GBL Committee Commended for Proactive Leadership and Community-Focused Improvements

GBL Committee Commended for Proactive Leadership and Community-Focused Improvements

20 November 2025

The Greater Brisbane League (GBL) Committee has been recognised for its extensive preparation, collaborative leadership, and responsiveness in shaping a stronger and more inclusive baseball season for our community.

Since the conclusion of last season, the GBL Committee has worked closely with Baseball Queensland and Baseball Australia to ensure all competitions met the necessary national compliance standards. This behind-the-scenes effort — much of which began well before teams returned to the field — ensured that our competitions were compliant with Little League regulations, structured appropriately, provided clarity for clubs, and upheld the integrity of the league.

In recent weeks, members of the community have shared feedback about some aspects of the competition format. The GBL has listened and responded quickly. In partnership with Baseball Queensland, the Committee has actively lobbied Baseball Australia to review and adjust key elements of the competition framework to better support players of all ages, abilities, and aspirations.

We are pleased to confirm that these proposed changes have been accepted and implemented. The GBL Committee has now rolled out an updated format that more accurately reflects the needs of our participants and provides a more enjoyable and accessible baseball experience across all levels of play.

Baseball Queensland extends its sincere thanks to the volunteers that make up the GBL Committee for their steadfast commitment to the game and their willingness to lead with transparency, collaboration, and care. We also thank Baseball Australia for working with us to deliver compliant solutions that preserve the integrity of our competitions while opening the door for more players to participate and thrive.

Community dialogue is important, and constructive feedback helps us all improve. The GBL’s actions demonstrate what is possible when governing bodies and volunteers work together to deliver the best outcomes for our sport.

Baseball Queensland looks forward to continuing this partnership as we strengthen pathways, enhance participation experiences, and support the growth of baseball across our region.

 
Gareth Jones
Chief Executive Officer
Baseball Queensland
Game Development Team expands with Gold Coast Role Appointed

Game Development Team expands with Gold Coast Role Appointed

November 2025

Baseball Queensland’s Game Development team has experienced significant growth in the past 18 months, supporting an expanded base of participation initiatives across the state. Our latest addition comes with the appointment of Stephen Redfern to the position of Game Development Officer, servicing the Gold Coast.

Beginning with a T-Ball School Clinic at the age of 6, Stephen ended up at St. George and Sutherland Giants Baseball Club, 26 years later, he’s still around, playing, umpiring, coaching, and loving the sport. Stephen was once a casual delivery officer for Baseball Queensland, before a trip to Norway saw him leave the country, he now returns in a part-time capacity, eager to develop, deliver and drive the type of programs that saw him introduced to the sport.

What drew you to Baseball?
It’s a team sport that focuses on individual performance and the combination of strategic rule understanding and ability means there is always room for improvement. There are also multiple opportunities to get a hit, make a catch, make a solid throw, or improve from the last action in a game.

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What brought you to BQ?

I’ve always loved being involved in all facets of baseball, whether that’s running the university club (Griffith Uni Gold Coast), attending international umpiring courses, having a hit and giggle with mates or showing off the sport to kids at school, being able to turn what I love into a job and developing the sport in my local area – that’s gold.

What excites you about the role?

Being able to develop, deliver and drive the programs that first got me into baseball is incredibly exciting. To think that my work could create life-long enthusiasts that go on to develop the game wherever they are in the world is fun to think about.

 

What are your goals early on?

Having lived in Norway for the last 8 years and coming back with fresh eyes, developing school connections and building links between clubs, GCBA and BQ to cohesively grow the sport in the region is very high on the list. Upskilling our existing coaching staff and empowering volunteers and schools with resources that make their life easier will naturally help make the sport more enjoyable and rewarding.

How do you want to grow the game?

The elite athletes of tomorrow are the rookies of today. Developing the early years of baseball with accredited and supported coaches and volunteers that make the game fun and engaging is key for growing elite pathways later on.

Who inspires you?

All the parents out there that listen to their kids, turning up to a sport they may not know themselves and letting their kid have a fair crack at it. Those that level it up and support the team by becoming a scorer, helping in the canteen or lending their time and energy to help their own kid keep playing their sport in an awesome environment, that’s inspiring to see. So thank you to all the parents and family members out there that are getting involved!

 

Favourite team or player?

My favourite team would have to be San Fran Giants just because my very first baseball team was the Giants. 

What do you do for fun?

I am a gamer at core and love RPG and Open World Survivor Craft-type games, so my gaming rig PC does see a bit of game time here and there.

 

Three words to describe yourself?

Silly, Loud, Helpful

  

What position do you like playing best and why?

I’ve always enjoyed catching as it’s the most involved and is a bit of a support role for the rest of the team. To help the team remember where the opponents are in the batting order, where the ball was hit last for each batter and in turn helping pull or push players in depending on the batter.

What is your baseball nickname and why?

A lot of players around SEQ may know me better as Madonna – a nickname I’ve had since my first year playing seniors baseball. Young dumb me didn’t understand that the done thing is to have your family name on your jersey, not your first name. So, in true naive fashion, my seniors jersey had Steve on the back. The questions quickly arose “do you not have a last name?” and then Madonna was born.. What’s Madonna’s last name?

Baseball Queensland’s very own Madonna is ready and excited to hear from those on the Gold Coast!

Gold Coast clubs might want to check their emails, but if there’s nothing waiting in your inbox, you can always reach out to Stephen at [email protected]

If Stephen’s not your local, you can view the rest of Baseball Queensland’s growing team here: 

Baseball Queensland Releases Tech Norms for 2025 Women and Youth Championships

Baseball Queensland Releases Tech Norms for 2025 Women and Youth Championships

Baseball Queensland has officially released the Technical Norms for the upcoming Women’s State Titles, Youth Women’s, and Little League Girls State Championship events, set to take place in December 2025 at the Indians Baseball Club and Narangba Demons Baseball Club.
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These Technical Norms provide detailed guidance on event operations, eligibility, competition formats, equipment standards, and tournament protocols, ensuring consistency and fairness across all divisions. The document serves as the framework for teams, coaches, officials, and event organisers as preparations commence for one of the most significant showcases of female baseball talent in Queensland.
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Baseball Queensland CEO Gareth Jones said the release of the Tech Norms marks an important milestone in the lead-up to the championships.
“These events represent a key pillar of our commitment to growing female participation and celebrating excellence across all levels of the game. The Tech Norms provide clarity and consistency for everyone involved and help ensure a professional and inclusive event environment,” Jones said.
The 2025 championships will bring together Queensland’s top female athletes across three age groups and multiple divisions, offering an exciting display of emerging talent and high-level competition.
The full Technical Norms document is now available via the Baseball Queensland Event Information page below.
Victoria Point State High School Welcomed as the 4th Official Baseball5 Academy

Victoria Point State High School Welcomed as the 4th Official Baseball5 Academy

Victoria Point State High School joins the Baseball5 Family as Queensland’s 4th School Academy
Baseball Queensland is thrilled to announce that Victoria Point State High School has officially become the 4th Baseball5 Academy in Queensland! Over the past month, our team has been working closely with the school’s Vikings Academy, delivering development sessions that introduced and nurtured a love for the exciting world of Baseball5.

With over 70 students from Year 7, 8, and 9 participating, these sessions were more than just an introduction; they were a launchpad for growth. Students embraced the challenge with energy and enthusiasm, showing remarkable progress as they transitioned from beginners to budding Baseball5 athletes within the space of a few short weeks. Their commitment and passion were evident in every play, setting up a strong foundation for the sport within the school’s academy. 

Victoria Point SHS is now positioned as a pillar for Baseball5 in the Redlands, reflecting not only the students’ dedication but also the incredible support from the school staff, who welcomed our coaches and championed this initiative. Victoria Point SHS joins our existing Baseball5 Academies at Robina State High School on the southern Gold Coast, Runcorn State High School in southern Brisbane and Earnshaw State College on the northside of Brisbane. A clear demonstration of the growth of Baseball5 within Queensland schools at a time where the format has, notably, surpassed T-Ball in total Sporting Schools bookings in Queensland.

A huge thank you to the staff and students for making this journey possible. We are excited to see Victoria Point SHS thrive as part of the Baseball5 family. 

Congratulations and welcome aboard, Victoria Point State High School! 

Learn more about Victoria Point’s Vikings Sports Academy here:

Need to learn more about Baseball5? It’s the fast-paced, 5 vs 5 format that can be played anywhere, focused around four of Baseball’s key skills, condensed into 20-30 minute games.

Visit our Baseball5 page by clicking the button below and find out more!

2025 New Zealand 15U Tour Wrapup

2025 New Zealand 15U Tour Wrapup

Baseball, Culture and Lasting Mateships Highlight Queensland’s First 15U NZ Tour

November 2025

Baseball Queensland’s inaugural 15U New Zealand Tour brought together two squads — the Wahoos and the Mud Crabs — made up of athletes from Cairns to Lismore for an eight-day international development experience across Auckland and Hamilton from 25 September to 2 October 2025. 

The tour was more than baseball. It was about building culture, forming friendships, and representing Queensland with pride. Competing against New Zealand’s 15U Development Team and Auckland’s 17U Representative Team, the group faced quality opposition, embraced cultural exchange, and created memories that will last well beyond the final inning.

Development Focus 

The tour formed part of Baseball Queensland’s Performance Pathways calendar and was designed as a stepping stone between local programs and international play. Each squad trained for eight weeks at Bannister Park in Brisbane before departing — refining their fundamentals, teamwork, and game understanding. 

The Wahoos, led by Head Coach Daniel Turner and supported by Assistant Coaches Luke Ardill and Brendan Vassallo, finished 2–5 across tightly contested games. Turner praised the group’s commitment and connection: 

“This group showed what Queensland baseball is all about. They played the game the right way, supported each other through challenges, and represented their state with pride.”
 Daniel Turner, Head Coach (Wahoos) 

 

For the Mud Crabs, managed by Head Coach Tyson Loetzsch alongside Coaches Jay and Daniel Nilsson, the focus was on development and resilience against older opposition. Loetzsch reflected on the team’s growth throughout the tour: 

“Our players faced some real tests against quality competition. The way they adjusted, supported one another, and stayed positive was outstanding. This trip will shape their future as athletes and teammates.” 

– Tyson Loetzsch, Head Coach (Mud Crabs) 

Culture, Connection and Shared Experience 

Both teams balanced high-tempo baseball with opportunities to experience New Zealand’s culture and community. Visits to the Aratiatia Community Marae, Sky Tower, Rotorua Luge, The Fieldhouse Batting Cages, and The All Blacks Experience gave athletes a unique insight into New Zealand’s sporting and cultural heritage. 

Evenings were spent together over team dinners — a simple ritual that became the heartbeat of the tour. Executive Officers Taylor Devine (Wahoos) and Kyla Collyer (Mud Crabs) coordinated logistics, meals and communication, ensuring every detail was covered so players could focus on connecting and growing as a group. 

“The dinners and team meetings brought everyone closer together,” said Devine. “It wasn’t just about baseball — it was about belonging.” 

Pride in the Journey 

The Queensland contingent earned respect for their professionalism and sportsmanship throughout the event. Parents and families were equally integral, providing strong support both in New Zealand and from home — including live streams, local assistance, and constant encouragement. 

At the midway point of the tour, players, staff and families shared lunch at the Aratiatia Community Marae, bringing everyone together in a memorable celebration of culture, connection and the shared love of baseball. 

Laying Foundations for the Future 

Baseball Queensland extends its thanks to the coaching and support staff — Daniel Turner, Tyson Loetzsch, Luke Ardill, Brendan Vassallo, Jay Nilsson, Daniel Nilsson, Taylor Devine and Kyla Collyer — for their leadership and care throughout the tour. 

A special congratulations goes to Baseball Queensland athletes Max Arlow and Jake Molander, who, following their standout performances, were selected to represent New Zealand on the U15 National Team. Both Queensland-based athletes hold New Zealand citizenship, and their achievement is a proud reflection of the shared pathways and growing connection between the two baseball communities. 

This inaugural 15U tour marks an exciting milestone for Baseball Queensland’s international development pathway. The experiences, lessons and mateships formed in New Zealand will echo well beyond the diamond — shaping the next generation of Queensland athletes. 

Baseball Queensland congratulates all players and families on a memorable first edition of the BQ 15U New Zealand Tour. 

Wahoos 

  • Callum Turner 
  • Hudson Applefield 
  • Sammy Plumb 
  • Jack Neaves 
  • Jake Molander 
  • Billy Wharton 
  • Finn Wollin 
  • Seth Lutton 
  • Hamish Trotter 
  • Brayden Deemal 
  • Jackson Schneider 
  • Spencer Strutt 
  • Lachlan Gale 
  • Callum Schramm 

 

Manager: Daniel Turner 
Assistant Coaches: Luke Ardill, Brendan Vassallo 
Executive Officer: Taylor Devine 

Mud Crabs 

  • Eli Collyer 
  • Cooper Jones 
  • Malakai Pearson 
  • Max Arlow 
  • Evan Peters 
  • Charlie Power 
  • Shuta Kobayashi 
  • Mitchell Loetzsch 
  • Daniel Bremner 
  • Phoenix Morton 
  • Owen Frazer 
  • Max Cruickshank 
  • Jackson Ronan 
  • Nate Tranter 
  • Brock New 

Manager: Tyson Loetzsch 
Coaches: Jay Nilsson, Daniel Nilsson 
Executive Officer: Kyla Collyer 

Now Hiring: Administration Officer

Now Hiring: Administration Officer

Baseball Queensland is seeking a dedicated and organised Administration Officer to join our team and support the delivery of key operational and communication services across the organisation. Based at our Milton office, this full-time role offers the opportunity to work closely with the CEO and staff in a dynamic, member-based environment, helping to strengthen baseball’s reach and impact throughout the state. You’ll play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of Baseball Queensland through a mix of administrative, secretarial, and stakeholder support tasks.

The successful candidate will be a motivated and detail-oriented professional who thrives in a fast-paced, team-driven environment. Strong communication skills, the ability to manage competing priorities amongst fluctuating workloads, and a proactive approach to problem-solving are essential. If you’re passionate about sport and want to contribute to the growth and success of baseball in Queensland, we encourage you to apply.

🔗 Apply now via SEEK: https://www.seek.com.au/job/88220212