Ep 110: Building a Modern Student Union - A Conversation with WSUSU

Ep 113: Smarter Grants with AI - City of Moreton Bay Series

The grant application isn't the hard part. Having the right plans in place for the project is. In this episode, Michael and Steve unpack the key lessons from the recent Grants and AI workshop delivered as part of the City of Moreton Bay Community, Sport and Recreation Training Series. They challenge the common "what grants can we get?" mindset and explain why successful organisations focus on identifying the projects their community actually needs before searching for funding opportunities. From strategic planning and project readiness to stakeholder engagement and evidence gathering, they explore why the best grant applications are built long before the application form opens. They also discuss how AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini are changing the grant-writing landscape, sharing practical ways clubs can use them to save time, strengthen applications and reduce their reliance on external grant writers. Because grants don't create great projects. Great projects attract great grants. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/vumCw-yhVF8 [https://youtu.be/vumCw-yhVF8] -------- This episode is part of our ongoing collaboration with the City of Moreton Bay and continues the post-workshop discussions designed to help clubs better understand their responsibilities, avoid common pitfalls and build stronger, more sustainable facilities for their communities. Got a question you’d like answered in a future episode? Send it through to info@cprgroup.com.au. It might just feature in an upcoming Basket Case Clubs episode! -------- Need a constitution check-up? Make sure yours is working for you, not against you. Submit your constitution for a free assessment by CPR Group's expert team here: www.cprgroup.com.au/constitutionassessment [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/constitutionassessment] -------- 🥇 If you'd like a chance to win some fantastic Basket Case Clubs merchandise, simply leave us a review on the Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/basket-case-clubs/id1504597154] app or your preferred podcast platform. If you're seeking additional support, then reach out to us [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/contact]. We're eager to share the wealth of knowledge we've accumulated over the years! Sign up to our newsletter [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/] to stay in the know! Stay in the know about our other upcoming FREE webinars [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/webinars]! Check out our previous episodes [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/podcasts]! Follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/cprgroup_/] Follow Michael on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/nfpmichael/] Add Michael on LinkedIn [https://au.linkedin.com/in/michael-connelly-aus] Add Steve on LinkedIn [https://au.linkedin.com/in/steve-connelly] Add CPR Group on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/cpr-group-connelly-project-resources/mycompany/] Find us on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/CPRGroupAus/] Find Michael on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/nfpmichael] Contact Us [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/contact]  --------   Disclaimer: The content of this episode is for entertainment and information purposes only. The information provided is correct at the time of recording but may not reflect the latest developments. This podcast does not constitute legal, financial or other advice and should not replace the guidance of professional advisors. Always seek qualified professional advice.

Ep 112: Breaking Point Mini-Series — Part 1: The Hidden Pressure in Community Sport

In this episode, we kick off our brand-new Breaking Point Mini-Series and we’re starting with a hard truth: from the outside, community sport looks like it’s thriving… but underneath, the pressure is building. Participation is strong. Facilities are full. Everything appears to be on track. But behind the scenes, volunteers are carrying more than ever before. We’re talking about: * The growing burden on club volunteers * Why so many committees are stuck in survival mode * The gap between rising expectations and limited capacity * And the uncomfortable reality that the system itself might be the problem This isn’t about blaming volunteers, it’s about recognising the pressure they’ve been quietly absorbing for years. Because most clubs don’t collapse with a bang… they simply fade away. This episode sets the foundation for the series ahead, where we’ll unpack what’s really driving this pressure and what needs to change before community sport reaches its true breaking point. Tune in now for a raw and honest look at the hidden realities of grassroots sport and why “just getting by” isn’t going to cut it anymore. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/2dwmJPaZpzI [https://youtu.be/2dwmJPaZpzI] -------- Need a constitution check-up? Make sure yours is working for you, not against you. Submit your constitution for a free assessment by CPR Group's expert team here: www.cprgroup.com.au/constitutionassessment [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/constitutionassessment] -------- 🥇 If you'd like a chance to win some fantastic Basket Case Clubs merchandise, simply leave us a review on the Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/basket-case-clubs/id1504597154] app or your preferred podcast platform. If you're seeking additional support, then reach out to us [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/contact]. We're eager to share the wealth of knowledge we've accumulated over the years! Sign up to our newsletter [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/] to stay in the know! Stay in the know about our other upcoming FREE webinars [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/webinars]! Check out our previous episodes [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/podcasts]! Follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/cprgroup_/] Follow Michael on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/nfpmichael/] Add Michael on LinkedIn [https://au.linkedin.com/in/michael-connelly-aus] Add Steve on LinkedIn [https://au.linkedin.com/in/steve-connelly] Add CPR Group on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/cpr-group-connelly-project-resources/mycompany/] Find us on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/CPRGroupAus/] Find Michael on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/nfpmichael] Contact Us [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/contact]  --------   Disclaimer: The content of this episode is for entertainment and information purposes only. The information provided is correct at the time of recording but may not reflect the latest developments. This podcast does not constitute legal, financial or other advice and should not replace the guidance of professional advisors. Always seek qualified professional advice.

Ep 111: Supercharged Episode - Constitution Confessions: Risks, Rules and Governance Gaps

In this supercharged episode of Basket Case Clubs, we unpack the real-world governance issues hiding inside club constitutions. From outdated rules and confusing membership structures to weak dispute processes and governance gaps, this conversation dives into the common constitutional pitfalls that can quietly create risk for clubs and community organisations. Drawing on practical examples, constitutional “confessions” and insights from almost three decades of working with clubs across Australia, this episode will help you work out whether your constitution is genuinely protecting your organisation… or quietly holding it back. Leading the charge are Steve Connelly and Matt McEwan from CPRG, sharing the red flags, reality checks and practical takeaways every club committee should know. If your constitution hasn’t had a proper look in a while… this one’s worth your time. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nNESk5lxqfA [https://youtu.be/nNESk5lxqfA] -------- Need a constitution check-up? Make sure yours is working for you, not against you. Submit your constitution for a free assessment by CPR Group's expert team here: www.cprgroup.com.au/constitutionassessment [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/constitutionassessment] -------- 🥇 If you'd like a chance to win some fantastic Basket Case Clubs merchandise, simply leave us a review on the Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/basket-case-clubs/id1504597154] app or your preferred podcast platform. If you're seeking additional support, then reach out to us [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/contact]. We're eager to share the wealth of knowledge we've accumulated over the years! Sign up to our newsletter [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/] to stay in the know! Stay in the know about our other upcoming FREE webinars [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/webinars]! Check out our previous episodes [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/podcasts]! Follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/cprgroup_/] Follow Michael on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/nfpmichael/] Add Michael on LinkedIn [https://au.linkedin.com/in/michael-connelly-aus] Add Steve on LinkedIn [https://au.linkedin.com/in/steve-connelly] Add CPR Group on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/cpr-group-connelly-project-resources/mycompany/] Find us on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/CPRGroupAus/] Find Michael on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/nfpmichael] Contact Us [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/contact]  --------   Disclaimer: The content of this episode is for entertainment and information purposes only. The information provided is correct at the time of recording but may not reflect the latest developments. This podcast does not constitute legal, financial or other advice and should not replace the guidance of professional advisors. Always seek qualified professional advice.

Ep 110: Building a Modern Student Union - A Conversation with WSUSU

In this episode, we’re doing things a little differently. Instead of breaking down a basket case, we’re going behind the scenes of something built right from the ground up… the brand new Western Sydney University Student Union. Michael is joined by Richard Martino (WSUSU) and CPR Group’s own Nathan Butcher to unpack what it actually takes to design a modern student union - one that reflects busy, diverse students, embraces digital engagement and rethinks traditional governance models. From a 9-person SRC model to grassroots representation, transparent consultation and a structure that balances independence with strong university relationships, this episode dives deep into the decisions, challenges and “oh wow this could fall over” moments that shaped the final outcome. We talk: * What a modern student union actually looks like * Why transparency and trust were non-negotiables * How to work with your university (without losing your advocacy edge) * The messy reality of governance, stakeholder management, and big change * Why sometimes the journey matters just as much as the destination This isn’t your typical Basket Case Clubs episode, but if you’re in the sector, thinking about change or just wondering what the future of student leadership looks like… this one’s a must-listen. Tune in for a deep dive into building something that might just become a beacon model for the sector. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pPAysO60eZc [https://youtu.be/pPAysO60eZc] -------- Need a constitution check-up? Make sure yours is working for you, not against you. Submit your constitution for a free assessment by CPR Group's expert team here: www.cprgroup.com.au/constitutionassessment [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/constitutionassessment] -------- 🥇 If you'd like a chance to win some fantastic Basket Case Clubs merchandise, simply leave us a review on the Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/basket-case-clubs/id1504597154] app or your preferred podcast platform. If you're seeking additional support, then reach out to us [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/contact]. We're eager to share the wealth of knowledge we've accumulated over the years! Sign up to our newsletter [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/newsletter-sign-up] to stay in the know! Stay in the know about our other upcoming FREE webinars [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/webinars]! Check out our previous episodes [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/podcasts]! Follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/cprgroup_/] Follow Michael on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/nfpmichael/] Add Michael on LinkedIn [https://au.linkedin.com/in/michael-connelly-aus] Add Steve on LinkedIn [https://au.linkedin.com/in/steve-connelly] Add CPR Group on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/cpr-group-connelly-project-resources/mycompany/] Find us on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/CPRGroupAus/] Find Michael on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/nfpmichael] Contact Us [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/contact]  --------   Disclaimer: The content of this episode is for entertainment and information purposes only. The information provided is correct at the time of recording but may not reflect the latest developments. This podcast does not constitute legal, financial or other advice and should not replace the guidance of professional advisors. Always seek qualified professional advice.

Ep 109: Rethinking Facility Management - City of Moreton Bay Series

You don’t own your facility, you’re its custodian… and it’s your responsibility to leave it better than you found it for future generations. In this episode, Steve and Michael dive into the often-misunderstood world of facility management for community clubs and not-for-profit organisations, unpacking what clubs really need to know to manage their facilities effectively. Building on the recent Facility Management workshop delivered as part of the City of Moreton Bay Community, Sport and Recreation Training Series, they break down everything from understanding your lease obligations to navigating the different types of maintenance - operational, statutory, preventative and reactive - cutting through the confusion and explaining it all in plain English. Along the way, they explore the mindset shift that underpins it all: thinking like a custodian, not an owner. Because when clubs plan ahead, build sinking funds, maintain assets properly and work in partnership with Council, they set their facilities and their communities up to thrive long into the future. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/a36D886RfWc [https://youtu.be/a36D886RfWc] -------- This episode is part of our ongoing collaboration with the City of Moreton Bay and continues the post-workshop discussions designed to help clubs better understand their responsibilities, avoid common pitfalls and build stronger, more sustainable facilities for their communities. Got a question you’d like answered in a future episode? Send it through to info@cprgroup.com.au. It might just feature in an upcoming Basket Case Clubs episode! -------- Need a constitution check-up? Make sure yours is working for you, not against you. Submit your constitution for a free assessment by CPR Group's expert team here: www.cprgroup.com.au/constitutionassessment [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/constitutionassessment] -------- 🥇 If you'd like a chance to win some fantastic Basket Case Clubs merchandise, simply leave us a review on the Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/basket-case-clubs/id1504597154] app or your preferred podcast platform. If you're seeking additional support, then reach out to us [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/contact]. We're eager to share the wealth of knowledge we've accumulated over the years! Sign up to our newsletter [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/newsletter-sign-up] to stay in the know! Stay in the know about our other upcoming FREE webinars [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/webinars]! Check out our previous episodes [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/podcasts]! Follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/cprgroup_/] Follow Michael on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/nfpmichael/] Add Michael on LinkedIn [https://au.linkedin.com/in/michael-connelly-aus] Add Steve on LinkedIn [https://au.linkedin.com/in/steve-connelly] Add CPR Group on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/cpr-group-connelly-project-resources/mycompany/] Find us on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/CPRGroupAus/] Find Michael on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/nfpmichael] Contact Us [https://www.cprgroup.com.au/contact]  --------   Disclaimer: The content of this episode is for entertainment and information purposes only. The information provided is correct at the time of recording but may not reflect the latest developments. This podcast does not constitute legal, financial or other advice and should not replace the guidance of professional advisors. Always seek qualified professional advice.