A meaningful ceremony took place in Warriewood on Monday morning as the Northern Beaches community came together to honour the memory of a beloved netball volunteer who dedicated more than four decades to local sport.
Ronda Alterator Reserve was officially unveiled at the hard courts on Boondah Road, with Mayor Sue Heins presiding over the ceremony attended by around 40 invited guests. The late Mrs Alterator’s husband Colin and daughters Kelly and Karen were present as new signage and a display lectern were revealed in her honour.
Mrs Alterator, who passed away in April 2024 at age 82, had been a cornerstone of the Narrabeen Youth Club (NYC) for over 42 years, including nine years serving as Director. Her involvement in netball began when her daughters expressed interest in playing the sport during their childhood.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mayor Heins praised Mrs Alterator’s lasting impact on the community, highlighting how she embodied the spirit of volunteering and sportsmanship. Mrs Alterator was awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in 2020 for her service to netball.
Her husband Colin reflected on how his wife’s netball journey began. Despite never having played the sport herself, Mrs Alterator learnt the rules and became a successful coach whilst volunteering in numerous roles at the club. These positions included President, Vice-President, Coach, NetSetGo Coordinator, Umpire Convener, and serving on the Grading Committee.
Beyond the Narrabeen Youth Club, Mrs Alterator extended her volunteer efforts to the broader netball community through various Manly Warringah Netball Association committees, including grading, competition and coaching roles. She was honoured with NYC life membership to recognise her commitment and passion.
Her community spirit extended well beyond sport. Mrs Alterator actively participated in local Parents and Citizens Association committees, working to raise essential funds for schools throughout the area.
The hard courts where the ceremony took place were originally opened in November 2020. While the courts themselves retain the name Warriewood Hard Courts, the broader reserve area had remained unnamed until this week’s dedication.
The naming ceremony represents the community’s recognition of Mrs Alterator’s extraordinary contribution to local sport and youth development. The reserve will serve as a lasting tribute to someone who devoted her life to strengthening the Warriewood community through volunteer service.
Published 25-August-2025
