Netball NT acknowledges with great sadness the passing of former Board Member and President, Trish Crossin AM — a passionate Territorian, a trailblazer in public life, and a lifelong contributor to netball.
Trish’s connection to the game spanned decades. From the age of 13, she was umpiring weekly matches — the beginning of a lifelong relationship with netball that would see her contribute as a participant, volunteer, administrator and leader.
When Trish arrived in Gove in 1981 as a teacher, netball became an important way to connect with the community. Like so many who have lived and worked across the Territory, she understood the role sport plays in bringing people together — creating friendships, belonging and a shared sense of purpose.
After moving to Darwin in 1985, netball became a regular and meaningful part of her weekly life. She once described it as her “women’s shed” — a place to connect with strong women, to laugh, to stay active, and to find balance while raising a young family. It was a sentiment that speaks to the heart of what community netball continues to represent today.
Trish’s involvement soon extended beyond the court. She played a key role in the delivery of the 1986 National Championships, at a time when organising major events relied heavily on the dedication of volunteers working behind the scenes — often from their own homes.
In 2014, Trish stepped into a leadership role as President of Netball NT, bringing with her decades of lived experience in the sport and a deep understanding of the Territory. Her time as President came during a period of change across the national sporting landscape, where strong governance, sustainability and growth were becoming increasingly important.
She approached this challenge with honesty and determination — recognising the need for netball in the Territory to evolve, while staying true to its community roots. During her tenure, she supported important steps forward in governance, financial systems and strategic direction, helping to strengthen the foundations of the organisation.
Trish was also a strong advocate for expanding opportunities across the Territory. She supported the development of netball in Alice Springs, including the establishment of improved facilities, and championed the importance of creating pathways for players, coaches, officials and volunteers — no matter where they lived.
Her vision for netball was both ambitious and deeply grounded in community. She spoke of a future where the Territory could host national and international events in a modern indoor stadium — a vision that has since become reality. She also believed in the importance of greater investment in women’s sport, where athletes and officials are supported and celebrated as they deserve.
Beyond netball, Trish’s impact on the Northern Territory and Australia was profound. A former teacher in Arnhem Land, she went on to serve five terms as a Senator, becoming the first woman to represent the Northern Territory in Federal Parliament. She was a strong and consistent advocate for First Nations communities, women’s rights, education, and equality, and remained deeply committed to her community throughout her life.
Across every role she held, Trish brought the same qualities — strength, care, humour and a genuine commitment to people.
Her contribution to netball, and to the broader Territory community, will not be forgotten.
Netball NT extends its sincere condolences to Trish’s husband Mark, her children, and all who knew and loved her.
Vale Trish Crossin AM.
