Cricket has been a big part of Fiona Jolly’s life for many years. With four boys who’ve been playing cricket since they were six years old, Fiona has walked the boundary for many hours and is very much a part of the Canberra cricket scene.
It was her keen interest in boards and governance that brought her to the Cricket ACT Board and saw her appointed as a Director four and a half years ago.
However, all good things must come to an end. Earlier this month Fiona decided it was time to retire from her position on the Board.
“I’m passionate about appropriate renewal on boards,” Fiona said.
“It’s time for me to make way for new women, ensure there is broad diversity, fresh minds and people with strong skills to move Cricket ACT forward into its next century.”
It’s certainly not goodbye, rather ‘see you soon’, as Fiona will still be active in the local cricket community.
When asked what some of the highlights were in her time on the board, it was hard for Fiona to pick one, but she said there were some significant and positive moments she can reflect on.
“I’m proud to have been part of the board that brought the first test match to the ACT. The Australia v England test at Manuka Oval was significant for Cricket Australia and our local community.
“I was also fortunate to be part of the early group of female leaders of cricket. Not long after joining the board I had the opportunity to join with female leaders, players and directors, from across Australia to discuss how women in leadership can improve governance and player participation.
“There are challenges being female and being able to influence change at Board level in what is largely a male dominated sport,” Fiona said.
On a personal note she said a major highlight was the recruitment of current CEO Olivia Thornton, as the first female CEO of Cricket ACT.
“I had a short stint as Acting Chair after Olivia became CEO. I believe this was the first time a governing cricket body in Australia had had an all-female Chair and CEO. That’s a nice period to reflect on.”
Overall, Fiona said it had been a pleasure to work on improving governance and operations of cricket in the ACT.
“We can and deserve to be recognised nationally as a significant contributor to cricket in Australia. I look forward to seeing how our leadership team advances cricket locally in our next century.”
Thank you from all at Cricket ACT for your passion and commitment to improving our game locally, Fiona. Your efforts are greatly appreciated.