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We are excited to present an exceptional lineup of speakers for the 2024 QLD Touch Football Conference. Our speakers represent a wealth of expertise across various facets of touch football, from high-performance coaching and game development to sports leadership and community engagement. Each brings unique insights and experiences that will inspire, inform, and elevate your understanding of the game.
Join us as these industry leaders share their knowledge to help you grow both on and off the field.
More speakers announced soon!
Director, Federation of International Touch
Chairman, Queensland Touch Football
QRL State Infrastructure and Grants Manager
Peter Topp ‘Toppy’ has worked at all levels of Sport in numerous roles over three decades. Holding positions with the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) (now Sport Australia), Touch Football Australia (TFA), the Federation of International Touch (FIT), Commonwealth Games and FIBA Oceania.
As a volunteer Board Member of Federation of International Touch (FIT) Toppy is acutely aware of the support needs for international sport. In the role of Sports Development Director, Toppy facilitate the international development of the sport to grow the competence of coaches, officials and players. Whilst the sport relatively small internationally, it is unique in providing equal opportunity for men and women, as well as mixed competition for both.
Mathew Gilbertson is a productivity coach and businessman with a background in construction and more than 25 years’ experience as a director in Private, Not for Profit and Public Business.
Over the last 15 years, Mathew has been exploring the impact that technology is having on our work and personal lives. A large part of that work includes coaching thousands of people across a wide range of businesses on how to use technology to the personal, healthy advantage. His approach to workplace coaching has been heavily influenced by his lifetime of participation in sport- as a participant, official and volunteer. He’ll share with you the insights gained from his work across sports, the education sector, public service, construction and mining businesses. In doing so, his aim is to help you evaluate the tangible benefits a ‘Team First’ attitude can deliver for communities and individuals.
Scott has worked in Rugby League for 20 years. He has worked for the QRL for the past 15 years, previously as Regional Manager for Northern and as the State Strategy Manager. Prior to that he worked for the ARL Development, now known as the NRL Development, and was based at the NQ Cowboys. In September 2023, he was appointed the State Infrastructure and Grants Manager and has been strategically working on positioning the game to have better facilities and more of them across the state and supporting the QRL’s affiliates to find new funding opportunities and helping more of them to be healthy and vibrant in their communities.
Sports Scientist, Queensland Academy of Sport
Sports Dietician, Biofueled
Group Executive, Diabetes Australia
Dr. Karlee Quinn is a sports scientist based at the Queensland Academy of Sport. In her current role as a Talent Advisor, she serves to identify and develop the next generation of Queensland athletes pursing the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. She delivers the Queensland-wide talent search testing for 17 sports and works closely with five sports to facilitate the integration of athletes into development programs, placing emphasis on education and holistic athlete support. Dr. Quinn has a passion for women’s sport and completed her doctorate in female physiology and performance at Griffith University. She has over a decade of experience in applied sport science, contributing her expertise across a variety of roles including with the Brisbane Broncos Women’s Team, Indigenous All Stars, QAS Track Cycling Program and the National Women’s Rugby League Team, ‘Jillaroos’.
As a former Australian elite athlete, and a holder of a Master’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics, Courtney specialises in sports nutrition for various teams and events. With experience in Olympic-level competitions, professional sporting teams, and everyday fitness enthusiasts, she provides personalised strategies to enhance performance and recovery.
Rowan is an executive leader and health professional with a background in Allied Health, Disability, and Human Services. He has extensive experience in delivering large-scale prevention and treatment programs, supporting individuals with diverse needs. Rowan values authentic, conviction-driven leadership that is grounded in enabling better health for all.
CEO and Founder, Hard Fizz
Managing Director, CPR Group
TFA Men's Open Head Coach
Wade Tiller is the CEO, founder and affectionately called ‘Chief of FIZZ’ of fast starting hard seltzer brand, Hard FIZZ, and the driving force behind its meteoric rise. An innovator in the alcohol industry, Tiller is pioneering ‘better for you’ drinks in Australia with Hard FIZZ recently releasing a series of ‘functional’ non alcoholic sparkling waters, called FIZZ FUNCTIONAL, to complement its core 4% range. Prior to that, he spent a large portion of his 12-year career at Bacardi Martini in various commercial and sales positions, helping to transform it into the fastest growing spirit portfolio in the Australian domestic market. He also held key project roles in the brand’s R&D department as an author of its innovation and ‘go to market’ strategies. A decade long ‘apprenticeship’ travelling the globe as a hospitality venue manager has ensured he very much has a customer focus and ‘people first’ policy when it comes to building a brand.”
Michael Connelly is the Managing Director of CPR Group, bringing over 27 years of expertise in guiding sporting organisations through governance and strategic development. Michael and his team have worked extensively with grassroots clubs and major sporting bodies, helping them implement strong governance frameworks and efficient practices, including through CPR Group’s clubMENTOR program. His skills cover board inductions, strategic planning, governance training, facility planning, succession strategies and club marketing. Recently, Michael led the development of Club IQ for the Queensland Government’s Department of Tourism and Sport including over 55 educational resources and training videos and providing training for Sport and Recreation Officers. Known for his dynamic, practical workshops, Michael has empowered literally thousands of organisations to thrive through good governance, innovation and adaptability. His passion is helping grassroots clubs become more efficient, resilient and enjoyable.
Phil, a Wakka Wakka and Wangan Jagalingou person from the Sunshine Coast, works as a teacher at Chancellor State College, focusing on the Touch Football Academy. With 98 caps in Touch Football, Phil has played in three World Cups, including the 2003 (Japan), 2007 (South Africa), and 2011 (Scotland) tournaments. As a coach, he has led the Queensland Cowboys to four Elite 8 National Titles and coached the Australian Emus Men’s Open team to World Cup victories in 2019 (Malaysia) and 2024 (England). Since returning from England, Phil has been re-appointed as the Head Coach of the Australian Emus Men’s Open team.
Australian & Queensland Men's Open Player
Whitsunday Touch Association
Bundaberg Touch Association
Jayden is a decorated touch football athlete who has represented Australia (2018) and Queensland (2016) in the Men’s Open sides, most recently playing in the undefeated Australian Emus Men’s Open team at the 2024 World Cup. At an affiliate level, he plays in the Rockhampton Men’s Open team who are reigning Queensland State Cup champions since 2019. Jayden also enjoys coaching, taking the role as head coach for school, club and rep teams within his region. As well as this, Jayden is the Central Queensland Game Development Officer, working to increase participation and development of touch football in his region.
Alita, President of Whitsunday Touch since 2022, has driven significant growth, launching the club’s first representative team and expanding the Whitsunday Cup to include juniors. Under her leadership, the club promotes inclusion, builds player pathways, and strengthens the community. Alita’s passion for the sport and hands-on approach have made Whitsunday Touch a thriving, inclusive club, and she looks forward to sharing her journey in this fireside chat.
Dave has been a volunteer in many touch football communities for over 25 years, including his local Affiliate (Bundy Touch), the Central Queensland Region and Queensland Touch Football.
In his roles as Committee member, CQ regional referee director and State referee director, Dave strengthens and sustains participation in touch football in a variety of settings.
Palm Beach Touch
Kawana Touch Association
Mitch’s background comes from volunteering in the sport for 13 years whilst he was working as a bank manager. With qualifications in Business and Finance, his passion for the sport of touch football came through a random opportunity to play at an NTL and had such a positive experience that he stepped away from basketball.
When he moved to the Gold Coast, Palm Beach was his first local club and is very humbled to be in a position that can give back so much to a wonderful community.
Shannon is a volunteer helping to progress Kawana Touch Association’s vision through good planning, communication and product delivery. Shannon is a project manager who understands the importance of stakeholder relationships and collaboration. She enjoys being part of a growing affiliate and fostering an environment which people love returning to.
Northern Gold Coast Touch
Redlands Touch Association
With over 10 years in touch football, Leigh-Ann has served as mum, regional team manager, competition manager, treasurer and now an affiliate Director/President. Her involvement spans multiple roles reflecting a deep commitment to supporting and organising touch football at many levels and ensuring we deliver the best possible at all times.
Jason is a dedicated sports administrator with extensive experience in touch football and rugby league.
With over 40 years involvement with touch as a player, coach, referee, board member, volunteer and paid administrator he sees the game from all perspectives.
From jumping on his first touch club committee at age 17 he has worked both in New Zealand and Australia in the sport and has played a pivotal role in promoting and organizing grassroots programs, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for players of all ages and backgrounds.
Director, Federation of International Touch
Peter Topp ‘Toppy’ has worked at all levels of Sport in numerous roles over three decades. Holding positions with the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) (now Sport Australia), Touch Football Australia (TFA), the Federation of International Touch (FIT), Commonwealth Games and FIBA Oceania.
As a volunteer Board Member of Federation of International Touch (FIT) Toppy is acutely aware of the support needs for international sport. In the role of Sports Development Director, Toppy facilitate the international development of the sport to grow the competence of coaches, officials and players. Whilst the sport relatively small internationally, it is unique in providing equal opportunity for men and women, as well as mixed competition for both.
Chairman, Queensland Touch Football
Mathew Gilbertson is a productivity coach and businessman with a background in construction and more than 25 years’ experience as a director in Private, Not for Profit and Public Business.
Over the last 15 years, Mathew has been exploring the impact that technology is having on our work and personal lives. A large part of that work includes coaching thousands of people across a wide range of businesses on how to use technology to the personal, healthy advantage. His approach to workplace coaching has been heavily influenced by his lifetime of participation in sport- as a participant, official and volunteer. He’ll share with you the insights gained from his work across sports, the education sector, public service, construction and mining businesses. In doing so, his aim is to help you evaluate the tangible benefits a ‘Team First’ attitude can deliver for communities and individuals.
QRL State Infrastructure and Grants Manager
Scott has worked in Rugby League for 20 years. He has worked for the QRL for the past 15 years, previously as Regional Manager for Northern and as the State Strategy Manager. Prior to that he worked for the ARL Development, now known as the NRL Development, and was based at the NQ Cowboys. In September 2023, he was appointed the State Infrastructure and Grants Manager and has been strategically working on positioning the game to have better facilities and more of them across the state and supporting the QRL’s affiliates to find new funding opportunities and helping more of them to be healthy and vibrant in their communities.
Sports Scientist, Queensland Academy of Sport
Dr. Karlee Quinn is a sports scientist based at the Queensland Academy of Sport. In her current role as a Talent Advisor, she serves to identify and develop the next generation of Queensland athletes pursing the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. She delivers the Queensland-wide talent search testing for 17 sports and works closely with five sports to facilitate the integration of athletes into development programs, placing emphasis on education and holistic athlete support. Dr. Quinn has a passion for women’s sport and completed her doctorate in female physiology and performance at Griffith University. She has over a decade of experience in applied sport science, contributing her expertise across a variety of roles including with the Brisbane Broncos Women’s Team, Indigenous All Stars, QAS Track Cycling Program and the National Women’s Rugby League Team, ‘Jillaroos’.
Sports Dietician, Biofueled
As a former Australian elite athlete, and a holder of a Master’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics, Courtney specialises in sports nutrition for various teams and events. With experience in Olympic-level competitions, professional sporting teams, and everyday fitness enthusiasts, she provides personalised strategies to enhance performance and recovery.
Group Executive, Diabetes Australia
Rowan is an executive leader and health professional with a background in Allied Health, Disability, and Human Services. He has extensive experience in delivering large-scale prevention and treatment programs, supporting individuals with diverse needs. Rowan values authentic, conviction-driven leadership that is grounded in enabling better health for all.
CEO and Founder, Hard Fizz
Wade Tiller is the CEO, founder and affectionately called ‘Chief of FIZZ’ of fast starting hard seltzer brand, Hard FIZZ, and the driving force behind its meteoric rise. An innovator in the alcohol industry, Tiller is pioneering ‘better for you’ drinks in Australia with Hard FIZZ recently releasing a series of ‘functional’ non alcoholic sparkling waters, called FIZZ FUNCTIONAL, to complement its core 4% range. Prior to that, he spent a large portion of his 12-year career at Bacardi Martini in various commercial and sales positions, helping to transform it into the fastest growing spirit portfolio in the Australian domestic market. He also held key project roles in the brand’s R&D department as an author of its innovation and ‘go to market’ strategies. A decade long ‘apprenticeship’ travelling the globe as a hospitality venue manager has ensured he very much has a customer focus and ‘people first’ policy when it comes to building a brand.”
Managing Director, CPR Group
Michael Connelly is the Managing Director of CPR Group, bringing over 27 years of expertise in guiding sporting organisations through governance and strategic development. Michael and his team have worked extensively with grassroots clubs and major sporting bodies, helping them implement strong governance frameworks and efficient practices, including through CPR Group’s clubMENTOR program. His skills cover board inductions, strategic planning, governance training, facility planning, succession strategies and club marketing. Recently, Michael led the development of Club IQ for the Queensland Government’s Department of Tourism and Sport including over 55 educational resources and training videos and providing training for Sport and Recreation Officers. Known for his dynamic, practical workshops, Michael has empowered literally thousands of organisations to thrive through good governance, innovation and adaptability. His passion is helping grassroots clubs become more efficient, resilient and enjoyable.
TFA Men's Open Head Coach
Phil, a Wakka Wakka and Wangan Jagalingou person from the Sunshine Coast, works as a teacher at Chancellor State College, focusing on the Touch Football Academy. With 98 caps in Touch Football, Phil has played in three World Cups, including the 2003 (Japan), 2007 (South Africa), and 2011 (Scotland) tournaments. As a coach, he has led the Queensland Cowboys to four Elite 8 National Titles and coached the Australian Emus Men’s Open team to World Cup victories in 2019 (Malaysia) and 2024 (England). Since returning from England, Phil has been re-appointed as the Head Coach of the Australian Emus Men’s Open team.
Australian & Queensland Men's Open Player
Jayden is a decorated touch football athlete who has represented Australia (2018) and Queensland (2016) in the Men’s Open sides, most recently playing in the undefeated Australian Emus Men’s Open team at the 2024 World Cup. At an affiliate level, he plays in the Rockhampton Men’s Open team who are reigning Queensland State Cup champions since 2019. Jayden also enjoys coaching, taking the role as head coach for school, club and rep teams within his region. As well as this, Jayden is the Central Queensland Game Development Officer, working to increase participation and development of touch football in his region.
Whitsunday Touch Association
Alita, President of Whitsunday Touch since 2022, has driven significant growth, launching the club’s first representative team and expanding the Whitsunday Cup to include juniors. Under her leadership, the club promotes inclusion, builds player pathways, and strengthens the community. Alita’s passion for the sport and hands-on approach have made Whitsunday Touch a thriving, inclusive club, and she looks forward to sharing her journey in this fireside chat.
Bundaberg Touch Association
Dave has been a volunteer in many touch football communities for over 25 years, including his local Affiliate (Bundy Touch), the Central Queensland Region and Queensland Touch Football.
In his roles as Committee member, CQ regional referee director and State referee director, Dave strengthens and sustains participation in touch football in a variety of settings.
Palm Beach Touch
Mitch’s background comes from volunteering in the sport for 13 years whilst he was working as a bank manager. With qualifications in Business and Finance, his passion for the sport of touch football came through a random opportunity to play at an NTL and had such a positive experience that he stepped away from basketball.
When he moved to the Gold Coast, Palm Beach was his first local club and is very humbled to be in a position that can give back so much to a wonderful community.
Kawana Touch Association
Shannon is a volunteer helping to progress Kawana Touch Association’s vision through good planning, communication and product delivery. Shannon is a project manager who understands the importance of stakeholder relationships and collaboration. She enjoys being part of a growing affiliate and fostering an environment which people love returning to.
Northern Gold Coast Touch
With over 10 years in touch football, Leigh-Ann has served as mum, regional team manager, competition manager, treasurer and now an affiliate Director/President. Her involvement spans multiple roles reflecting a deep commitment to supporting and organising touch football at many levels and ensuring we deliver the best possible at all times.
Redlands Touch Association
Jason is a dedicated sports administrator with extensive experience in touch football and rugby league.
With over 40 years involvement with touch as a player, coach, referee, board member, volunteer and paid administrator he sees the game from all perspectives.
From jumping on his first touch club committee at age 17 he has worked both in New Zealand and Australia in the sport and has played a pivotal role in promoting and organizing grassroots programs, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for players of all ages and backgrounds.
