Sport
25 February, 2026
Netballers charging ahead
THE Innisfail and District Netball Association is charging into the new season with four fully-upgraded courts, thanks to a ‘Play Our Way Program Facilities Stream’ grant through the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts.
The million dollar funding, approved in December 2024, enabled works by Court Craft to begin immediately after the 2025 finals.
Over the past months, the courts, which have suffered more than 40 years of wear, have undergone a major upgrade which has included resurfacing, line marking, drainage works and lighting. IDNA also invested $36,000 of its own funds to resurface two additional courts.
With three sign-on days already held, the association is calling for more players, particularly boys and girls aged 8-10 years.
Netball Australia is encouraging boys under 12 to join the sport ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. ‘Net Set Go’ (ages 5-7 years) runs on Tuesdays from 5-6pm, followed by 8-10 years from 5.30–6.30pm, and IDNA is seeking interest for teams in an under-16 boys’ division.
President Leisa Spinella said “netball is an excellent way to form new friendships and build confidence and there are all the health benefits like improving fitness, endurance, balance, coordination and strength”.
IDNA is a registered club for ‘Play On’ sports vouchers, with round two now open and eligible, families can receive $200 per child to help cover registration costs.
The association’s proactive committee includes Leisa Spinella (president), Blaise Cini (vice president), Rachel Lyons (secretary), Emma Horsford (treasurer), Darlene McBride (registrar), Olivia Walker (coaching coordinator) and Rebecca Nolan (fundraising and sponsorship).
“We are still looking for enthusiastic volunteers to fill the roles of canteen, umpiring and social media coordinators,” said Ms Spinella.
Junior players in the under 12, 13 and 14 divisions can trial for the Junior State Age Carnival on Thursday 26 February from 4.15pm at the Innisfail courts, ahead of the Gold Coast event in July. Representative coaches are Leisa Spinella (under-18), Olivia Walker (under-15) and Rebecca Nolan (under-13), with a coach still required for under-12.
Meanwhile the Innisfail Crocs under-15 and under-18 teams have been training since January for the Senior State Age Championships in Townsville from 11-14 April.
For information and important updates, visit the Innisfail and District Netball Association Facebook page.