Danny Walker

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President – 2026 Season

 

To our valued parents, members, supporters and sponsors,

 

I am both proud and honoured to have been elected President of the Fortitude Valley Rugby League Football Club – Junior Division Inc (Valleys Diehards) for the 2026 season.

 

To serve as President of Valleys — the oldest and most recognised rugby league club in Brisbane — is truly humbling. I sincerely thank the club and my fellow committee members for their trust and support in electing me to this role.

 

My journey with Valleys began in 1979 as an Under 7s player. From those early days, I experienced firsthand the inclusive, welcoming and community-driven culture that defines our club. More than four decades later, that same spirit continues to inspire my commitment and passion for Valleys.

 

I joined the committee in 2009 and was first elected President in 2010, serving 11 consecutive years in the role. In 2022, I stepped aside to take on the Senior Football Operations position, broadening my operational involvement within the club.

 

During my time as President, I was also appointed Rugby League Brisbane Zone 2 Advocate. Working closely with our governing bodies and representatives from the 12 fellow Zone 2 clubs provided invaluable insight into club administration, governance and the challenges community sporting organisations face. These experiences reinforced the importance of collaboration, strong leadership and shared vision in growing and protecting our great game of rugby league.

 

The knowledge and experience I have gained across administration, football operations and governance place me in a strong position to lead again in 2026. I assure our members that the incoming committee is committed to building on the outstanding progress made in recent years — progress that has strengthened our club both on and off the field.

 

Valleys has always been more than a football club; it is a community. Giving back to this club is both rewarding and deeply personal. I encourage any parents, members or supporters who wish to contribute — whether in a small way or a significant capacity — to reach out to myself or a committee member. We have a range of sub-committee and volunteer opportunities available, and these roles are vital to ensuring we continue to provide the best possible environment and opportunities for our players.

 

2025 has been an exceptional year, highlighted by record participation and remarkable support from our Diehards both near and far. When faced with challenges, it is our True Blue spirit that unites us, strengthens us and drives us forward together. I am confident that 2026 will be even bigger and better, and I look forward to seeing you all around the grounds.

 

Finally, I would like to acknowledge and thank our first female President, Shahra McDonnell. Shahra’s leadership saw junior numbers reach record highs — a testament to her dedication and commitment. I am pleased that Shahra will continue to support the club in the newly created Governance Advisor role, ensuring her expertise remains a valuable asset to our future direction.

 

The 2026 committee has already commenced planning for the upcoming season, and we are excited about what lies ahead. We look forward to welcoming everyone back in the new year.

 

Go Valleys.

 

Danny Walker

President

president@valleysrugbyleague.com