AFL legend Kevin Sheedy recently toured the Great Southern region of Western Australia to thank another type of legend – volunteers. During his visit as a Thank a Volunteer Day Ambassador, more than 600 people in the region were exposed to “Sheeds” through a range of civic receptions held in Denmark, Albany, Amelup (The Lily Dutch Windmill), Gnowangerup, Broomehill and Kojonup.

A lead-up tournament between Baseball WA's Claxton Shield/National League team, Perth Heat, and the South Australia equivalent, SA Bite, was staged in Port Hedland on 13-14 November 2008.

The Goldfields got its share of good vibrations when a festival for young people incorporating music, sport, education and healthy living was staged in Kalgoorlie.

Swimmer and beach volleyball player extraordinaire Casey Grice had his day in the sun recently, claiming the prestigious Goldfields Sports Star of the Year Award for 2008.

Many sports within regional WA are struggling with a reduced number of volunteers, difficulty in maintaining the interest of participants and the ability to adapt to the changing trends within their communities.