Striving for inclusivity

Niddrie Gymnastics Club
Authentic. Generous. Selfless.

Gymnastics coach Natalie Roberts puts her heart into training children of all abilities, in the sport she loves.

The head coach and manager of the Niddrie Gymnastics Club makes it her mission to ensure every child, regardless of ability, feels included at the club.

Natalie understands the needs of children with autism and arranges lessons so they have the gym to themselves.

Natalie also runs a special-needs class, who also have full use of the facility.

To meet their needs, she provides more coaches for the lesson and has worked hard to fundraise so coaches can do additional training.

Natalie says its challenging cater for different needs, but the children’s happiness makes it all worthwhile.

“I am very proud of all our programs and the happy, safe place that we provide for children in the area.”

Natalie has been with the club for 35 years and is passionate about passing on her knowledge to coaches in her club and the wider community.

“For me, being a positive role model is everything. Sport is life and makes people feel a part of something bigger than them,” she says.

Westfield Local Heroes are nominated and voted for by their communities, with the three top finalists per Westfield centre each awarded a $10,000 grant for their affiliated organisation. The Niddrie Gymnastics Club will use its grant to buy much-needed equipment and fund training for coaches.

For further information on the Westfield Local Heroes program, click here