Sport
18 November, 2025
Ali focusing on AFL Cairns female portfolio
ALI Burker has been appointed by AFL Cairns to lead its women and girls football portfolio, strengthening pathways and participation across the region.
Ms Burke will continue in her game development role in the south region while also coordinating the growth, development and alignment of women’s and girls’ football at all levels, including juniors, seniors, umpiring, schools and community programs.
As an active NBL1 player with the Dolphins, Ms Burke brings experience from elite sport alongside leadership, mentoring and community engagement skills.
AFL Cairns said her expertise would help “strengthen pathways and create more inclusive environments for women and girls in our game”.
The role aims to improve alignment between junior and senior programs, ensure women and girls are represented across the sport and support clubs in creating female-friendly environments.
Ms Burke will also provide opportunities for leadership and coaching development, helping to increase player retention.
Over the coming weeks, Ms Burke will meet clubs and key stakeholders to review current programs, participation numbers and opportunities to support female football further ahead of the 2026 season.
AFL Cairns said the appointment reflected its commitment to “community, professionalism and integrity”, and its focus on ensuring women and girls remained central to the growth of football in Far North Queensland.
