What’s Happening?
Toowoomba Hockey Association has won a major Queensland award for its Belong in Hockey program. The program received Social Cohesion and Community Impact Project of the Year at the 2026 Multicultural Queensland Awards.
Belong in Hockey began through a partnership with Multicultural Australia to support Toowoomba’s local Yezidi refugee community. It has since expanded to welcome people across different cultures, abilities and age groups. The program also works with local community organisations.
Why It Matters?
Belong in Hockey uses regular sporting participation to reduce social isolation and strengthen community connections. Participants can form friendships, build confidence and become more involved in their local community.
Individuals and families also gain valuable support networks. The program encourages better physical health and mental wellbeing within a safe and supportive environment.
Local Impact
Toowoomba residents can participate regardless of their cultural background or ability. Older community members and retirees are also welcomed.
Women and girls receive opportunities to participate, lead and thrive within the sport, supporting greater gender equality. The program’s impact also extends to its volunteers, many of whom are retired. Supporting new arrivals has given volunteers greater purpose and deeper cultural understanding.
By The Numbers
- The awards ceremony was held at Logan Entertainment Centre on Friday, 28 August 2026.
- Seven Queenslanders and community organisations received awards across the statewide categories.
- Another 12 nominees received highly commended awards for their community contributions.
Zoom In
Belong in Hockey benefits both participants and the volunteers who support its activities. Volunteers report that helping new arrivals has enriched their lives and deepened their understanding of refugee cultures and experiences.
The Queensland Government awards profile describes Belong in Hockey as a world-renowned, best-practice model for other community groups.
It also credits Toowoomba Hockey Association with creating a lasting community legacy that strengthens social cohesion.
Zoom Out
The annual awards recognise leadership, volunteering, entrepreneurship and grassroots work supporting culturally diverse communities across Queensland. The ceremony concluded Multicultural Queensland Month celebrations.
The 2026 award recipients were:
- Minister’s Award, Mary Ngarongo Bartlett-Johnston
- Volunteer of the Year, Dr Ram Mohan
- Entrepreneur of the Year, Tautua Group
- Women’s Economic Empowerment Award, Saba Abraham OAM
- Social Cohesion and Community Impact Project of the Year, Belong in Hockey
- Grassroots Not-for-profit Organisation, LatinOZ Queensland
- Lifetime Achiever, Janeth Deen OAM
Minister for Multiculturalism Fiona Simpson selected Mary Ngarongo Bartlett-Johnston for her service to Māori and Pasifika communities. She described her as a deserving recipient from an exceptionally strong field.
“Mary has dedicated herself to supporting Māori and Pasifika communities across Queensland through tireless service and leadership,” Minister Simpson said. “She has helped to unite people from various cultural backgrounds and created opportunities for young people through mentoring and structured programs that empower them to become the very best version of themselves. Across the board, our winners and nominees are outstanding Queenslanders whose incredible contributions have strengthened mutual respect and shared understanding across their communities.”
“These community leaders and unity champions have dedicated countless hours to uplifting people around them and creating more opportunities for them to fully participate culturally, socially and economically. The Crisafulli Government is committed to celebrating and building bridges between our culturally diverse communities, and we congratulate our Multicultural Queensland Awards recipients for sharing our vision.”
Lifetime Achiever Janeth Deen OAM was recognised for more than 50 years of pioneering community work and leadership.
Her service has strengthened intercultural understanding, promoted social cohesion and improved community wellbeing across generations.
“I accept this award with heartfelt gratitude and remain committed to building a more caring, connected and inclusive Queensland for everyone,” Ms Deen said. “Community service and volunteering are important to me because they allow us to make a positive difference, support those in need, and bring people together with compassion and respect.”
“I believe that when we give our time, knowledge and heart, we strengthen not only individuals and families but the broader community as a whole.”
The government announcement also criticised Labor’s multicultural record, alleging it had created fear and division within culturally diverse communities.
What To Look For Next?
The announcement did not include expansion plans, participation targets or upcoming program dates.
No further milestones for Belong in Hockey were identified in the information provided.