has competed in approximately 80 endurance races, including the Marathon des Sables and the Jungle Ultra. He has also rowed the length of the Amazon River and previously worked as a firefighter for 13 years.
Both runners bring relevant experience in long-distance, multi-stage challenges, which will be critical to completing the 1,019km route from Sydney to Melbourne.
Every donation goes directly to providing critical services and long-term support to ensure each survivor has the necessary tools and resources to achieve their goals.
$30 - Emergency Support: Help provide immediate assistance and emergency relief to survivors, including access to shelter, food, and clothing during times of crisis.
$100 - Holistic Care: Contribute to a survivor's holistic care, encompassing their physical, emotional, and educational needs, promoting healing and long-term recovery.
$250 - Skills Training: Empower survivors by funding job skills training or vocational programs, equipping them with valuable skills for sustainable employment opportunities.
$500 - Trauma Counselling: Assist survivors in accessing professional trauma counselling services, providing them with critical support to heal from their past experiences and rebuild their lives.
Your donation will make a real difference in the lives of survivors and help us to break this vicious cycle of exploitation and abuse.
Sweat with Pride challenges participants to move for just 21 minutes a day throughout June and raise money for Australia's LGBTQIA+ community organisations. You can take part solo or as part of a team, track your movement on Strava, and earn rewards along the way - including exclusive merch for top fundraisers.
The campaign is built around a simple idea: fight discrimination with perspiration. Every dollar raised goes directly to the community-led organisations working to create a safer, more equal world for LGBTQIA+ people.
Campbell is a proud LGBTQIA+ athlete and ambassador for Proud 2 Play, a platform dedicated to building inclusive environments in sport. For Campbell, Sweat with Pride is a chance to use his platform to take real, tangible action for the communities that matter to him.
LGBTQIA+ people still face discrimination in workplaces and daily life, and the organisations Sweat with Pride supports are doing critical work. Campbell wants his community to show up for them this June.
Help Campbell achieve his goal by donating here: https://www.sweatwithpride.com.au/fundraisers/campbellharrison/swp
Sign up at sweatwithpride.org.au to join Campbell and thousands of others moving for change this June. Whether you walk, run, swim, climb, or dance - 21 minutes a day is all it takes. Team up with friends and colleagues, or go solo. Every step counts, and every dollar makes a difference.
A special celebration on International Women’s Day!
Huge Announcement - Meg Lanning will be there as the guest speaker
Get ready for an evening of stories, laughs and love as Victress: Women Who Paved The Way in Australian Sport The W Club Melbourne and DHM Talent Management join forces to host a unique celebration.
Hosted by Angela Banbury this is your chance hear from former Hobart Hurricanes WBBL captain and Victress book author/illustrator Corinne Hall, Aussie Paralympian Al Viney plus a number of special guests.
The W Club is the perfect setting, a venue dedicated to women’s sport and the fabulous people who make it special.
Tickets are just $100 and entry includes a signed book, food and entertainment, with drinks at bar prices.
Grab your tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/international-womens-day-event-victress-book-tickets-1979649690515
Every year on March 8th, the world comes together to celebrate International Women's Day—a day dedicated to honoring the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women while also calling for accelerated gender equality.
International Women's Day isn't just about celebration; it's about recognition and forward momentum. It's a chance to acknowledge the trailblazers who fought for women's rights, the everyday heroes making a difference in their communities, and the next generation of women leaders shaping our future.
From the suffragettes who won the right to vote to the scientists breaking barriers in STEM fields, from entrepreneurs building businesses to activists demanding policy change—women have consistently driven progress even when facing systemic obstacles.
While we've made significant strides, the journey toward true equality is far from over. Women still face pay gaps, underrepresentation in leadership roles, and barriers to opportunities in many sectors. In some parts of the world, women continue to fight for basic rights and freedoms.
International Women's Day reminds us that equality benefits everyone. Diverse perspectives lead to better decision-making, innovation thrives when everyone has a seat at the table, and societies flourish when all members can reach their full potential.
You don't need to wait for March 8th to make a difference:
Support women-owned businesses. Your purchasing power can create economic opportunities.
Mentor and sponsor. Share your knowledge and actively advocate for women in your workplace and community.
Challenge bias. Speak up when you witness discrimination or unconscious bias, and examine your own assumptions.
Amplify voices. Share and credit women's ideas, and create platforms for diverse perspectives.
Educate yourself. Learn about the challenges women face in different industries and regions, and stay informed about policy issues affecting gender equality.
International Women's Day is a powerful reminder that progress requires sustained effort from all of us. By celebrating achievements, acknowledging ongoing challenges, and committing to concrete action, we can build a more equitable world for everyone.
This March 8th, let's not just celebrate—let's commit to being part of the solution, every single day.
Sia Kindberg Completes the Bibbulmun Track Stage Run: A Story of Perseverance and Courage Event: Bibbulmun Track Stage Run for 2024.
The Bibbulmun Track Stage Run is not a race, it’s a journey through some of Western Australia’s most beautiful landscapes, testing your endurance, mental toughness and connection to nature. Sia Kindberg tackled the challenge and left her mark on the event.
A Trail Like No Other The Bibbulmun Track is a famous long distance trail, 1,000km from Kalamunda in the Perth Hills to Albany on the south coast. The Stage Run is a multi day event, cramming the best of this stunning trail into three days of running. It attracts trail runners from around the world and the 2025 event was no exception.
Sia Kindberg was one of the brave souls who took on this course. With its varied terrain – from forests to coastal cliffs – this track requires a special kind of physical and mental toughness. Runners did 50km each day with lots of ups and downs and technical trails..
The Bibbulmun Track Stage Run was an experience that highlighted the beauty of nature and the power of the human spirit for Sia. Her participation in this challenging event serves as an inspiration for aspiring trail runners and outdoor enthusiasts.
As Sia reflected on her journey, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to immerse herself in such a spectacular environment and to connect with a community of like-minded adventurers. The Bibbulmun Track Stage Run 2024 will undoubtedly remain a cherished memory and a milestone in her running career.
The Run Bibbulmun Track Stage Race is a premier trail running event that spans three days, guiding solo runners through the diverse and picturesque terrains of the Bibbulmun Track. Located in the Great Southern region of Western Australia, this race has become a must-do for trail running enthusiasts seeking both challenge and natural beauty.
Originally known as the Great Southern Stage Run, the event underwent a significant transformation in 2024 to enhance accessibility and inclusivity. The revamped format focuses on solo participation, eliminating the previous team requirements, and offers both long and short course options to cater to varying skill levels.
Race Format and Structure
Detailed Breakdown of Each Stage
Day 1: From Forest Canopies to Coastal Vistas
Day 2: Navigating Rugged Coastlines
Day 3: Scenic Trails to the Finish Line
Scenic Highlights Along the Bibbulmun Track
Participants are treated to a variety of natural wonders, including:
Training and Preparation Tips
To tackle the diverse terrains:
Essential Gear Recommendations
Key items include:
Environmental Considerations
Runners are encouraged to:
Community and Camaraderie
The event fosters a strong sense of community, with runners sharing experiences and supporting each other throughout the journey.
Supporting the Bibbulmun Track Foundation
A portion of the event's proceeds supports the Bibbulmun Track Foundation, aiding in the maintenance and preservation of this iconic trail.
Conclusion: Embracing the Adventure
The Run Bibbulmun Track Stage Race offers an unforgettable experience, blending physical challenge with the natural splendor of Western Australia's landscapes. It's more than a race; it's a journey that leaves lasting memories.
The 2024 Australia Sports Innovation Week is the Southern Hemisphere’s largest and most respected sports innovation and technology experience. The Sports Tech Conference sits as the centrepiece of the broader week that runs from Tue 22 Oct – Fri 25 Oct 2024 in Melbourne, Australia.
STWS is thrilled to host the 2024 Sports Tech Conference at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
The Sports Tech Conference is a jam packed experience of actionable content and proven strategies from experts (and a few celebrities) that have driven innovation at their clubs and organisations.
Everything you hear and learn is tested logic and proven tactics to improve the performance of organisation both on and off the field.
You’ll walk out of the conference with your mind full of actionable growth strategies that you can apply the second you get back to work.
It’s one thing wanting to take your work to the next level. It’s another to follow through and actually do it.
That’s why we put presenters on stage and people in the room who are actually doing it. Hear the latest ideas, strategies and insights from your industry leaders.
You will leave the experience feeling inspired.
Connect with people who carry a passion for sport from the pitch, the court, the change rooms, the practice sessions, the chat groups, the social forums, the committee meetings, the recovery sessions, the list meetings, the boardroom, the stands, broadcast box and the planning sessions.
Networking throughout the conference will help you and your organisation amplify progress towards change, innovation, inclusion, technology and expansion in sport.
Book your tickets here - https://stws.co/conference-australia/
Mental Health Month 2024 is a crucial opportunity for you to raise awareness and foster understanding about mental well-being. It encourages you to openly discuss mental health challenges, helping to break down stigma. During this month, you can connect with community support initiatives that create safe sharing environments, making others feel heard and valued. Engaging with personal stories can inspire you and build connections. Plus, there are numerous resources available to enhance your understanding and provide the help you or someone else might need. By exploring further, you can uncover more ways to support yourself and those around you.
Importance of Mental Health Awareness
Mental health awareness is essential for fostering a supportive community where everyone feels valued and understood. By breaking down mental health barriers, you create an environment where open dialogue becomes the norm. This openness encourages individuals to share their experiences and seek help without fear of judgement. Engaging in conversations about mental health not only validates feelings but also promotes early intervention, which can greatly improve outcomes for those struggling.
Awareness campaigns play an important role in this process, providing valuable information and resources that empower individuals to take charge of their mental health. When you participate in community engagement activities, you help spread this knowledge, reminding others that they're not alone in their struggles. This collective effort can transform perceptions and lead to a more compassionate society.
When you prioritise mental health alongside physical health, you contribute to a culture of acceptance and understanding. You're not just raising awareness; you're fostering connections that support individuals facing challenges. By encouraging friends and family to discuss mental health openly, you help dismantle the barriers created.
Community Support Initiatives
In your community, support initiatives play an essential role in fostering a culture of understanding and compassion for those facing mental health challenges. By implementing effective community engagement strategies, you can help create an environment where individuals feel safe to share their experiences. Local support networks are crucial as they provide a backbone for these initiatives, connecting people with resources and each other.
You might consider participating in volunteer opportunities that align with mental health advocacy. These opportunities not only allow you to give back but also help you gain insight into the needs of those around you. When you engage with others through these initiatives, you contribute to breaking down barriers and promoting open conversations about mental health.
Community resource sharing is another critical aspect of support initiatives. By sharing information about available services, support groups, or educational workshops, you empower others to seek help when needed. This sharing fosters collaboration among community members, ensuring that everyone knows they aren't alone in their struggles.
Personal Stories and Experiences
Sharing personal stories and experiences can be a powerful way to connect with others and foster understanding around mental health. When you share your personal narrative, you're not just telling a story; you're creating a bridge that allows others to glimpse your lived experiences. This storytelling impact can be profound, as it often resonates with those who might feel alone in their struggles.
By sharing your journey, you invite others into a space of empathy and support. You show that overcoming challenges is possible and that it's okay to seek help. Your story might inspire someone else to open up about their own mental health challenges, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
In a world where it can often silence voices, your willingness to share can be a beacon of hope. It reminds others that they're not alone and that many people face similar battles. When you talk about your experiences, you validate the feelings of others, encouraging them to share their narratives as well.
Moreover, these shared experiences can lead to increased awareness and understanding of mental health issues. They help dismantle misconceptions and pave the way for open dialogue. So, don't hesitate to share your journey. Each story contributes to a larger narrative, one that emphasises the importance of mental health and the power of connection. Together, we can create a supportive environment where everyone feels safe to express their struggles and triumphs.
Resources for Mental Health
Accessing the right resources can greatly enhance your mental health journey. You deserve support that empowers you to navigate your challenges with confidence. Start by exploring mental health education materials that provide valuable insights into understanding your feelings and behaviors. Knowledge can be a powerful tool in overcoming your fear, helping you feel more comfortable discussing your experiences.
Consider engaging in wellness workshops that offer practical strategies for self-care and stress management. These workshops often foster safe environments where you can learn alongside others facing similar challenges. They can introduce you to early intervention methods that might help you identify and address issues before they escalate.
Peer support networks can also play an important role in your recovery. Connecting with others who share your experiences can create a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation. You'll find encouragement and understanding, which are essential in your mental health journey.
Don't hesitate to reach out for help. Utilise helplines and local mental health services to find the support you need. Many communities offer resources tailored to diverse needs, ensuring that everyone can access the help they deserve. By embracing these resources, you're taking a proactive step toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and you're not alone on this journey.
Tips for Supporting Others
Supporting others during challenging times can make a significant difference in their mental health journey. You can start by practicing emotional intelligence; this means recognising and understanding their feelings. Approach conversations with empathy and kindness, allowing them to express themselves freely without fear of judgment.
Active listening is essential. Make certain to give them your full attention, maintaining eye contact and nodding to show you're engaged. Reflect back what they say to guarantee they feel heard, and ask open-ended questions to encourage deeper sharing. This creates a safe space for them to open up.
Compassionate outreach is another effective way to support someone. Check in regularly, even if it's just a quick text or call. Let them know you're there for them, and don't shy away from discussing mental health openly.
Additionally, consider the power of peer support. Encourage them to connect with others who might share similar experiences. You could even suggest support groups or community resources that promote collective healing.
Lastly, remind them that seeking help is a sign of strength. Your support can empower them to take the next steps in their mental health journey. By being present and supportive, you can truly help lighten their load and foster a sense of hope and resilience.
As October unfolds, let's weave a tapestry of understanding and support for mental health. Each conversation you spark is a thread that strengthens our community, helping to unravel what binds so many. By sharing stories and lending an ear, you're not just participating—you're creating a safe haven for those in need. Together, we can illuminate the path toward healing, showing that it's always okay to talk about mental health.
If you're looking for an inspirational speaker around Mental Health, ready to bring powerful insights and meaningful dialogue to your event, we have some amazing people who can empower an audience. With their deep understanding of mental health and their ability to inspire positive change, they are well-equipped to engage your audience and spark important conversations around mental well-being and resilience.
Al Viney - Australian Paralympian
Harrison Campbell - Australian Olympian
Sharni (Layton) Norder - Australian Netballer
Sia Kindburg - Ultra Marathon Runner
Founded by renowned youth worker Les Twentyman, the Les Twentyman Foundation promotes the well-being of children and young people in Australia by providing services that help them build good relationships with family and friends, learn the skills they need to be successful, and reach their full potential.
The support they provide includes helping kids who are living in poverty, mental health issues, unemployment, racism, addiction and domestic violence.
We help people stay engaged in the community, building hope and ensuring that they do not end up living on the street or being involved with the youth justice system. We've been working in the sector for more than 30 years, and our history is one of helping youth and young people avoid ending up homeless, living on the streets or becoming involved with the juvenile justice system.
A child's connection and engagement is key to his or her future. For that reason, we want to see every child in our care be connected to his or her family, community and the world beyond. Our learning programs are built on that premise.
Filmed back in the '90s, this documentary short features a young 16yo boy accidentally found behind the offices in Nicholson street Footscray where Richard Tregear and Les buried 35 kids that year that had overdosed.
Now 42, that boy sent Les a message saying he is now studying Drugs & Alcohol Certificate 4 and wants to give back to the community. He also wants to thank the Les Twentyman Foundation, saying it was the foundation that saved him, in particular, outreach worker Richard Tregear that he still sees often.
The Les Twentyman Foundation is dedicated to helping and supporting “at-risk” youth. Through a variety of programs we connect with the youth of all ages and help them get back on their feet and re-connect with the community. If you're looking to help their cause, head over to their website - Les Twentyman Foundation
Here's a link to an article from 'The Age' regarding former Back To School Student, Richard Phan. It's these kinds of success stories that reiterate the importance of what they do, working alongside and believing in our young people allowing them to shine!
Another article from the Herald Sun on solutions to recruitment into gangs and anti-social behaviour.
International Women's Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender equality. It’s about working toward a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination. A world that's diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated.
Come join us at the MCG as we celebrate International Women's Day on Tuesday 8th March 2022. Hear from leading female business people while you enjoy a gourmet breakfast and networking opportunities.
Jason Akermanis has achieved things in AFL that others could only dream of. His long list of accolades include:
Jason Akermanis was more than just a great footballer.
He was an entertainer.
From his freakish skills on the field to his charismatic after game celebrations, we managed to get some time with the great man to talk about his footy life before, during and after.
Thanks for sitting down with me for a coffee and a chat! You’ve had a colourful and very successful footy career, and I guess being part of the Brisbane Premierships of 2001, 2002 & 2003 and winning the Brownlow in 2001 would be some of your unforgettable moments. What other highlights stick in your mind as your most memorable?
“Many highlights in those premierships., but no doubt for me the game against Geelong in the wet in 2005 was supreme. 35 touches 9 tackles and 5 goals including those two from the boundary in the 3rd quarter. Just the best game you could want to play.”
The ‘victory handstands’ became infamous after a Brisbane win…how did that start?
“The handstand started as a cartwheel the week after I saw Ronnie Burn from Geelong do it in 1999. The following week I was so fatigue I ended up doing a handstand. I played on Ronnie that day and we were going back and forth all day in friendly verbal judo and Ronnie and I were mates after playing the Allies game vs Victoria a few years prior.”
We’re all wise in hindsight, is there anything you have done or said in your career that you wish you could take back?
“I am sure I could do a few things better but life is never like that. I had to learn from each one of those bigger media blow ups but I had no one else to blame for them. So I am comfortable with the craziness and laugh at them whenever someone says that they had a problem with such and such. I just remind them that it their problem, not really mine”
There has been plenty written about your out-spoken manner on and off the footy field, but we don’t know much about you outside of footy. What makes Aker tick?
“I’ve been a pretty complex character in the past but in reality I am simply a man who works hard and loves his family. I like to compete and win and try to be sincere and authentic. I can be passive then aggressive, but I am getting better with tolerating shitheads, but people who waste my time are the worst.
These days I love hanging out with my family and close friends having a frothy or 4 and going to the beach. Something about water. I play golf still but don’t have the time I did before. I also play two comp games of basketball a week and have a kick of the footy with my cousin, daughter and nephew.”
I believe you grew up in Mildura, did you follow a footy team as a kid?
“I was born in Mildura yes and we all went for Richmond due to players from my club South Mildura, playing for Richmond in the Weightman’s. Flea was huge back then. But I grew up in Brisbane from age 8 and I started to love Hawthorn with Dermie running around. I loved that he drove a Ferrari such is my passion for cars with uncles and Grandfather being Na Mechanics. Once I started to train with the Bears in 1993, that was it, I was a Brisbane man, unless I was playing for another team, like when I played for the Western Bulldogs for 4 years.”
Who has been your biggest idol or influence in your life?
“Michael Jordan was my idol and my mum was very influential until she passed away in 1997. From there I would say Dr Phil Jauncey was my mentor as well as my wife who has a huge supporting influence on me since 1999.”
Is it true that you are fluent in Auslan sign language?
“I am fluent in Auslan due my wife’s parents being deaf and learning it from them and Megan. I leant Spanish when I was 25-28 and I still talk regularly in Spanish with local people here in Brisbane when I can to keep my skills up. We have visited Japan 6 times so my Japanese isn’t too bad to order things when I am there.”
Now that you having a growing family of daughters, are any of them showing promise with the footy?
“My eldest daughter is very much like me and plays Australian Rules at school. She has some work to do but she could make it if she wants to pursue it. My 3 year-old is very much in the same mould. She loves to compete. The middle one Sienna is a good golfer and really doesn’t have the body type for Australian Rules.”
You’ve told us you love golf, what other sports do you have a passion for playing or watching?
“Golf was great, I was going to Qualifying school to try to turn pro, but I don’t have a lot of time to do that at the moment. I love watching Australian Rules, USPGA, F1 and definitely Moto GP. “
Which three people would you choose to invite to a dinner party?
“Well Michael Jordan would have to be one of them. Valentino Rossi would be another. The third one well that is a tough one. Probably either Dan Ricciardo or Casey Stoner. I am mates with both of them and they are really good company. But some of my mate up here in Brisbane are just as good if not better to have a meal and beer with.”
I believe you have added a new string to your bow, getting into Real Estate, tell us a bit about that journey and how you came to be on it?
“Real Estate and Auctioneering was something I have thought about for years. Having started at Ray White was great, I’m now out running Akermanis Property which does everything in real estate. It’s a step up but I have run 6 companies since I ran my first company mowing lawns at 14. I still help run an Augmented Reality product Zukaz and the first certified crypto currency Zucoins using Splitchain instead of Blockchain, which keeps my very busy.”
And lastly, what would you like your legacy to be?
“Legacy is not worth worrying about. Everyone will have a different opinion, but Mike Sheahan said it best. He said that I was the best kick to ever play the game. I tend to agree🤣”
Thanks for your time Aker, good luck with your new venture, I am sure if you throw yourself into Real Estate like you did into your footy career, you will kick some goals!
Jason Akermanis realises there are many parallels between the sports world and the business world draws upon these similarities during his speaking performances through better teamwork, communication and leadership, and how important it is to stand up for what they believe in.
Would you like Aker to speak at your next event? Click here
Women's T20 cricket history has been made with our very own Sophie Devine blasting an unbeaten 108 off 38 balls to etch her name into the history books.
During a game between Wellington Blaze and the Otago Sparks, Sophie bombarded the boundary (and the crowd) with 9 fours and 9 sixes, with one 6 getting a little too close for comfort for one young girl in the stands.
As the consummate professional, Devine went out of her way after the game to check on the youngster, who was already sporting an ice pack, to join in for a selfie and some playing gear to cheer her up.
It was a nervous time before the game, as it had been almost 2 months since she played her last game.
“Whenever you have an extended break away for the game, you get nervous about ‘Can you come back into it?’ so it was nice to spend some time in the middle and get a few out of the screws.
“For me it was just about playing smart cricket”
“To know where my gaps were, trying to manipulate the field ... I felt I knew where they were trying to bowl so if I could manipulate myself around the crease, open up areas of the field so yeah, pleased with the way it went today
“I think sometimes I get a little bit carried away ... I get a bit over-eager and play some rash shots, so it was nice to stick to some decent cricket shots today and finish the job.”
The record-breaking affair wasn't without its scares when in only the first over, the 3rd umpire was unable to clearly see if Devine had been runout. Only 9 men have taken less to compile a T20 hundred in fewer balls, clearly highlighting what an accomplishment it is.
From there, both Devine and Blaze captain, Maddy Green, amassed the necessary runs off 8.4 overs, easily putting their opponents away. With four wins from five games, the defending champions are looking the goods to take out the Super Smash competition.