Through the support of the Scanlon Foundation and the collaborative efforts of Badminton Victoria and the Ballarat Badminton Association, the Feathered Friends program has become a welcoming space where women and girls can connect, stay active, engage in social activities as a group, and enjoy badminton in a safe and supportive environment.

Feathered Friends was designed to provide participants with an opportunity to play badminton, make new friends, improve their wellbeing, and build confidence through sport. The program has created a comfortable and family-friendly environment where women and girls of all ages and backgrounds can come together, have fun, and feel a sense of belonging within the community.

With the funding period concluding in October 2025, strong positive feedback from participants encouraged the club to continue Feathered Friends as an ongoing program. It is now running every Tuesday, with the Ballarat Badminton Association committed to sustaining it. The club welcomes more women and girls to join, make connections, and enjoy the benefits of social cohesion through badminton.

Program facilitator, Jordan, has witnessed the positive impact firsthand.

“Throughout the program, I’ve seen participants grow in confidence and develop meaningful friendships. It’s been wonderful to watch the community that has formed through Feathered Friends,”she said.

For many participants, the benefits have extended well beyond the badminton court.

Tiana shared that Feathered Friends has helped her form lasting friendships while also supporting her health and wellbeing.

“I’ve made so many good friendships through the program. It has also encouraged me to exercise more, which has been really helpful in managing my diabetes,” she said.

One of the youngest participants, Zarah, highlighted the connections she has built through the sessions.

“The program helped me connect with more people around Ballarat and meet new friends,” she said.

Another participant, Bon, spoke about the strong sense of sisterhood that has developed within the group.

“I really like the bond that’s been created through the program. One of the reasons I keep coming back is because of Jordan. She makes the sessions fun, welcoming, and not competitive. I had never played badminton before, but the sessions are very beginner-friendly,” she said.

We would like to  thank the Scanlon Foundation for its support in funding the program and helping create opportunities for women and girls in the community.

We would also like to acknowledge Jordan for her commitment and passion in delivering the sessions. Her efforts have been instrumental in creating an inclusive and enjoyable environment, and the continued success of the program would not be possible without her dedication.

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