SHAPE Research and Flinders University Institute for Mental Health and Wellbeing had the privilege of hosting the Honourable Emily Bourke MLC, Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing, for an inspiring presentation by PhD student Emma Milanese on Friday 21 February. Emma’s research focuses on the social and cultural impact of Niipu-niipu Wama – Friendship Park, a key recreational facility at the Moreton Road Sports Hub, Christies Beach in the City of Onkaparinga.

Emma’s study examines the role of this unique facility in addressing barriers to sport participation, particularly for youth in low socio-economic status communities and highlights the profound role that community-driven sports spaces play in fostering connection, inclusion, and overall wellbeing. The study concluded that investing in the sports hub has created an increased sense of community pride, increased family time, better social, emotional and physical health for youth and that policymakers and stakeholders should prioritise investment in sports programs due to their high social impact and long-term benefits.

The event included representatives from local and state government, community members, support workers, and researchers from across Flinders University. This broad participation was an excellent example of collaboration between research institutions, policymakers, and community organisations and allowed for in-depth and insightful discussion.

Emma’s research and presentation highlights how research can help shape inclusive and thriving communities and demonstrates the value of creating an academic partnership to inform an evidence-based approach to policy development in community sports projects.

The study was made possible by joint funding of a dedicated PhD scholarship provided by the Roger Rasheed Sports Foundation and the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing.