UniSport National Conference Wraps Up in Adelaide

UniSport Australia’s 2025 National Conference concluded today in Adelaide and brought together leaders from across the university sport sector for two days of insightful discussion, strategic planning, and shared commitment to advancing sport across our campuses. 

We extend our sincere thanks to our MC Stephanie Brantz, Kyle Chalmers OLY and all the speakers who contributed their time, expertise, and ideas to the event. From innovative wellbeing programs to collaborations and future-focused planning, every session offered valuable perspectives and inspiration. 

UniSport Member Universities represented at UniSport Australia's 2025 National Conference

To our member universities, thank you for your ongoing engagement and for attending in such strong numbers. Your presence and participation are what make this event such a powerful opportunity for collective progress. 

A special congratulations to Paul McJannett and David Schmude, who were both recognised for their outstanding service to university sport through their election as Life Members of UniSport Australia. This honour reflects their long-standing dedication and impact on our community. 

Paul McJannett (left image) and David Schmude (right image) are presented with their UniSport Australia Life Memberships.

 We were privileged to welcome a number of special guests whose presence enriched the event: 

The Honourable Emily Bourke MLC, South Australian Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing, who opened the conference with a warm and thoughtful address. 

Dr Baljit Singh Sekhom, Joint Secretary of the Association of Indian Universities, and his esteemed delegation, highlighting the growing international collaboration in student sport. 

Fernando Parente, Chief Development Officer, and Matthias Remund, Secretary General and CEO of FISU - International University Sports Federation, who's attendance reinforced our commitment to global partnerships for university sport.

(Left to right) Dr Lisa Gowthorp (Chair of the Board, UniSport Australia), The Honourable Emily Bourke MLC (SA Minister for Recreation, Sport and racing), Mark Sinderberry (CEO, UniSport Australia), Dr Baljit Singh Sekhom (Joint Secretary of the Association of Indian Universities).

As part of our Annual General Meeting, we recognised the contributions of our outgoing board members and welcomed our newly elected directors: 

Stephanie Taylor (Bond University), Michelle Wilson (University of Adelaide), Brett Lavale (Monash University), and Mario Milanovic (Western Sydney University).

We look forward to their leadership and fresh perspectives as we move into the next strategic phase. 

“The National Conference is a vital opportunity to connect, reflect and plan for the future of university sport in Australia,” UniSport CEO Mark Sinderberry said, reflecting on the 2025 conference, “the engagement, collaboration and leadership on display this year gives us great confidence as we begin implementing our 2025–2028 Strategic Plan. Together with our members and partners, we remain committed to growing participation, enhancing the student experience, and strengthening the value of sport and physical activity within university communities.” 

Thank you once again to everyone who made the 2025 National Conference a success. We look forward to working together in the year ahead. 

For media enquiries, please contact:

marketing@unisport.com.au