Libby Nankivell has been appointed vice-president of The Queensland Rugby Union, becoming the first woman to hold the role in the organisation’s 139-year history.
Traditionally, the role of vice-president at Queensland Rugby Union has been reserved for ex-Wallabies and ex- Queensland Reds players, making Nankivell’ s appointment especially noteworthy.
Nankivell has a deep knowledge of rugby union in Queensland, having been involved in the game on numerous levels over a number of years. She was welcomed to the role by Queensland Rugby Union Chairman Jeff Miller, who said she is a true community rugby representative.
“She has experience as a player, referee, manager and a decade of board room experience. We are looking forward to the perspective and passion Libby will bring for women in Rugby in Queensland,” Miller said.
“It’s a shift, as traditionally we have chosen ex Wallaby or Reds players for this honorary role. I think this is very exciting.”
Speaking to Women’s Agenda, Nankivell said she is excited to bring her passion and love of the game to the role of vice-president.
“I am so honoured to represent the rugby community,” she said. “I love being on the sideline at the U8’s at the club, to the big games too – the game is what matters to me.”
Nankivell said the shift away from promoting an ex-Wallabies or Queensland Reds player to the vice-president role represents a significant cultural change.
“The shift represents a cultural change for rugby in Queensland by recognising the enormous value of fans and Reds members; along with the many thousands of people who are volunteers in community rugby,” she said. “That they have a credible opinion and voice about the game.”
Nankivell hopes her appointment, as the first woman to hold the role, will help Queensland Rugby Union clubs recognise the leadership of women who are involved in all levels of the game.
“I am hoping this shift means clubs will embrace the diversity of thinking that women bring and actively listen to the women in leadership roles – both formal and informal,” she said.
“I am joining QRU board member Jane Schmidt, and there are women on rugby committees and boards in schools and clubs all over Queensland. I am here to support them.”
In the role, Nankivell will be driving Queensland Rugby Union’s women in rugby strategy and is hoping to promote the vales of acceptance and respect, including providing the same access to facilities and gear for women.
“For example, thinking about the safety of women players around the club – like the lighting or lack of in the car park can be a deterrent for players and coaches. Things that can be solved simply but need to be considered from a female’s perspective.”