Key issues to consider in starting a not-for-profit organisation

STARTING up a not-for-profit club is something people can consider. You have a concern, or an interest, that’s shared more widely than just you as an individual.

STARTING up a not-for-profit club is something people can consider.

You have a concern, or an interest, that's shared more widely than just you as an individual.

You want to do something, or promote something, or change something, at least partly for the benefit of people other than you.

Do you have what it takes to start and run a new club?

Why set up an organisation?

You don't have to be part of an organisation. You can go it alone, and many successful people have.

You can work on the basis of ad hoc and informal ring rounds when anything needs to be done, and avoid getting bogged down in structures.

A formal organisation can, however, be a powerful way of getting your message across or organising your activities.

The first thing to do is to check that nobody's doing it.

If there already is an organisation working in the field, would it be better to join it?

If the other body isn't doing quite what you want, can you get it to change?

Will it be able to stretch to cover your interests? Could it handle a spin-off, or a sub-committee?

Don't start up a new competitor unless you have to. There may be a need for two clubs, and there may even be room for two clubs, but on the other hand there may not.

Starting up your own association should be a last resort only.

For more information, visit the Ipswich Sports House website at ipswichsportshouse.com.au

Ipswich awards

THE 2013/14 City of Ipswich Sports Awards will take place on Saturday, November 1, at the University of Queensland, Ipswich Campus.

The Ipswich Sports Awards seeks to support, recognise and reward sportspersons for excellent performance in and commitment from July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2014.

Jodie Fields will be the guest speaker for the night and Ash Walsh's V8 Supercar will also make an appearance.

Awards will be presented to the winners in recognition of their efforts over the past year.

Tickets are available at ipswichtickets.com.au

Cricket coaching course

QUEENSLAND Cricket will be holding a Level 1 Coaching Course on Sunday, November 2, at the Brothers Leagues Club.

If you have kids that are involved in cricket or you volunteer to coach or assist with a local cricket team, this Level 1 coaching course is a great way help build your knowledge and assist in providing an enjoyable experience for you and your players.

Currently, this will be the final coaching course undertaken by Queensland Cricket in South East Queensland prior to Christmas, so if you or someone you know are interested please register to attend.

Cost for the full day Level 1 coaching course is $99 per person.

If you would like to register or have any further questions, contact Jack Little on 0428 724 819.