The Exercise & Sports Science Awards recognise outstanding accredited professionals who demonstrate a depth of knowledge and commitment to exercise and sports science through their practice and advocacy.
The Member Impact Contributor Award recognises outstanding member contributors who dedicate time and skills to improving our profession, particularly through activities focused on member impact.
Congratulations to the recipient of the 2023 Member Impact Contributor Award: Dr Shelly Keating!
Dr Shelly Keating, Co-Chair of the ESSA Queensland State Chapter, has been honored with the Member Impact Contributor Award, recognising her exceptional leadership and advocacy in exercise science. Her innovative efforts have significantly shaped the strategic direction and impact of the chapter, aligning closely with ESSA's national goals.
As Co-Chair, Shelly spearheaded the development of an Advocacy Plan, coordinating with the National Policy and Advocacy team to create synergistic goals and strategies.
"Our core goal was to engage the ESSA Queensland State Chapter in local and national advocacy and policy activities," she explained.
This initiative involved team members undertaking the ‘Advocacy Introductory Engagement Session’ to understand ESSA’s advocacy framework and action pillars. Shelly's efforts included meetings with the Queensland Chief Allied Health Officer and the ESSA Manager for Policy and Advocacy Unit, ensuring that key initiatives were discussed and addressed.
One of Shelly's notable achievements in 2023 was leading the Queensland Chapter's strategy for the upcoming state election. By forming a Qld Election Working Party, conducting environmental scans, and organising focus groups, she identified the top priorities for the chapter: mental health, physical activity in schools, diabetes management in rural areas, cancer care in rural areas, and accreditation for sports scientists.
"The Queensland Election Priorities document will detail the strategies and solutions for these key issues," she noted, emphasising the chapter's ongoing role in promoting resources and supporting advocacy efforts.
Shelly's involvement in ESSA's submission for the Parliamentary Inquiry into Diabetes is another highlight of her impactful work. With her extensive research and clinical experience, she contributed to the submission's eight recommendations, including the representation of Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) and Accredited Exercise Scientists (AES) in diabetes management and prevention efforts. "Our strategic emphasis on exercise within a multidisciplinary care framework can significantly mitigate the health, social, and economic burden of diabetes," she stated.
Under Shelly's leadership, the Queensland Chapter has also excelled in fostering collaboration and communication with industry partners. The 2019 State Symposium, co-led by Shelly and A/Prof Emma Beckman, featured a diverse program covering topics from chronic pain to high-intensity interval training for chronic disease. The event, supported by partners like Diabetes Queensland and the Stroke Foundation, provided valuable networking opportunities for members.
Shelly's role in leading the Advocacy Strategy for ESSA in Queensland involves actively engaging clinicians and academics. "We seek input through our clinical and academic networks, ensuring our efforts are grounded in the latest research and clinical perspectives," she said. This inclusive approach enhances the relevance and impact of the chapter's actions, bridging gaps between research, practice, and policy.