Richard McInnes to depart Water Polo Australia

Water Polo Australia regrets to announce that Chief Executive Officer, Richard McInnes, will be leaving the organisation, to take up a new exciting opportunity with the Australian Sports Commission as the Executive General Manager, Sport and Community Capability.

During his time, McInnes delivered a whole of sport strategy under the National Strategic Framework, helped navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and guided the organisation toward a more sustainable future.

The WPA Board would like to sincerely thank McInnes for his leadership over the past 3.5 years.

"On behalf of the Board and Water Polo Australia, I'd like to thank Richard for his tremendous service to our sport in the role of CEO," said WPA President Trent Birkett.

"Over his tenure, Richard has immersed himself in water polo and elevated our sport in the Australian sporting landscape.

"His leadership helped the organisation to successfully navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, to ensure that the sport has come out the other side in a healthy and strong position.

"Whilst we are disappointed to lose Richard, we'd like to wish him the best of luck in his new role and know that his passion for sport and water polo will continue," he said.

The WPA Board will work closely with McInnes to ensure a smooth transition as preparations for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games continue.