The Broome Recreation and Aquatic Centre (BRAC) are set to officially unveil upgraded changeroom facilities at the Medland Pavilion, delivering a significant step forward for gender inclusion in Kimberley football

The $86,000 retrofit project, driven by community advocacy and first raised at the 2023 Kimberley Football Forum, was made possible thanks to $60,000 in funding from WA Football and Country Football WA through the Kimberley Investment Framework (KIF), with additional support from the Shire of Broome.

The works included the removal of urinals, installation of pan toilets, and the addition of private, lockable shower cubicles—creating a welcoming, fit-for-purpose, gender-neutral space that supports all players.

“This is a game changer for women’s football,” said Rachel Southam of the Looma Lady Eagles. “Gender-neutral facilities in our region mean female players can feel more comfortable staying pre- and post-games, without having to go home to change.”

Previously, changeroom facilities at BRAC offered limited privacy, with no doors on showers and a male-centric design that left many female and gender-diverse players feeling excluded. The upgrade now ensures BRAC is well-positioned to cater to the 360 players who use the facility each year.

“Playing women’s footy is a daunting experience when you don’t have a space you feel comfortable changing in,” said Katherine Dann of Cable Beach Football and Sporting Club. “Better facilities help women feel like they’re part of the sport and give us more confidence.”

Brent Hedley, Executive Manager of Country Football, Facilities & Affiliates, praised the local advocacy and community collaboration that brought the project to life.

“These upgrades are about more than just infrastructure. They reflect our commitment to ensuring football in the Kimberley is inclusive, accessible and supportive of everyone who wants to play the game,” he said.

The Shire of Broome also welcomed the upgrade as a key step in ensuring community facilities are aligned with the needs of a growing and diverse player base.

“The Shire is proud to support projects that promote participation, inclusivity, and equal access in community sport,” said Shire of Broome President, Chris Mitchell JP. “Facilities like this help create safer, more welcoming spaces for all players, especially women and girls, and reflect our shared commitment to healthy, active communities.”

The changeroom upgrade, which will be unveiled ahead of the start of the West Kimberley Junior and Senior Football seasons, is a great example of how targeted investment and community-driven action can enhance participation and wellbeing through sport, especially in regional communities.