Gymnastics Australia appoints Alistair Edgar as Chief Executive  

Alistair Edgar is to transition from his role as Chief Executive at Gymnastics Victoria into the role of Chief Executive at Gymnastics Australia, bringing his experience and leadership skills to the role attained across business, sports management, gymnastics and the public sector.  

Advising of the appointment, Gymnastics Australia President, Sam Offord notes “the Gymnastics Australia Board is delighted to welcome Alistair into the role as CEO at an exciting time for our sport. After an extensive search, Alistair showed his significant experience in gymnastics as a coach, event manager, State Board Director and State CEO, combined with his clear strategic vision for the sport made him to ideal choice to take the sport forward.

“The board would like to thank Mr. Chris O’Brien for stepping into the interim CEO role for the past six months. We acknowledge the significant contribution this has been whilst he continued in his substantive role as National Performance Director leading the preparations for the Australian team competing at the Olympic Games in Paris later this month.

“The Board looks forward to working with Alistair, the team at Gymnastics Australia, our State and Territory Associations and our affiliated clubs as we look to grow our sport.”

Looking forward to his new role, Edgar (pictured) shared “I acknowledge the responsibility entrusted to me by the Gymnastics Australia Board. I intend to work closely with our State and Territory Associations and in partnership with our strong network of affiliated clubs to drive our sport forward.

“Now is the time for gymnastics leaders in Australia to work together, united by a common vision that enables our sport to reach its full potential, making a positive difference for communities across the nation.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as CEO in Victoria and want to express sincere thanks to the Gymnastics Victoria Board, staff, and members for their support.”

Gymnastics Victoria Board Chair, Bronwyn Gilmore added “from day one Alistair has worked collaboratively with Victorian staff and members to strengthen relationships and build readiness for meaningful and positive change. This is a great appointment for the sport and we look forward to working with Gymnastics Australia and our State and Territory colleagues to deliver on our shared vision.”

Edgar - who joined Gymnastics Victoria in November last year, replaces Alexandra Ash who resigned as Chief Executive at Gymnastics Australia in February - coming to the national body at a time when it is experiencing significant internal turmoil with grassroots clubs at odds with its governing bodies.

As reported in a feature, Caught in the Crossfire, in the latest issue of Australasian Leisure Management, the situation is such that facing escalating costs and a fragmented approach to governance, community clubs are considering ending their affiliations with Gymnastics Australia and their respective state sporting organisations bodies.

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