NetMum tells of her Grand Final experience

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Jillian Boyle, 75, from Caloundra, who was crowned Australia’s first Telstra NetMum in June, has enjoyed a VIP netball experienceat this year’s ANZ Championship Grand Final in Melbourne as part of her prize.

Jillian, chosen as the overall winner following a national search led by Australia’s most-capped netballer, Liz Ellis, enjoyed the action packed match between the Melbourne Vixens and Waikato Bay of PlentyMagic of New Zealand, with the Magic winning 41-38.

In addition to meeting Liz Ellis, Jillian enjoyed return flights from her home state of Queensland, two nights’ accommodation and a day spa pamper package as part of her winners’ prize.  Later this week, she will also attend the Queensland Firebirds end of season dinner in Brisbane.

“I am completely humbled to have been recognised in this way, and have had the most wonderful weekend in Melbourne with my daughter Jacqueline who nominated me.  I’ve never even been to a live game before, so to be part of the Grand Final and get to meet Liz Ellis is just fantastic!

“I’ve been involved in netball for over 60 years and I love the values and skills it teaches young people. I hope I’ve nurtured many of the young players I’ve coached over that time, so that they can enjoy the game as much as I do”, Jillian said.

Group Managing Director, Telstra Innovation, Products and Marketing, Kate McKenzie, said the national Telstra NetMum searchhighlightedhow devoted mums across Australia were to the game of netball.

“There was an overwhelming show of support for netball mums from across the country, which proves why it’s important to recognise their contribution and commitment to the game.

“Thousands of mums play a vital role in nurturing netballers within their community in lots of different ways, and Telstra is delighted to be able to reward a mum like Jillian who is clearly so passionate aboutthe sport,” she said.

Head judge Liz Ellis said narrowing down the Telstra NetMum finalists to just one winner was a hard task as there were so many impressive entries.

“The competition was fierce - much like this year’s ANZ Championship, but Jillian is a truly deserving winner.Netball is in good hands with such inspirational people encouraging future generations to play the game.”