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After nearly 10 years in the role, Australian Sports Foundation (ASF) Chief Executive Patrick Walker has announced that he will retire in April next year.

In a statement, the ASF advised "for his vision, tenacity and as a passionate, people-orientated leader, Patrick will be greatly missed by the team at ASF.

"During his leadership, the ASF has distributed over $450 million in donations to Australian sporting organisations, clubs and athletes through its online fundraising platform and community sport grant rounds.

"These funds have enabled sports clubs to continue to improve the health and cohesion of their communities and embed valuable life skills in their kids, as well as providing many talented athletes with the support needed to fulfil their potential.

ASF Chair Grant O'Brien thanked Walker (pictured) for his outstanding contribution to the ASF and to growing philanthropy in Australian sport, commenting “under Patrick’s leadership, the ASF’s effectiveness in raising funds for sport has grown exponentially over the past decade - from around $17 million in 2014 when he was appointed as CEO to nearly $80 million last financial year.

“His passion and dedication to raise funds for the sports sector in this country have been vital at a grassroots level as clubs and athletes face significant financial challenges.”

The ASF has appointed Watermark Search International to begin an executive search for Walker's successor to commence as of April 2024.

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