Gympie Hockey Association
Gympie’s involvement in Women’s Masters Hockey (formerly Veterans) began in 1991 and was off to a great start with a win in Division 2. According to our records the following is the team list from that first year:
| June Haylock (C) | Robyn Stopford (VC) |
| Carol Barry | Prue McGowan |
| Margery Clarke | C McMary |
| Judy Cross | Marilyn Mawhinney |
| Lenore Delaforce | Karen Pearce |
| Jill Falzon | Patty Smyth |
| Kerry Gallagher | Kathy Worth |
Coach: Megan Ward
Manager: Margery Clarke
From those early days, our region has consistently punched above its weight, fielding competitive teams, producing state and national representatives, and building a vibrant, supportive hockey community.
Despite a relatively small player base, Gympie teams have made a strong and lasting impression across multiple divisions. A key highlight of the early years backing up the Division 2 win in 1991 with another Division 2 win in 1994.
That same era saw several of our stars shine on the representative stage, with Jan Fitzpatrick, Kathy Worth, Megan Ward, and Robin Stopford earning selection for Queensland and Australia.
Gympie has gone on to have 4 further Division wins at the State Championships:
| 2002 – Division 5 Team 2 | 2011 – Division 5 | 2012 – Division 4 Team 1 | 2016 – Division 3 Team 1 |
Errol Deen has played a significant and sustained role in our success, coaching at the Master’s level for nearly every year since our involvement began. His leadership and passion have helped shape the culture and capability of our teams.
In 2011 Kathy Worth was presented with a Hockey Australia State Service Award
Over the years, Gympie has proudly seen many more of its athletes wear the maroon and green and gold, including Donna Webb, Janelle Walker, Karen Pearce, Sandy Aslett, Sherri Kerr, Lesley Fitzpatrick, Rosie Worth, Carol McIntosh, Tanya Bothams, Rozan Daly, and Melinda Baker. Their achievements stand as a testament to our local program and our players’ dedication.
In the past decade, Gympie has consistently fielded two teams at the Queensland Women’s Masters Championships and notably entered three teams in 2017 when we had the honour of hosting the event.
But Masters hockey has always been about more than just results. It’s about connection, camaraderie, and community. Gympie’s Women’s Masters teams are known for their energy, humour, and strong sense of togetherness—on and off the field. Whether it’s a post-game celebration or simply supporting one another through life’s highs and lows, our players embody the spirit of Masters hockey.
As the game continues to evolve and grow, Gympie remains committed to playing an active and enthusiastic role in the Queensland Women’s Masters community. We are proud of our history and excited for the future.
Congratulations on 40 Years of Masters Women’s Hockey in Queensland!
2016
2017
2018
2019
2022
2024
As a side note the coach of the inaugural 1991 team, Megan Ward (above in red), was booked in to have a caesarian the day after the final and there was some interest to see if the excitement of not only her team playing in the final, but then also winning it, might have brought her daughter into the world a little earlier. Seen here with Gayle Morton showing support with a pillow addition, and Dr Diana Petrey performing a medical check.