The Aspley Hornets was established in 1964 and was developed primarily as a junior club, serving the communities of Aspley, Carseldine and developing areas now known as Bridgeman Downs, Albany Creek, Eatons Hill, Bracken Ridge and Brendale.
During the Seventies and Eighties it became necessary to move into senior football to provide a path from juniors through to senior football, without players needing to change clubs.
The Club now caters for the full range of football from age 6 years with Auskick, through to Super – Rules for the over 35s.
Boasting two grounds and three ovals, with the main field at Graham Road, the Aspley Hornets run approximately 900 players a year. The first female over 35’s team was established this year, and the ladies took victory in their inaugural game.
The Clubhouse business has grown in line with their football operations. From a community hall to a basic bar operation to the thriving community hub it is today, the Aspley Hornets boasts a large restaurant, comfortable members’ lounge, Premiers bar and lounge bar, a bottle shop, a café area, function rooms, al fresco dining as well as entertainment facilities.
With a membership base of over 20,000, the Club is proudly headed up by Danni Francis, who holds the position of General Manager.
“As far as we go operating as a Club, each and every staff member strives to create an inclusive and family feel environment, where our staff really get to know our members and deliver a personalised experience to every person that walks through the door,” Ms Francis explains.
“Our Club is based on the idea of getting to know each member as an individual and being there for the community, not just in terms of the football camaraderie, but for those in the community that are by themselves, or may feel isolated, we are the social connection for them, and that is what sets us apart.”
In a further commitment to the community, the Aspley Hornets have this week introduced the leading technology platform, OK2PLAY? Built by Australian Tech Company, GPT, OK2PLAY? was developed to increase the speed of response between patrons of The Aspley Hornets and staff, creating the pathway for connecting patrons to discreet assistance in a seamless and frictionless manner, in real-time.
As an integral part of their community, the Aspley Hornets have a social responsibility to their patrons, members, and community. By implementing OK2PLAY? they are investing in the support that they offer to the community and taking their responsibility as a community venue, seriously.
“Working in the community, The Aspley Hornets sole purpose is to foster well being and belonging through sport and entertainment,” Ms Francis explained.“We are there for the members and patrons at all times. If people are struggling with mental health, gambling, personal problems, they can discreetly ask for assistance through OK2PLAY? allowing us to help our members, patrons and community further.
“It is important to the Club that we can work with the community to be a support network and help someone when they are in need.” OK2PLAY? creates the journey for the Aspley Hornets patrons to gain access to assistance quickly and normalises the conversation between the Club and their patrons, ensuring it is socially acceptable to ask for help.
The technology platform takes away any time barrier that may be experienced by patrons that require assistance. At the push of a button, or by scanning a QR code, a message is sent directly to senior management, who can reach out to the patron in a matter of moments. Management can then use the appropriate channels to assist the patron in gaining access to the relevant assistance.
“We are really excited to make a difference in the community and to be able to have this platform in the Club, where we can ask our members and patrons – Are You Ok?” Ms Francis concluded.
