Help Shape the Future of Australia's Most Iconic Footrace

The Stawell Gift is one of Australia's most recognisable sporting events and a unique part of the nation's sporting history. Since 1878, the event has brought together elite professional athletes, volunteers, communities, commercial partners and fans from across Australia.

Held annually over the Easter long weekend at Central Park, Stawell, the carnival attracts thousands of spectators and a national television audience, delivering significant economic, community and sporting benefits to regional Victoria.

As we prepare for the next chapter of the Stawell Gift, SGEM is seeking passionate and capable Independent Directors who can contribute fresh ideas, strategic thinking and contemporary expertise to support the ongoing growth and sustainability of this iconic event.

About Stawell Gift Event Management (SGEM)

Stawell Gift Event Management Ltd (SGEM) is the governing entity responsible for the strategic oversight, governance and operational sustainability of the Stawell Gift.

The Board's role is to:

Set and oversee long-term strategic direction.
Ensure strong governance, financial stewardship and organisational sustainability.
Monitor organisational performance and risk management.
Support innovation, growth and stakeholder engagement opportunities.
Ensure effective compliance, integrity and accountability frameworks.
Foster a culture that reflects the values of inclusion, collaboration and community impact.

The Board comprises a mix of member-appointed and independent directors, bringing together diverse perspectives, professional expertise and strong community connections.

SGEM is committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive Board that reflects contemporary leadership and governance practices.

Our Purpose

SGEM exists to deliver and enhance the Stawell Gift while creating positive outcomes for regional Victoria.

Our objectives include:

Delivering the Stawell Gift annually at Central Park, Stawell.
Supporting economic development opportunities for businesses and communities within the Northern Grampians region.
Promoting regional liveability and community wellbeing.
Encouraging participation in athletics, sport and healthy lifestyles.
Advancing gender equity and inclusion throughout athletics and event delivery.
Preserving and evolving the legacy of the Stawell Gift for future generations.

Key Stakeholders

SGEM works closely with a broad range of stakeholders, including:

Stawell Athletic Club (SAC)
Victorian Athletic League (VAL)
Northern Grampians Shire Council (NGSC)
Victorian Government
Commercial partners and sponsors
Athletes and coaches
Volunteers
Local businesses and community groups
Broadcast and media partners

Board Commitment

The Board generally meets monthly, either in person or via videoconference.

Directors are expected to:

Attend and actively contribute to Board meetings and strategic discussions.
Participate in relevant Board committees or working groups as required.
Maintain high standards of governance and ethical leadership.
Attend the Stawell Gift Carnival during the Easter period.
Actively represent and advocate for the interests of SGEM.

The estimated annual commitment is approximately 8 to 12 days per year, plus attendance at the Easter Carnival and occasional stakeholder engagements.

Opportunity

We are seeking Independent Directors who are excited by the opportunity to contribute to the future growth of one of Australia's most iconic sporting events.

We welcome applications from experienced directors, emerging leaders, executives and specialists who are looking to contribute their expertise in a meaningful governance role.

Priority Skills Sought

As part of our Board renewal and capability development strategy, we are particularly interested in candidates with experience in:

Digital Transformation and Innovation (Priority Focus)

We are actively seeking directors who can support the Board's capability in:

Digital strategy and governance
Customer and fan engagement platforms
Data analytics and business intelligence
Cybersecurity and information security oversight
Digital marketing and audience growth
AI, emerging technologies and innovation
Technology-enabled operational improvement

Additional Skills and Experience

Finance, accounting, audit and risk
Legal and regulatory compliance
Marketing, media and communications
Commercial partnerships and sponsorship
Strategy and organisational transformation
Tourism, events and visitor economy
Government relations and advocacy

Previous Board experience is welcomed but is not essential.

What We're Looking For

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

Strategic and future-focused thinking.
Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
Sound judgement and decision-making capability.
A collaborative leadership style.
A commitment to good governance.
Passion for sport, community outcomes and regional development.
An ability to constructively challenge and contribute in a Board environment.

Appointment Terms

Independent Directors will generally be appointed for an initial three-year term, with opportunity for reappointment.
These are voluntary positions and are not remunerated.
Reasonable approved expenses may be reimbursed in accordance with Board policy.
Office bearers and employees of SGEM Member organisations (SAC, VAL and NGSC) are not eligible for appointment as Independent Directors.

Stawell Gift Event Management

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