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Passion and team work have seen Macquarie University Sport secure the top prize at 2024 Australian Pride in Sport Awards in Melbourne, having been named Sporting Organisation of the Year.

The University also became the first organisation to achieve Platinum Tier status in the Pride in Sport Index (PSI), a national benchmarking instrument used to assess LGBTQ+ inclusion.

It is the fourth consecutive year Macquarie University has been recognised at the annual awards, which celebrate efforts towards ensuring inclusion in sport for employees, athletes, coaches, volunteers and spectators with diverse sexualities and genders.

Launched in 2018, the awards highlight the results of the PSI, a first-of-its-kind tool specifically designed to assess the inclusion of people with diverse sexualities and genders within Australian sporting organisations and codes.

Of the Platinum Tier status, Pride in Sport National Program Manager, Beau Newell shared “this accomplishment underscores [the University’s] continuous commitment to fostering greater inclusivity and wellbeing for everyone involved in sport at Macquarie University, including LGBTQ+ players, volunteers, fans, staff, and all those who support and cherish sport.”

Campus Life Chief Executive, Pete Boyle said the University’s success in this area would not be possible without the passion and collaboration of the entire team.

Boyle added “anyone involved in sport knows how great it is to come first, and everyone involved in sport also knows that this is only possible with the help and support of a team of people who contribute to this success.

“I was beyond proud to receive both awards on behalf of the University and all the staff involved in our submissions, as they are a recognition of hard work, dedication and commitment over several years.”

In particular, Boyle highlighted the groundwork of Sophie Curtis, former Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) lead for Campus Life, and the ongoing commitment of University Sport Development manager, Brett Morley. He also applauded the wider University Sport team, Sport and Aquatic Centre team, Pride in Sport Ambassadors, DEIB team, and Campus Life staff.

Boyle continued “we remain committed to the safety and inclusion of everyone, regardless of gender identity, when participating in our sporting programs and/or using our facilities.

“Sport can change lives and it is important that we continue to support everyone to participate in their chosen sport in a way that makes them feel comfortable.”

Pride in Sport is a social inclusion initiative of ACON, Australia’s largest LGBTQ+ health organisation.

Macquarie University Sport and Aquatic Centre is a current member of ARI NSW.

Image.Campus Life Chief Executive, Pete Boyle (fourth from left) said the University's sustained success is a result of genuine passion and team work.

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