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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Little Athletics?

Little Athletics is a uniquely Australian sport for children aged 3–16 years, based on track and field. Events are modified to suit different ages and abilities, focusing on fun, friendship, family involvement, and personal improvement—not just winning. Kids participate in running, jumping, throwing, and race-walking. The season runs from August to March.

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What is the Tiny Tots program?

Tiny Tots (ages 3–4) take part in play-based training, games, and simple running, jumping, and throwing activities—designed for their age and attention span. Tiny Tots:

  • Attend centre-only activities (no carnivals or regional/state events)

  • Run from 2:30–3:30pm on competition days

  • Require a parent/guardian present at all times

  • Must register like all athletes

  • Uniforms are optional

 
How much does registration cost and what’s included?

Fees vary by age group and are listed on our website. As a not-for-profit, all fees go back into supporting our centre and athletes. Fees include:

  • A portion paid to Little Athletics QLD

  • A refundable fundraising levy (per family)

  • A refundable parent participation levy (with 75% volunteer attendance)

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We do not offer payment plans, but we accept PlayOn! vouchers. Fees must be paid in full before athletes can participate. Fees are not discounted for late starters.

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Do you offer a trial?

Yes! We offer a 2-week trial for $20. To trial, you must register online via Sport:80 and select the trial option. If you register for the season, the $20 is deducted from your fees.

  • One trial per athlete

  • No uniform required during the trial—just comfy clothes and suitable shoes

  • Birth certificate required if you continue

  • Trial fees are non-refundable

 
Who runs the Centre?

Algester Little Athletics is run by a volunteer committee, elected annually in April and led by the Centre Manager. New committee members are always welcome—visit our website for details.

 
What events are offered?

We offer a rotating program of the following events:

  • Track: sprints, middle & long distance, hurdles, race walking

  • Field: shot put, discus, javelin (U11+), long jump, triple jump (U11+), high jump

Each age group usually does up to 5 events per week, depending on age and the weekly program.

 
When and where does competition run?

Competitions are held on Saturdays from 2:30pm at Col Bennet Park, Algester.

Our season runs from August to March (with a break in Dec/Jan).
Key events:

  • Centre Championships: Feb & March

  • Trophy Day: April/ May

More info under the ‘Program’ tab on our website.

 
What if my child isn’t “athletic”?

That’s okay! Little Athletics is about fun, fitness, and trying your best—not winning. Every child has different strengths, and with such a variety of events, most kids find something they enjoy. Focus is on personal bests and participation, not competition.

 
What happens if it rains or it's too hot?

Events may be cancelled for safety (e.g. wet grounds or extreme heat). We may adjust times in extreme heat.
Check our Facebook page for updates—it’s our main communication channel.

 
Does my child need a uniform?

Yes—a uniform is required for all registered athletes:

  • Algester polo + royal blue shorts/bike pants (no external logos/patterns)

  • Hats/caps are mandatory (Algester or other)

  • Trialists don’t need a uniform—just comfortable clothes.

 
Where do I sew the patches?

  • Age patch: left shirt sleeve

  • Registration number: front of the top

  • Refer to the ‘Uniform’ tab on our website for diagrams—incorrect placement can prevent participation in LAQ events.

 
Can my child compete barefoot?

No. Footwear is mandatory at all times as per Little Athletics Queensland’s policy.

 
What do parents need to do?

Little Athletics is run entirely by volunteers. We need about 65 helpers each week to operate safely and efficiently. All families are expected to help in some way—no experience needed.
Examples:

  • Picking up equipment

  • Raking sandpits

  • Placing high jump bars

  • Assisting as age marshals

With everyone pitching in, we can ensure a smooth and fun experience for all.

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Weekend sport has a number of benefits for children

which carry through to later life.

Can children with disabilities participate?

Yes. While we don’t run separate events, children with disabilities are welcome and can participate in regular events with modifications to suit their needs.

 
Do I need a Blue Card?

​LAQ and Algester Little Athletics follow strict child protection policies.

  • Parents of registered athletes: No blue card required.

  • All other volunteers (non-parents): Must hold a valid Blue Card.

  • All committee members: Must have a Blue Card.

 
Is there waiting time between events?

Yes—waits of up to 30 minutes (sometimes longer) can occur, especially at the start of the season when new athletes need more support. If delays are excessive, please speak to a committee member—we’ll try to adjust the program where possible.

 
What are 'coloured groups'?

U13–U17 athletes are placed into coloured groups: Red, Green, Purple, or Blue (max 15 athletes per group).

  • Arrive early to secure your preferred group.

  • Once assigned, athletes must stay in that group for the day.

  • Weekly event schedules for each group are on the noticeboard, website, and in age group folders.

 
Do parents need to stay during competitions?

Yes—this is mandatory. For several reasons:

  • In case of injury, parents must be present to make decisions and comfort their child.

  • If competition is cancelled early, athletes need immediate pickup.

  • Parents are needed to help run events.

  • No supervision is provided—children may not be left unsupervised.

  • Being present to cheer and celebrate builds motivation and confidence.

If no responsible adult is present, the athlete will be asked to sit out until their parent/guardian returns.

 
What should my child bring each week?

  • Full centre uniform

  • Proper shoes (spikes only worn during events)

  • Socks, hat, sunscreen, water bottle

  • Jacket for the cooler evenings

  • And of course—a happy smile 😊

 
How can I see my child’s results?

Each week, your child will receive a results ticket after each event. These can be collected as a personal record over time. Results are also uploaded to Results HQ, which is accessible online after registration. Visit our website for more info on using Results HQ.

 
Are awards presented to athletes?

Yes. All registered athletes who compete in Centre Championships and meet eligibility requirements will receive a trophy at our end-of-season Trophy Day.

 

Other awards include:

  • Most Improved in each age group

  • Age Champions in each age group

  • Specialty and perpetual awards

  • McDonald’s Achievement Certificates and more

See the 'Results' tab on our website for full details.

 
Is coaching available?

Yes! Coaching is available during the season for Algester athletes.

  • Coaching is optional and may incur an additional fee

  • Some free sessions may be offered depending on demand

  • Info is shared weekly via Facebook and newsletters

Little Athletics QLD also hosts clinics and camps throughout the year.

 
Do you have a Christmas break?

Yes — we pause for 3–4 weeks from early December, resuming in the New Year.

  • Details are published in the weekly newsletter, on Facebook, and our website

  • Our Christmas Breakup marks the last competition day of the calendar year

 
What other competitions are available?

Beyond weekly comps, athletes can join events such as:

  • Carnivals & Pentathlons

  • Regional Relays → qualify for State Relays

  • Regional Championships → qualify for State Champs

  • Australian Championships (selected U13 & U15 athletes)

  • LAQ Carnivals:

    • Winter (Townsville/Cairns)

    • Spring (Bundaberg)

    • Summer (Brisbane & Surrounds)

  • Local centre carnivals: Browns Plains, Redlands, Jimboomba, Springwood, Redcliffe, and more

 
How do I nominate for a carnival?

Carnival details are shared during the season via:

  • The LAQ website (event calendar and entry info)

  • Sports:80 (some events allow direct entry)

If you’re unsure, please ask a committee member—they’re happy to help!

PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE YOUR CHILDREN BEHIND! 

 

Parents and guardians of all athletes are reminded that they must remain at Col Bennett Park for the duration of any athletics competition at all times.  We do not offer child minding services and we are not responsible for supervising your child. It is essential that you remain at Col Bennett Park at all times and actively supervise your child (not while sitting in your car!). Please do not leave your child behind in any circumstances.  

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