national sports

News

NSC | IAKS 2024 – Experience all that Australia has to offer

Dec 18, 2023, 12:00:00 AM

The eagerly anticipated National Sports & Physical Activity Convention (NSC) returns to Melbourne in 2024 as a joint global convention partnering with the International Association for Sport and Leisure Facilities (IAKS) to Inspire Innovation – Drive Participation and featuring an exceptional array of both international and domestic speakers!

With a focus on facility planning, design, and operations, IAKS has fostered expertise exchange across a diverse range of local spaces through to monumental stadiums. Together as a joint convention, NSC | IAKS 2024 offers invaluable international and national insights that challenge traditional learnings to help in ‘Facilitating an Active World’ and industry excellence for local and international professionals.

Come and experience all that Australia has to offer, while spending two jam-packed days networking and learning with the industry!

Play Video

jack

News

Inspire Innovation – Drive Participation in Sport and Recreation at NSC | IAKS 2024 – Registration Now Open

Nov 29, 2023, 12:00:00 AM

Get ready for a game-changing experience! We are thrilled that the International Association for Sports and Leisure Facilities (IAKS) is joining forces with the National Sports and Physical Activity Convention (NSC) to bring you a groundbreaking event of global significance. NSC | IAKS 2024 is a combined event dedicated to INSPIRE INNOVATION – DRIVE PARTICIPATION for the future of sport and recreation.

Save the date
Thursday 27 – Friday 28 June 2024

Join over 2,000 industry professionals at NSC | IAKS 2024 in Melbourne, the sporting capital of the world for a convergence of pioneers, thought leaders, and professionals from around the globe. This partnership guarantees an event bigger than ever before.

The NSC I IAKS 2024 conference program will also align with Australia’s Sport Participation Strategy, PLAY WELL, uniting global innovators while spotlighting the impressive endeavours of Australia’s sports, government, education, and commercial sectors.

Founder and CEO of the NSC, Martin Sheppard commented “Integration of Play Well’s six priority areas is integral to this year’s program, Inspire Innovation – Drive Participation. Aligned with these and with a focus on Sustainability, People, Programs, Places and Partners, Play Well will thread through all streams and topics. Emphasis on diversity, inclusion, technology and data, will accelerate delegate knowledge for immediate office application and offer delegates an exploration of cutting-edge insights across two full days”.

The first three Global Keynote Speakers are announced today with: Alison Oliver MBE, CEO of Youth Sport Trust (UK), opens our Global Thought Leader Keynote with Tom Farrey, Founder and Executive Director of The Aspen Institute (USA) – Our Next Generation of Participants and Leaders: How to engage with them, keep them active, and encourage them into community sport in the way they want to.

On Day 2, Jean-François Laurent, Secretary General of The Association for International Sport For All (TAFISA), leads our Global Thought Leader Keynote – Development of Active Environments, Neighbourhoods and Cities to Encourage a Healthier and More Active Society.

Sheppard continues, “This years’ NSC I IAKS 2024 innovates for a more immersive experience. New session formats, debates and interactive elements to enhance audience engagement with speakers. Embracing technology for increased interaction among delegates, speakers, peak bodies, researchers, future leaders and solution providers. More interactive sessions, extended networking, and debate sessions with opposing views on industry issues ensure ample time for discussion and knowledge sharing from morning through to evening”.

Yvette Audet, IAKS Vice President and Chair of IAKS ANZ, is excited about NSC | IAKS 2024, stating, “The IAKS partnership ensures a bigger and better event, bringing a greater range of global experts to share their insights to create best practice knowledge sharing from around the world for Australian planners, leaders, and managers. These accomplished speakers will provide practical insights into challenges, opportunities, future trends, and strategies for a healthier community.”

The joint convention promises a comprehensive experience with 130 speakers and panellists, spread across eight streams, three global keynote sessions, the NSC Oration, eight Big Issues Keynote Sessions, 24 workshops and site tours.

Speakers and Panellists

Streams

Global Keynote Sessions

Big Issues Keynote Sessions

Workshops and Site Tours

Whether you’re a professional in the sports, recreation, play, fitness, health, wellness or education sectors, or you represent a peak body or government organisation, join us in the sporting capital of the world for one of the world’s best sports and physical activity conventions.

NSC | IAKS 2024 is an event designed for the entire ecosystem of sports and leisure facilities, sports grounds, sports management, fitness, council, recreation and play.

Editors Notes

The National Sports & Physical Activity Convention (NSC) has grown since 2016 as APAC’s largest and most prominent community sport and recreation convention and expo. In 2023 had overwhelming support and participation from the largest ever gathering of the sports and physical activity ecosystem with over 1,550 attendees and a sold-out Expo of 80+ of the latest products, services and innovations. The organisers work with its 40+ collaborators to curate a program with international and Australian experts, providing the most comprehensive program on community sport recreation and sports facilities in Australia.

Photos from the NSC can be found at www.nationalsportsconvention.com.au

Follow the National Sports & Physical Activity Convention on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter

#NSConvention

Further information contact Anthony Reed, at anthonyr@smartconnection.net.au or (03) 9421 0133.

jack

News

The Sports and Recreation Industry unites in an unprecedented gathering to exchange knowledge and propel the industry towards progress.

Aug 7, 2023, 12:00:00 AM

The National Sports & Physical Activity Convention (NSC) 2023 has concluded with an overwhelming show of support and participation from the largest ever gathering of the sports industry, culminating in an extraordinary event marked by knowledge sharing, expertise exchange, groundbreaking experiences and the largest industry Expo.

The convention, held at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, brought together sports professionals and stakeholders from all corners of the globe such as global thought leaders:

Tim Hollingsworth OBE, Chief Executive, Sport England
Professor Alfonso Jimenez, Chief Research & Innovation Officer, GO fit LAB
Raelene Castle ONZM, Group Chief Executive, Sport NZ & High Performance Sport NZ
Alan Goh, Chief Executive Officer, Sport Singapore
Patrick Johnson OLY, Culture and Safety Advisor, Sport Integrity Australia, Board Member, Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee
Hon Dr Andrew Leigh, Asst. Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury, Asst. Minister for Employment and Federal Member for Fenner
Patrick Walker, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Sports Foundation
Hannah Macdougall PLY, Research Fellow, Deakin University
Jan Fitzgerald, Chief Executive Officer, Sports Environment Alliance
Claire Poole, Founder and CEO, Sport Positive
Alexia Morgan, Group Manager, Business Improvement, Belgravia Leisure
Sheila Nguyen, Head of Sustainability, FIFA Women's World Cup 2023
Fiona Caniglia, Executive Director, Q Shelter
Michael Reay, Head of Corporate Affairs, BlueScope, Australian Steel Products
Ned Coten, Chief Executive Officer, EngageRM
Richard McInnes, Chief Executive Officer, Water Polo Australia

With over 135 speakers across eight conference streams and fifty sessions, NSC 2023 delivered a wealth of invaluable insights and best practices from esteemed speakers and experts representing diverse sectors of the sports ecosystem making it the largest ever gathering of community sports professionals and a resounding success.

Delegates engaged in thought-provoking debates, exploring cutting-edge advancements, and examining innovative approaches to enhance the sports industry.

A highlight of this year’s event was the co-located National Sports Environment Conference, dedicated to discussing and promoting sustainable practices in sports. This collaboration fostered a stronger commitment to environmental responsibility within the sports community, laying the foundation for a greener and more sustainable future for sports and recreation.

The immense success of the National Sports & Physical Activity Convention 2023 is attributed to the overwhelming support and engagement of NSC collaborators and industry professionals who actively contributed to the convention’s growth. Attendees displayed their passion and dedication to the sports industry, making meaningful connections and fostering a collaborative spirit throughout the event.

One of the major draws of the convention was Australia’s largest and most immersive sports and recreation expo ever, featuring over 75 exhibitors, showcasing the latest innovations, products, and services available in the market. The expo served as a hub for attendees to explore and experience cutting-edge technologies, sports equipment, facility design and fit out, sports surfaces and industry services, offering an opportunity to engage with industry-leading brands and is truly the industry’s source of the latest products and services driving the industry forward.

A significant milestone in the convention’s history was the introduction of industry-first interactive and experiential activations. These engaging sessions provided a hands-on experience with the latest sports technologies, training methods, and innovations, inspiring attendees and fostering creativity within the industry.

"We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the sports community for their unwavering support and enthusiasm. The immense success of this year's event is a testament to the passion and commitment of industry professionals who continue to drive positive change and progress in sports and recreation. We are proud to have witnessed such an outstanding display of knowledge sharing, camaraderie, and dedication during the convention."

Convenor Martin Sheppard

Spokesperson for the National Sports & Physical Activity Convention

The National Sports & Physical Activity Convention 2023 has undoubtedly set a new standard in sports events, redefining the way knowledge is shared, industry connections are made, and innovations are embraced. As the event concluded on a high note, participants and organisers alike look forward to building on this momentum for 2024 which will be a joint global convention with impact, collaborating with the International Association for Sports and Leisure Facilities (IAKS) to target Southern Hemisphere clientele with a stronger spectrum of international speakers, peak bodies and exhibitors. This will allow us to align the Global Thinking with the National Agenda.

National Sports & Physical Activity Convention will be held at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre on 27 – 28 June 2024.

Editors Notes

The National Sports & Physical Activity Convention (NSC) has grown since 2016 as Australia/New Zealand’s largest and most prominent community sport and recreation convention and expo. This year the NSC returned to Melbourne’s Convention and Exhibition Centre on the 27th and 28th July 2023. The organisers worked with its 30+ collaborators to curate a program with international and Australian experts, providing the most comprehensive program on community sport recreation and sports facilities in Australia, post-covid.

Photos from the NSC can be found at www.nationalsportsconvention.com.au

Follow the National Sports & Physical Activity Convention on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter

#NSConvention

Further information contact Martin Sheppard, at martins@smartconnection.net.au or (03) 9421 0133.

jack

News

School Excellence Scholarship Fund Joint Announcement

Jul 31, 2023, 12:00:00 AM

The Sports Excellence Scholarship Fund (SESF) on Friday received a donation for the National Sports & Physical Activity Convention 2023 (NSC23) as the NSC Charity Partner in front of 1,000 delegates at the Global Keynote Session.

The NSC was held from Wednesday to Friday last week (26-28 July) which attracted over 1,650 delegates and Expo visitors over the two days and as part of the NSC commitment back to the industry, it has developed a partnership with the Sports Excellence Scholarship Fund to support the next generation of sports participants to have the opportunity to represent their State or Territory at national championships. Creating opportunities to breakdown financial barriers to participation.

SESF Executive Director, Nick Mooney thanked NSC Convenor Martin Sheppard for the support.

“As the NSC Charity Partner for NSC23 we feel there is great alignment between the NSC and the work that we do. The sector has really embraced the SESF’s national push in 2022/23. Martin Sheppard has been a strong supporter of our cause since its inception in 2012. Representing your state, territory or country should not be based on your ability to pay for it.

We applaud NSC for the high quality conference they have delivered for the sector. The level of conversation both in and out of sessions has been a real focus to move the sector to the next level in the long term push of hosting an Olympics and Paralympics in 2032.”

Nick Mooney

SESF Executive Directo

NSC Convenor, Martin Sheppard was full of praise for the SESF, stating;

“In these difficult times for many parents it is important that we all help families be able to afford their children to have the opportunity to represent their state, territory and country. These teenage athletes are the future champions for 2032. The NSC want to provide them with the opportunity to excel and perform at their best without all the financial worries.”

Martin Sheppard

NSC Founder

Editors Notes

The National Sports & Physical Activity Convention (NSC) has grown since 2016 as Australia/New Zealand’s largest and most prominent community sport and recreation convention and expo. This year the NSC returns to Melbourne’s Convention and Exhibition Centre on the 27^th and 28^th July 2023. The organisers have worked with its 30+ collaborators to offer a program with international and Australian experts, providing the most comprehensive program on community sport recreation and sports facilities in Australia, post-covid.

The full NSC Program can be found at www.nationalsportsconvention.com.au

Follow the National Sports & Physical Activity Convention on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter

#NSConvention

Further information contact Martin Sheppard, at martins@smartconnection.net.au or (03) 9421 0133.

jack

News

The Australian Sport, Recreation and Play Innovation Awards 2023 Winners Announced

Jul 27, 2023, 12:00:00 AM

The Australian Sport, Recreation and Play Innovation Awards was presented as part of this year’s NSC Oration. With the largest ever number of submissions this year, the standards have been exceptionally high. Congratulations to all those who submitted as they showcase the excellent work that is being invested in communities across Australia and the winners are:

Each category winner received a trophy and was then judged for the opportunity to be crowned the overall Australian Sport, Recreation and Play Innovation Award winner.

The Winners of each category are:

1. programs and activities

Innovative programs, activities and events that have been developed to encourage the community to be more active.

2. SPORT AND INCLUSION

How sport can make a difference to an inclusive society and how inclusion can grow participation in play, recreation and community sport.

3. SOCIAL VALUE OF PARTICIPATION

Measuring the impact that participation has on the health, economic and community value of a community. Supported by ActiveXchange.

4. MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

The communication messages that innovatively activates the community for more people to be active, play, recreate and participate in community sport.

5. YOUNG INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR

A young person (under 25) who has developed a program, space, activity, technological solution or innovative partnership that is encouraging more people to be active.

6. MAJOR EVENT PROMOTION

Providing community opportunities to grow participation by aligning a mass participation or a major spectator event.

7. TECHNOLOGY

Innovations in technology that support Business to Business (B2B) improvements for the industry or Business to Consumer (B2C) experiences.

8. SPORT AND LEISURE FACILITY DESIGN

Innovative design and management that creates an environment where more people are active (built and natural environments), whilst embracing the principles of sustainability. Supported by VAILO.

9. SPORTS SURFACES

Innovative solutions that allow greater intensity and durability of natural, hybrid, synthetic or hard sports surfaces to allow for greater usage, whilst embracing the principles of sustainability.

10. SPORT AND CLIMATE CHANGE

Innovations that organisations have embraced that recognise the impact that sport can have on climate change and how they have focused on reducing their carbon footprint.

11. PLAYGROUND DESIGN

Designs and developments that allow and encourage more children to play, have fun and be active.

12. COMMUNITY SPORTS FUNDRAISING

Innovative and community fundraising projects which enable increased participation and community cohesion. Made possible by the Australian Sports Foundation

THE OVERALL SPORT, RECREATION AND PLAY INDUSTRY AWARD FOR INNOVATION

The winner for 2023 is

The overall Sport, Recreation and Play Innovation award winner was chosen from one of the above 12 category winners.

Bambigi, is a charity organisation that was set up by Piper Stewart, Aboriginal girl to fund a project aimed at increasing the number of Aboriginal children learning swimming and water safety to provide the essential skills and knowledge to be safer in and around water and reduce the drowning risk of Aboriginal people.

Bambigi means ‘to swim’ in Wiradjuri, Griffith’s traditional Aboriginal language. At the age of 12 years, Piper Stewart, a young local Wiradjuri woman in Griffith, NSW noticed that there were few other Aboriginal children swimming in her squad or participating in swimming lessons to obtain vital water safety skills in a safe environment.

Piper became concerned that Aboriginal families in Griffith and surrounding towns cannot afford to enroll their children in swimming lessons and may never learn to swim or with basic skills, swim in local inland waterways that are dangerous. The Bambigi project sets out to fund a series of lessons for Aboriginal children of all ages including preschool, school age and teenage boys as a local solution to a national and global issue.

The Award winner was presented by Patrick walker, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Sports Foundation

Further information on the National Sports & Physical Activity Convention is available at www.nationalsportsconvention.com.au

Editors Notes

The Australian Sport, Recreation and Play Innovation Awards have been part of the National Sports & Physical Activity Convention (NSC) since 2016. The NSC has grown since 2016 as Australia/New Zealand’s largest and most prominent community sport and recreation convention and expo attracting over 1,500 people annually.

The full NSC Program can be found at www.nationalsportsconvention.com.au

Follow the National Sports & Physical Activity Convention on Facebook and LinkedIn
#NSConvention

jack

News

The Value of Global Mega-Events

Jul 24, 2023, 12:00:00 AM

The National Sports & Physical Activity Convention (NSC) will be focussing two of its Keynote Sessions this year on the value and impact of global mega-events on the community.

Understanding the Victorian Government’s withdrawal from the Commonwealth Games in 2026, the NSC will host on Thursday 27^th July two keynote sessions with international expertise forum the UK, New Zealand, Europe, Brisbane 2032 as well as from an athletes perspective. The topic of the metrics, impacts and outcomes needed to measure the success of global major events, will be top of everyone’s agenda and discussion.

Over two sessions, they keynote speakers include:

Exploring the actual and perceived benefits that mega-events bring to countries and local communities is part of every event submission, but what are the real legacies and how tangible are the benefits?

“With the Victorian Government’s cancellation of the Commonwealth Games, the whole industry is worried about the consequences of the globe’s perspective of Australia and especially Victoria for hosting global mega-events. The NSC have had that these two sessions planned for 6 months with the world leaders. The time is perfect to hear different perspectives to the benefits of such investments and how some invest within their means, as Birmingham did last year, and can still deliver amazing experiences.”

Martin Sheppard

NSC Founder

Editors Notes

The National Sports & Physical Activity Convention (NSC) has grown since 2016 as Australia/New Zealand’s largest and most prominent community sport and recreation convention and expo. This year the NSC returns to Melbourne’s Convention and Exhibition Centre on the 27^th and 28^th July 2023. The organisers have worked with its 30+ collaborators to offer a program with international and Australian experts, providing the most comprehensive program on community sport recreation and sports facilities in Australia, post-covid.

The full NSC Program can be found at www.nationalsportsconvention.com.au

Follow the National Sports & Physical Activity Convention on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter

#NSConvention

Further information contact Martin Sheppard, at martins@smartconnection.net.au or (03) 9421 0133.

jack

News

NSC 2023 Launches Next Generation of Future Leaders Program

Jul 12, 2023, 12:00:00 AM

The National Sports & Physical Activity Convention 2023 (NSC23) is proud to launch the Future Leaders Program, which aims to encourage more young people into the sport and recreation industry and retain them for their career. NSC23 is launching two concurrent programs with the support of key industry collaborators VicHealth; Sport and Recreation Services ACT, and the Queensland Department of Tourism, Innovation and Sport to create the Future Leaders Program.

Future Leaders Scholarship Program

Targeting early career employees who would not normally have the opportunity to attend the NSC23 and will be inspired and motivated by global speakers and industry leaders, they will each receive a complimentary delegate pass.

This inaugural Future Leaders Scholarship Program is open to other key organisations to support more early career staff with the opportunity.

“We are committed to listening and amplifying the voices of young people. VicHealth supports leaders, partners and young people that encourage and empower the community to be physically active in ways that suit them. The NSC Future Leaders Scholarship program is a great platform for young people to collaborate and voice their lived experiences in sport.”

Dr. Sandro Demaio

VicHealth

“The Future Leaders initiative strongly aligns with the ACT Government’s commitment to build the skills and scale of Canberra’s sport and recreation workforce. We are pleased to partner with NSC23 on this great opportunity for members of our sector in the ACT and look forward to seeing their learning in action.”

Rebecca Kelley

Executive Branch Manager, Sport and Recreation ACT Government

Further details on how other organisations can support this process can be obtained from Martin Sheppard at martins@smartconnection.net.au or (03) 9421 0133.

Editors Notes

The National Sports & Physical Activity Convention (NSC) has grown since 2016 as Australia/New Zealand’s largest and most prominent community sport and recreation convention and expo. This year the NSC returns to Melbourne’s Convention and Exhibition Centre on the 27^th and 28^th July 2023. The organisers have worked with its 30+ collaborators to offer a program with international and Australian experts, providing the most comprehensive program on community sport recreation and sports facilities in Australia, post-covid.

The full NSC Program can be found at www.nationalsportsconvention.com.au

Follow the National Sports & Physical Activity Convention on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter

#NSConvention

jack

News

The Largest NSC Sports & Recreation Expo Ever Sold Out! National Sports & Physical Activity Convention Expo Experience Unprecedented Demand & Expecting Record- Attendance!

Jul 12, 2023, 12:00:00 AM

The National Sports & Physical Activity Convention (NSC) is creating a buzz within the industry, with overwhelming demand, the organisers are thrilled to announce the newly expanded expo is sold-out for the first time with all the exhibitor booths now filled. Anticipating a remarkable turnout, organizers urge national, state and local sport and recreation organisations to attend the Expo so that they can appreciate the latest trends, solutions and innovative equipment offerings.

Taking place on the 27 – 28 July at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the Community Sport and Recreation Expo is committed to connecting the latest innovations and solutions with industry and entry into the EXPO is free of charge. The NSC has become a must-attend event for sports and physical activity industry professionals and organisations dedicated to improving and growing sport and physical activity. The sold-out Expo status highlights this as the premier gathering for the sports and physical activity ecosystem.

Exhibitors

Exhibitors from across Australia, Europe, Israel, America and Asia

Activation Areas

The Sports & Recreation Expo at NSC will feature over 75 exhibitors across 6,000 square metres, 7 Activation Areas and new networking lounges in the largest industry expo in Australia. With exhibitors from across Australia, Europe, Israel, America and Asia, this is the place to source new products and services to improve your sports and recreation organisation.

The Community Sport and Recreation Expo promises an exceptional experience for all attendees, with 7 Activation Areas for attendees to experience products like never before and immerse themselves in an interactive Expo showcasing the latest products, services, facility design and fit out, sports surfaces and technology. NSC provides unrivalled networking opportunities for the industry to connect, grow and discover the New Frontier while exploring the most recent advancements in the industry.

Global Thought Leader Keynote Session

Big Issues Keynote Sessions

0 +

Workshops

Streams

The NSC also features renowned keynote speakers and panelists sharing the latest international thought leadership and expertise, discussing industry trends and best practices in the NSC Oration, 3 Global Thought Leader Keynote Session, seven Big Issues Keynote sessions and 40+ Workshops across seven streams. The industry’s only conference program developed by the industry for the industry has always been an extraordinary platform for industry professionals to connect, share ideas, and collaborate. With the increased number of attendees this year, the opportunities for networking and building meaningful relationships are even more extensive.

"While we are thrilled to announce the sold-out status for the first time, we are equally excited about the incredible energy and enthusiasm surrounding this event. We have curated an exceptional program that caters to the diverse interests of our attendees, and we cannot wait to witness the positive impact it will have on the industry."

Anthony Reed

Event Organiser, General Manager - Events

As the event approaches, it is important to note that there are only a limited number of conference tickets left. Those who have yet to secure their spot are encouraged to act quickly to avoid missing out on this extraordinary gathering of industry leaders. The Expo registrants can register for the Expo only free of charge at the NSC website: nationalsportsconvention.com.au.

Editors Notes

The National Sports & Physical Activity Convention (NSC) has grown since 2016 as Australia/New Zealand’s largest and most prominent community sport and recreation convention and expo. This year the NSC returns to Melbourne’s Convention and Exhibition Centre on the 27th and 28th July 2023. The organisers have worked with its 30+ collaborators to offer a program with international and Australian experts, providing the most comprehensive program on community sport recreation and sports facilities in Australia, post-covid.

The full NSC Program can be found at www.nationalsportsconvention.com.au

Follow the National Sports & Physical Activity Convention on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter

#NSConvention

Further information contact Anthony Reed, at anthonyr@smartconnection.net.au or (03) 9421 0133.

jack

News

LAST FEW TICKETS AVAILABLE FOR NSC Supercharged Sports & Recreation Expo Free of Charge

Jul 11, 2023, 12:00:00 AM

The National Sports & Physical Activity Convention’s conference tickets are nearly sold out, breaking all records, with only 50 tickets left, there are only 8 days to grab the last few available.

This will mean that the 1,000 tickets will bring the industry back together in style after Covid during 2020-2022. With all levels of Government, sport, play, education, health and the recreation sectors in attendance, NSC23 will be celebrating the work the industry has been investing in and listening to the Global Speakers, National Thought Leaders and local case studies.

The last few tickets are available from the NSC website: https://nationalsportsconvention.com.au/register/

In addition, the Ultimate Destination for sports and physical activity professionals! Get ready for an unparalleled experience at the National Sports & Physical Activity Convention (NSC23), where the excitement is bigger than ever with 75+ exhibitors showcasing the best the industry has to offer, and its free to attend the Sports & Recreation Expo.

This year, NSC23 brings you the most dynamic and diverse lineup of exhibitors, products, and activities, making it the ultimate destination to source the latest products, services, facility design and fit out, sports surfaces and technology. The NSC, taking place on July 27 – 28 July at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, will feature seven activation areas, each offering a unique and thrilling experience for attendees to immerse themselves in at the event.

Experience the Future of Fitness at the KOMPAN Outdoor Fitness Zone

Test your limits on world-class outdoor gym equipment, including an accessible and tech-integrated arm bike, award-winning strength equipment with an adjustable weight stack, and innovative active aging equipment designed to support seniors’ health. Immerse yourself in interactive workouts that blend cutting-edge technology with the great outdoors. Don’t miss the chance to chat with the fitness specialists from KOMPAN and discover how this revolutionary technology is transforming the landscape of public health and unstructured recreation.

TRiQ Arena: Uniting Communities through Inclusive Ball Sports

Discover the power of inclusivity at TRiQ Arena, an all-inclusive ball sports park that brings diverse communities together. Whether you seek spontaneous fun or goal-oriented athletics, this the place to be. From rural to metro areas, these multi-sport venues foster active and healthy communities across Australia. Brace yourself for thrilling competitions held over two days, igniting the competitive spirit in adults, teens, and kids. It’s time to put down those devices and embrace the joy of active play while changing your community for the better through TRiQ Arena.

Polytan's Paris City Themed Activation Space: Embrace the Olympic Spirit

Join Polytan’s Paris City Themed Activation Space at NSC23, where there will be a celebration of Polytan’s carbon-zero Paris GT Olympic blue hockey turf, set to be used at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. Showcase your hockey skills in the mini Paris City themed obstacle course alongside two talented hockey players. Learn from the best and have a blast at the same time! Strike a pose in front of our Hockey Player Card Studio, adding a touch of Parisian flair to your photo. Take home your very own Polytan sports player card as a memento of this unforgettable experience.

DreamCourts

DreamCourts will build a basketball court in the Expo for you to experience the Professional Timber Flooring – Ever wondered what it feels like to be a pro? The professional timber flooring, used in world-class professional sporting facilities worldwide, provides NSC23 attendees with that very opportunity. With exceptional bounce properties and durable moisture-resistant timber, it is made to withstand the most intense battles. Feel the bounce of the ball, the bounce underfoot, and the sensation of a swish with DreamCourts.

Challenge the Table Tennis Robot and Win Exciting Prizes

Do you think you have what it takes to beat the table tennis robot? Put your skills to the test and have a hit against Table Tennis Victoria’s highly capable robot, known for its fantastic practice capabilities. If you can outperform our robot, you’ll have a chance to win incredible prizes, including one hour of corporate coaching from Olympian and State Team Head Coach David Powell, a voucher from one of our equipment providers, and a free ticket to the 2024 NSC! Don’t miss out on the ultimate table tennis challenge.

BrushBoarding: Ride the Wave of Fitness

Prepare for an exhilarating experience as BrushBoarding makes its highly anticipated debut at NSC23. Ride specially designed boards over a surface of brushes and engage in a safe, challenging, and fun-filled activity. BrushBoarding offers a holistic approach to physical well-being, improving balance, coordination, core strength, and overall fitness. Australian-made Brush Ramps, equipped with patented safety features, are now available for installation in both government and private facilities, catering to all ages and abilities.

Discover VALD: Cutting-Edge Sport Technology Equipment

Explore the cutting-edge VALD sport technology equipment used in major sports leagues worldwide. Measure your jump height and rate of force development using the ForceDecks. Compete in a grip strength competition with the DynaMo and experience the simplicity and effectiveness of state-of-the-art timing gates with SmartSpeed Plus. VALD sport technology equipment is making its way into pathways and grassroots sports, providing unparalleled insights and benefits to athletes at all levels.

NSC23 is set to be the most thrilling and action-packed sports and physical activity convention to date. Join us on 27 – 28 July for two days filled with fun, physical activity, interactive sport within the latest products and services for the sport and recreation industry. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be part of the revolution shaping the future of sports and physical activity.

Editors Notes

The National Sports & Physical Activity Convention (NSC) has grown since 2016 as Australia/New Zealand’s largest and most prominent community sport and recreation convention and expo. This year the NSC returns to Melbourne’s Convention and Exhibition Centre on the 27th and 28th July 2023. The organisers have worked with its 30+ collaborators to offer a program with international and Australian experts, providing the most comprehensive program on community sport recreation and sports facilities in Australia, post-covid, and with the continued support of the Victorian Government.

The full NSC Program can be found at www.nationalsportsconvention.com.au

Follow the National Sports & Physical Activity Convention on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter

#NSConvention

Further information contact Anthony Reed, at anthonyr@smartconnection.net.au or 0438 927 589.

jack

News

The Australian Sport, Recreation and Play Innovation Awards 2023 Finalists Announced

Jul 10, 2023, 12:00:00 AM

As we embrace the new Covid-normal, recover our energy levels for summer and the industry’s peak season and the start of the major events season, the National Sports & Physical Activity Convention (NSC23) is celebrating the industry with this years’ Industry Innovation Awards.

The Australian Sport, Recreation and Play Innovation Awards will be presented as part of this year’s NSC Oration. With the largest ever number of submissions this year, the standards have been exceptionally high, and short-listing was very hard. Congratulations to all those who submitted as they showcase the excellent work that is being invested in communities across Australia.

The final three short-listed contenders have been identified for each category and will be invited to attend the NSC Oration on Thursday 27^th July (4.00pm-6.15pm) to celebrate with the industry, here the winners of each category and the overall winner will be announced.

Each category winner will receive a trophy and will then be judged for the opportunity to be crowned the overall Australian Sport, Recreation and Play Innovation Award winner. The overall winner will be offered the opportunity to return for NSC 2024 and showcase their project.

The finalists in each category are: