Wheelchair Rugby League Australia welcomes Melissa Chandler to the Board of Directors

Wheelchair Rugby League Australia is pleased to announce the appointment of Melissa Chandler to the Board of Directors, bringing extensive experience across finance, strategic growth and community engagement.

Melissa is currently a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Consultant with Lantern Partners, providing high-level financial leadership and strategic advisory services to organisations across the health, wellbeing and media sectors.

She previously served on the Board and as Chair of Little Athletics NSW, where she played a key leadership role in strengthening governance, financial oversight and organisational performance. During her tenure, Melissa helped enhance operational accountability and reporting capabilities through improvements to financial systems, audit processes and organisational reporting within a large community environment.

Melissa’s extensive executive experience also includes senior leadership roles as Head of Finance at Sonder, Head of Commercial at Vitality Works and Group Finance Director at Quiddity.

She is also a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, further strengthening her expertise in governance and strategic leadership.

WRLA Chair, Darren Gocher, said Melissa’s appointment would further strengthen the organisation as the sport continues to grow nationally.

“Melissa brings a wealth of experience across governance, financial and strategic leadership, along with a strong understanding of community sport,” Darren said.

“As Wheelchair Rugby League continues to expand, it is important we have a Board with the skills and experience to support sustainable growth and strong governance. Melissa will be a tremendous asset to the organisation, and we are excited to welcome her to the Board.”

Melissa’s appointment comes at an important time for Wheelchair Rugby League in Australia, ahead of the National Championships in July and the Rugby League World Cup Wheelchair tournament in October and November this year.