ABOUT US

Metro South Regional Development Council (RDC)

Welcome to the Metro South Regional Development Council (RDC), a dynamic entity that took its roots in 2019 as a newly established and incorporated association. Our primary focus is the governance of Australian Rules Football within the East Fremantle, Peel Thunder and South Fremantle Districts. We strive to grow and develop the game, support competitions, oversee clubs, and strengthen relationships with schools and community groups.

At the heart of our operation lie our core values: Community, Relationships, Trust, Innovation, and Respect.

MISSION AND STRATEGY

Our mission is clear: to provide participants with a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment while promoting health & wellbeing and maximizing participation in Australian Football. In 2021, we introduced a strategic plan to support the growth of community football, emphasizing four key pillars:

• Grow the Game
• Enhance the Environment & Experience for all Participants
• Simplify Football for Volunteers
• Sell our Story

In 2023, each RDC implemented a budget to support this strategy, including club grants packages to encourage innovation and development within the community football landscape.

LEADERSHIP AND TRANSFORMATION

Under the leadership of Karen Wheatland as Chair, the RDC's underwent a significant transformation in 2023. A crucial aspect of this transformation was the development of a budget, drawing inspiration from successful Investment Strategies within the Metro South region. This framework empowered each board to allocate resources strategically, facilitating the growth and enhancement of Australian Football.

RDC BOARD

COMMUNITY CLUB GRANTS PROGRAM

In 2023, the RDCs launched the groundbreaking 2023 Community Club Grants Program, providing over $47,000 to clubs across the Metro area. This program aimed to support projects aligned with the RDC’s strategy, including Indigenous Grants, volunteer retention initiatives, and RDC Strategy Grants. A total of 81 grants were approved, marking a remarkable achievement in supporting community growth.

EXPANDED IMPACT: UMPIRING AND COLLABORATIONS

The RDCs extended their impact beyond clubs, focusing on umpiring initiatives. Notable contributions included a first nations designed shirt for the 2023 NAIDOC Round celebrations and the establishment of the 2023 RDC Umpire of the Year awards. Collaborations with Umpiring WA and WAFL Clubs resulted in MOUs and partnerships, with a $40,000 investment in WAFL Club partnerships and localised initiatives.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND AWARENESS

Addressing a historical lack of understanding among community club stakeholders, the RDCs collaborated to host a series of events. These included the RDC Junior Football Season Launch, the 'RDC Team of the Year' initiative, and the 2023 RDC Team of the Year Ceremony. These events, along with grants, initiatives, and partnerships, contributed to a deeper understanding of the RDC's function and increased awareness of the RDC brand.

LOOKING FORWARD TO 2024

As we reflect on the achievements of 2023, we look forward to expanding these initiatives across the community in 2024. The collaborative efforts of our RDC board members, Chairs, community volunteers, and umpires have paved the way for future successes. We extend gratitude to everyone involved and express our enthusiasm for the prospect of continuing to drive positive outcomes for the community in the coming year.

MESSAGE FROM LEADERSHIP

We extend our appreciation to all community club volunteers and umpires for their dedication throughout the season. As we enter 2024, we look forward to collaborating with our Club Development and Volunteers team to spearhead new initiatives aimed at simplifying roles within the club. We're here to assist you, so please reach out at any time.

CONTACT THE RDC

RDC Chair – Karen Wheatland at kazweets@icloud.com

Executive Officer – Corey Ranger at cranger@wafc.com.au

RDC Secretary – Ryan Ramage at rpramage@gmail.com

2024 Metro South RDC Annual Report