The VIS’ RAP working group is responsible for the development and implementation of the initial Reflect RAP for the whole organisation. Showcasing the VIS’ commitment to creating change and ensuring that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander athletes are recognised, respected and celebrated throughout the whole Institute.
The project group consists of VIS scholarship holder, and a proud Wiradjuri woman Gabrielle Coffey (Netball) (Pictured Above, Credit: The AIS), fellow VIS scholarship holders Mitchell Gourley (Para-alpine skiing) and Rhydian Cowley (Race walking), as well as VIS CEO Anne Marie Harrison and VIS staff members (Dave Crosbee, Cathryn Pruscino, Vanessa Bof, Will Morgan, Camilla Blands and Chris Tetaz).
The project will be guided by experienced RAP consultant Jaynaya Winmar, who is a proud Noonagar/Balladong woman, in conjunction with VIS Board Member Shelley Ware, a proud Yankunyjatjara and Wirangu woman.
Victorian Institute of Sport Chief Executive Officer Anne Marie Harrison says that this is a significant milestone for the VIS and continues to ensure the organisation is a safe, inclusive and nurturing environment where athletes and staff will continue to thrive, now and into the future.
“The VIS has established the RAP working group to take the whole organisation on the journey to understand and value the importance of reconciliation and embed respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their traditions in our operations." Harrison said.
“The VIS is committed to playing our role as leaders in high performance sport in Victoria in supporting reconciliation and the Uluru Statement of the Heart,” Harrison continued. “We look forward to learning through the process and experience and implementing the actions.”
The VIS’ Reflect RAP will be submitted to Reconciliation Australia in 2022. To learn more about Reconciliation Action Plans and how your organisation can take meaningful action to advance reconciliation, click HERE.
Acknowledgment of Country
In the spirit of reconciliation, the Victorian Institute of Sport acknowledges the Traditional Custodians throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea/water ways and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
