On field education to skills and game plans has always been high on the curriculum agenda at the Panthers North Street den but this week the club has actively looked to further that education to off field subjects.
Through the positive direction of committee member Brad Hipwood the club has looked to undertake three education sessions for its players and coaching staff in the area of discrimination, sexual harassment, vilification and bullying.
The three sessions have been tailored for the differing age groups with the Under 16 and Under 18 boys and Youth Girls participating in the first session on Tuesday night. Wednesday saw the Under 8s and 10s come together and this Friday night the Under 12s and 14s will round out a week of proactive education by the club for its members.
The hour long sessions are being presented by Karen from the ‘Anti Discrimination Commission Queensland’ (adcq).
Brad Hipwood spoke with the commission some months back on his way to organising this important club program and found the commission only too keen to get out amongst a community group and further the knowledge of the law in this area.
‘In Queensland, you are entitled to be treated fairly and not judged by your sex, race, age or religion, whether you have an impairment or hold certain political beliefs.’ The law that prohibits discrimination, asking unnecessary questions, sexual harassment, vilification and victimisation is the Queensland Anti-Discrimination Act 1991.
Karen talked to the gathered group about unlawful discrimination, the 14 areas of discrimination and how the act covers you. The area of vilification was discussed in depth, ‘vilification, is a public act or statement that incites others to hate you or your race, religion, gender identity or sexuality.’
Areas of responsibility within this act, what you can do and how to make a complaint were addressed with a number of questions coming from the floor.
Highlighted to the group gathered on Tuesday night was if such an incident of vilification does occur on the football field or about its facility then individuals need to take their concerns to club committees to be addressed through due process of investigation, mediation and possible tribunals.
A clear message was that we as individuals need to understand the wrongs of our actions and accordingly stand up and apologise promptly and respectfully for such actions.
So a big well done to the Caloundra Football club for taking the lead in giving their junior playing groups such further education.
The Commission runs information sessions and training courses about anti-discrimination law, and also have available brochures on a range of discrimination and other unfair treatment. The ‘adcq’ can be contacted toll free on 1300 130 670 or visit their website for further information and contact details: www.adcq.qld.gov.au.
Last Modified on 17/09/2012 14:41