With the Paris Olympic and Para Olympic Games imminent, Sunshine Coast 2032 has announced a partnership with The WattleNest to support local athletes in achieving their sporting goals.
Created to help mitigate financial barriers, provide a support network outside of sport, assist with professional development and bring business together, The WattleNest helps drive positive social change for athletes who often struggle financially while pursuing their chosen path.
Sunshine Coast 2032 Chairwoman, Roz White said, “Partnering with The WattleNest aligns perfectly with the goals and values of our community-focused and community-driven organisation.”
“The WattleNest will assist many of our local athletes to reach their potential and provide opportunities that may not have otherwise been available such is the time and cost of reaching and attaining elite level in sport.
“Despite Australia being a sport-obsessed nation, almost half of our best athletes are living below the poverty line while training around 36 hours per week.
“There are currently 150 athletes in The WattleNest family and with the support of Sunshine Coast 2032 we intend to grow this so that every local athlete, who aspires to compete at an elite level, can do so with the backing of the broader community,” Ms White said.
Welcoming this partnership, founder and chief executive officer of The WattleNest, Rachel Condos-Fields said, “Now is the time to invest in our elite and emerging athletes, celebrate the sporting talent on the Sunshine Coast, and create pathways for sharing their inspiring stories to connect our community.”
“This partnership comes at a critical time for athletes in the lead up to the Brisbane Olympics and Paralympics in 2032.
“Maleny Dairies recently became the first Sunshine Coast business to partner with us and we look forward to welcoming many more businesses over the coming months,” Ms Condos-Fields said.
Sunshine Coast 2032 and The WattleNest are currently seeking businesses interested in partnering with them to help scale, innovate and broaden their athletes’ programs. Enquiries can be directed to hello@sunshinecoast2032.com.au