Published December 2023
Queensland Touch Football (QTF) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) for the 2022/23 reporting period on Saturday 9th December 2023.
QTF Chairman, Troy Morgan acknowledged the remarkable resurgence following the challenges posed by the pandemic and significant weather events leading to the cancellation of major events. Such resilience, however, is not a stroke of luck; it is the result of unwavering dedication and collective efforts.
He expressed a heartfelt gratitude to our regions, affiliates, tireless volunteers, dedicated referees, and passionate players who have played pivotal roles in securing the ongoing success of our beloved sport.
We are proud of the many achievements across the sport in 2022/23, none more so than the significant growth in Queensland participation, which included a 9.5% increase in Junior participation (recording the highest junior participation on record for the 2nd year in row) and the re-invigoration of the QTF Awards Night. Our first since 2014, we gathered to celebrate and recognise the achievements of our volunteers, administrators, players, coaches, officials, teams and organisations across Queensland Touch Football.
The 2023 AGM also saw the end of an era, with QTF Chairman Troy Morgan, standing down from the Board having served a maximum allowable Director terms, ending an 8-year contribution as Director and 3 years as Chairman.
Morgan said, “I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the entire Queensland Touch Football sporting community for their unwavering support throughout my years on the board. I extend my sincere appreciation to all my fellow board members, with whom I have had the privilege to serve with during my tenure.”
QTF Director, Dennis Di Bartolo, thanked Troy for his contribution to the Queensland Touch Football Board over the past 8 years. “I’ve heard he is an outstanding touch footballer but can also add an equally outstanding leader. During the past 3 years, Troy as Chairman has not only led our Board but the wider QTF Team of which I know the QTF Team is extremely grateful for. There is a saying ‘if you want to get things done find the busiest person’, and Troy is and has been that for us.
“Troy’s passion for the game and our organisation is obvious and has led us into a strong position both strategically and financially. Whilst our Board is disappointed to lose someone of Troy’s capability, we wish him well in his future endeavours but know he’s only ever a phone call away. On behalf of the Board, and entire QTF Staff, Thank you Troy for an outstanding contribution to the sport and your state.” Said Bartolo.
The AGM also saw the re-election of Dennis Di Bartolo and Adam Page for 2nd terms, and Lily Singh, who previously held a casual vacancy, and ushered in new Directors Mark Cecil and Matthew Gilbertson, who join current Directors, Terani Inoke and Dave Zanette. The Board will meet early in 2024 to elect a new Chairman to replace Morgan.
Director Finance, Dennis DiBartolo announced “QTF had an outstanding year both on and off the field, with QTF reporting an operating surplus of $145,714 or a 3.8% return to the membership. This is another pleasing result, reporting consecutive years of surplus. From a Board’s perspective, our job is made much easier when we have the confidence in our team are making good financial decisions and treating this organisation as their own”.
The Membership passed a resolution at the AGM to confer Life Membership on David Field for distinguished special service to Queensland Touch Football, recognising his 30-year contribution to the sport. David joins a small but distinguished group of Life Members and is the first Life Member recognised since 2010.
QTF CEO, Greg Denny said, “Dave’s impact on touch football is profound and lasting, earning him deep respect among his peers. Congratulations to Dave on an exceptional career so far, a true embodiment of dedication and love for touch football.” An appropriate recognition of Dave’s Life Membership will be conducted next year, as QTF celebrate their 45th birthday.
Denny acknowledged and thanked the many stakeholders, regions, affiliates, boards, volunteers and staff, who each and every day, work hard to ensure the future for touch football in Queensland remains prosperous and thanked the QTF Board and outgoing Chairman Troy Morgan for their outstanding contribution and leadership.
“Troy’s legacy for our sport is significant, his love of touch football, his gratitude and passion to unite and inspire touch football will be greatly missed”. Said Denny.
Denny also acknowledged the ongoing support of QTF’s partners, event partners, and the Queensland Government, as well as the hard work and dedication of the QTF team, who work tirelessly for the benefit of its members.
In closing Morgan thanked the boards, staff, regions, affiliates and all stakeholders for their efforts throughout the year who support and enjoy the game of touch football each and every day and continue to collectively Unite, Inspire and Grow touch football in Queensland.
A copy of 2023 QTF Annual Report is available at https://qldtouch.com.au/annual-report.